GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL
Issued 3 May 2024, George MunicipalityPercentage storage at new raised dam wall height 99,20 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 7 mm
(Measured rainfall figures from 23 April until 29 April 2024)2 B Water Restrictions are applicable in George and surrounds as of 1 May 2024. Link to 2B WATER RESTRICTIONS
Link to TARIFF DOCUMENT 2023/24 (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.For water-saving tips please visit: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.
George Municipality Brings You Start-Up Tribe Academy
Issued by George Municipality, 03 May 2024As part of the George Municipality’s commitment to helping grow our local economy and develop entrepreneurial skills, we have joined hands with the team from Start-Up Tribe, an online platform that offers free online learning.Start-Up Tribe Entrepreneurship Academy is a free online platform for all individuals thinking of starting a business or existing entrepreneurs wanting to develop and invest in their own businesses with skills training.So, if you are new to the business environment, try out any of the ten free courses under the 14-Day Start-Up Course.For the more advanced entrepreneur, check out the Growth Courses.To learn more about Start-Up Tribe and how to access the Academy, please visit
https://www.thestartuptribe.org/pages/georgeAdditionally, frequently asked questions can be found at https://www.thestartuptribe.org/pages/faq.All online courses are free for all users
Water Saving Tips
The responsibility of saving water falls on all of us. If we all do or part our water security will be secure. Here are tips to save water from the George Municipality.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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Use the washing machine as little as possible.
- Consider using rainwater for laundry and handwashing for certain items.
- Full loads only.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Special Votes for the 2024 Elections
Article from SA Government NewsWith the General Elections coming up on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has detailed how the electorate can apply for special votes.A special vote allows a registered voter, who can’t vote at their voting station on Election Day, to apply to vote on a predetermined day before Election Day.To qualify for a special vote, you must be unable to visit your local voting station on voting day because you are pregnant, infirm or have another disability that prevents you from visiting a voting station on Election Day.You may also be eligible for a special vote if for other reasons, such as work.Special votes can either be cast at home (where IEC officials visit you at your residence) or at a voting station.Special votes and home visits for this year’s general elections will take place on 27 and 28 May. The IEC says the closing date to apply for special votes is 3 May.How to applyTo begin the online application for a special vote, visit the IEC website on https://www.elections.org.za/. Then navigate to the “Voters” tab and under the tab, click on “Apply for a special vote” in the middle column.You can apply if you:
- Are a registered voter.
- Have a valid South African identity document (green, barcoded ID book; smartcard ID or a valid Temporary Identity Certificate).
- Check your voter registration status.SMS your ID number to 32810, or
- Call the IEC’s contact centre on 012 622 5700.
- Can’t travel to your voting station because you are physically infirm, disabled or pregnant, or
- Can’t vote at your voting station on Election Day.
- Using the IEC’s secured online application form.
- By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS). (For special vote at a voting station only.)
- By visiting your local IEC office (not the national or provincial offices) and submitting a MEC 35 form. Forms can only be hand-delivered (no emails or faxes accepted), but someone else can deliver your completed form on your behalf.
GEORGE NOMINATED AS SEMI-FINALIST FOR TOWN OF THE YEAR
Issued by George MunicipalityGeorge has been named a regional semi-finalist for the prestigious Western Cape title in kykNET’s Kwêla Town of the Year competition. This exciting announcement follows an enthusiastic response from voters in the initial round, as revealed on Kwêla’s broadcast tonight at 7 pm. George Tourism is elated by this achievement and urges everyone to continue their support by casting their votes once again in this pivotal second round. Despite being technically classified as a city, George qualifies for the Town of the Year competition due to its population of less than 500,000 residents.Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager for George encouraged everyone to join her in voting for George. “As George residents, we tend to take the privilege of living in George for granted, but let’s count our blessings. We are situated in the ‘sweet spot’ of the world-famous Garden Route, with access to all its wonders, with pristine roads and an airport on our doorstep. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, oceans, and lakes, in forests and farmlands that provide an array of produce from milk to beer, with fruit, vegetables, and an abundance of rain. Our town is well-governed and clean, the air is crisply clean and even has a public transport service! We have world-class shops, schools, golf courses and more offering high employment numbers and a thriving economy. Please join me in voting for George today,” she said.The stakes are high, with the winning town set to receive a remarkable R1 million advertising contract on kykNET, providing an invaluable opportunity to promote George as a premier tourist destination both domestically and in Namibia.
