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Author: Marillia Veldkornet

06 September 2026 Media Release: Three Days of Grit, Strength and Heart Define the 2026 Toughest Firefighter Alive Championship

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.

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

  1. Aphiwe Ndukumbini – 0:07:29 – WC Emergency Medical Services, Metro Rescue
  2. Emile Conrad – 0:07:32 – Garden Route District Municipality
  3. Bakoena Hatane – 0:07:45 – Volunteer Wildfire Services

Female Overall

  1. Nomvuyiseko Lungile – 0:15:52 – City of Cape Town
  2. Andiswa Stafa – 0:16:04 – City of Cape Town
  3. Amanda Twalo – 0:17:31 – Hessequa Municipality

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Age 18-29 Male

  1. Bakoena Hatane – 07:45
  2. Ethan Wildeman – 09:01
  3. Faeem Sonday – 09:25

Age 18-29 Female

  1. Tenike Blunden – 20:36
  2. Busisiwe Mdatyulwa – 21:28
  3. Jayde Viljoen – 22:06

Age 30-34 Male

  1. Rano Africa – 08:30
  2. Clint Fredericks – 08:46
  3. Jason Griffiths – 09:53

Age 30-34 Female

  1. Maryna Odendaal – 21:56
  2. Aliyaah Arnolds – 22:08
  3. Dazelle Jacobs – 22:15 

Age 35-39 Male

  1. Luvuyo Smith – 08:05
  2. Vincent Naudé – 08:28
  3. Martins Mokgatle – 08:56

Age 35-39 Female

  1. Nomvuyiseko Lungile – 15:52
  2. Lesego Molikwe – 20:58
  3. Lesedinyana Tumelo- 22:10

Age 40-44 Male

  1. Aphiwe Ndukumbini – 07:29
  2. Emile Conrad – 07:32
  3. Tertius Engelbrecht – 07:50

Age 40-44 Female

  1. Amanda Twalo – 17:31
  2. Ntsugi Johannah Belali – 18:03
  3. Maithamako Moswete – 20:12

Age 45-49 Male

  1. Manie Gouws – 08:16
  2. Rudi Van der bergh – 09:38
  3. Nathan Heyns – 12:06

Age 45-49 Female

  1. Andiswa Stafa – 16:04
  2. Thobeka Sweetness Senatse -19:14
  3. Coleen Johnson – 21:12

Age 50-54 Male

  1. Jermaine Carelse – 10:54
  2. Morne Mommsen – 12:23
  3. Smanga Kamase 15:07

Age 50-54 Female

  1. Ontiretse Pule – 22:04
  2. Mercy Dineo Golaakwena – 34:48

Age 55-59 Male

  1. Willem Rickett – 27:06
  2. No recorded result.
  3. No recorded result.

Age 60-64 Male

  1. Johan Conradie – 21:57
  2. Francis van der Byl – 22:13
  3. No recorded result.

Age 65+ Male

  1. Piet Niemann -16:33

TEAM (RELAY) AWARDS

Open Female

  1. Mossel Bay Fireblazers – 14:38
  2. Cape Town Spartans – 14:41
  3. Nzuri Westrand – 15:22

Open Male

  1. VWS 1 – 7:22
  2. Cape Town Spartans 1 – 07:25
  3. Midvaal – 07:29

Male 40+

  1. Cape Town Spartans – 08:12
  2. Midvaal – 08:30
  3. Gauteng Toppies – 12:05

Male 50+

  1. Charnaud – 13:05

Mixed

  1. Alpha Dragons – 10:34
  2. VWS -12:06
  3. Overstrand – 12:20

-END-

30 September 2026 Media Release: GRDM plants trees at Africa Skills Cango Academy in celebration of Arbor Month

Media Release: GRDM plants trees at 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.

– END –

23 September 2026 Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders celebrate 30th Clean-Up & Recycle campaign during National Clean-up Week

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.

ENDS

09 September 2026 Media Release: Joint Operation conducted at Spaza shops

Media Release: Joint Operation conducted at Spaza shops

For immediate release
09 September 2026

A team of Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in conjunction with Hessequa Municipality’s Law Enforcement and Fire Services, as well as the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Albertinia, recently conducted a joint blitz operation inspecting spaza shops in the Albertinia area.

A total of twenty-two (22) spaza shops were visited during the operation.

The Blitz Operation Team inspecting shops in the Albertinia area.

Municipal Health Services

Municipal Health Services team focused on raising awareness regarding regulatory requirements and the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards to safeguard public health.

Areas of focus included:

  • Compliance with Regulation 638;
  • Adherence to Labelling Regulation 146, including requirements relating to “best before,” “sell by,” and “use by” dates; and
  • Promoting good hygiene practices and compliance with applicable food-safety requirements.

Municipal Law Enforcement Services

Hessequa Municipality’s Municipal Law Enforcement Services focused on:

  • Ensuring that spaza shops were registered with Hessequa Municipality and had valid consent uses and trading permits;
  • Ensuring that spaza shops operated within the requirements of applicable legislation and municipal by-laws; and
  • Ensuring that the operation of spaza shops did not create public-safety concerns.

Fire Services

Hessequa Municipality’s Fire Services focused on:

  • Identifying illegal and exposed electrical wiring;
  • Ensuring the safe storage of combustible liquids and gas cylinders;
  • Ensuring that basic fire-fighting equipment was available and serviced regularly; and
  • Ensuring that appropriate fire-safety signage was displayed on site.

