10 January 2025
GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY HOLIDAY FIRE SEASON: 01 December 2024 to 05 January 2025
It has been an exceptionally demanding holiday season for the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Service, as the summer sun intensified, and the annual wild-and-veld fire season commenced on 01 December and officially ends on 30 April.
Fires in the Garden Route district, renowned for their picturesque landscapes, often threaten the environment as well as residents and infrastructural safety. The GRDM team responded to a total of 17 fire emergency incidents across the district, with the majority involving vegetation fires in areas such as Melkhoutfontein and Jongensfontein near Still Bay, Korinterivier in Riversdale, the Swartberg Mountains in Oudtshoorn, and Kammanassie and Buffelsdrif Mountains in the northern parts of George.
Through coordinated efforts, including rapid response, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local communities, farmer organisations and other fire management agencies, the team continues to mitigate risks and manage the impacts of these fires.
A few pictures captured during the recent wildfire operations in Hessequa and Oudtshoorn.
From 6 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, the GRDM Fire and Rescue Services, were inundated with veld and mountain fire incidents, better known as wildfires.
A total of 17 veld and mountain fire incidents were attended to, with eight (8) of these fires escalating to extended wildfires, with the Jongensfontein, Hessequa wildfire extending to 14 days, the Melkhoutfontein Fire extending to 18 days, including several ‘flare-ups’, the Swartberg Mountain Fires extending to 15 days, and the Kammanassie and Buffelsdrif Mountain wildfires extending over 5 days respectively.
Additionally, the GRDM substation in Ladismith responded to seven (7) veld fires, including a dump site fire.
The wildfires in the Hessequa Municipal area were extremely challenging, due to the type of terrain, access limitations, including the very difficult to manoeuvre coastal dunes, and excessively overgrown and old vegetation type, including Acacia Cyclops (the famous Rooikrans and / or Rooiputjie), as well as Fynbos, including the Metalasia muricata (Blombos) vegetation types.
The Swarberg Mountains presented very challenging terrain, for both vehicles and ground teams, especially due to the rugged and steepness of the terrain, exacerbated by various hills, gorges and valleys. This necessitated trooping in ground crews, a total of 54 trooped in at one stage, to ensure more effective firefighting operations, walking up these mountains were timeous and straining.
A total of 23 Municipal firefighters, including GRDM and Hessequa Municipality, as well as 08 Garden Route Volunteer Fire Members, with 4 bakkie units, and daily, either a three (3) or four (4) team response from the Working on Fire Program, consisting of average 20 members mitigated the Hessequa Fires on peak days. Additionally, local farmers assisted with a bulldozer, and tractors. The Hessequa Municipality assisted with JCBs and a bulldozer, mainly constructing fuel and fire breaks, either in attempts to stop fire spread or preparing counter burn breaks.
For the Swartberg and Kammanassie mountain fires, CapeNature provided additional ground teams to assist with groundwork, having several ‘stick’ teams, ranging between 08 – 12 members, and ranging between 2 and 4 teams.
Calculated burnscars for some of the largest fires to date include,
A total of 48 aerial firefighting hours were utilised to date, including a combination of resources, i.e. bomber planes, spotter planes and helicopter.
Despite rapid initial attacks through the activation of aerial firefighting resources, early and precise detection of fires remains an area requiring continuous improvement. Several simultaneous lightning strikes, often occurring just before sundown, present significant challenges. These incidents limit the immediate activation of aerial firefighting resources and frequently result in fires intensifying during hot and humid evenings. This necessitates the strategic deployment of aerial resources in the days that follow. Addressing these challenges will require innovative measures and strategies moving forward.
Firebreak compliance and the prevalence of excessive alien invasive plants (essentially accumulative fuel loads that drive wildfires), remain significant challenges. However, efforts are underway to strengthen compliance measures in the future. Counter-burning (fighting fire with fire) emerged as a key and strategic firefighting tactic, particularly for managing coastal fires. Ultimately, this approach proved highly effective and will continue to be a preferred tactic in future firefighting efforts.
The deployment of firefighters on the ground, alongside aerial suppression, is a vital reinforcement given the combination of challenging topography, limited access, and high fuel loads. Heli-tack crews (firefighters who are part of helicopter-based initial attack teams) are a highly desirable solution for rapidly suppressing fires in their incipient stages, particularly in difficult-to-access terrain.