Every SMS vote counts, contributing to the collective effort to showcase George’s charm and appeal to a wider audience.SMS lines will be open for voting from April 14 to April 19. To nominate George, simply SMS ‘George’ to 33157. Each SMS costs R1.50, and individuals are encouraged to vote multiple times, up to a maximum of 30 votes per number.The final showdown will occur between 14 – 19 July, with the ultimate winner being announced on 28 July during a special broadcast on Kwêla. The victorious town will not only claim the coveted title of Town of the Year but also secure a lucrative R1 million advertising contract with kykNET. Additionally, Lottoland will generously contribute a cash prize of R1 million to further invest in the town’s development.To further enhance George’s chances of success we ask all of our schools, colleges, universities, and businesses to rally behind the cause and mobilize your communities to vote between 14 – 19 April. For those interested in playing a more active role in the campaign, businesses can reach out to George Municipality’s Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw, at jshaw@george.gov.za for additional information.Witness the allure of George in this captivating video showcasing the town’s finest offerings: https://tinyurl.com/4f8wt2zcLet’s unite in support of George’s bid to become South Africa’s favourite town and secure its place as the Regional Winner en route to the final round in July!Chantèl Edwards
Manager Communications & IGR
Office of the Municipal Manager
Office: 044 801 9160
E-mail: cedwards@george.gov.za
Cellphone: 082 3502420
Don’t kill your dream: Vusi Thembekwayo’s best advice
As an entrepreneur mindset is the great determination. Your mind must change from scarcity mindset to abundance mindset to accommodate and attract what you want. ……………………………………………………………… -Best advice for entrepreneur: formula for great business 
• Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e… please take time to watch our previous videos -Vusi Thembekwayo’s dominant 5 tips to every entrepreneur • Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e… -Vusi Thembekwayo reveals the importance of leadership • Achieve Leadership Mastery in 2024 wi… ………………………………………………………………. Thanks for watching, we really appreciate it! much love and respect. comment so that we can be able to provide you with content you looking for.For more from Vusi:
https://www.youtube.com/@vthembekwayo
• Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e… please take time to watch our previous videos -Vusi Thembekwayo’s dominant 5 tips to every entrepreneur • Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e… -Vusi Thembekwayo reveals the importance of leadership • Achieve Leadership Mastery in 2024 wi… ………………………………………………………………. Thanks for watching, we really appreciate it! much love and respect. comment so that we can be able to provide you with content you looking for.For more from Vusi:
https://www.youtube.com/@vthembekwayoProtecting Your Finances: Beware of Financial Scams on Social Media
In an age where social media platforms have become integral parts of our daily lives, connecting us with friends, family, and the wider world, they have also become hotbeds for financial scams. These scams come in various forms, from fake investment opportunities to phishing schemes, and they prey on unsuspecting individuals who may not be aware of the risks. This article aims to shed light on the prevalent issue of financial scams on social media and provide valuable insights on how to avoid falling victim to these deceitful practices.Identifying Common Financial Scams:1. Fake Investment Opportunities:
Scammers often use social media platforms to promote enticing investment opportunities that promise high returns with minimal risk. Be wary of unsolicited investment advice or opportunities that seem too good to be true. Legitimate investment opportunities are typically thoroughly researched and come from reputable sources.2. Phishing Schemes:
Phishing scams involve tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. Scammers may create fake profiles, pretending to be from reputable financial institutions, and send messages or emails with links to seemingly legitimate websites. Always verify the authenticity of any communication and avoid clicking on suspicious links.3. Pump and Dump Schemes:
In the realm of cryptocurrency and stock trading, scammers employ “pump and dump” schemes. They artificially inflate the value of a particular asset by spreading false information or rumors, and encouraging others to invest. Once the price peaks, scammers sell off their holdings, causing the value to plummet, and unsuspecting investors are left with significant losses.Protecting Yourself from Financial Scams:1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers:
Exercise caution when receiving unsolicited investment offers or financial advice on social media. Legitimate financial opportunities are typically sought out through research and recommendations from trusted sources.2. Verify Profiles and Information:
Before engaging with someone on social media regarding financial matters, verify their profile and cross-check their information. Scammers often use fake profiles with stolen images and information.3. Use Two-Factor Authentication:
Enable two-factor authentication on your social media accounts and any financial platforms you use. This adds an extra layer of security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.4. Educate Yourself:
Stay informed about the latest scams and deceptive tactics. Familiarize yourself with common warning signs and red flags associated with financial fraud to better protect yourself.5. Report Suspicious Activity:
If you come across suspicious profiles or activities on social media, report them to the platform. Social media companies take user safety seriously and often investigate and take action against fraudulent accounts.Conclusion:As the popularity of social media continues to grow, so does the prevalence of financial scams. It’s crucial for users to be vigilant, skeptical, and proactive in protecting themselves from deceitful schemes. By staying informed, verifying information, and employing security measures, individuals can reduce the risk of falling victim to financial scams on social media and safeguard their hard-earned money. Remember, when it comes to financial matters, the adage “better safe than sorry” holds true.
Essential Safety Tips for Tourists: A Guide to Secure Travel
Traveling to a new destination is an exciting adventure, but ensuring your safety should be a top priority. Whether you’re navigating the bustling airport, settling into your accommodation, exploring the streets, driving, or hiking, these safety tips will help you have a secure and enjoyable experience.1. At the Airport– Secure Your Belongings:
– Use locks on your bags and attach name tags for easy identification.
– Never allow strangers to tamper with your luggage.– Seek Information Safely:
– When seeking directions, approach marked information counters only.
