CANSA Relay For Life kom vir die eerste keer na Pacaltsdorp: Gemeenskap word uitgenooi om saam te staan teen kanker

Herman Pienaar
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CANSA Relay For Life kom vir die eerste keer na Pacaltsdorp: Gemeenskap word uitgenooi om saam te staan teen kanker

Die bekende CANSA Relay For Life vind vanjaar op 27 tot 28 September 2025 plaas op die Pacaltsdorp Sportgronde, van 18:00 tot 06:00 – en dit is die eerste keer dat hierdie betekenisvolle geleentheid in Pacaltsdorp aangebied word.

Die gemeenskap van George en omliggende dorpe word hartlik uitgenooi om deel te neem aan hierdie spesiale nag van hoop, herinnering en ondersteuning vir almal wat deur kanker geraak is.

Die Relay For Life is ’n jaarlikse fondsinisiatief van CANSA (Kankervereniging van Suid-Afrika) wat nie net fondse insamel nie, maar ook hoop bring aan oorlewendes, hul gesinne, en dié wat geliefdes aan kanker verloor het. Dit is ’n fees van lewe – ’n aand van solidariteit, optredes, stories, en die simboliese loop om die baan wat hoop uitstraal in die donker.

Sluit aan – as groep of individu

Besighede, kerke, skole, organisasies en individue word aangemoedig om in te skryf.

  • Groepinskrywings (10 persone): R500

  • Individuele inskrywings: R50

Kos, kuns en kultuur

Talle kos- en handwerkstalletjies sal die aand nog meer kleurvol maak. Applikasies vir stalletjies is reeds oop. Belangstellendes kan die CANSA-kantoor of die persone op die advertensie kontak vir die nodige vorms.

Kunstenaars gesoek

Die organiseerders nooi ook plaaslike kunstenaars – sangers, dansers, digters of enigiemand met ’n talent – uit om op vrywillige basis op te tree gedurende die Relay. Dit is ’n wonderlike geleentheid om die gemeenskap met jou kuns te inspireer.

Vir enige navrae, inskrywings of applikasies, kontak gerus: Soraya de Reuck – 083 617 8325
of die CANSA-kantoor in George.

Kom stap saam, vier die lewe, en wys jou ondersteuning. Laat ons saam as een gemeenskap hande vat teen kanker.

Inskrywingsvorms: CANSA RFL Survivor and Caregiver Registration TEAM Entry Form -Cansa Relay

#RelayForLifePacaltsdorp2025
#SaamTeenKanker
#CANSAGeorge

OCC-voorstaanders vereer vir hul bydrae om Chair Challenge ‘25 weer te laat rol!