A coordinated and collaborative response approach remain the most ideal manner in combatting wildfires, and major incidents, which include landowners, local authorities, including local (structure protection) and the district municipalities, Working on Fire, the Fire Protection Association and trained disaster management and firefighting volunteer groups.
As mentioned before, the December holiday period proved extremely challenging due to multiple wildfires. However, resources were coordinated effectively, allowing us to address all the reported incidents. Notably, the success achieved during this period includes the preservation of lives—no lives were lost—and the protection of property, with no structures destroyed.
It is highly recommended that landowners, on whose land these fires occurred, innovatively utilise these burned areas for sound environmental rehabilitation and management of especially alien invasive plant species and constructing of fire breaks.
To report wildfires, call 044 805 5071 or WhatsApp 081 709 5193.
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13 December 2024
Notice is hereby given that the offices of the Garden Route District Municipality will close on today, 13 December 2024 at 12:00 and re-open on Monday, 6 January 2025 at 07:30. All emergency services will continue to be rendered during this period. The number 044 805 5071 can be contacted at all hours for such services.
MG Stratu
Municipal Manager
54 York Street
P.O. Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300
The Cape Town Weather Office has issued an Impact Based Warning for the Western Cape and Namaqua Region of Northern Cape for damaging winds.
Legal notice:
“This warning from SA Weather Service must be communicated as received and may not be altered under any circumstance.
It must be forwarded or communicated in its entirety and no portion hereof may be replicated or copied and distributed.”
SOUTH AFRICAN WEATHER SERVICE
Cape Town Weather Office
2nd Floor: Oval Office Park
Cape Town Int airport
Freight Road
Matroosfontein
Cape Town
E-Mail: factfc@weathersa.co.za
Tel: 021 935 5700
10 December 2024
Last week, on 5–6 December 2024, the National Fire Services Indaba took place at the King George Hotel in George. Fire service delegates from across South Africa gathered under the theme, “Strengthening Fire Services and Building Resilient Communities Across South Africa.” This event brought together industry experts to discuss critical fire-related topics, share best practices, and foster collaboration, all aimed at enhancing fire services and community resilience nationwide.
On the first day of the event, the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, one of the guest speakers, launched and affirmed GRDM’s readiness for the 2024/2025 Summer Fire Season to the media, fire services, and dignitaries present.
The GRDM, in collaboration with its stakeholders, declared its readiness for the fire season, highlighting its commitment to protecting communities, property, and the environment from the threat of wildfires.
Elevated Risks During the Summer Season
The fire season, spanning the Summer months until March, brings heightened risks of veld and mountain fires due to rising temperatures, climatic conditions like lightning strikes, and human-related causes. Mayor Andrew Stroebel emphasized that while wildfires can occur year-round, this period demands increased vigilance and proactive measures.
Collaboration: Fire Is Everyone’s Fight
Acknowledging that effective fire management requires a collective effort, GRDM extends its gratitude to its Integrated Fire Management partners, including:
“Their dedication to fire prevention and suppression is a testament to the power of collaboration,” Mayor Stroebel stated.
He also highlighted the critical role of farmers, landowners, and residents in fire prevention and early detection. “Together, we must remain vigilant and proactive, especially with the increased temperatures predicted this season,” he added.
Strengthened Resources and Capacity
To enhance its firefighting capabilities, GRDM has appointed 20 temporarily seasonal firefighters to support its three fire stations across the district. The newly established regional fire station, strategically located along the N2, operates 24/7 with international standard facilities, ensuring rapid and effective responses to emergencies.
Aerial firefighting services, provided by Kishugu-WoF and Savannah Helicopters, will play a pivotal role in containing fires swiftly, supported by the Western Cape Government and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE).
Additionally, GRDM’s Disaster Management Centre remains fully operational, managing over 25,000 emergency calls per month through its Joint Operational Command and advanced communication systems.
Featured Image Caption: GRDM Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel and Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, alongside GRDM firefighters proudly dressed in blue.
A Call for Vigilance
As the festive season approaches, GRDM urges residents, visitors, and all emergency authorities to prioritize safety and remain vigilant. “Protecting our communities, environment, and economy from wildfires requires collective responsibility,” Mayor Stroebel emphasized.
