Kom vertel jou storie / Come Tell Your Story

Herman Pienaar
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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
-
0
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

Planes That Land Safely Don’t Make the News: Why We Need Citizen Journalism to Highlight Everyday Goodness

Herman Pienaar
-
0
Planes That Land Safely Don’t Make the News: Why We Need Citizen Journalism to Highlight Everyday Goodness
In the fast-paced world of modern media, one truth remains unshaken: “If it bleeds, it leads.” This adage underscores the stark reality that bad news often takes precedence in the headlines. Tragic accidents, political scandals, and global crises dominate our screens. Meanwhile, the stories that uplift—the metaphorical “planes that land safely”—often fade into the background, ignored in favor of more sensational narratives.Yet, as we grapple with the constant barrage of negativity, the question arises: who will tell the stories of hope, resilience, and progress? The answer lies in citizen journalism, a growing movement that empowers individuals to share the positive stories often overlooked by traditional media.The Media’s Focus on the Negative The logic of negativity in news coverage is not unfounded. Fear and outrage garner attention, driving clicks, views, and advertising revenue. This phenomenon is rooted in our evolutionary psychology; humans are hardwired to pay attention to potential threats as a survival mechanism. However, this constant exposure to negativity skews our perception of reality. A world filled with good deeds, innovation, and compassion becomes overshadowed by a relentless focus on tragedy.The Power of Good News Contrary to popular belief, good news is not boring—it is transformative. Stories of communities coming together, individuals overcoming adversity, and groundbreaking solutions to global challenges inspire action and foster hope. These narratives remind us that progress is possible and that humanity, despite its flaws, is capable of immense kindness and creativity.Citizen Journalism: A Platform for Positivity Citizen journalism offers a powerful solution to this imbalance. With smartphones and social media, ordinary people have the tools to document and share the good happening around them. From a local teacher mentoring underserved students to an entrepreneur developing eco-friendly technology, these stories often resonate deeply because they showcase the extraordinary in the ordinary.Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and grassroots news sites have already demonstrated the impact of user-generated content. Through these channels, citizens can bypass traditional gatekeepers, presenting a more balanced narrative of the world.Why It Matters Highlighting good news is not about ignoring the bad. It’s about offering a fuller picture of reality. When we focus exclusively on problems, we risk creating a culture of apathy and hopelessness. Conversely, amplifying positive stories can inspire others to contribute, reinforcing a cycle of optimism and action.Steps Toward a More Balanced Media Landscape
  1. Encourage Sharing: Empower communities to share stories of success and resilience through local platforms.
  2. Support Positive Platforms: Follow and support initiatives that prioritize good news, such as websites, podcasts, or social media accounts dedicated to uplifting content.
  3. Hold Traditional Media Accountable: Advocate for more balanced coverage in mainstream outlets by engaging with journalists and news organizations.
Conclusion The world is brimming with stories that deserve to be told—stories of everyday heroes, innovative solutions, and small victories that make a big difference. While planes landing safely may not grab the headlines, they are just as crucial to our collective journey. By embracing citizen journalism and prioritizing positivity, we can rewrite the narrative and restore faith in the power of humanity.It’s time we let the good news take flight.Would you love to start spreading the good news? Contact me at herman@lovegeorge.co.za

George Municipality Festive Season 2024/25 – Effective Safety Measures Ensure a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Season in George

