Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Kicks Off Annual Disaster Management Awareness Campaigns in the Klein Karoo
For immediate release 26 October 2026
The annual Disaster Management Awareness Campaigns were officially launched on Friday, 23 October 2026, by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) together with the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) at the R.P. Botha VGK Primary School in Zoar situated in Kannaland.
The campaign, this year, will continue up to 30 October 2026, with the main focus on schools and communities in the Klein Karoo region of the district. The aim of the initiative is to educate learners about the risks of disasters and to promote a culture of safety, preparedness and resilience among the local communities.
Using an interactive educational play which features Gerry the Giraffe, the mascot of the Western Cape Government Disaster Management department, learners are given an introduction to the essential safety measures and the practical steps they can take to protect themselves, their families and their communities from disasters. The awareness campaign is centred around the main hazards of the season, especially floods, fires, electrical outages, and impacts of illegal dumping. Thus giving learners the knowledge needed to identify possible risks, take preventive action and respond properly in an emergency.
The programme aims at engaging pupils at primary level to reinforce awareness of disaster risk from an early age and get the learners to pass on the knowledge they have acquired to their families and communities. In this way, a culture of preparedness for disasters is developed and safer, more resilient communities are built throughout the Garden Route.
After the event in Zoar, awareness sessions will take place at schools in different parts of Kannaland and Oudtshoorn, the programme being scheduled to end in Van Wyksdorp on 30 October 2026. As part of these activities, the GRDM, the PDMC and the local municipalities wish to improve community preparedness and reduce disaster risks before the summer season.
Each year the campaign stresses the need for proactive disaster risk reduction and the part that education and cooperation play in making communities better prepared to deal with seasonal hazards.
In alignment with the International Risk Reduction Day theme “Communities that have made preparations are resilient communities; disaster preparedness begins with awareness and awareness begins with us.”
Obituary: Garden Route District Municipality Councillor, Ald. Petru Terblanche, passes away
For immediate release 22 October 2026
Shortly after a Council meeting on 21 October 2026, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) and its Council, were informed about the passing of Ald. Petru Terblanche.
The late Ald. Terblanche has dedicated his service to the GRDM Council for a period of five years from 2021 to 2026 and during this period he fulfilled the positions of councillor and specifically Portfolio Chairperson of Roads and Transport Services from December 2021 to July 2024.
Throughout his tenure, Ald. Terblanche showed immense dedication, commitment and passion for serving the communities of the Garden Route district. His contribution to the work of Council, particularly in Roads and Transport Services, reflected his commitment to improved service delivery and advancing the interests of the communities he served.
Politics interested him early in his life and by the age of 22, Ald. Terblanche had to put his successful political career on hold to take over the family butchery from his father, who was not able to run his business because of his health. For the next 32 years, he would manage both his farm and the butchery, also serving as a judge at agricultural shows. Terblanche returned to politics after selling his business and soon served as a Councillor for Mossel Bay Municipality for a period of two (2) terms. During his first term, he served as a Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and became an Alderman and Speaker during his second term.
Described by the Speaker of the GRDM Council, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, Cllr Terblanche was a well-respected human being. “He will be fondly missed for the caring person that he was and who always offered advice to his colleagues.”
“He was someone who always made the effort to come over and greet others as soon as he entered the building – a small gesture that spoke volumes about his character and humanity,” Ald. Wolmarans said.
“Often, it is the small things – a friendly greeting, the willingness to offer advice, and the respect shown to others, that leave the most lasting impression. Ald. Terblanche embodied all these qualities, and that is how I will remember him, with deep appreciation,” Ald. Wolmarans added.
Speaking fondly about his character and work ethic, many said they have lost a respected colleague and a decent and genuine public servant; and that his service and contributions are highly valued and will be remembered with gratitude and much respect.
The GRDM Council and staff express their sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the late Ald. Terblanche and said that his loss leaves a void in the Chambers and among his fellow councillors and colleagues throughout the organisation.
To the family and loved ones of Ald. Terblanche, “May our Heavenly Father grant you the comfort, strength and peace as you navigate this difficult time in your lives.”
“Ald. Terblanche, may your dear soul rest in peace.”
Media Release: Planting trees today can help South Africans withstand the heat of tomorrow
For immediate release 12 October 2026
The approaching El Niño weather cycle and predictions of soaring summer temperatures could make 2027 a challenging year for South Africans, says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).
For communities with little protection from the sun, extreme heat is more than uncomfortable; it can make daily life unbearable, particularly where temperatures remain high long after sunset. Planting trees offers a practical, long-term way to help communities adapt to rising temperatures.
Many creches, schools and clinics in the Garden Route need protection against soaring summer temperatures, and the planting of trees will bring welcome relief in years to come. – Cobus Meiring
The rollout of the Presidential One Billion Trees Campaign presents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) recently distributed hundreds of trees to selected schools and clinics across the region, creating opportunities to establish greener, cooler and more resilient community spaces.
However, planting trees is only the beginning. Young trees must be planted in suitable locations where they can receive adequate care and water, particularly during their establishment phase. Their survival and eventual maturity will determine the lasting benefits of the initiative.
