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Author: Herman Pieters

2025 11 11 Acceptance Speech by Ald. Marais Kruger, newly elected Executive Mayor

Acceptance Speech by Ald. Marais Kruger, newly elected Executive Mayor

11 November 2025

Good morning,

Honourable Speaker,
Deputy Executive Mayor,
Councillors,
Municipal Manager,
Senior Management,
Representatives from our Local Municipalities,
Community partners, the media, and all guests present, all protocol observed.

Thank you for being here today. Stepping into this role within the Garden Route District Municipality is both an honour and a responsibility. Our district spans over seven Local Municipalities, each with unique communities, strengths and challenges. Yet, we are united by one shared commitment: to work for the wellbeing and development of the entire Garden Route region.

The work of a district municipality is sometimes not always seen directly at community level, but it is deeply impactful. We support, coordinate and strengthen service delivery across the region. We plan for what lies ahead – for economic development, tourism growth, environmental protection, regional infrastructure, and municipal support. And importantly, we carry a critical role in disaster management and fire services, especially in a region prone to wildfires.

Our Fire & Rescue teams work day and night to protect lives, homes, farms, and natural habitats. Their bravery and dedication remind us what service truly looks like and they deserve our full support as we continue building resilience and readiness across the district.

As we begin this new chapter, our focus remains practical and people-centered:
• To work collaboratively with all our local municipalities
• To strengthen and resource regional disaster management and fire services
• To improve long-term planning and sustainability in our environment and infrastructure
• To support economic development and job creation that brings dignity to households
• And to invest in opportunities for our youth across communities, towns and rural areas.

We may come from different political backgrounds, but our responsibility is shared. The people we serve expect us to work together, respectfully, constructively and with purpose.

To our administration, thank you for your continued commitment. The district relies on your professionalism every day.

To our partners, community organisations, businesses, education, tourism, safety structures, traditional and faith leaders, your work strengthens our region, and we value your collaboration.

And to the people of the Garden Route, we are here to serve you. Your needs, your voices and your dignity remain at the centre of our work. Let us move forward together, building a district that is safe, resilient, inclusive and full of opportunity for all who call the Garden Route home.

I also want us to urge everyone focus not on who is important, but rather acknowledge ‘what is important’.

Thank you.

5 November 2025 Media Statement: Traces of a Greasy Residues Found Along Garden Route Coastline

Media Statement: Traces of a Greasy Residues Found Along Garden Route Coastline

5 November 2025

Minor traces of a smearable and sticky sheen-like dark substance have been found on a number of beaches along the Garden Route coastline in recent weeks. The exact source of it remains unknown. At a special JOC meeting called by the District Disaster Centre earlier today,  Gerhard Otto, Garden Route District Municipality Manager: Disaster Management: indicated that

“Initial reports were received about traces of the substance found along the Bitou municipality coastline, with subsequent sightings gradually moving westward across the region up to Still Bay”.

“The substance typically dries out and breaks down within approximately 6 days,” says Otto.

Traces of small smearable and soft globule patches have been found on most beaches along the Garden Route coastline over the past few weeks with the exact source being unknown.

REPORT TRACES OF THE SUBSTANCE TO THE GRDM EMERGENCY CALL CENTRE

Some beachgoers have reported traces of the sticky patches of residue on their feet, surfboards, and strips of patches visible along the high and low tide marks.

Currently, there are no reports of any impact on wildlife.

Members of the public who spot traces of the residue are urged to contact the GRDM Emergency Call Centre via WhatsApp at 081 709 5193, and to include a location pin of where it was spotted. These pins help GRDM accurately map and track where patches have occurred and where clean-up operations are required.

An interactive map where residues have been discovered, will be published within the next week.

CLEAN-UP EFFORTS ONGOING

Ongoing assessment and clean-up operations are underway by local municipalities and stakeholders to remove any visible residue. It is important to note that when these incidents occur at sea, the National Department of Transport is responsible for responding to the spill and implementing the relevant contingency plan. Only once residue reaches the coastline above the high-tide mark do municipalities assume responsibility for clean-up operations.

WHERE IS THE WASTE ROUTED TO?

Approximately 30 bags have been collected during clean-up operations and will be transported to approved hazardous waste disposal sites located in Cape Town and Gqeberha.

WHERE DOES THE RESIDUE COME FROM?

Samples of the residue will be tested; however, there is currently no conclusive evidence linking it to any specific source. Investigations of this nature are complex and can take some time to conclude.