George Municipality Media
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OCC-voorstaanders vereer vir hul bydrae om Chair Challenge ‘25 weer te laat rol!
George, Tuinroete (Junie 2025) – Wanneer die uitsonderlike geleentheidsorganiseerder Alewijn Dippenaar die mikrofoon opneem, weet sy gehoor hulle kan uitsien na iets besonders. Só was dit weer op Maandagoggend 2 Junie toe besighede en individue verantwoordelik  vir die vanjaar se Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC) by The Apprentice byeengekom het vir ’n onvergeetlike ‘Breakfast of Champions’.Onder die gaste was die meerderheid van borge wat saamgespan en bygedra het met fondse, produkte en dienste om te verseker dat OCC ‘25 op 15 Maart 2025 vir die 21ste keer kon plaasvind. Verteenwoordigers van plaaslike, streek- en provinsiale regeringsliggame wat ’n sleutelrol in die geleentheid se volgehoue sukses speel, was ook teenwoordig om stories en huldeblyke te deel.Onder die sprekers van die dag het George-raadslid Melvin Roelfse dit dalk die treffendste opgesom deur te sê dat die impak van die OCC onmoontlik in ’n paar sinne vasgevang kan word. “Die OCC vier die oorwinning oor teenspoed, en die geleentheid se impak op ons dorp, land en selfs wêreldwyd is amper onmeetbaar.“As munisipaliteit probeer ons George meer toeganklik maak vir alle inwoners – byvoorbeeld deur aanpassings by verkeersligte en biblioteke – maar niks kom naby die impak van die OCC nie. Ek bedank Alewijn en sy span vir hul ware begrip van gestremde persone se behoeftes,” het Roelfse gesê.Dippenaar het die Tuinroete-distriksmunisipaliteit, onder leiding van uitvoerende burgemeester Andrew Stroebel, bedank vir hul deurlopende ondersteuning. Ander Wes-Kaapse regeringsliggame wat betrokke was, sluit in DECAS (Departement van Kultuursake en Sport) en die Premier se Departement.Desmond Speelman, voorsitter van die Eden Sportraad, het daarop gewys dat “die geleentheid nie in isolasie plaasvind nie,” en hierdie sentiment is beaam deur Juan Neethling van DECAS, wat nog goed onthou hoe die oorlede OCC-stigter Esther Watson vir die eerste keer in 2002 die idee van ’n rolstoelresies in George kom voorstel het. “Vandag is daar 40 groot geleenthede wat ons moet oorweeg, maar die OCC is altyd eerste om befondsing te verkry,” het hy gesê.Raadslid Marais Kruger van die Tuinroete-distriksmunisipaliteit het ook herinneringe gedeel aan daardie vroeë OCC-jare, toe hy nog ’n jongeling was en sy pa by George-munisipaliteit gewerk het. “Pa het altyd verduidelik hoe belangrik vrywilligers is, en die impak wat die geleentheid op die dorp se ekonomie en toerisme het.”Verteenwoordigers van die OCC se hoofbesigheidsborge – Garden Route Mall, Master Cargo, Lancewood, Safari, Carpe Diem Skool en iX – het almal die verhoog betree om hul lojaliteit teenoor die saak te bevestig. ’n Algemene tema was die gevoel van “gemeenskap en samewerking” wat deur die geleentheid gekweek word. Buiten die hoofborge, moet genoem word dat meer as 60 ander ondernemings die OCC op verskeie maniere ondersteun.Dippenaar het hulde gebring aan hierdie besighede en onderstreep dat hulle jaarliks oorval word met versoeke vir befondsing. “Maar asseblief, hou aan om ons bo-aan julle lys te plaas! Buiten finansiële ondersteuning, is dit altyd spesiaal om spanne van groot én klein borge langs die roetes te sien staan en OCC-deelnemers aan te moedig.”Hy het onthou dat hulle ná die terugslag van die Covid-pandemie nuwe idees moes uitdink om besighede te betrek. “Ons het die Africa Skills-span onder direkteur Elsie Harmse gevra om 20 kaskarre te bou. Aanvanklik het slegs ’n paar spanne deelgeneem, maar vanjaar het 18 besighede ingeskryf en altesaam R100,000 vir die OCC ingesamel deur hul deelname.”Dippenaar het ook hulde gebring aan die mediagroepe wat die geleentheid ondersteun het, en gesê dat – anders as normaal – hulle eerder saamwerk as meeding: “Die SABC-span het gesorg dat ons nasionale uitsaaityd kry; Algoa FM het ’n wye gehoor in die Oos- en Wes-Kaap bereik, en Eden FM het ons plaaslike luisteraars ingelig.”’n Sleutelfiguur in die bewusmaking van die befondsingsnood vir OCC ’25 was Ilse Schoonraad, hoofredakteur van Group Editors-publikasies, en skrywer van die George Herald se voorbladartikel wat die geleentheid vir 2025 bevorder het. “Die OCC bring die beste in mense na vore en is ’n integrale deel van ons dorp – ons kon dit nie laat sterf nie,” het sy gesê.Schoonraad se ‘OCC SOS’-artikel is vroeg daardie Januarie-oggend raakgesien deur die span van Garden Route Mall, en hulle het onmiddellik met Dippenaar in verbinding getree om hul steun aan te bied. Op Maandag het GRM bemarkingsbestuurder, Tumi Masango, hul besluit gemotiveer: “Dit gaan nie oor die geld nie; die OCC bevorder inklusiwiteit en sal vir jare ons ondersteuning geniet,” het sy gesê.Die geleentheid het ook gedien as huldeblyk aan die afgestorwe Esther Watson, en haar man Laurence het opgemerk dat, hoewel sy liefdevol bekend was as ‘Die Generaal’ as gevolg van haar vurige kampvegterskap vir die resies, “het sy haarself altyd omring met lieflike mense wat ’n verskil maak. Wanneer ek vandag hier om my kyk, is dit steeds die geval,” het hy gesê.Deurgaans het George-inwoner Shaun Butler – voorsitter van die Disabled Road-race Foundation, ster-atleet, en een van die hoofkarakters in die boek Only Good Things: celebrating 100 feel-good SA stories of 2024 – die OCC-kampioene na die verhoog verwelkom. Die opheffende publikasie was deel van van die borge se pryspakkies.Na die oorhandiging van gedenkplakkate, boeke en geskenkpakkies, het Dippenaar die laaste woord gehad toe hy verduidelik het waarom elke gas ook ’n spekboom ontvang het. “Spekbome is bekend daarvoor dat hulle giftige stowwe uit die lug haal en dit as suiwer suurstof teruggee. Dit simboliseer wat die OCC doen vir ons nasionale en kontinentale gestremde gemeenskap.”Na die amptelike verrigtinge afgehandel is, kon gaste die luukse ‘Ontbyt van Kampioene’, voorberei deur Johannes en sy Apprentice-span, geniet – en die spesiale samekoms gebruik om herinneringe oor Outeniqua Chair Challenge ’25 op te haal en uit te sien na die grootste rolstoelresies in Afrika se blink toekoms.Press release on behalf of the Disabled Road-race Foundation: interface by goji mimi finestone |  mimi@gojipr.net  |  +27 84 583 3144
mimi finestone
+27 84 583 3144 | www.gojipr.net

