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Year: 2024

25 September 2024 Media Release: Millions Invested in Garden Route District Municipality’s Fire and Disaster Management Response Units by Western Cape Government

Media Release: Millions Invested in Garden Route District Municipality’s Fire and Disaster Management Response Units by Western Cape Government

25 September 2024

Grant funding for capacity building to date has surpassed R15 million, provided by the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCG) Department of Local Government (DLG), Directorate Fire & Rescue and Disaster Management’s Fire Services, to the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).

Fire Chief Deon Stoffels commented on the significance of the funding: “The purpose of the capacity building ensures that the GRDM’s emergency capacity, mobilization, response, and mitigation systems are of a standard that meets the region’s risks. This also ensures that the GRDM at a Local Government level builds enough capacity to assist with fire and disaster management responses across the region at local municipalities.”

Key projects to date, backed by Provincial funding, include:

  • Assistance of R3 million for the Regional Fire Station that was official unveiled on 2 February 2024;
  • In June 2024, a hook lift truck for flood and related response was delivered to the cost of R 2,5 million;
  • A fully equipped firefighting light duty vehicle to the value of R 981 000;
  • A mobile hazmat response unit to the value of R 500 000;
  • Ongoing roll-out of smoke detectors and the past year contribution were to the value of R 500 000;
  • A water delivery tanker was acquired, to the cost of R 1,2 million.

All the above projects have been concluded within the 2023/2024 financial year.

For the current and next financial year, further assistance in terms of grant funding is for an amount of R 7,2 million. This includes funding of R5 million to build a flood response unit, with various containerised equipment caches, including a hovercraft, an overhead housing facility. In addition, R 1 million will be made available for hazardous material equipment, mobile units. Lastly, one more water delivery truck worth R 1,2 million will be acquired to assist areas that are affected by water services issues.

These projects are implemented in line with relevant supply chain management procedures, and the recent handover marks the final step in meeting the objectives outlined in the various Business Plans and Transfer Payment Agreements.

Official Handover Ceremony held on 25 September 2024 at the GRDM Regional Fire Station

During the official handing over ceremony, the GRDM invited a Ettienne du Toit, the Western Cape Provincial Government Deputy Director for Fire Services to a handover ceremony of the assets the GRDM procured.

GRDM Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, during the ceremony, said: “It is only recently, due to climate change, that there has been an increased push for more response units. There has been an increase in disaster-related incidents . We see this every year as we face floods and fires. Stratu said that the GRDM Council appreciates the WCG efforts in providing the district with critical resources. “With our current budget constraints, we simply do not have the capacity to acquire these assets on our own, so your assistance is invaluable.”

The Municipal Manager also said the demand for the GRDM to assist local municipalities continues to grow – “being a fire-prone district, we need all the help we can get.”

“Thank you, Western Cape Government, for these life-saving contributions,” he concluded.

Ettienne du Toit, Deputy Director of Fire Services in the Western Cape, added:

“For the Western Cape Government, it’s an absolute pleasure to be involved here. We see this as a partnership—we all serve the same communities, and they trust us to help protect them. We must ensure we don’t disappoint them. The Western Cape has already faced eight disasters this calendar year, mostly involving floods, fires, and a significant electricity outage.” According to du Toit, the damage so far in the province is recorded at R9 billion, and the WCG has absorbed these costs.

“We must safeguard our emergency response resources, particularly as the province faces financial challenges that have led to job cuts.

The Water Response Project is the first of its kind in the Western Cape, and we are proud to see its rollout here at the Garden Route district. Given the increasing frequency of floods and fires, this investment is crucial. The water tankers are designed for humanitarian assistance, while the large vehicles aid in lifting containers. The plan is to expand this, not just for water but for hazmat, humanitarian, and chemical incidents.

“There’s a growing need for heavy-duty vehicles, and the goal is to ensure every town in the Western Cape is equipped with a well-resourced hazmat capability. As informal settlements continue to grow, so too does the risk of fire fatalities. For over eight years, we’ve been working to install smoke alarms in these areas, but there’s still much more to be done. It’s encouraging to see the development of the fire station and the fitness of the firefighters, and we look forward to seeing this partnership continue to grow. It is a pleasure to hand over these resources to you,” concluded du Toit.