Planting trees in clusters can create cooler microclimates, provide valuable shade and support biodiversity. Fruit-bearing trees can also contribute to local food security. Over time, these green spaces could offer much-needed relief to communities with few natural refuges from the heat.
Tree planting, alongside responsible water use, demonstrates how practical local interventions can strengthen resilience to a changing climate.
At the same time, the removal of dense stands of invasive alien plants across parts of the Garden Route is contributing to improved water security and reduced fire risk. These efforts highlight the importance of managing landscapes in ways that protect scarce resources while supporting ecological health.
The challenge is to turn initiatives into lasting outcomes. As communities prepare for increasingly demanding summers, investment in trees, their ongoing care and responsible environmental management will be essential. The benefits may take years to fully realise, but the work must begin now.
The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and serves a climate change think tank. (www.grefecsf.co.za).
Feature Image: One of the public parks in Dormehlsdrift, George, where an Outeniqua yellowwood (Afrocarpus falcatus) in the foreground, provides natural shade and creates a cool, sheltered space for the community.
Media Release: Three Days of Grit, Strength and Heart Define the 2026 Toughest Firefighter Alive Championship
For immediate release
6 October 2026
After three grueling days of grit, strength, endurance and heart, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully hosted the 11th Toughest Firefighter Alive (TFA) South Africa Championship at the Garden Route Mall in George.
Despite the challenging and unpredictable weather conditions for which George is well known, the atmosphere throughout the three-day championship remained exciting. This year’s event had the biggest attendance yet and brought together 330 firefighters from across South Africa, over 25 organisations represented, including a 30 member team from Botswana.
Overall Male Winner – Aphiwe Ndukumbini from WC EMS (middle), 1st Runner Up,
Emile Conrad from GRDM (left) and 2nd Runner Up,
Bakoena Hatane from Volunteer Wildfire Services (right).
Overall Female Winner, Nomvuyiseko Lungile, City of Cape Town (middle), 1st Runner Up –
Andiswa Stafa from City of Cape Town (left) and 2nd Runner Up, Amanda Twalo from Hessequa Municipality (right).
On Saturday evening, the championship culminated in an awards ceremony held at the Transnet Railway Museum in George, where the winners in the various categories were announced. The prestigious event was attended by the Executive Mayors of both Garden Route District and George Municipalities, firefighters and their families, fire chiefs, support staff, emergency personnel, sponsors and exhibitors.
Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, GRDM MMC for Community Services, welcomed attendees by paying tribute to firefighters, describing them as a “rare breed of human beings” who run towards danger and push themselves beyond their limits to demonstrate what is humanly possible.
Individual Category winners of the TFA-SA 2026.
George Executive Mayor Ald. Browen Johnson reflected on the three-day championship, highlighting the bravery, perseverance, determination, strength and courage displayed by the participants. He said what stood out most was the camaraderie among firefighters and the way they supported and encouraged one another throughout the competition. With the upcoming fire season and El Niño predictions in mind, Mayor Johnson said the strength and commitment demonstrated during the championship gave him confidence that firefighters were ready to serve wherever they were needed most.
“Tonight we are gathered here with respect, respect for every firefighter who stepped onto the course, respect for each person who pushed themselves beyond their limits, and respect for a profession that continues to serve others with courage and humility.” These were the opening words of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor Ald. Marais Kruger during his keynote address.
Team (Relay) Award Winners of the TFA-SA 2026.
Mayor Kruger paid tribute to firefighters for their selfless commitment to serving others. He highlighted that firefighters rarely seek recognition, but simply answer the call whenever communities need them, whether responding to wildfires, motor vehicle accidents, rescue operations or disasters. He also acknowledged the sacrifices made behind the scenes, noting that the well-known firefighter’s prayer, “When I am called to duty, wherever flames may rage, give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age,” captures the spirit of service, courage and readiness that defines the profession.
In conclusion, a visibly exhausted yet proud GRDM Fire Chief Deon Stoffels thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the championship, including the participating firefighters, emergency personnel, sponsors, exhibitors and Gift of the Givers. He acknowledged their support, commitment and valuable contribution to making the event a success and also confirmed that the TFA SA Championship will once again be hosted by the Garden Route District Municipality in 2027.
The 2026 Overall Winners:
Aphiwe Ndukbini from Western Cape EMS Rescue Services once again claimed the title of Overall TFA Champion, securing the prestigious title for the second consecutive year. Emile Conrad from the GRDM finished in second place, while Bakoena Hatane from Volunteer Wildfire Services secured third place.
The Overall Female Champion title went to Nomvuyiseko Lungile from the City of Cape Town. Andiswa Stafa, also from the City of Cape Town, secured second place, while Amanda Twalo from Hessequa Municipality took third place.
