Notice of Public Participation Information Sessions: Renewal of the GRDM’s Air Quality Management Plan, 4 – 7 November 2024
Notice Number 32/2024
Notice is hereby given that public participation sessions will take place from 4 – 7 November 2024 in the Garden Route district to solicit inputs for the renewal of the Garden Route District Municipality’s Air Quality Management Plan. Herewith the schedule as follows:
4 November 2024, 09:00-12:00 HESSEQUA Civic Centre Side Hall (Glaskas), Van den Berg Street, Riversdale
4 November 2024, 13:00-16:00
KANNALAND Council Chambers, Queen Street, Ladismith
5 November 2024, 09:00-12:00
OUDTSHOORN Thusong Community Centre, 12th Avenue, Bongolethu, Oudtshoorn
5 November 2024, 13:00-16:00
MOSSEL BAY D’Almeida Community Hall, Mossel Street, D’Almeida, Mossel Bay
6 November 2024, 13:00-16:00
GEORGE Banqueting Hall, 71 York Street, George
7 November 2024, 09:00-12:00
BITOU Piesang Valley Community Hall, 7 Green Point Avenue, Plettenberg Bay
Work Experience Placement Opportunities: Tourism and/or Hospitality – another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be placed at a Tourism and/or Hospitality related organisation for an 18-month work experience opportunity as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities.
Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35. Young people from rural areas are encouraged to apply. Opportunities are currently available in all areas of the garden route district.
Programme and Entry Requirements
This is an 18-month work experience placement programme at Tourism / Hospitality related organisation in the Garden Route.
Applicants will be selected based on the following sequentially prioritised criteria:
• 1st Criteria: Persons with a NATED N6 Tourism / Hospitality qualification that need 18-months work experience for a National Diploma.
• 2nd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality qualification that have had no work experience.
• 3rd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality qualification that have had less than six months work experience.
In addition, the GRDM, subject to receiving enough applications and available workplaces, will also attempt to allocate applicants evenly across all Municipal Wards in the District.
Scope of Work and Duties
• This will be determined by the Tourism / Hospitality organisation but could include administration, reception, room services, bar services, restaurant services, food services, customer services or any other typical work within tourism and hospitality.
• All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an interview with the host employer.
Stipends will be paid for 18-months by GRDM. Stipends must be used for meals, accommodation and travel costs.
The Programme also does not include uniforms, PPE or any equipment unless supplied voluntarily by the host employer. Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED:
• A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
• A copy of highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
• An affidavit certified within last six months that confirms previous work experience, including any Learnerships.
• A criminal record clearance report from the SA Police Service.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Mr Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363, or Ms. Kayakazi Klaas 044 803 1434 during office hours (Monday to Thursday between 07:30 and 16:30 and Friday between 07:30 and 13:30) only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted 2 months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Message From GRDM Chief Fire Officer: TFA-SA competition drawn to a close
For immediate release 30 September 2024
Whilst the Toughest Firefighter Alive South Africa (TFA-SA) Competition has drawn to a close, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Services would like to close out this year’s journey by extending our GRATITUDE to fellow colleagues, the municipality, managers, and most importantly, family and friends, as well as sponsors and volunteers, whom not only assisted at the event, but also our firefighters.
You have jumped into this with the firefighters and adjusted your schedules, your weekend, and SCREAMED and JUMPED with equal passion and fire, as those who battled on the course.
We heard you, we’ve seen your excitement, the smiles, the special dress-ups and even the help with taking off the the kits, and equipment after each stage, to bring some fresh and cool energy to the competitors.
We have seen the support and and messages of encouragement on social media, leading up to the event and we felt all of it over the weekend.
Thank you for being the Heros off the pitch – it certainly pushed us all to give our very best and achieving the results we did over this weekend.
* Personal Bests
* Finishing the course
* First Time Participation
* Improvement
* Medals
* New Supporters
* Future firefighters.
TEAM, the camaraderie, expertise, and teamwork were invaluable. Together, we pushed boundaries and achieved greatness.
Thank you for the exceptional weekend and may this strengthen us even further.
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.
Stakeholder representatives at the Export Seminar held on 19 September 2024 in George.
Deputy Mayor of George Municipality, Ald Raybin Figland, welcomed all present at the event.
Ald. Rosina Ruiters, GRDM Portfolio Chairperson: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism shared a message of support.
Krishen Gorge: Acting Head of Export Promotion at Wesgro during his presentation. at the seminar.
Richard Dyantyi, Manager: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism, delivered a presentation on behalf of GRDM.
Ilsa van Schalkwyk, Acting Director-General of DEDAT, provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches.
George Business Chamber’s Theo Adams, presented the operations and successful projects rolled out by the Chamber.
Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities.
GRDM’s Cllr Cobus Meiring, shared his appreciation to all stakeholders and business representatives who attended the event.
Martinus van Wyk from DEDAT, facilitated the proceedings and discussions of the Export Seminar held in George.
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.
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 oneGold 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.
GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Stroebel, extended words of well wishes to Emile Conrad before he left the country. Mayor Stroebel also encouraged him to bring pride to the district and the nation as a whole.
Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services responsible for Fire Services, extended his best wishes to Emile Conrad before he left the country to participate in the World Firefighter Games.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Media Release: Garden Routers to benefit from LGSeta awarded Local Economic Development Programme – Students inducted
For immediate release 04 September 2024
The Garden Route District Municipality has been awarded a LGSETA Discretionary Grant to fund the National Certificate in Local Economic Development (SAQA 36436) for the training of 50 employed individuals from the district. On 27 August 2024, participants attended an Induction Session held at the GRDM’s Council Chambers.
The session was conducted by the GRDM Human Resource Unit, in collaboration with the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM). During the session, officials thoroughly reviewed all necessary documents and outlined the operational aspects of the program.
This 18-month qualification serves as an entry-level credential in Local Economic Development (LED), marking the first step in a qualifications framework that culminates in a Level 6 qualification. This NQF Level 4 qualification thus serves as a stepping stone towards the National Diploma in Local Economic Development at Level 5.
Participants who complete the program will gain essential knowledge and understanding of LED, including the critical role that Local Government plays in it. This qualification lays the foundation for developing practical competence in LED, enabling learners to identify key values and frameworks necessary for effective governance of local economic initiatives.
The qualification will equip future LED Officers with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to operate professionally in their roles. It will also enhance their career prospects by providing them with the expertise required to implement policies and procedures effectively in their field.
The Garden Route District Municipality is proud to coordinate and facilitate this programme for the seven Local Municipalities within the region.