ENDS

20 September 2024 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export  Seminar in George

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export  Seminar in George

For immediate release
20 September 2024

Yesterday, 19 September 2024, various stakeholders including the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Wesgro and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and other support organisations convened at the George Banquet Hall to participate in an export seminar.

The seminar that was hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, in collaboration with Wesgro and the GRDM, created a platform for potential exporters in the region to be informed about the new export markets and export opportunities. The seminar allowed for businesses to engage in information sharing, awareness creation and networking with strategic partners. Mechanisms to enhance export competitiveness were also shared at the event.

In his welcoming address to attendees, the Deputy Mayor of George, Ald Raybin Figland, said that the engagement is a platform for like-minded individuals with one goal in the centre of it all; how to promote and drive economic growth, so that the economies, district and the Western Cape, can flourish.

Extending a message of support to all organisations, businesses owners and entrepreneurs who formed part of the event, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, Portfolio Chairperson for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM said: “The Garden Route District Municipality has a dedicated Business Support and Development Programme through which we support various businesses including those with export potential”. In addition, Ruiters highlighted that exporting products presents an invaluable opportunity for economic diversification and growth, creating jobs and generating wealth for our communities as is stated in the GRDM’s Growth and Development Strategic Vision”. Ruiters also emphasised that the success of the region’s export initiatives relies on strong partnerships. “Collaboration between government, private businesses, and trade experts is essential to building the networks that will open doors to new markets, ” she said. Ruiters encouraged all businesses present to utilise these resources and networks as they embark on or expand their export journeys, and that the event will leave them inspired and ready to take the next steps toward expanding their business globally. While encouraging all present to seize the opportunities ahead and transform potential into prosperity, she said: “The world is looking for what the Garden Route has to offer, and together, we can ensure that our district shines on the global stage”.

Ilse van Schalkwyk, Chief Director for Economic Sector Support at DEDAT provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches and shared some background of the provincial Growth for Jobs and export strategies. She also presented the export trends for the Western Cape and sensitized exporters on support levers available to the private sector.

Richard Dyantyi, Manager responsible for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM, delivered a presentation on the Garden Route Export Development initiatives. He further proudly mentioned a few commodities that are being exported from the region, that includes: canola, pomegranate, wines, ostriches to name a few. In terms of the potential commodities that are ready to be exported, honeybush was highlighted as one of the products as an example. With regards to a conducive environment to compliment these export activities, Dyantyi said that plans to develop the port in Mossel Bay are fast progressing for the purpose of diverting goods that need to be exported and he that “Mossel Bay port is a strategic link between Cape Town and Richards Bay and/or Durban. Dyantyi further emphasised that all stakeholders need to focus on a plan that is fit for purpose, specifically for the Garden Route, that will also consider the inputs from businesses of the district in terms of exporting.

Safari Braai Products representative, Peter Reinstorff, presented the export operations of the local braai company that is exporting for almost 11 years. The company is currently exporting a diverse range of products across the world. To potential exporters present, he advised that businesses need to focus on the quality of the product, and that business owners should study the market to determine the demand for the product and most importantly they should thoroughly study the relevant legislation in relation to exporting e.g. packaging requirements etc.

The event also allowed for the George Business Chamber representative, Theo Adams, to present the operations and projects successfully rolled out by the Chamber. While sharing detailed information of the Chamber, he also shared information on funding opportunities and the type of compliance documents that need to be submitted.

Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities. Cameron further shared valuable advice on international trade and various factors on how geographic dimensions need to be considered for international trade. A few examples included socio-economic factors, e.g. religion, culture, taste, as well as transport focusing on circulatio]n and movement, commercial transactions as well as economic activities (supply and demand).

The event concluded with Nomandla Nene from Wesgro demonstrating to all business representatives how to access and navigate the Cape Trade Portal, which can be accessed at: https://capetradeportal.com/.

Cllr Cobus Meiring, Councillor at GRDM, extended a word of appreciation to the DEDAT and all stakeholders involved for hosting the event in the district, also focusing on seeing a database of exporters to be created, to utilise it as a working tool for potential exporters in the Garden Route.