SAPS Albertinia

SAPS Albertinia focused on:

  • Identifying and addressing the sale of counterfeit goods, with such goods being confiscated where necessary; and
  • Maintaining a safe and secure environment throughout the duration of the operation.

The GRDM team hereby extends words of gratitude to members of the public for their support in lodging complaints. The information assisted the GRDM and its law-enforcement partners in identifying, investigating and addressing areas of concern within affected communities.

GRDM remains committed to working collaboratively with its law-enforcement and regulatory partners to promote compliance, public safety, food safety and healthy communities.

These teams are grateful for the continued support and collaboration from these departments during blitz operations.

ENDS

08 September 2026 Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders join hands at District Alignment Workshop to address the needs of local MSMEs

Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders join hands at District Alignment Workshop to address the needs of local MSMEs

For immediate release
08 September 2026|

The National Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is currently conducting a series of district workshops and roadshows aimed at engaging with key stakeholders across the district. Representatives include Local Economic Development Managers from local and district municipalities, business chambers and associations representing informal businesses.

The first Workshop is currently underway at the Council Chambers of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) where representatives, this morning, were warmly welcomed by the Executive Mayor, Ald. Marais Kruger.

The purpose of the workshop is to obtain inputs from local and district representatives regarding stakeholder experiences, challenges and best practices, to inform the National Informal Business Upliftment Strategy (NIBUS).

National, Provincial, District and Local Government representatives during the District Alignment Workshop.

Discussions this morning covered a range of key topics, including the products and support offerings of the DSBD, the Strategic Direction and Strengthened District Implementation Approach of the DSBD, Existing Programmes, Priorities and Opportunities for Alignment from a Provincial perspective, as well as the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) support offering and the District Partnership / Referral Approach.

When welcoming all present, Mayor Kruger stated that “our primary objective should be to bridge the gap between informality and economic readiness”.

“Through targeted interventions – focusing on infrastructure development, skills training, technological transfer and innovation, and regulatory relaxation – we want to create an ecosystem where an informal enterprise can seamlessly evolve into a sustainable micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME)” he added.

Kruger further acknowledged that red tape is a challenge many informal business leaders are faced with when he emphasised: “We must ensure that these business leaders are unburdened by red tape, protected by fair local policies, and equipped with the corporate governance, financial literacy, and marketing tools required to become funding-ready so their businesses can thrive”.  Mayor Kruger further noted that no single sphere of government can achieve this alone. “True development relies heavily on the Joint District and Metro Approach (JDMA) / (DDM) into our local economic frameworks,” he said.

With the following words, Mayor Kruger concluded and said: “As the Garden Route District Municipality, we stand firmly committed to supporting our B-Municipalities – to align our local bylaws and economic development initiatives. By pulling in one direction with national and provincial departments, alongside private sector partners, we ensure that informal traders receive uniform, high-impact support across the entire district footprint”.

Further items discussed on the agenda included products and offerings of the SEDFA, the strategic direction and a strengthened District Implement Approach of the DSBD, a facilitated District Priority-Setting, a District NIBUS Action Plan, as well as the way forward.

The event is well represented by local municipalities across the district as well as national and provincial stakeholders in a virtual format.

ENDS

04 September 2026 Opportunities: Financial Assistance towards Further Studies – 2027

OPPORTUNITIES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TOWARDS FURTHER STUDIES 2027

Notice number:  6/17/1

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 2027 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 main-office and satellite offices during normal office hours (Monday – Thursday 07:30 – 16:30; Friday 07:30 – 13:30). Application forms are also available on the GRDM’s website at www.gardenroute.gov.za. Applications open from the 01 September 2026. Download it here: Application Form

THE GRDM 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 Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Berma Losper at 044 803 1344 or 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 2026
Click here to download the Official Advert

02 September 2026 Public Notice: IDP/Budget/ PMS Time Schedule & 2025/2026 Draft Unaudited Annual Report – Open for Comment

Public Notice: IDP/Budget/ PMS Time Schedule & 2025/2026 Draft Unaudited Annual Report – Open for Comment

 Notice Number: 82/2026

Notice is hereby given that the 2027/2028 IDP Budget & PMS Time Schedule has been adopted in terms of Section 21 of the Municipal Finance Management Act (Act 56 of 2003) by the Garden Route District Municipal Council, at a Council meeting held on 31 August 2026.

Furthermore, the 2025/2026 Draft Unaudited Annual Report has been noted by Council in terms of Circular 63 of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, Act 56 of 2003. The Unaudited Draft Annual Report for the 2025/2026 financial year is open for comments. Comments must be lodged in writing to The Municipal Manager, PO Box 12, George, 6530 or by e-mail at rekords@gardenroute.gov.za before or on 30 September 2026.

The document will be available for public inspection during office hours at the IDP unit, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, George as well as at all the satellite offices of the Garden Route District Municipality: Riversdale, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Knysna and Bitou. Copies will also be accessible at all main local libraries and on the municipal website www.gardenroute.gov.za.

Those who are unable to read or write are encouraged to contact the Garden Route District Municipality during ordinary office hours, where they will be assisted to formulate their written comments or objections. For any further enquiries, please contact: Ms M James (IDP Unit: Garden Route District Municipality) on telephone number: 044 803 1431.

Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu
Acting Municipal Manager
54 York Street
PO Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300

Click here to download the Official Notice
Click here to download the 2027/2028 IDP Budget & PMS Time Schedule
Click here to download the 2025/2026 Draft Unaudited Annual Report