– Avoid relying on random strangers for guidance.2. At the Hotel, Guesthouse, or Other Accommodation– Be Vigilant:
– Report any suspicious, unattended luggage to the reception.
– Keep your luggage locked in your room when not attended.
– Utilize the safety deposit box for storing valuables.– Secure Your Room:
– Always lock your room when inside.
– Verify the identity of anyone knocking on your door before opening.
– Hand in your keys whenever you leave.– Luggage Handling:
– Only entrust your luggage to authorized staff, and ensure a receipt is issued.
– Practice caution when dealing with bell staff or porters.3. On the Street– Conceal Valuables:
– Avoid displaying expensive items openly.
– Keep your handbag and mobile phone with you at all times.
– Don’t carry large sums of money; use safer alternatives.– Stay Alert:
– Keep your wallet in an inside pocket, not the rear pocket.
– Ensure credit card transactions are processed in your presence.
– Explore in groups, stick to well-lit streets, and plan your route in advance.
– If lost, seek directions from official sources, like police or traffic officers.
– Use reputable taxi services recommended by your hotel or tourism helpline.4. In Your Vehicle– Prioritize Security:
– Plan your route in advance.
– Keep doors locked and windows up.
– Conceal valuables, and lock them in the trunk.
– Park in well-lit areas at night.
– Never pick up hitchhikers; prioritize your safety.– Emergency Preparedness:
– Have the car rental company’s contact number readily available.
– If uncertain about an area, contact a police station for advice and assistance.5. On Hiking Trails– Group Safety:
– Explore trails in groups for personal safety and assistance during emergencies.
– Avoid isolated areas unless accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.Useful Telephone Numbers– George Tourism: +27 44 801 9295
– South African Police Service Emergency Number: 10111
– Crime Stop (report criminal activity anonymously): 08600 10111
– Mobile phone emergency number: 112
– South African Tourism helpline: 083 123 6789By following these safety guidelines and staying vigilant, you can make the most of your travel experience while ensuring your well-being is a top priority. Safe travels!
Dogs on beaches(sand area) detrimental to Blue Flag status
George Municipality wishes to inform all dog owners that in order to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards at all of our beaches, it is imperative to enforce strict rules of NO DOGS ON BEACHES (SAND AREAS) that is in line with the Municipality’s By-law, Keeping of dogs, cats and animals.Wilderness Beach, Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay have full Blue Flag status and Leeintjiesklip has Pilot status for the 2023 festive season. Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA). The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2023 to 31 January 2024.Dog excrement can contaminate the water and jeopardise the Blue Flag status of our beaches – even if the dog poop is picked up. Dog owners are therefore warned to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. Law Enforcement officers will not hesitate to act against those that do not adhere to the By-law.Further to this By-Law no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example beachfronts, parks, sport fields and sidewalks) except on a leash and under control. This is unless the animal is in an area designated by the George Municipality as a free-running area.A person is not allowed to walk a dog other than a guide dog, ON A BEACHFRONT, a public street, public place, without carrying enough plastic or paper bags or wrappers, to place the excrement into, in the event of the dog defecating. Please note that dogs are allowed on the sidewalk areas, (tarred, brick-paved etc.) of beachfronts, if these conditions are adhered to.The beach areas under the control of the George Municipality include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth Beach, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip and Wildnerness beach areas up until the NSRI (Salina’s Restaurant). The area to the left of Salina’s Restaurant (facing the sea) falls under Sanparks. The attached map indicates the areas on Wilderness Beach where dogs MAY be walked on the beach.
The George Municipal By-Law may differ from that of other municipalities. Please humanely muzzle and or more can and will be imposed.Animal owners leaving on vacation should please ensure that they have their animals cared for by a reliable person or at an animal boarding facility such as kennels or catteries.
We ask dog owners to familiarise themselves with a map of Sanparks attached, to see where dogs are allowed on beaches and where not.Click here for more
https://tinyurl.com/y35497k7
International Day of Persons with Disabilities Celebrated Through Nature Exploration
Issued by George Municipality, 13 December 2023, For Immediate ReleaseIn commemoration of the International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities on Sunday, 3 December 2023, the George Municipality’s Gender and Disability Desk joined hands with the Association of People with Disability (APD) George and Garden Route National Park to facilitate a day of nature exploration and empowerment.A group of 20 young adults living with disabilities was taken on a meaningful journey into the forest to take a walk to the Big Tree, where they were educated about nature. Those who were able also participated in 1 kilometre walk into the forest. Nature has such a positive effect on the human body just think of the calming effect the fresh air had on this group. After the visit to the forest, we went to San Parks to go canoeing with the group, some of them were quite scared of the river, but we managed to take a few for canoeing. Through this program persons with a disability could showcase that they can do anything an able-bodied person can do.This initiative not only provided a day of enjoyment and exploration but also served as a platform for challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. By showcasing the capabilities of persons with disabilities, the event aimed to break down barriers and inspire a more inclusive community.