“The Wind Still Blows, and So We Keep Going”

Herman Pienaar
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“The Wind Still Blows, and So We Keep Going”
By Pieter du Plessis, Founder & Director of SA for HOPE NPCEverybody has a story, they say. Well, here’s mine. It’s not always pretty, but it’s honest.I was born in Gauteng, but my roots stretch deep into the dust of Ellisras, where I spent my childhood on the family farm whenever possible. That’s where I first learned the value of hard work, the strength of community, and the quiet pride that comes from helping your neighbour without expecting anything in return.In 1996, I moved to George, and like so many others, I came looking for a new start. What I found was something more – a place that embraced me. Once the Outeniqua Mountains wrap around you, you don’t leave the same person. George becomes a part of your identity, your rhythm, your purpose. This place – its people, its nature, its hidden history – captured me completely.But life doesn’t follow a straight road.At a point in my life, I lost everything. No home. No car. No income. I was broken in every sense. It’s a frightening thing to wake up with no direction, no purpose, and no certainty of tomorrow. But in that place – rock bottom – I found two things: the unshakable love of family, and a calling. Before you can help others, you have to know how it feels to be knocked down. Only then can you reach out to someone with empathy, not charity.
Before you can help others, you have to know how it feels to be knocked down.
From that place of rebuilding, First I was involved with another organization, but then I helped co-found SA for HOPE NPC, a local George-based non-profit organisation that has been serving rural and farming communities. With two co-directors and a growing network of volunteers, our work began with drought relief, delivering water, food, and livestock feed to areas where the land had turned to dust. But we quickly saw the need was far greater.Today, SA for HOPE supports:
  • Farmers and their farm worker
  • Farm schools – supplying stationery, food, and uniforms
  • Old age homes – delivering hygiene products, adult nappies, and emotional support
  • Struggling families – with monthly food parcels and essentials
  • Emergency aid – in response to natural disasters, fires, or job losses
  • Community upliftment – where we can, how we can
We go where others often don’t – to small towns and farm towns that don’t make the news. Because that’s where some of the strongest, kindest people are quietly surviving, needing just a little help to hold on.But my commitment to George didn’t stop there.I also launched The Market @ Transnet Transport Museum in George – not just as a way to generate income and support local entrepreneurs, but to create job opportunities, upskill individuals, and build a better economy, even if it starts small. We believe every sale, every stall, and every customer makes a difference.And this market serves another mission – to showcase the Transport Museum, a place rich with both South African and local George history. Surprisingly, many locals haven’t even stepped inside. That needs to change. Because heritage matters. Preserving the stories of where we come from helps anchor us in where we’re going. If we can get more families, children, and visitors to walk through those museum doors, we’re not just running a market – we’re helping look after our heritage.Through all of this, I’ve come to believe one thing deeply: It is always better to give than to receive. When you give, you heal something inside yourself. You rise with the people you help. You become part of something bigger. So, if you’re reading this – from your home in George, or one of the farming towns we serve – remember that you have something to offer. A story. A skill. A helping hand. And if you’ve got your own story to tell, please tell it. Let your children hear it. Let your community remember it. Because our stories matter. Because where there’s hope, there’s always a way forward.________________________________________ About SA for HOPE NPC SA for HOPE NPC is a George-based humanitarian organisation co-founded by Pieter du Plessis. For over 12 years, it has focused on drought relief, community upliftment, and emergency aid in small, rural, and often forgotten communities across South Africa. Their work restores dignity, one act of kindness at a time. About The Market @ Transnet Transport Museum, George Started by Pieter du Plessis, this growing local market creates job opportunities, supports small businesses, and brings renewed attention to the historic Transport Museum – a cornerstone of George’s legacy.Hope4Sa – Facebook Group  WebsiteE-Mail: info@saforhope.co.za  Contact: +27 76 844 6435 