ENDS

18 September 2024 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

18 September 2024

Today, 18 September 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) witnessed a historic moment with the official launch of the National Skills Fund Hospitality and Tourism Project for the Garden Route. This training project is coordinated by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) – the first and only Skills Mecca at a municipality in South Africa.

The primary goal of the Skills Mecca is to create jobs and improve livelihoods across the district by offering work-based learning opportunities for unemployed individuals, helping them develop the skills needed to secure meaningful employment. In doing so, the programme also strengthens the local economy.

Attendees at the launch event  included the Principal, her team and learners from Carpe Diem school, representatives from the National Skills Fund, CEOs of Sector Education and Training Authority and members of the business and tourism community, learners, councillors, officials, and other key stakeholders involved in the district’s skills development efforts.

Elzeth Grobler, Principal of Carpe Diem School, welcomed the guest to ‘the best special needs school in the district’. She provided a brief overview of the school and said: “We are a unique school with all disabilities except blind students. We do not just educate, but we strive to prepare each learner to reach their full potential”.

During his speech, GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, highlighted the significance of the three Skills Summits previously held by the GRDM. At these summits, stakeholders unanimously supported the initiatives of the GRSM, leading to the development and endorsement of ten strategic resolutions that now guide the Skills Mecca’s objectives.

Cllr Stroebel emphasised that the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project directly aligns with one of these key resolutions, which focuses on linking skills development to investment and economic development opportunities. This connection, he noted, is vital for advancing the well-being and prosperity of all communities within the Garden Route District.

Mayor Stroebel further highlighted the broader success of the GRSM beyond the current project. He mentioned other successful initiatives, such as the Home-Based Care Personal Assistants programme, Patrol Officers training, and Renewable Energy Workshop Assistants. “Collectively, these projects have created over 54 jobs and directed R8 million into local communities and households, showcasing the tangible impact of skills development in our region,” he stated.

Stroebel also shared an interesting fact from the impact analysis: “For every learner on a Skills Mecca programme, which includes a stipend, there is a benefit for 3.56 persons in that learner’s household. So, every Rand spent has a significant ripple effect on our community.”

Athenkosi Tshayingwe from the Department of Higher Education and Training expressed gratitude for being part of the impactful project. He highlighted that the initiative aims to train, mentor, and develop 400 unemployed residents of the Garden Route District, focusing on youth aged 18 to 35, to enhance their employability in the Tourism and Hospitality sector, with 200 specifically trained as cooks.

Tshayingwe also emphasised his department’s commitment to skills development, noting that the National Skills Fund (NSF) has invested over R5 billion in the Western Cape, benefitting more than 40,000 learners. The NSF has allocated R36.3 million to the GRDM project to equip young people with skills needed by the local industry and address unemployment.

Several beneficiaries of the GRSM program, rolled out in previous financial years, shared heartfelt testimonies during the event. These individuals, who are still gaining valuable practical experience, expressed their gratitude to the GRDM Skills Mecca for the opportunities provided. Their success stories underscore the program’s significant role in empowering communities and opening doors for personal and professional growth.

Alderman Stephen de Vries, who has a history of serving as the Chairperson of the Training and Development Committee at GRDM, shared his reflections during the event. He expressed pride in the program, stating, “The Skills Mecca is truly fulfilling the vision it set out to achieve.” Highlighting the initiative’s unique origins, he added, “To my knowledge, it is the only program of its kind in the country, born from the aftermath of a fire disaster.”

He concluded his speech by thanking all stakeholders for playing a role in this remarkable initiative. De Vries left the beneficiaries and learners with a powerful message, encouraging them not only to focus on becoming employable, but also to become entrepreneurs.

Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of GRDM Corporate Services, delivered the vote of thanks at the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Carpe Diem team and learners for their excellent performance and for hosting the event at their facility. She also extended her appreciation to the beneficiaries of the Skills Mecca initiative, who shared their personal learning experiences, inspiring all stakeholders present.

Caption for Featured Image: FLTR: Ald Stephen de Vries (GRDM), Themba Ndhlovu (CATHSSETA), Cllr Andrew Stroebel (GRDM), and Chris Mudau (SASSETA), united at the event, collaborating to foster skills development and community upliftment.

Did you know?