A follow-up update will be provided again on 19 November.

ENDS

Interview: Garden Route Faces Growing Fire Threat Amid Record Dry Conditions

Interview: Garden Route Faces Growing Fire Threat Amid Record Dry Conditions

9 October 2025

By Cobus Meiring: Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF)

In an exclusive interview by Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF), veteran firefighter Deon van Wyk, Deputy Fire Chief at the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), expressed grave concern about the region’s escalating fire risk as relentless winds and exceptionally low rainfall persist. Van Wyk has formed part of the GRDM Fire and Rescue Services Unit since 1996 and works in a team of more than 40 firefighters under the leadership of Chief Fire Officer, Deon Stoffels.

According to Van Wyk, the Southern Cape has recorded unprecedentedly low rainfall figures over the past six months, causing surface and underground water tables to drop dramatically.

“The wind blows right through the night, which is highly unusual for this region and makes fire suppression extremely challenging,” he said.

These prolonged dry and windy conditions have left the Garden Route environment tinder-dry, increasing the likelihood of runaway wildfires. Van Wyk warned that even a small ignition could rapidly develop into a large-scale fire under current conditions, and GRDM have most recently faced more than a dozen wildfires.

Adding to the concern is a sharp decline in experienced wildland fighters across the region over the past decade. “The Southern Cape is naturally fire-prone, and the situation is worsened by the vast amount of invasive alien plant biomass in the landscape,” Van Wyk explained.

“To deal effectively with this, we need a strong corps of professional firefighters trained in forward planning, maintaining fire breaks, as well as block and back-burning practices.”

“Just today, and over the last couple of weeks, prescribed burns have burned beyond control. These have raised concerns about the management and controls thereof, pointing to some of the current risks that require actions to reduce their likelihood”.

Recognising the urgency, GREF, Nelson Mandela University, Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA), GRDM, SANParks, CapeNature, and Cold Stream Timbers have established a Fire Risk Reduction Task Team (RRTT). This collaborative platform focuses on strategic risk assessment, coordinated fire prevention planning, and awareness across both public and private land.

“The task team was created to improve regional readiness and cooperation ahead of what could be one of the toughest fire seasons in years,” said Van Wyk.

GREF urges landowners, municipalities, and residents across the Garden Route to remain vigilant, clear firebreaks, remove invasive plants, and report any signs of uncontrolled fires immediately.

GREF is a public platform for environmental managers. conservation and a climate change think-tank (www.grefecsf.co.za)

Feature image: GRDM Deputy Fire Chief, Deon van Wyk.

ENDS

 

7 October 2025 Media Release: The Toughest Firefighter Alive Championship returns to George from 9 – 11 October

Media Release: The Toughest Firefighter Alive Championship returns to George from 9 – 11 October

For Immediate Release

7 October 2025

The countdown has begun for the much-anticipated Toughest Firefighter Alive (TFA) South Africa Championship, which will be hosted from 9 to 11 October 2025 at the Garden Route Mall in George. This is the largest and most strenuous firefighter challenge hosted in South Africa.

This year’s event will see 267 firefighters, up 27 from last year, and 44 relay teams participate from across South Africa and teams from Botswana and Namibia. The event also includes a Mini-TFA and the TFA-Dräger Youth Challenge and several industry exhibits.

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel will be there to support individuals and teams, in anticipation of the upcoming 3-day event said:

“Beginning Thursday, the best of the best firefighters from across the country will test their skills with one goal in mind; to prove their strength, endurance, and teamwork. We are proud to host this prestigious and internationally known championship in George, the heart of the Garden Route, home to the most talented and dedicated firefighters.”

George Municipality Executive Mayor, Jackie von Brandis also shared her excitement about the upcoming event, saying: “This week, George will set the stage and not just host the Toughest Firefighter Alive Championship—we are proving once again why our city is the perfect stage for excellence. With 267 of South Africa’s finest firefighters, plus international competitors from Botswana and Namibia converging at the Garden Route Mall, we are demonstrating that George, the heart of the Garden Route, is where champions gather and legends are made. We couldn’t be prouder to showcase our beautiful city while celebrating the extraordinary courage of our nation’s bravest heroes.”

A special highlight of this year’s event is the participation of Chief Fire Officer Amanda Mgobozi from Astron Energy Cape Town Refinery. She is a trailblazer in the industry and a source of inspiration for young women aspiring to join the firefighting profession.