Kom vertel jou storie / Come Tell Your Story

Herman Pienaar
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Kom vertel jou storie / Come Tell Your Story

Vertel ons wat gebeur in jou woonbuurt! Tell us what is happening in your area!

Afrikaans Almal het ‘n storie om te vertel! Vertel ons wat in jou woonbuurt, jou voorstad of dorp gebeur. Al die lief en leed, geboortes, sterftes, huwelike, doop – enigiets. Dit maak nie saak wie jy is en waar jy vandaan kom nie – net jy kan JOU storie vertel.Ons as gemeenskap vertel nie meer stories aan ons kinders nie; ons laat toe dat hulle ander stories op hul selfone lees. In die proses gaan ons plaaslike stories verlore.Ons is altyd op soek na vrywillige, vryskut- en gasskrywers wat insigte, opinies en inhoud kan deel – so goed nagevors soos dit goed geskryf is (mmm… nou ja, amper – al wat ons regtig wil hê, is dat jy jou storie deel). Rapporteer oor gebeure, vertel ons wat in jou buurt gebeur.Het jy wenke, truuks en insigte wat jy met ons lesers wil deel? Vertel dit asseblief vir ons.Voltooi die vorm hieronder nadat jy die riglyne onderaan die vorm gelees het. Of stuur jou storie per e-pos aan ons by mystory@gardenroute.news.English Everybody has a story to tell! Tell us what’s happening in your neighborhood, suburb, or town – the joys and sorrows, births, deaths, weddings, christenings – anything. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from – only you can tell YOUR story.As a community, we don’t tell our stories to our children anymore; we let them read others’ stories on their cellphones. In the process, our local stories are being lost.We’re always on the lookout for volunteer, freelance, and guest writers who can share insights, opinions, and content – as well researched as it is well written (well, almost – all we really want is for you to tell your story). Report on events, share what’s happening in your neighborhood.Got tips, tricks, and insights you’d like to share with our readers? Please, tell us.Complete the form below after reading the guidelines listed underneath the form. Or send your story to us via email at mystory@gardenroute.news.Rules are simple:
  1. Story must be uplifting and not divisive.
  2. No party politics, no racism.
  3. Tell your story of your community. Tell people of George what is happening in your neighborhood.
  4. Verify your information.
  5. Our editors will read it and help you to improve on your writing skills.
Content that you send to us1. On our various linear and non-linear platforms, you may be asked to participate by sending (by various means) content that you wish to share with us, such as a video or photo (hereinafter referred to as the “Content”) so that it can be used by all the Gardenroute.news, LoveGeorge and Love Garden Route media (hereinafter referred to as the “Media”).2. You declare and guarantee that you have (and will continue to have during use by the Media) all of the rights, licenses, approvals and authorizations required to allow the gardenroute.news and LoveGeorge to use your Content in order to offer their services, and more generally under the conditions specified by the present Terms. Consequently, you must not share videos that you have not created, or use content in your videos that is protected by copyright, such as music, extracts from protected programmes or videos created by third parties, if you do not have the required authorizations.3. You undertake not to submit to the Media any Content for which the rights are held by third parties (including the right of ownership, right to privacy, and right of personal portrayal) unless you have obtained from the third party concerned formal authorisation to distribute the data concerned and grant to the Media the rights specified in Article 2 above.4. You retain all of the intellectual property rights for your Content, but you must grant limited rights to the Media. When you submit Content to gardenroute.news and LoveGeorge, you grant the Media a non-exclusive right, that is transferable (including the right to sublicense), free of charge, for the whole world and throughout the duration of the copyright protection, to use, reproduce, distribute, create derivative works, represent and perform the Content in connection with the Media’s activity, and in particular for the promotion and redistribution of all or part of the service (and of the resulting derivative works) without limitation, in all formats, on all media and via all media channels;5. In this connection you may be required to give us your personal data such as your photograph and first name/surname. You expressly authorise us to reproduce them in context with the Content sent.