In closure Mayor Stroebel expressed gratitude to the residents of the Garden Route, for their ongoing vigilance and cooperation. “Your role in safeguarding our district is invaluable, and together with our stakeholders, we are here to support you every step of the way,” he said.
To visitors, the Mayor extended a warm welcome: “The Garden Route is a place of unparalleled beauty and vibrant communities. We are committed to ensuring your safety as you enjoy our region.”
GRDM calls on everyone to celebrate responsibly, cherish the environment, and stay alert to potential hazards during the festive season. “Together, we can protect this treasure we call home, ensuring it remains safe and thriving for generations to come,” the Mayor Stroebel concluded.
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Media Release: GRDM Waste Management Section Hosts Chemicals and Waste Management Training for Local Municipalities
10 December 2024
During the week of 2–6 December 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Waste Management Section in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) facilitated Chemicals and Waste Management training sessions for officials from local municipalities across the district.
The refresher training sessions, presented by DFFE, were extended to municipal officials across various roles. They focused on critical aspects such as legislation, policies, standards, regulations, and education & awareness in waste management. Participants included waste section officials, drivers, landfill operators, team leaders, LED officials, street sweepers, portfolio councillors, and recyclers within specific local municipalities.
“Waste management is a local government function, and it is crucial to refresh everyone’s knowledge on an ongoing basis of the best practices and trends.” The training aims to empower all stakeholders to improve waste management practices effectively in their communities, “ said GRDM Waste Management official Innocentia Sikweyiya.
While this week’s sessions focused on coastal municipalities, the inland local municipalities are scheduled to undergo similar training in 2025, ensuring that the entire district benefits from this comprehensive capacity-building initiative.
Training session held in Mossel Bay
Training session held in George.
Training session held in Knysna.
Training session held in Bitou.
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3 Desember 2024
Die Omgewingsgesondheidspraktisyns (OGP) van die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit (TDM) se Klein Karoo Munisipale Gesondheidkantoor, in samewerking met Kannaland Munisipaliteit, het gister ’n opvoedkundige werkswinkel aangebied om informele voedselhandelaars in die Ladismith omgewing te bemagtig.
Die werkswinkel het gevolg na ’n week van blitsoperasies wat plaasgevind het en verskeie rolspelers soos die OGP’s van die TDM, die Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiediens (SAPD), Immigrasiedienste, en verskeie departemente binne Kannaland Munisipaliteit, onder andere die Brandweerdienste, Wetstoepassing, Boubeheer en Stadsbeplanningsdienste ingesluit het.
Gesondheid- en Higiëne Opvoeding deur OGP
Tydens die werkswinkel, het die OGP’s ‘n omvattende gesondheids- en higiëne opvoedingsessie aangebied wat op die volgende aspekte gefokus het:
Indien ‘n OGP, nadat ‘n inspeksie uitgevoer is, tevrede is dat aan die volgende vereistes voldoen word, sal hulle ‘n Sertifikaat van Aanvaarbaarheid (COA) uitreik:
Drie tipes Sertifikate van Aanvaarbaarheid (COA’s) wat aan voedselhandelaars uitgereik kan word:
Belangrike Nota:
Voldoening aan Regulasie 638 van 2018 bied nie outomaties goedkeuring om besigheid op voedselpersele te bedryf nie. Alle ander relevante vereistes van die plaaslike owerheid en toepaslike wetgewing moet ook nagekom word.
Vyf sleutels vir veiliger kos:
Higiëne 10-punt plan vir voedselpersele:
Vir navrae met betrekking tot COA’s uitgereik deur OGP’s in die Oudtshoorn en Kannaland munisipale gebiede, kontak:
Desmond Paulse, Bestuurder Munisipale Gesondheidsdienste: Klein Karoo – 044 272 2241, desmond@gardenroute.gov.za
Hooffoto: Spaza Winkel eienaars van Ladismith wie die werkswinkel bygewoon het
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29 November 2023
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), through its Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs), continues to prioritise public health and safety by conducting inspections and monitoring food facilities, businesses, and other premises to ensure compliance with health regulations.
This past week, the following interventions took place in the different municipal areas:
Plettenberg Bay Municipal Health Office
Kurland – Plettenberg Bay
An operation in Kurland, Plettenberg Bay, was conducted in collaboration with the GRDM Municipal Health Office of Plettenberg Bay, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and Bitou Municipality Law Enforcement Officers. The operation aimed to ensure compliance with food safety regulations, promote health and hygiene education, and improve food safety standards across 10 spaza shops.