George Municipality Media
-
0
George Municipality Festive Season 2024/25 – Effective Safety Measures Ensure a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Season in George
Issued by George Municipality, 8 January 2025, For Immediate ReleaseGeorge is currently enjoying a vibrant and bustling summer season, with warm temperatures ranging from 26°C to 28°C attracting over 250,000 people to its beaches and public swimming pools from 1 December 2024 and up to 5 January 2025. Highlights include a record-breaking 42,500 public pool and beachgoers on New Year’s Day, preceded by 26,500 on Christmas Day and 25,800 on Boxing Day. Popular destinations include the Blue Flag beaches at Wilderness Main, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay. Additionally, Leentjiesklip—designated as a pilot Blue Flag beach for 2024—and Gwaing River Mouth, a recipient of the Green Coast Award for the second consecutive year, continue to see steady visitor numbers.Comprehensive safety measures have been implemented to ensure a secure and enjoyable environment throughout the festive season. Municipal Law Enforcement officials, supported by SAPS and other partners, have maintained a strong presence in the CBD and other high-traffic public areas including the beaches. Fines totalling R72,000 have been issued for by-law infringements such as illegal trading, public nuisance, and disturbing the peace. Confiscated items include 355 litres of alcohol, sharp objects, knives, firearms, fireworks, and drugs.
Beach Monitors at Victoria Bay Access Point
To date, twelve arrests have been made for offenses including drunk and disorderly conduct, riotous behaviour, and assaulting a Law Enforcement officer. On New Year’s Day, four individuals were removed from beaches for unruly behaviour and public indecency. Confiscated alcohol is being stored and will be handed over to SAPS for destruction. Beach cleaning personnel have also played an essential role, working from 6 am on New Year’s Day to ensure beaches and public facilities were clean and welcoming for visitors.
Law Enforcement official confiscating alcohol at public beach
George Fire and Rescue Services, along with NSRI, lifeguards, and other emergency teams, continue to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Their efforts have resulted in zero fatal drownings so far this season, while four non-fatal drownings have been successfully managed. Preventive measures have been robust, with 2,791 actions taken, 223 rescues conducted, 751 first-aid incidents and Emergency Medical Assistance provided in nine cases.
Water Rescue Unit Jetrib and Rubber Duck
The George Fire Brigade has responded to 128 incidents, including 17 formal structure fires, 13 informal structure fires, 66 veld fires, and one motor vehicle fire, with no lives lost. Assistance was also provided to the Hessequa Local Municipality and Garden Route District Municipality for a stubborn veldfire in Jongensfontein. The municipal Human Settlements division assisted 9 families with emergency accommodation and addressed 24 fire cases.Municipal Traffic Services, in collaboration with Provincial Traffic, remain focused on road safety. They have attended to 28 vehicle accidents, including six with injuries and one fatality, issued 1,983 traffic notices, and conducted 31 impoundments. These efforts have ensured minimal disruptions during the busy holiday period.The success of the festive season is the result of combined efforts from various George Municipality departments, as well as external support and partnerships with SANPARKS, SAPS, NSRI, and Provincial Traffic. The Civil Engineering Services division responded to 162 Indigent related civils faults, 662 water-related faults, 111 street and stormwater faults, and 879 incidents of sewer clearing and emptying of septic tanks.EPWP clearing dump site
Lawaaikamp beautification of illegal dump site
The Cleansing division worked tirelessly over the holiday period, with refuse collection officials working on all the public holidays, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. A significant amount of refuse, just under 8000 tonnes was disposed of at PetroSA. Additionally, the Illegal Dumping Campaign launched on 13 December to address waste management challenges across the city’s wards has been highly successful, with over 9079 brown bags of litter collected to date.
Nelson Mandela Blvd Brown Bags Litter
Acting Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw commended the efforts of all municipal teams: “The cleanliness and safety of our city have been a top priority this festive season. I am pleased with the exceptional service delivery provided by our departments, despite the challenges of a busy holiday period. The hard work and dedication of our teams, as well as the support of residents, have contributed to ensuring George remains a safe, clean, and enjoyable destination for all.”Lifeguards remain on duty at beaches and public swimming pools, ensuring safety as the summer season continues through to 31 January. George Municipality extends its gratitude to its hardworking teams and the public for their cooperation and looks forward to concluding the summer on a positive note.

Registration Deadline Extended for Spaza Shops, House Shops, and Other Food Premises