Inside the Garden Route Economy: Challenges, Opportunities & Local Resilience

Herman Pienaar
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Inside the Garden Route Economy: Challenges, Opportunities & Local Resilience
The Garden Route, South Africa’s southwestern coastal jewel, is experiencing an economic climate defined by resilience, creativity, and underlying challenges. Anchored by towns such as George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Mossel Bay, the region’s economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, and a touch of industry.The Pulse of Tourism Tourism is the economic heartbeat here. World-renowned for its natural beauty—from Knysna’s lagoon to Mossel Bay’s Cape St Blaize Lighthouse—the Garden Route draws in thousands of visitors each year. High-end restaurants, adventure experiences, and iconic events like the Knysna Oyster Festival and the recent MUT trail running competition in George keep the cash flow moving. Posts on social media even paint Knysna as a lively hub, shedding its “retirement town” image with family tourism and outdoor adventures.Mossel Bay’s Industrial Potential Mossel Bay stands out with a more industrial flavor. Historically home to South Africa’s largest gas facility and PetroSA’s refinery, the area’s economic hopes are pinned on potential revival—though recent reports suggest the anticipated Gazprombank deal has hit delays. Agriculture continues to be a pillar of the local economy, with Mossel Bay’s farming heritage, including historical ostrich feather exports, adding to its economic mix.George and Plettenberg Bay: Gateways and Getaways George, as the Garden Route’s logistical hub with its airport and infrastructure, connects the region to broader markets and events, including major international gatherings like May 2025’s MUT trail run. Meanwhile, Plettenberg Bay focuses on high-end coastal tourism, with luxury villas and nature reserves offering a premium visitor experience.Challenges: Power Cuts, Water Issues, and Systemic Frustrations Despite the region’s natural appeal, challenges persist. National economic struggles—32% unemployment and sluggish growth at 0.6% in 2024—cast a shadow. Local businesses also grapple with load-shedding, water shortages, and frustrations with infrastructure and corruption. Seasonal tourism spikes mean some businesses face feast-or-famine cycles.Resilience and Optimism Still, there’s a palpable optimism. The Garden Route’s unique combination of natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and entrepreneurial spirit positions it for potential growth. Business owners with the vision and resilience to adapt and innovate may find lucrative opportunities ahead.In short, the Garden Route’s economic climate is one of cautious hope—resilient but stretched, with a natural allure that could power future growth.

