The latest handover took place last week in the Bhekela informal settlement in Thembalethu, where Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr Browen Johnson, joined by Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Human Settlements, Cllr Jean Safers, and Ward Councillor Cllr Siphelo Manxele, officially handed over 19 waterborne Buffalo Tank flush toilets to the community. These systems were first piloted successfully in Syferfontein, Wilderness Heights, and parts of Thembalethu earlier the financial year.

“This initiative is about more than just infrastructure – it is about restoring dignity to our community. These durable, vandalism-resistant systems ensure safer, cleaner sanitation, particularly for women and children. With a wash basin included, they represent a holistic solution to long-standing challenges,” said Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr Browen Johnson. “It is a privilege to bring dignity to our people in Ward 21. The strong materials used will help prevent vandalism. We urge the community to take care of these facilities. We celebrate with you and remain committed to addressing the sanitation backlog.”

The municipality also handed over 19 concrete toilets in Bhekela, following the installation of nearby sewer infrastructure. Two contractors were appointed on 30 May 2025, and the project was swiftly implemented to meet urgent needs. These units also include wash basins for improved hygiene.

The rollout follows the national standard of one toilet per five households and is guided by the Planning and Development Directorate. Cllr Johnson commended the municipal team’s commitment and stressed the importance of protecting public infrastructure to ensure continued progress.

Further improvements in Ward 21 Buffalo tank toilets in the Temporary Relocation Area (TRA) at Robben Island. These interventions reflect the Municipality’s commitment to expanding access to basic services in underserved areas.

Cllr Jean Safers said, “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to improving livelihoods. Our officials’ hard work, under Mr. Phosa’s leadership, has been instrumental in turning this vision into reality. It takes away the burdens associated with the old systems.” He praised the project team for their dedication.

Ward Councillor Cllr Siphelo Manxele said, “We are grateful for the toilets, but more services are needed across Ward 21. Flushing toilets with wash basins make daily life easier.”

• The Western Cape Government’s report, completed in January 2025, remains hidden from the public.
• The NHBRC report, completed in February, revealed damning failures by the construction company and led to the suspension of five NHBRC officials, yet no meaningful action has followed. 
• In May, the George Municipality’s technical and summarised legal reports were tabled confidentially, without media present 

The event, hosted in collaboration with Sentiara,  a new animal welfare non-profit company (NPC) based in George, saw Salomé Bruyns captivating the youngsters with animal-themed stories, colouring sessions, and interactive learning about kindness and responsibility towards animals. The sessions are part of an ongoing educational outreach during the winter holidays.

All eyes on Stevie Wonder – the centre of attention and inspiration.

More fun and informative sessions are planned for 9 and 16 July 2025, from 10:00 to 13:00, and children are encouraged to attend.

In addition to these events, Pacaltsdorp Library hosts storytelling every Friday from 14:00 to 15:00, promoting literacy and imagination in a warm and welcoming environment.

Karen Horne presented on everyday life and culture in Portugal, based on her travels. Her talk highlighted how personal stories and shared experiences are becoming more valued than collecting physical objects. Luthando Nongxaza followed with a presentation on preserving life stories using digital platforms. Informal discussions continued during tea, reinforcing the event’s focus on memory and legacy.

In honour of Youth Month, two young adults from George were recognised for their contributions to storytelling. Bernedette Botha published her first anthology, “By die huis”, and Le Roux Fourie produced the short film “Aasvoëls”, which received recognition at the Cannes Film Festival.

George Library’s Yeboneer, Jade Botha, curated background music by Emanuel Escorcio, and the Reference Section created a display of non-fiction travel writing, Afrikaans fiction, and digital resources. Books such as “Fado” by André P. Brink and “Fado vir ‘n vreemdeling” by Margaret Bakkes were featured, along with titles by Portuguese authors available on the Libby digital app.

The event also highlighted historical connections between South Africa and Portugal, including stories of explorers Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias. Portuguese soup was served, and Nando’s supported the event with themed branding. The SCAVA Winter Wonderland exhibition at the museum provided the backdrop.