PROMINENT INTERNATIONAL GUESTS

  • John Hartley, President of the World Firefighter Games, and his wife Laura.
  • Andrew Birch, Director of Sports & Competitions for the World Firefighter Games 2026, Saudi Arabia.
  • Faisal Dossary, Sponsorship Director for the World Firefighter Games 2026, Saudi Arabia.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

According to Mark Smith, organiser and founder of TFA-SA, the event is organised by Firefighters for Excellence, Garden Route District Municipality Fire and Rescue Services, and the World Firefighter Games. It is presented in collaboration with Garden Route District Municipality, George Tourism, Garden Route Mall, and George Municipality.

The event proudly acknowledges its partners and sponsors:

  • Media Partner: Fire and Rescue International.
  • Platinum Sponsor: Industrial Fire and Hazard Control.
  • Silver Sponsors: Vanguard Fire and Safety and Ramcom Truck Load Bodies.
  • Other Sponsors: Garden Route District Municipality, Dräger, Form Scaff, FirstCare, Frontiermedix, Perfectwater, Pick n Pay, TyreMart, Henra, Kiron Pty Ltd & Project One Pty Ltd, and Design Plus.

WHAT TO EXPECT OVER THE THREE DAYS

Entertainment will be provided by DJ Micky Louw, who will keep the momentum alive with energetic music, engaging commentary, and a vibrant atmosphere that will keep both spectators entertained and participants motivated.

  • Day 1 (9 October): Programme opening from 08h50 – 09:45; Start of day one competition at 09h45 – 18:00.
  • Day 2 (10 October): 09:00 – 16:00 First competitors (Individuals competing); 10:00 – 14:00 TFA-Dräger Young Adults Challenge.
  • Day 3 (11 October): 09:00 – 12:00 First competitors (Individuals competing), 12:00 – 16:00 (Relays), Mini TFA (registration 09:00, starting between 09:30 and 10:00).

With the Mini Toughest Firefighter Challenge, kids can look forward to obstacle courses inspired by real firefighting drills (like crawling through tunnels, rolling hoses, and dragging dummies). Medals and gift packs will be awarded for the first 300 mini firefighters who complete the course. Parents are welcome to join in and guide their little heroes through the fun challenges

Members of the public are encouraged to attend, cheer on the competitors, and bring the whole family for an unforgettable experience of strength, skill, and spirit!

Feature Image: Emile Conrad, GRDM Snr Firefighter at the Garden Route Mall where the setup of the obstacle course already started on Monday, 6 October and is set to be completed by 8 October. 

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality

ENDS

3 October 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Honoured with Certificate of Achievement for Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Honoured with Certificate of Achievement for Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit

3 October 2025

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has once again demonstrated its commitment to good governance and sound financial management. On 2 October 2025, at the Local Government Indaba in Johannesburg, the municipality received a prestigious Certificate of Achievement for obtaining a Clean Audit for the 2023/24 financial year. This is the fourth year in a row that GRDM achieved this milestone.

GRDM is among only 14 district municipalities, out of 44 across the country to receive this recognition. The certificate was presented by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, who commended the municipality’s dedication to accountability and transparency.

Accepting the certificate on behalf of the municipality, GRDM Municipal Manager, Mr. Monde Stratu, expressed pride in the achievement and acknowledged the collective effort behind the success.

The certificate of recognition reads:

“Your commitment to sound financial management, transparency, and good governance sets a benchmark for excellence in public service and inspires confidence in local government.”

Feature image: GRDM Municipal Manager Monde Stratu (fourth from the right) receiving the award.

ENDS

Garden Route Export Awareness Seminar 2025 in Partnership with Landbank

A GARDEN ROUTE EXPORT AWARENESS SEMINAR WILL TAKE PLACE ON 30 OCTOBER. This initiative is driven in partnership with Landbank.

VENUE: De Jagers Sports Complex, 82 Voortrekker Street, Oudtshoorn.

TIME: 08h30.

RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/4ce2jh8v

Download the Programme here: Programme for Garden Route Export Seminar 2025

Are you interested in expanding your business internationally? Are you an exporter ? Would you like to know more about the export support available for your business? No matter where you are on your export journey, the Garden Route Export Seminar is a valuable platform for businesses (including) those led by women, youth, and persons with disabilities), to stay informed with the latest export news and expert advice. This event offers access to the latest export information, insights into market opportunities and connect with key stakeholders in the export ecosystem.