Your Responsibility When Paying Traffic Fines via Third-Party Vendors

George Municipality Media
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Your Responsibility When Paying Traffic Fines via Third-Party Vendors
Issued by George Municipality, 26 May 2025George Municipality reminds members of the public that while it is permissible to use third-party vendors to manage and pay traffic fines, the responsibility for ensuring that the fine is fully settled lies with the offender.IMPORTANT: If you choose to use a third-party platform to pay your traffic fine, it is your responsibility to ensure that the payment has been successfully processed and received by the Municipality. Always request and retain a valid proof of payment (receipt) issued by the Municipality or its official service provider.A recent incident highlighted a case where a motorist claimed to have paid a fine through a third-party website at a reduced rate. However, the payment was not transferred to the Municipality via our official service provider or directly into our bank account. As a result, the fine remains outstanding in our system, despite the motorist having paid the vendor.This notice is intended to equip residents with the correct information and is not meant to discourage the use of reputable third-party vendors. We simply urge residents to follow up on any payment made through such platforms to confirm that the Municipality has received the funds.How and Where Can You Pay Your Traffic Fine Directly? To reduce the risk of payment issues, consider using one of the following direct methods:1. In Person: George Municipality Main Building 71 York Street, Dormehlsdrift Tel: 044 801 9111 George Traffic Department 33 Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp Tel: 044 878 24002. Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT):
  • Account Holder: George Municipality
  • Bank: First National Bank
  • Account Type: Public Sector Cheque
  • Account Number: 628 6962 3168
  • Branch Code: 210554
  • Reference: Your notice number (very important)
For any questions or to verify a payment, please contact the George Traffic Department or visit your nearest municipal office.Municipal Court: 044 801 9400 Court Hours: 7.45 to 9am Court Administration: 9 am to 4 pm Court Sitting Closed: 1 pm – 1.45 pm Public Prosecutor Traffic Matters: mhopewell@george.gov.za Queries on fines and representations: clindt@george.gov.za – 044 878 2400George Municipality – Committed to Transparent and Accountable Service Delivery.

Executive Mayor Welcomes New Audit Committee Chairperson

George Municipality Media
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Executive Mayor Welcomes New Audit Committee Chairperson
Issued by George Municipality, 23 May 2025George Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Alderman Jackie von Brandis, and Municipal Manager, Mr Godfrey Louw, officially welcomed Ms Louise Stevens, the newly appointed Chairperson of the George Municipal Audit Committee, during an introductory meeting held on 22 May 2025.Ms Stevens was appointed as Chairperson of the Audit Committee on 24 April 2025. The meeting provided an opportunity for the new Chairperson to engage with the Executive Mayor, the Municipal Manager, the Internal Audit team, and the directors of the municipality. The discussions focused on key challenges and opportunities facing the Municipality and explored ways in which the Audit Committee can offer strategic oversight and guidance.Ms Stevens brings over two decades of extensive internal auditing experience to the role. She is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), holds a Certification in Control Self-Assessment (CCSA) and is certified in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) through the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). She currently also serves as Chairperson of the Audit Committee at Cape Agulhas Municipality and as a member of the Audit Committee for the Western Cape Provincial Government (Jobs Cluster).Alderman von Brandis expressed her confidence in Ms Stevens’ leadership and expertise: “We are honoured to welcome Ms Stevens to the George Municipality. Her depth of knowledge and impressive track record in governance and internal audit will add immense value to our oversight structures. We look forward to working closely with her and the committee to strengthen our accountability and service delivery,” said Ald von Brandis.Ms Stevens expressed her appreciation for the warm welcome and her commitment to contributing meaningfully to the Municipality’s governance: “It is a privilege to take up this role and engage with such a dynamic and committed leadership team. The Audit Committee plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public resources. I look forward to supporting the Municipality in achieving its strategic goals and serving the people of George with integrity,” said Ms Stevens.The George Municipal Audit Committee is an independent advisory body established in terms of Section 166(1) of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), No. 56 of 2003. The Committee performs a range of oversight responsibilities as stipulated in the MFMA, the Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Act (2011), the Municipal Structures Amendment Act (2021), and in accordance with its charter as approved by the Council.In addition, the Audit Committee also acts as the Municipality’s Performance Management Audit Committee in terms of Regulation 14(2) of the Local Government: Municipal Planning and Performance Management Regulations, 2001.The George Municipality Internal Audit team is celebrating International Internal Audit Awareness Month during May with a series of activities aimed at promoting the value of internal auditing and strengthening a culture of good governance. Jean-Pierre Rossouw, the George Municipality’s Chief Audit Executive, noted that the meeting with the new Audit Committee Chairperson aligns perfectly with the campaign’s objectives.“This engagement is a fitting highlight in our Internal Audit Month programme. It highlights the importance of strong partnerships and sound oversight structures in achieving transparent and accountable governance,” said Rossouw.Ms Stevens echoed these sentiments and reflected on the significance of the month: “May is a time to celebrate internal auditors around the world—They play a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective governance within organisations. From the perspective of the Audit Committee, their contribution is especially critical. Audit Committees rely heavily on the internal audit function to identify emerging risks, provide objective insights, and support informed decision-making. Together, organisations and their Audit Committees can highlight and reinforce the value of internal audit in driving continuous improvement and strengthening organisational integrity.”