George Library continues to promote the value of capturing and preserving memories. Through programmes like Alice for All, the Library helps residents of all ages share their stories and learn how to document them for future generations.

Notice is given in terms of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) of the intent to submit the above proposal (REF: WU42717) for authorisation to the Department of Water and Sanitation.

Upstream Consulting has been appointed by Gedultsrivier Beleggings (Pty) Ltd (the Applicant) to undertake a water use license application for the proposed development of a light industrial zone on the Remainder of Portion 110 of Farm Gwayang No. 208, in George, Western Cape. LAT 34° 0’3.71″S, LONG 22°23’29.49″E.

The site is located approximately 7 km southwest of the city of George, along the R404 Road, directly east of the George Airport. The development is proposed on the eastern half of the remainder of portion 110 of Farm Gwayang No. 208.

The proposed Western Bypass road bisects the property, in a north south direction, and the area east of the future road is intended to remain as agriculturally zoned land. However, to support the required services associated with the development (and potentially the broader area) it is proposed to construct a utilities area on the portion to the east of the bypass. This will be for a wetland wastewater treatment system and a water harvesting storage area.

The project requires water use authorisation in terms of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998), for the following Section 21 water uses:

• (b) – Storing harvested rainwater in a 600m³ off-stream reservoir
• (c & i) – Stormwater outlet 1
• (c & i) – Stormwater Outlet 2 (under access road)
• (c & i) – Development within the Regulated Area of a watercourse (eastern-most point of development)
• (f) – Discharge of 164000m³ per annum of treated wastewater via a conduit to a watercourse

Potential Interested & Affected Parties (I&APs) are invited to comment on the application on or before the 27^th of August 2025. I&APs must provide their comments, with name and contact details, to Debbie Fordham, at debbie@upstreamconsulting.co.za

In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), all personal information submitted will be used solely for this public participation process and will not be shared without consent.

Also in attendance were the Executive Mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Ald. Andrew Stroebel; Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament and former Provincial Minister of Health; Executive Deputy Mayor of George, Cllr Browen Johnson; MMC for Social Development, Libraries, Sport and Customer Care, Cllr. Melvin Roelfse, George Municipal Councillors, officials of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and the George Municipality, representatives from Athletics SWD, the Eden Sport Council, local sports organisations, and hundreds of enthusiastic citizens.

National Minister Gayton McKenzie commended George Municipality for its responsible and impactful use of public funds, calling the track ‘an investment in the future’. “Today is a great day. I must congratulate the Mayor of George on how the funds were used — exactly for what they were intended. You can see this is a R40 million facility. So, I want to congratulate the George Municipality — it’s a job well done.” Minister Mackenzi also expressed confidence that the new facility would nurture future athletic champions: “I’m telling you, out of the Garden Route we’ll see another Akani Simbine, Walaza, or Caster Semenya. There’s going to be a big star coming from here. Different athletes will rise because an investment has been made in their future. This is an investment in the future.”

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Mr Ricardo McKenzie, also celebrated the occasion: “The feeling of having this facility is one of excitement and exhilaration. As the Western Cape Government, we believe in collaboration and infrastructure development because it creates jobs. With this track, we’ll attract more sports events to the picturesque Garden Route, and those events will generate even more job opportunities. So yes, it’s about fun — but more than that, it’s about jobs, and it’s about the journey to the Olympics and the world stage. And it all starts with a facility like this.”

Executive Mayor of George, Ald. Jackie von Brandis welcomed attendees and underscored the success of collaboration across all spheres of government: “This project is a shining example of successful collaboration between all three spheres of government and our stakeholders. The presence of such distinguished guests is a testament to what we can achieve when we work as one.  We are especially excited for our children, who will benefit most from this investment. I am proud to say that this track belongs to you. It is a statement to every athlete, every student, and every dreamer in our community that George invests in its people. It is a step toward making George the premier sports destination of the Garde Route – a place where talent is nurtured, potential is unlocked, and excellence is celebrated. This track aligns perfectly with our tourism brand, Naturally George, and our positioning as a city for all reasons.”