As a result of the intervention:
Kranshoek – Plettenberg Bay
A joint operation was conducted in Kranshoek, a settlement located approximately 15 kilometres outside Plettenberg Bay, on 18 November 2024. All 14 spaza shops in the area were visited.
Qolweni and Bossiesgif – Plettenberg Bay
Role players conducted a joint operation at spaza shops in the Qolweni and Bossiesgif areas of Plettenberg Bay on Thursday, 21 November 2024.
A total of 14 spaza shops were inspected, with health and hygiene education and training provided. Five shops were closed due to non-compliance.
Kwanokuthula – Plettenberg Bay
A total of 19 spaza shops in Kwanokuthula were inspected. One shop was closed due to non-compliance.
The final blitz operation is scheduled for next week (2-6 December 2024) in Green Valley, New Horizons, and Pine Trees. Bitou Municipality’s Town Planning and Economic Development and Planning commenced the Consent Use Applications in September 2024, allowing spaza shop owners to apply for consent use rights in terms of the Land Use Planning By-Law. All spaza shops in the targeted areas will be surveyed and mapped.
The application process for business licenses is active, with application documents available at Town Planning and the LED office of Bitou Municipality.
Mossel Bay Municipal Health Office
On Tuesday, 26 November 2024, the EHPs from the Mossel Bay office visited two shops in Klein-Brak River. On Wednesday, they continued their operation, inspecting five shops in the Kwanonqaba area and closing two due to noncompliance. On Thursday, four shops were inspected in Great-Brak River.
George Municipal Health Office
On Tuesday, 26 November 2024, the George office (both regions combined) conducted a blitz operation in the industrial area of George, focusing on wholesalers. This operation targeted wholesalers because spaza shops source their stock from these suppliers, and the aim was to ensure the safety of the stock being distributed.
A total of eight shops were visited, and three were closed due to poor hygiene and the absence of a valid Certificate of Acceptability (COA). The Department of Agriculture seized illegal insecticides and insecticides labelled in a foreign language.
Klein-Karoo Municipal Health Office
On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, and Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, joined the EHPs from the Oudtshoorn Municipal Health Office to conduct inspections of spaza shops in the Dysselsdorp area.
Three shops were inspected, with two having had to be closed immediately, because they did not comply with health and safety standards.
Calitzdorp and Ladismith
On Wednesday, 27 November 2024, the EHP from the Klein Karoo Office conducted a spaza shop inspection in Calitzdorp, covering the Bergsig and Royal Heights areas. Nine shops were inspected. The EHP extended their inspection the following day, Thursday, to Ladismith, where 12 spaza shops were inspected in the Nissenville area.
For the past week, 109 door-to-door educational sessions have been conducted in the Klein Karoo area.
The public is urged to report any incidents of suspected counterfeit or tampered foodstuff. Contact SAPS or reach out directly to the following GRDM EHPs:
Johan Compion – Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Solid Waste Management & Air Quality Control
Desmond Paulse – Manager: Municipal Health Klein Karoo
Rinay Cloete – Acting Chief: Municipal Health Mossel Bay
Emmy Douglas – Chief: Municipal Health George (Outeniqua)
Jessica Erasmus – Acting Chief: Municipal Health George (Wilderness)
James McCarthy – Chief: Municipal Health Knysna (Lakes)
Gawie Vos – Chief: Municipal Health Bitou (Lakes)
Haemish Herwels – Chief: Municipal Health Hessequa (Langeberg)
Editors’ note:
Following the directive issued earlier this month by the President of the Republic of South Africa, spaza shops and food-handling facilities were required to register with their respective municipalities within 21 days. This mandate aims to strengthen compliance with health and safety standards.
GRDM EHPs, in collaboration with local municipality Law Enforcement Officers, Waste Management officials, Firefighters, SAPS, the National Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Home Affairs, have been conducting ongoing inspections of both formal and informal food traders across the region.
Operations focus on assessing local spaza shop owners’ adherence to health guidelines, including proper food handling, cleanliness, and safe food storage practices. Additionally, education is provided on maintaining hygienic conditions, managing waste, and preventing foodborne diseases. The overall goal is to ensure safer food practices and ultimately safeguard public health within the community.
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