International Biodiversity Day | 22 May 2025 Theme: “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”

George Municipality Media
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International Biodiversity Day | 22 May 2025 Theme: “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”
George Municipality proudly joins the global community in commemorating International Biodiversity Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of biodiversity issues worldwide.As part of our commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, the Municipality actively implements and supports a range of biodiversity-focused initiatives. These include:🌱 Environmental awareness programmes that educate and empower our communities ♻️ Responsible waste management practices that help build a cleaner, greener environment 🚫 Ongoing efforts to manage and remove invasive alien plant species 🌍 Support for regional conservation programmes that safeguard our natural heritageWe also recognize and protect areas within our region that are rich in biodiversity, such as the Garden Route Botanical Garden, where this photo was taken. These spaces are vital not only for ecological health but also for recreation, education, and long-term sustainability.On this special day, we encourage all our residents and partners to join us in celebrating and protecting our rich and unique biodiversity.Every action count in preserving the natural environment for current and future generations.📸 Photo taken at the Garden Route Botanical Garden 🤝 In partnership with @wessagreencoast and @wessa_sa#BiodiversityDay #HarmonyWithNature #SustainableDevelopment #GeorgeMunicipality #EnvironmentalAwareness #GardenRouteBotanicalGarden #GreenCoast #WESSA #ProtectNature #LocalActionGlobalImpact

𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟭𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿

Herman Pienaar
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𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟭𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿
It is with great pleasure that the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is announcing that it will partner with the Firefighters for Excellence NPO and the Garden Route Mall to host the 10th annual Toughest Firefighter Alive South Africa (TFA-SA) competition in George. The date is set – Thursday, 9 October to Saturday, 11 October 2025. The announcement was made by GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel on 16 May at the Garden Route Mall.The Garden Route Mall is the heart of retail in the region. It is the largest shopping centre along the Garden Route. Set strategically next to the N2 and close to other attractions in George, spectators and competitors will enjoy a safe space with the Outeniqua Mountains in the backdrop.