The Skills Mecca has promoted collaboration, cooperation, and integration among all skills development stakeholders within the district, and today’s launch of the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project reflects the ongoing commitment to this mission. Learn more about the Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative here: skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za

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18 September 2024 Media Release: GRDM’s Emile Conrad achieved bronze (3rd place) in World Firefighter Games in Denmark

Media release: GRDM’s Emile Conrad achieved bronze (3rd place) in World Firefighter Games in Denmark

For immediate release
18 September 2024

This month, from 7 to 14 September 2024, Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter and current South African Toughest Firefighter Alive, competed in the World Firefighter Games in Denmark.

Victorious moments as Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter at GRDM won 3rd place (a bronze medal) at the World Firefighter Games.

After competing in his age category (40-44), Conrad won the third place, placing him fourteenth overall on the world ranking list of the Toughest Firefighter Alive (TFA)! This is proof of a remarkable achievement. Sharing his experience of the event and his overall performance, he said: “The challenge demanded skill, strength, and endurance to push through against the best competitors in the World in a rapidly growing sport”.

Further describing the stair running event, he said that the event proved to be a thrilling test of cardiovascular fitness. In terms of the Indoor rowing event, “it was another opportunity to hold on through mental and physically tough times,” he added. “By the grace of God and strength, I could improve on my personal best times and achieved one Gold medal in my age category, as well as being placed the third best time overall of 2:57 for the 1000m row”.

Senior Firefighter at GRDM, Emile Conrad, hard at work during the World Firefighter Games in Denmark.

Described being back at home, he said: “It is so great to be back home in South Africa after an exhilarating trip to Denmark, where I had the privilege of representing our country and our Municipality in the World Firefighter Games 2024”. In addition, he described the experience as an unforgettable event, as he pushed his limits in events like the TFA, Indoor Rowing and Stair Running, which tested his physical and mental endurance and all the hard work and preparation. Conrad also mentioned that the camaraderie among fellow firefighters from around the globe left them with invaluable lessons, new friendships, and unforgettable memories. “Denmark’s warm hospitality and vibrant culture made the experience even more enriching,” he highlighted.

In conclusion he said: “I’ve returned home feeling proud of our team South Africa and blessed that God has given me these opportunities to be an ambassador for Christ. Lastly thank-you to each and every one for their support, kind words of encouragement and prayers – God is truly Faithful”.

GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, and the Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, on behalf of the Council and staff of GRDM, congratulated Emile for his stirling performance at the competition and for bringing home a medal to the people of South Africa, especially to the residents of the Garden Route.

Very well done Emile Conrad!

Read related article:
https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2024/09/04/3-september-2024-media-release-emile-conrad-senior-firefighter-at-garden-route-district-municipality-set-to-attend-and-participate-in-the-world-firefighter-games/

ENDS

16 September 2024 Media Release: Ozone Day – International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

Media Release: Ozone Day – International Day of the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

For immediate release
16 September 2024

Ozone Day, or formally called the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is celebrated annually on September 16. This day is commemorating the date (in 1987) of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The closure of the hole in the ozone layer was observed 30 years after the protocol was signed, but due to the nature of the gases responsible for ozone depletion their chemical effects are expected to continue for between 50 and 100 years.

The ozone layer is important as it protects earth from the harmful UV rays coming from the sun. It also helps to keep the temperature of the earth moderate by reflecting the harmful sun rays which makes the life of living organisms suitable on earth.

Climate change is linked to ozone depletion as many of the same gases that are causing ozone depletion are also contributing to climate change. These gases, such as the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are greenhouse gases, absorbing some of the infrared radiation emitted by the Earth’s surface, thereby effectively heating the Earth’s surface.

Conversely, changes in the climate of the Earth could affect the behaviour of the ozone layer, because the ozone is influenced by changes in the meteorological conditions and by changes in the atmospheric composition that could result from climate change. Ozone loss can also impact climate change, as ozone depletion in the lower stratosphere can create a cooling effect on the earth.

“We can protect the ozone by banning ozone-depleting substances which will allow the ozone layer to slowly recover,” said Dr Nina Viljoen, Head of Environmental Management at Garden Route District Municipality. In addition, Viljoen emphasised that a healthy ozone layer protects millions of people from skin cancer and eye cataracts, safeguards ecosystems and slows down climate change – as many ozone-depleting substances ODSs are also potent greenhouse gases with high Global Warming Potential (GWP) that contribute to climate change.