A breakdown of all the individual winners in the different age categories:
Male Overall
Aphiwe Ndukumbini – 0:07:29 – WC Emergency Medical Services, Metro Rescue
Emile Conrad – 0:07:32 – Garden Route District Municipality
Media Release: GRDM plants treesat Africa Skills Cango Academy in celebration of Arbor Month
For immediate release 30 September 2026
This morning, representatives from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) celebrated Arbor Month at the Africa Skills Cango Academy where the team handed over 20 indigenous Karee and 15 Spekboom trees to the Academy.
Representatives from the GRDM and the Skills Cango Academy planting 20 indigenous Karee and 15 Spekboom trees in celebration of Arbor Month.
While addressing the representatives, colleagues and guests at the event, Dr Nina Viljoen, Head of Environmental Management at GRDM, highlighted that Arbor Month serves as a reminder that planting a tree is about much more than simply making an area look attractive. “A tree is an investment in the future; and in Oudtshoorn, in the heart of the Klein Karoo, that investment has particular importance. We live in an area that understands the realities of extreme heat, dry conditions and pressure on our water resources.,” Viljoen said. In addition, Viljoen added that climate change is adding to these pressures, with periods of high temperatures and drought becoming an increasingly important challenge for our communities.
At the same time, the strengthening El Niño weather pattern is a reminder of the importance of preparing for climate extremes and using our natural resources wisely. With the effects of El Niño that can differ between regions and seasons, conditions such as heat, changing rainfall patterns and pressure on water resources reinforce the need for climate-resilient communities.
“This is why the choice of indigenous, water-wise vegetation is so important,” Viljoen emphasised.
Why planting Karee and Spekboom trees?
The Karee is a locally indigenous tree particularly well suited to conditions such as those experienced in the Karoo. It is hardy, drought resistant and provides excellent shade once established.
The Spekboom is equally unique. It is a locally indigenous tree with an exceptional drought-resilient biology that requires relatively little water once established, and is therefore extremely appropriate for a water-conscious environment such as Oudtshoorn. It is also a powerful climate change ally due to its exceptional carbon-sequestration abilities.
Viljoen further mentioned that these trees demonstrate something important. “Being environmentally responsible does not always require complicated solutions. Sometimes it begins with selecting the right tree, planting it in the right place, looking after it properly and allowing nature to do what it does best” she added.
The GRDM representatives extended words of gratitude to all representatives and guests who prioritised the activities of the day and thanked the Academy for joining hands with GRDM in celebrating the importance of trees in daily lives, and to raise awareness about the need to plant trees, and to protect existing trees.
“What we are really planting is something much greater: shade for the future, resilience for our environment, and a reminder that what we nurture today can benefit generations to come. May these trees grow together with this Academy, its students and the opportunities that it creates for the people of Oudtshoorn,” Viljoen concluded.
Did you know?
Trees and vegetation help cool their immediate surroundings, provide shade, protect soil, support insects and other biodiversity, and help rainwater soak into the ground rather than simply running off. In a town where summer temperatures can become extremely uncomfortable, the value of shade should never be underestimated.
Feature Image:Dr Nina Viljoen, Head of Environmental Management at GRDM, addressing representatives and guests at the Africa Skills Cango Academy during the event.
Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders celebrate 30th Clean-Up & Recycle campaign during National Clean-up Week
For immediate release 23 September 2026
The spirit of environmental responsibility and community participation, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) in collaboration with Mossel Bay Local Municipality celebrated the 30th Clean-Up & Recycle campaign on 22 September during National Clean-up Week.
The 2026 campaign, themed “It Starts with Me,” aims to engage individuals in reducing litter and improving community conditions.
GRDM and stakeholders celebrate the 30th Clean-Up & Recycle campaign in Mossel Bay.
The event brought stakeholders together to promote cleaner and healthier communities, while both municipalities’ Waste Management Units shared awareness about responsible waste management and the importance of preventing illegal dumping.
A key focus of the day was educating the community and participants about Illegal dumping and the different types of waste that can be separated, recovered and recycled. Participants were introduced to opportunities where recyclable materials, found among illegally dumped waste, can be sorted and collected, allowing individuals to potentially earn an income from materials that would otherwise be discarded.
This information generated considerable excitement among participants. Many expressed that they were previously unaware that certain waste materials could be separated and sold for financial benefit. Participants showed a strong interest in learning more and requested that a follow-up workshop be arranged to provide more detailed information and practical guidance on waste separation, recycling and income-generating opportunities.
The event was made possible through the valued support and collaboration of Plastic SA, Aquelle, and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP), whose contributions helped strengthen the day’s environmental awareness activities.
The National Clean-up Week celebration demonstrated that environmental protection could go hand in hand with community empowerment and economic opportunities. By equipping residents with knowledge about waste separation and recycling, communities can play an active role in reducing illegal dumping, protecting the environment and creating opportunities from recyclable materials.
The enthusiasm shown by participants highlighted the need for continued environmental education and practical skills development. The requested follow-up workshop will provide an opportunity to build on the knowledge shared during the event and further empower community members to become champions for cleaner communities and responsible waste management.
Together, through collaboration, education and community action, we can turn waste into opportunity and work towards cleaner, healthier and more sustainable communities.