FOCUS AREAS

• Support and assistance for export promotion and Marketing.
• Financial and support programs:
i. Grants /Loans sector specific incentives(financial support or benefits for business specific sectors.
ii. Export training programs.
iii. Information on relevant issues affecting trade.

ENQUIRIES
Marthinus Van Wyk | E-mail: Export.Seminars@westerncape.gov.za | T :021 483 3106

Farmers attending will have the opportunity to engage directly with Land Bank representatives on funding and agricultural insurance solutions designed to support growth, manage risks, and expand / unlock new export opportunities.

 

1 October 2025 Media Statement: GRDM Council Welcomes Outcome of Environmental Impact Assessment on Erf 1297, Wilderness

Media Statement: GRDM Council Welcomes Outcome of Environmental Impact Assessment on Erf 1297, Wilderness

1 October 2025

At a Special Council meeting held on 30 September, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Council noted and accepted the outcome of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted for the proposed development by a lessee of Erf 1297 in Wilderness, commonly known as the Kleinkrantz property. This follows the 12 September 2025 EIA outcome by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) who rejected environmental authorisation (EA Ref: 14/12/16/3/3/1/3065) for the proposed development on the site.

The outcome confirms that significant portions of the site are environmentally sensitive and unsuitable for large-scale development. The DFFE decision is legally binding, meaning the proposed development as submitted cannot proceed. Council has therefore resolved to terminate the long-term lease agreement between GRDM and Waterleaf Properties (Pty) Ltd, in line with the provisions of the lease contract.

Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel also welcomed the outcome, noting that it provides much-needed clarity for the future of this strategic municipal asset: “The Garden Route is world-renowned for its pristine natural environment. The GRDM Council has a duty to balance development aspirations with environmental sustainability and not compromise the environment. The EIA outcome reaffirmed the ecological sensitivity of a part of this property, and as such, large-scale development will not be feasible. We respect the findings of the environmental authorities and support this decision.”

A portion of the property, which is approximately 2.1 ha of the total 30 ha, was partially developed more than two decades ago. That limited footprint is part of the area where continued low-impact, sensitive use may still be considered, but only if aligned with conservation value and subject to legal, environmental, and planning compliance.

Council will explore all options for the property’s future. Among these is the possible alienation of the environmentally sensitive portion to a public conservation authority, ensuring that the ecological value of the site is safeguarded for generations to come.

Executive Mayor Stroebel concluded: “I want to thank all the residents and interested stakeholders of the Garden Route for their patience and engagement throughout this process. Your continued interest has been invaluable in guiding us toward a sustainable outcome.”

ENDS

25 September 2025 Media Release: Revival of commercial forestry in the Southern Cape a huge relief

Media Release: Revival of commercial forestry in the Southern Cape a huge relief

25 September 2025

“The Southern Cape’s economy was built on forestry for close to two centuries. Unfortunately, this vital industry, supporting thousands of jobs and a wide downstream value chain, which included saw mills and timber sales, has fallen into sharp decline as major plantations on state land have not been replanted and only small pockets remain on private land,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

One of the unfortunate environmental impacts were that vast areas formerly managed as commercial plantations were no longer managed and thousands of hectares of land succumbed to dense infestations of invasive alien plants. This in turn held considerable risks for the region including potential wildfire disasters, water security and loss of biodiversity.

Over and above the environmental risks posed the demise of commercial forestry coincided with substantial job losses, loss of skilled labour, experience and a generational forestry management culture developed over a century.

The recent reversal of government policy allowing Cold Stream Timber Company (CTC) to replant a number of dormant plantations is a welcome relief to the Garden Route. Commercial forestry can create huge amount of jobs to skilled and unskilled labour at a time when unemployment in the region carries enormous socio- economic risks.

The newly formed Garden Route Risk Reduction Task Team (RRTT) welcomes the additional capacity of the forestry industry in protecting the region against overwhelming fire risks as a result of more available manpower and resources. This will include controlled burns, large scale management of invasive plants, the development of essential fire breaks and critical biodiversity corridors free of invasive plants.

As the Southern Cape again enters a period of low rainfall in the medium term fire risk increases exponentially, as the recent wild fires in Ruitersbos are testimony to. Combatting wild fires are extremely costly, and since its re- occurrence is guaranteed it requires an integrated approach, constant planning, vigilance and a high state of preparedness.

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

Photo: The return of commercial forestry brings hope to the Southern Cape socio- economic and biodiversity sustainability