Click here to read a related Facebook article.

ENDS

16 September 2024 Media Release: Explaining climate change is a challenge

Media Release: Explaining climate change is a challenge

For immediate release
16 September 2024

“It took scientists globally a very long time to convince governments to come to terms with the fact that climate change is a reality and that it is something to consider for the sake of the future well-being of communities and humanity as a whole,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

The effects of a changing climate are numerous and complex. Those charged with interpreting the changing climate for the sake of planning, experience considerable challenges in educating and informing affected communities. Present-day humanity can no longer regard climate as business-as-usual to provide a stable and consistent environment supporting life on planet Earth exactly as it has done for millennia, for it is posing many new threats.

Persistent and frequent drought, rising sea levels, severe storms and flooding, loss of vital biodiversity, and dramatic changes in rainfall patterns and volumes are but some of the issues communities must get to grips with if they are to survive and prosper entering an uncertain future.

Public communication and education hold the key to the well-being of humanity, and authorities globally must make a sustained and concerted effort to simplify the climate change message to ensure communities understand what is taking place and how they should respond in order to adapt in time to climate-related challenges.

An example of where communities suffered severely as a result of not responding to pending threats of climate change is where communities established informal settlements on Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal flood planes with deadly consequences as severe floods swept many to a watery grave and destroyed billions of Rand of infrastructure and property.

The take-home message is that governments must invest in developing and rolling out communication campaigns to inform and educate communities as climate change takes effect.

The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think-tank. (www.grefscli.co.za).

Photo: Storm surges, damaging winds and waves are but some of the results of a changing climate, and communication is a vital tool in educating and informing communities about potential dangers.

ENDS

16 September 2024 Opportunities: Financial Assistance towards Further Studies 2025

OPPORTUNITIES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TOWARDS FURTHER STUDIES 2025

Applications are invited from students currently receiving tuition at Accredited Learning Institutions and learners who are currently Grade 12 or have passed Grade 12, for financial assistance towards further studies during the 2025 academic year. The financial contribution by GRDM, is restricted to full-time study and attendance at SAQA accredited Tertiary, or TVET institutions. This is ONLY applicable to students whose parents permanently reside within the Garden Route municipal area.

Application forms are available at the GRDM and satellite offices during normal office hours (Monday – Thursday 07:30 – 16:30; Friday 07:30 – 13:30). Application forms are also available from the GRDM’s website.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER COMPLETED APPLICATIONS AND IF THE DOCUMENTS MENTIONED BELOW HAVE BEEN INCLUDED.

A detailed Curriculum Vitae and cover letter, application form, and certified copies of the following documentation must be attached: Latest or Grade 12 results or equal qualification; latest examination results of students currently enrolled at tertiary institutions; certified copy of I.D.; affidavit of parents’ combined income and proof of residential address (municipal account).

Please forward the application form and all documents to: Records, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, P.O. Box 12, George 6530, for attention: Training and Development Section.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Mr Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Mrs Alvera Josephs at 044 803 1410 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe on 044 803 1345 during office
hours.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Closing date: 31 October 2024

Notice number: 117/2024

Click here to download the Official Advertisement

12 September 2024: Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Hosts Violence and Harassment Capacity Building Workshop

Media Release: Route District Municipality Hosts Violence and Harassment Capacity Building Workshop

12 September 2024

Yesterday, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) hosted a Violence and Harassment Capacity Building Workshop at the Protea King George Hotel in George. The workshop was attended by Councillors, Union and Labour Relations Representatives, Human Resource officials and senior management of GRDM. The focus of the workshop was on raising awareness, development of policies, and implementation strategies to address violence and harassment in the workplace.

The workshop was organised  by the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCG) Department of Local Government: External Human Rights Specifically Project (DLG-HRD) and the WCG Commission for Gender Equality (CGE). It was opened with a welcoming address by GRDM Speaker, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, who expressed her appreciation for the informative and engaging discussions.

The purpose of the workshop was to foster collaboration and partnership between local government entities and the GRDM by promoting gender equality through gender mainstreaming programs. They emphasised the need for a collective approach involving workers, labour union representatives, and employer/employee representatives to ensure the successful implementation of a comprehensive Violence and Harassment Policy.