Herman Pienaar
-
0
Registration Deadline Extended for Spaza Shops, House Shops, and Other Food Premises
Issued by George Municipality, 07 January 2024The deadline for registering Spaza Shops, House Shops, and other Food Premises has been extended to 28 February 2025.The George Municipality urges all operators within the George Municipal precinct to complete their registration before the new deadline.For detailed information on how to apply for a business license and the specific requirements for spaza shops, please visit the following link: 👉 Licensing Information for Spaza Shops and Food Premises (see below)All businesses mentioned below or who conduct businesses as below must apply for a business license:1. Sale or supply of meals or perishable foodstuffs The carrying on of business by the sale or supply to consumers of –
  • any foodstuff in the form of meals for consumption on or off the business premises; or
  • any perishable foodstuffs.
2. Health Establishments The carrying on of business by
  • providing Turkish baths, saunas or other health baths;
  • providing massage or infrared treatment;
  • making the services of an escort, whether male or female, available to any other person.
3. Entertainment The carrying on of business by
  • keeping three or more mechanical, electronic, or electrical contrivances, instruments, apparatus or devices which are designed or used for the purpose of the playing of any game or for the purpose of recreation or amusement, and the operation which involves the payment of any valuable consideration, either by the insertion of a coin, token coin or disc therein or in an appliance attached thereto or in any other manner;
  • keeping three or more snooker or billiard tables;
  • keeping or conducting a night club or discotheque;
  • keeping or conducting a cinema or theatre.
4. Hawking in meals or perishable foodstuffs The carrying on of business, whether as principal, employee or agent, by selling any foodstuff in the form of meals or any perishable foodstuff
  • which is conveyed from place to place, whether by vehicle or otherwise;
  • on a public road or at any other place accessible to the public; or
  • in, on or from a movable structure or stationery vehicle; unless the business is conveyed by a licence for a business referred to in item 1 of this Schedule
HOW TO APPLY FOR A BUSINESS LICENCE?An application form must be completed, which can be obtained at the George Municipality, Department for Environmental Services situated at 82 Meade Street, George and at the Municipal Offices in Uniondale.The application fee for a Business licence and an Entertainment licence is R 74,20. The fee for a hawkers’ licence is R 30,36. Please note that the application fee is not refundable.The following documents must be submitted with the application:
  1. Fully completed and signed application form and proof of payment.
  2. Copy of certified ID or passport.
  3. Copy of certified certificate of acceptability (COA).
  4. Copy of the municipal account where the business is operated.
  5. Site plan indicating where the premises are located. The site plan must indicate details of the type of structure or the building from which business is conducted.
  6. Proof of ownership or permission to utilise business premises.
  7. Business registration with the CIPC.
The processing of the application will take up to thirty (30) working days before an outcome will be available. Note that the Municipality may refuse the application.OTHER REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO SHOPSA. Building Plan RequirementsThe structure from which a shop is operated must have an approved building plan. House shops must be operated from structures that comply with the requirements for human occupancy in terms of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977.A building plan application must consist of at least the following:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Layout
  • Section
  • Elevations
  • Fire Protection Plan
The building plans must clearly indicate the structure’s intended use, including all relevant services such as electrical, plumbing, water reticulation, ventilation, sanitaryware etc. The application must be compiled by a registered competent person and submitted on the Collaborator Portal. The application will be circulated to relevant municipal departments and other authorities for comments and compliance verification with applicable laws and regulations.B. Minor works/Temporary structures/BuildingsTemporary buildings/structures means, any structure or erection or part of structure or erection which is intended to be used only for a temporary purpose for a definite period and which is made of temporary and quickly removable building material other than material of a permanent nature. These structures are multi-purpose, portable structures that offer protection under all weather conditions. These include:
  1. Containers
  2. Wendy House-type structures
  3. Mobile units
  4. Or any similar structures/buildings.
The applicable fees are determined as per the approved tariffs:
  1. New structures calculated at R29 per square meter, subject to minimum fee R424.00.
  2. Change to existing buildings at R23.00 per R850.00 of the estimated cost, subject to minimum fee R424.00.
  3. Minor building works at R424.00.
C. Inspection RequirementsIf the building plan application is approved, three compulsory inspections must be conducted before applying for an Occupation Certificate:
  1. Commencement/Open Trench Inspection
  2. Open Drainage Inspection
  3. Completion Inspection
These inspections must be scheduled two days in advance of the desired inspection date.D. Requirements for Occupation CertificateTo apply for an Occupation Certificate, the following compliance certificates are required:
  • Electrical Compliance Certificate
  • Plumbing Compliance Certificate
  • Certificate of Acceptability for Food Premises (if applicable, to be obtained from Garden Route District Municipality)
  • Gas Certificate (if applicable)
  • Glazing Certificate of Conformance (if safety glass is used)
  • Fire Safety Certificate (if applicable)
  • SANS Form 4 Engineer Certificate (if applicable)
  • SANS Form 4 Architect Certificate (if applicable)
  • In order to comply a building plan application must be submitted for consideration.
E. Zoning Requirements applicable to House Shops / Spaza Shops
  1. In terms of the George Integrated Zoning Scheme By-Law, 2023 Zoning Scheme house shops are permitted as a consent use on properties zone Single Residential Zone I and III, and a house shop of 6 square metres or less is permitted on a property zoned Single Residential Zone III as a primary right, meaning that a land use application is not required.
  2. The George Municipality: Town Planning Policy on House Shops and Other Residential Based Retail Concerns (House Shop policy) was adopted by the George Council on 25 August 2021 and provides details regarding the allowance of house shops and other retail or services type businesses in residential areas.
  3. The Municipality issued guidelines for the submission of House shop applications which have been simplified to assist property owner with the process of legalising the business operated from their property. The guidelines contain the following details:
    1. Documents required to be submitted with the application and include:
      1. A simplified site layout plan illustrating, inter alia, the structures on site and respective uses (dwelling house vs house shop);
    2. Public participation to be followed;
    3. A simplified application form and motivation memorandum (one document) which can be filled in by hand or be made available electronically.
    4. An application fee will be payable on submission of the application. The processing of the application will take up to 60 days before an outcome is provided.
    5. The guidelines and application form are available on the Municipaliy’s website or at the Planning front desk on the 5th Floor of the Main Building. The complete application can be submitted by hand at the Planning help desk at 71 York Street or e-mailed to town.planning.applications@george.gov.za; (Note that this applies only to house shops/spaza shops. All other land use applications must be submitted electronically via the portal).
    6. The application must be submitted by the landowner or be accompanied by a sufficient power of attorney be provided by the landowner.
Should the property owner, receive a land use approval for the house shop from planning, the owner must still ensure that the required Building Plan approvals and Business Licence are obtained.The Health Certificate and the Certificate of Acceptability, which is also required, are issued by the Garden Route District Municipality.Ensure your business is compliant today!Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe Senior Communications & IGR Officer Office of the Municipal ManagerOffice: 044 801 9512 Internal Ext: x1208 E-mail: nmangqwengqwe@george.gov.za Cellphone: 063 869 7373
123...67Page 2 of 67