Among the highlights of the event was the handover of athletic equipment to 10 schools from across the Garden Route District, including the Karoo region. Educators and learners were present to receive the equipment, demonstrating the municipality’s commitment to school sports development. Another highlight was the special acknowledgement of 74-year-old athletics legend Louis Massyn from George, who has completed 50 Comrades Marathons.

Adding flair and energy to the celebration were vibrant performances by the St. Mary’s Primary School majorettes, who helped create a festive and memorable atmosphere.

The Rosemoor Synthetic Athletics Track was funded through the Integrated Urban Development Grant (IUDG). The facility was completed on schedule and within the allocated budget of R40.59 million. The project was prioritised through George Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and informed by extensive stakeholder engagement. Athletics SWD has been involved throughout the process and is working with the Municipality to secure funding for future phases of the development.

The new tartan track meets international standards, ensuring that athlete performances are officially recognised. The upgrade is expected to elevate the quality of athletics in the region, encourage broader participation, and provide local talent with a professional platform to grow and compete.

The facility is envisioned as a hub for schools and clubs in the area and is designed to host regional, national, and even international events, supporting George’s ambition to become a prime destination for sports tourism while boosting the local economy.

The visit, facilitated by the GO GEORGE communications team as part of a Youth Month outreach, offered a firsthand look at what happens behind the scenes to ensure that the GO GEORGE bus fleet remains operational and in tip-top shape. The learners, many of whom aspire to work on large-scale bus and truck engines, were thrilled to get a glimpse of a potential future workplace.

Led by Workshop Manager Riaan “Botter” Lodewyks, the study tour left a lasting impression. The spotless tool cabinets, gleaming bus engines free of oil stains, and the meticulous maintenance schedule — with every GO GEORGE bus serviced every four weeks — all stood out as highlights. In addition to routine mechanical work, the maintenance process includes thorough bodywork checks, mechanical compliance inspections, and safety protocol verifications. On average, six buses are serviced daily: two minibuses, two midibuses, and two standard buses.

Megalink currently employs 14 local staff members, comprising a workshop manager, administrative personnel, six qualified mechanics, an electrician, a panel beater and seven apprentices. The apprentices, all linked to a register of families or individuals historically impacted by the roll-out of the bus service, are expected to receive their Red Seal certification in July.

VAN KERVEL SKOOL SE VOORNEMENDE WERKTUIGKUNDIGES BESOEK MEGALINK-WERKSWINKEL

’n Groep finalejaar-leerders in meganiese studies van Van Kervel Skool het onlangs die geleentheid gehad om die nuwe Megalink-werkswinkel te besoek — die kern van meganiese instandhouding en herstelwerk vir die GO GEORGE-busvloot. Die nuwe fasiliteit, wat sedert 1 September 2024 ten volle funksioneer, beskik oor ’n moderne instandhoudingswerkswinkel vir voertuie.

Die besoek, gefasiliteer deur die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan as deel van Jeugmaand-aktiwiteite, het aan die leerders ’n eerstehandse blik gebied op wat agter die skerms gebeur om te verseker dat die GO GEORGE-busse in werking en in uitstekende toestand bly. Die leerders, van wie ’n paar daarvan droom om eendag aan groot bus- en vragmotorenjins te werk, was opgewonde om ’n voorsmakie van ’n moontlike toekomstige werksomgewing te kry.

Onder leiding van werkswinkelbestuurder Riaan “Botter” Lodewyks, het die studiebesoek ’n blywende indruk gemaak. Die silwerskoon gereedskapskabinette, blink enjins sonder oliekolle en die noukeurige instandhoudingskedule — waar elke GO GEORGE-bus elke vier weke gediens word — was van die hoogtepunte. Benewens roetine-meganiese werk, sluit die instandhoudingsproses deeglike bakwerkkontroles, meganiese nakominginspeksies en verifikasie van veiligheidsprotokol in. Daar word elke dag gemiddeld ses busse gediens: twee minibusse, twee midibusse, en twee standaardbusse.