Water Saving Tips and Restrictions

Herman Pienaar
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Water Saving Tips and Restrictions
2 B Water Restrictions are applicable in George and surrounds as of 1 May 2024. Link to 2B WATER RESTRICTIONS Link to TARIFF DOCUMENT 2024/25 (See Page 60) Link to Information -on how Load-shedding affects water and sanitation services (Disclaimer: Please note Water Restrictions in George and surrounds do not allow for the filling of swimming pools)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, at your nearest Area Office or Thusong Centre or email to gmun@george.gov.za  or log via the My Smart City App.Steps to check for leaks on the property:
  • Step 1:  Stop all water use.  Close all the taps on the property and do not flush the toilet.
  • Step 2:  Check and record the water meter reading.
  • Step 3:  Wait for at least 15 minutes and take another reading.  Make sure that nobody has opened a tap or flushed the toilet since the meter reading was taken.
  • Step 4:  If there is a difference, then the leak will have to be fixed. If the number on the meter has increased, then it means that a leak has been detected and fast action will need to be taken.
  • Step 5:  Unless it is a simple DIY job, residents are encouraged to call a plumber to fix the leak.
Three simple tests to detect a toilet leak:
  • Listen for the water trickling into the toilet bowl.
  • Press a piece of toilet paper against the inside back surface of the bowl.  If it gets wet, you probably have a leak.
  • Put 15 drops of food colouring into the toilet cistern. If after 15 minutes the water in the toilet bowl has changed colour, then there is a leak.  If you cannot afford to call a plumber to fix a serious toilet problem, use the little stopcock/angle valve tap at the base of the toilet to keep it turned off between flushes.
WATER SAVINGWater saving should be a lifestyle, always, not just during drought. South Africa is a water scarce country and you never know what the future holds. Save now, so everyone’s water future is secure.THINK DRINK Water for drinking should be everyone’s priority, all the time. Anytime you see water flowing, think ‘this water should be saved for drinking’ and adjust your mindset and actions accordingly. D – Drinking water takes priority R – Rainwater to be used where possible and safe I – Innovative water-saving ideas at home and work will help N – No water wasted K – Know the water restrictions applicable to where you areBIG SAVES The quickest way to save the most water:Gardens Save municipal water for household use and find new ways to garden. • Consider planting drought resistant plants, investigate alternative water sources, rainwater tanks and grey water systems. • Use boreholes responsibly, ground water can dry up too. Don’t forget to use ‘Own Water’ signage where applicable.Outdoors • Don’t clean outside surfaces with a hose. Use a bucket or broom. • Wash vehicles with non-drinkable water or at a water-wise commercial carwash.Toilets Every time you flush, it’s a family of four’s drinking water down the drain. • Reduce toilet paper use and flush only when necessary. • Don’t use the toilet as a bin. • Adjust the toilet cistern setting to take on less water or use a weighted object inside the cistern. • Investigate rainwater supply to cisterns or manually fill your cistern with non-drinking water. • Invest in dual-flush toilets.Baths and Showers Take a quick shower or bath shallow and share.Showers • Quick open-and-close to get wet, soap all over, quick open-and-close to rinse. • Consider replacing the shower head with a flow reducing one. • Put a bucket in the shower before you soap up and use the water it collects somewhere else.Baths • Consider using a rainwater system to supply showers and baths. • Consider harvesting greywater for outdoor use. • Kids can bath shallow and share bathwater: cleanest to dirtiest works best.Laundry • Use the washing machine as little as possible. • Consider using rainwater for laundry and handwashing for certain items. • Full loads only.Dishes • Reduce the number of dishes you use. • Consider handwashing instead of the dishwashing machine. • Do not let the tap run while you are scrubbing pots. • Choose a water-efficient dishwasher should you buy one.Leaks • Check all taps and pipes inside and outside your house regularly for leaks. If on your side of the water meter, get a plumber in. If the leak is on the street side of the water meter, report it to your local municipality (see numbers listed below). • Monitor your water meter weekly – if the average use spikes, check for leaks and unnecessary use.Go grey Grey water is run-off water, typically from baths, showers and washing machines and is most likely to contain soap and bacteria from skin and hair. • Do not drink. Use only to flush the toilet and outside, with care and discretion. • To minimise risk of spreading bacteria do not: store for longer than 24 hours. : let it form standing ponds or pools. : use greywater from other people’s property. : irrigate gardens with greywater using fine mist spray. : let children and animals play near grey water.LITTLE SAVES Treat every drop as precious. If you save on the little things, you contribute to the bigger picture. Develop a lifestyle of saving water by:• Use a cup when brushing your teeth – wet the brush from it, rinse your mouth and the brush afterwards with it. Don’t let water run • Catch the cold water in the hot water pipes in a container when you wait for it to turn hot – fill the kettle or cooking pot with it. • Don’t let the water run while you soap and rub your hands. • Don’t rinse anything under a running tap. Put some water in the basin or a container and rinse as you go. • Don’t thaw frozen meat and food under running water. Take it out in advance and defrost in the fridge or a cool place. • Close taps properly and regularly check that none are dripping. • Consider flow reducing taps the next time you replace or build. • Reuse towels. • Discuss water usage with your household and wet water saving goals.SUMMER SAVES • Don’t fill swimming pools with municipal water. • Cover the pool to reduce evaporation and the need to fill it up as often. • Don’t wash swimming towels unnecessarily • Shake and rub, don’t rinse and run: rub and shake off beach sand and dirt, do not rinse off with running water • Drinking water is not for fun: please don’t play with toys that require filling up with drinking water : please do not play in sprayers using municipal water
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