Workshop Discussions and Highlights

The workshop featured discussions on the barriers to implementing a Violence and Harassment Policy within organisations. Participants were encouraged to propose fair procedures for reporting incidents, conducting disciplinary hearings, and establishing the necessary structures to ensure fairness and equality in policy enforcement. Speakers also highlighted the successes and challenges faced by the municipality in addressing violence and harassment, and the need for proactive and reactive approaches to policy implementation.

Calvyn Scheepers, GRDM Human Resources Assistant Manager, provided an update on the progress made regarding the amendment and development of the GRDM Violence and Harassment Policy. After that, representatives from DLG-HRD and CGE discussed various topics, including violence and harassment and the importance of having such a policy.

Anele Mgubasi, Commissioner at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) delivered a comprehensive presentation on policy implementation and its impact in the workplace. Key topics included:

  • employer obligations,
  • disciplinary procedures,
  • consequences of policy implementation, and
  • advice on the roles needed to address workplace violence and harassment effectively.

Leonard Macakati, from CGE, also presented guiding principles on the prevention, elimination, and management of harassment, as well as procedures for reporting such incidents.

During her closing remarks, Cllr Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of Corporate Services, emphasised the importance of collective action: “I was honoured to be present here today. I’ve learned so much. Let us leave this room as collective champions for gender equality. Let us find new ways to do more, together, to accelerate progress and strengthen our partnerships. And let us make the case, powerfully, for gender equality.”

The GRDM remains committed to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment for all its employees and stakeholders.

Highlights of the attendees and activities during the workshop.

Did you know:

Gender Mainstreaming is the process of assessing the implications for women and men of any planned action, including legislation, policies or programmes, in all areas and at all levels.  The goal of gender mainstreaming is to achieve gender equality.

Gender Equality means that the rights, responsibilities and opportunities of individuals will not depend on whether they are born male or female.  Equality does not require that girls and boys, women and men be the same or that they be treated exactly alike.  Equality involves ensuring that the perceptions, interests, needs and priorities of women and men (which can be very different because of the differing roles and responsibilities of women and men) will be given equal weight in planning and decision-making.

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12 September 2024 Media Release: Basic Wildland Firefighting Training Facilitated by GRDM and Southern Cape Fire Protection Association

Media Release: Basic Wildland Firefighting Training Facilitated by GRDM and Southern Cape Fire Protection Association

12 September 2024

In collaboration with the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA), the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) this week facilitated a Basic Wildland Firefighting training session for participants from the Fransmanshoek Conservancy. The training also included representatives from the ’Boggomsbaai, Vleesbaai, and Springerbaai’ conservancies, as well as Buffelsfontein and the EPC Farm.

The training initiative aimed to equip local communities and conservancy members with essential firefighting skills to enhance their preparedness and ability to respond effectively to wildland fires. By including representatives from various local communities and conservancies, the training promoted a collaborative approach to managing vegetation and veld fires.

Essential topics covered, includes:

  1. Fire weather and danger index.
  2. Fire behavior and safety precautions.
  3. Detection and notification protocols.
  4. Personal protective clothing and equipment.
  5. Fire environment and risk assessment.
  6. Basic and incipient suppression techniques.
  7. Fuel load management and risk management practices.
  8. Fire prevention activities.
  9. Scope of practice for community first responders

This training will also empower participants with the knowledge and skills to safely manage incipient vegetation and veld fires, reducing the risk of larger fires that could damage properties, infrastructure, and the environment.

Benefits of this training include:

  • Enhanced firefighting knowledge and skills in the area.
  • Improved collaboration and coordination among local communities, conservancies, and authorities.
  • Increased awareness of wildland fire risks and prevention strategies.
  • Better equipped and trained personnel to handle vegetation fires.
  • Reduced risk of property damage and environmental impact.
  • More knowledgeable residents, especially regarding the notification of risks to authorities.

Assisting conservancies with basic firefighting training is important for enhancing quick detection and potential suppression while firefighting authorities are en-route to a fire notification.

To continue providing participants with thorough basic training and reinforcing safety measures for vegetation fires, a second phase of practical training will be added.

Featured Image caption: Fire Chief Deon Stoffels and Station Commander: Operations Heinrich Leslie facilitating the training session.

 

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