Megalink het tans 14 plaaslike personeellede in diens. Dit behels ’n werkswinkelbestuurder, administratiewe personeel, ses gekwalifiseerde werktuigkundiges, ’n elektrisiën, ’n paneelklopper en sewe vakleerlinge. Die vakleerlinge, almal gekoppel aan ’n register van families of individue wat histories deur die uitrol van die busdiens geraak is, hoop om hul Rooi Seël-sertifisering in Julie te ontvang.

1. George Municipal Beaches

Members of the public may apply to host events on any beach within the jurisdiction of George Municipality.

Bookings must be made through the Community Services: Environmental Services Office by contacting:

Ms Noluvuyo Mankayi on email at nmankayi@george.gov.za or Ms Celeste Africa at cpafrica@george.gov.za or 044 8022900.

Events on beaches are subject to the payment of applicable tariffs.

See link: https://tinyurl.com/5h226wnw 

Please note the following rules and conditions apply:

•             No disturbance to sand dunes.

•             No nuisance to the public or other beach users.

•             No exclusive use of any section of the beach.

•             Compliance with noise control regulations.

•             No littering; all waste must be removed after the event.

•             All rules displayed on regulation boards at the beaches must be adhered to.

•             Large events (e.g., sporting events) that extend beyond municipal staff working hours require the organiser to arrange for their own post-event clean-up services.

2. Public Open Spaces

There is currently no tariff for the use of public open spaces. 

However, all users are required to:

•             Request permission in advance.

•             Complete and submit the Indemnity and Compliance Form, which outlines all conditions of use.

•             The form includes important guidelines regarding public conduct, safety, environmental protection, and event responsibilities. 

3. Garden Route Botanical Garden

Bookings for events at the Garden Route Botanical Garden must be made directly with the Garden management. The Municipality does not manage this venue. 

4. Population Certificate Requirement (for Larger Events)

In terms of George Municipality’s by-laws and applicable national safety regulations, larger events—including those involving temporary structures, staging, or expected attendance above normal usage thresholds—must obtain a Population Certificate (also referred to as a Temporary Population Certificate).

This certificate is:

•             Issued by the George Fire Department.

•             Required to ensure the event complies with the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act (SASREA) and other local legislation.

•             A condition for approval when applying to host events on public amenities, especially where crowd capacity, infrastructure or safety considerations are involved.

•             Event organisers are urged to engage early with the relevant municipal departments to ensure all compliance requirements are met well in advance of the event.

•             Contact Station Commander Santa Sternsdorf via email at ssternsdorf@george.gov.za or telephone on 044 801 6300

For further information or to make a booking, please contact the Environmental Services Office on 044 802 2900.

General event queries can be directed to George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, the official Tourism Bureau of George Municipality, via events@visitgeorge.co.za.

George Municipality thanks you for your cooperation in maintaining safe, clean, and accessible public spaces for all residents and visitors.

Pose 1: Godfrey Louw, George Municipal Manager; Councillor Browen Johnson, Acting Executive Mayor of George; Councillor Theresa Jeyi, Chief Whip of George Council; and Mahlatse Phosa, Director: Planning and Development, cut the ribbon at the new municipal building at 46 Market Street.
Staff 3 and 4: Councillors and officials at the official opening of the new municipal building in Market Street, next to the GO GEORGE transport hub.
Mayco: The Municipal Manager, Godfrey Louw, members of the Mayoral Committee, and directors at the opening of the building.
York Hostel 3: Director Mahlatse Phosa and officials who occupy the new building listen intently to Acting Mayor Councillor Browen Johnson’s opening speech.

After standing vacant for more than 15 years, this once-dilapidated building has been transformed into a modern, accessible municipal facility that will serve as a vital hub for municipal services in the heart of George.

Strategically positioned just steps from the GO GEORGE public transport hub, the new building houses the Directorate of Planning and Development, including Human Settlements, as well as officials from the Financial and Strategic Services Department.

George Municipal Manager, Godfrey Louw, confirmed that the building will be given a new name, following a public participation process.

Residents can now access key municipal services at the new facility, including assistance with planning and development applications, human settlements queries such as the housing waiting list, indigent support for vulnerable households, and support for Investment Properties (land acquisition and lease applications) matters. While cash payments will not be accepted on-site, credit card facilities will be phased in over time. The facility is fully accessible, including a disabled-access lift, and has been purposefully designed to ease the burden of travel for residents seeking municipal assistance.

Speaking at the official opening on Friday, 13 June 2025, Acting Executive Mayor of George, Cllr Browen Johnson, described the event as a significant and historic moment for the municipality. He said it filled him with immense pride and a profound sense of purpose to stand before the audience as the municipality delivered on a long-standing commitment. He emphasised that the building represents more than bricks and mortar — it is a bridge between government and the people, a symbol of service, not bureaucracy. Councillor Johnson explained that while accessing the building may still require some travel, its strategic location — within metres of reliable public transport, including the GO GEORGE bus service — was intentional. He noted that key services have been decentralised to make them more accessible, ensuring that vulnerable groups, the elderly, and entrepreneurs can now receive the help they need closer to home.

Cllr Johnson extended his sincere thanks to Municipal Manager Louw for his leadership throughout the project, to the contractors for delivering excellent work, and to all municipal staff involved in making the project a reality. He reminded those present that the true success of the building would not be measured by its appearance, but by the difference it makes in people’s lives — through resolved queries, processed documents, and renewed confidence in the municipality’s commitment to service delivery.

According to Louw, the York Hostel had long been an eyesore in the Central Business District before Council resolved in 2024 to acquire the building from the Department of Public Works in exchange for several municipal buildings used by provincial health clinics. He highlighted that the revitalisation of this historic building not only breathes new life into the immediate surroundings but will also contribute to the economic revitalisation of the CBD. Louw noted that the municipality’s presence in the area would add value to neighbouring properties and support growth in the local economy.

The comprehensive renovation included the complete gutting of the old structure and the installation of new windows, ablution facilities, roofing, a modern customer service centre, and a disabled-access lift. New parking areas were created, and the building was fitted with modern open-plan layouts and shared working spaces. The project was successfully delivered by a team of dedicated professionals including Ruwacon as main contractor, SDK Architects, Urban Engineering, Leap Quantity Surveyors, and on-site project managers and safety officers. The municipality extends its sincere thanks to all involved for their hard work and commitment.

Cllr Jean Safers, Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, also addressed the event, expressing his appreciation to all stakeholders involved in delivering the project. He specifically acknowledged Mahlatse Phosa, Director of Planning and Development, as well as Delia Power, Deputy Director: Planning, for their commitment to the success of the project. Councillor Safers described the facility as the Directorate’s flagship project and placed responsibility for its success firmly with the team leading it. He expressed full confidence in their ability to deliver effective service to the residents of George and called on the community to provide feedback.

The dialogue featured a diverse range of speakers who addressed critical issues facing today’s youth:

• Siyamthanda Johns, also representing the G20 working group for youth development, delivered an impactful address on peer empowerment, mentorship, and intergenerational wisdom. He encouraged attendees to identify meaningful connections within their lives and communities.
• Megan Cunningham led a session on developing self-awareness, prompting participants to explore their common struggles and shared strengths.
• Dr Zilla North presented the vital themes of resilience, belonging, and meaningful connections. Her session aimed to guide young people in discovering what would bring them the greatest sense of purpose and belonging across the entire George municipal area.
• Herman Pienaar presented “Bridging the Divide,” an engaging discussion on cultural differences and innovative ways to foster connection and mutual learning among diverse groups.

The dialogue concluded with Jethro Grootboom, GCIS’s regional communications coordinator, unpacking South Africa’s G20 Presidency. He highlighted the theme: “Solidarity – supporting each other for the good of humanity, equality – we all are equal partners in moving South Africa, Africa and the world forward, and Sustainability – food security through household food gardens, trade skills for renewable energy investments, and waste management to move away from dumping waste.”

The event underscored the George Municipality’s commitment to empowering its youth and fostering a future of collaboration and progress.

#GovZAUpdates #gcis #GearUp4Greatness #YouthDay2025 #GovUpdates #16June2025 #YoungMonth2025 #YouthEmpowerment