Progress Update 6 on the GRDM Regional Waste Management Facility Construction
9 October 2026
“The construction of Phase 1 of the Garden Route District Municipality’s Regional Waste Management Facility, located approximately 15 km outside Mossel Bay, next to PetroSA, is progressing well and is now approximately 82% complete,” said Johan Gie, Manager: District Waste Management.
The major items nearing completion include Cell 1A, which is 99% complete, with only a small portion of the stone drainage layer still to be placed. The leachate and contaminated water dams are 82% complete.
Both dams have been fully lined with the first 1.5 mm HDPE geomembrane liner, the 6 mm cuspated HDPE drainage layer for leakage detection, the 2 mm HDPE geomembrane liner, and the protective geotextile.
The next stage will involve the installation of 150 mm geocells filled with concrete, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of October 2026.
All other associated infrastructure, such as the roads, buildings and stormwater infrastructure, is nearing completion, with mostly finishing work still required, including road markings, stone pitching, and related works.
Waste disposal can only commence once the necessary approvals, including a positive Record of Decision, have been obtained from the DFFE and DWS. All required testing of the liners and associated documentation is currently being compiled and completed to ensure that the approval process is expedited and that operations can commence as soon as possible.
Media Statement: Protecting Public Health Through Safe Food Handling
7 October 2026
The spaza shop business sector within the Garden Route District has grown significantly in recent years. With this in mind, it becomes more important by the day to ensure that compliance remains in place at every formal and informal food trader, no matter how big or small.
The Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) throughout the country have noted that, specifically spaza shop owners, have developed enterprising methods of supplying and selling food products to the general public at reduced prices. The GRDM recognises the important role that spaza shops play in communities by making everyday food products accessible and affordable.
“We understand that many consumers have limited household budgets and that selling smaller quantities can help families purchase only what they can afford. However, some methods used to repackage or divide food products are not permitted under national food safety legislation because they may create a risk of contamination,” said Johan Compion, Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Waste Management and Air Quality.
To assist spaza shop owners with compliance and ultimately protect consumers of the food products available at these premises, the following important tips are presented in order to comply with relevant legislation in terms of Regulation 638; Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, the Transport of Food and Related Matters (promulgated under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, Act 54 of 1972):
Please refrain from the following practices when handling food products in your shop because this is against national Regulations and Acts:
Repackaging food products into smaller bags or containers (e.g. sugar, coffee and rice) – rather buy small, already originally sealed food products.
Cutting/division of perishable food products (e.g. cabbage, polony and bread).
If spaza shops repackage food, or cut it up, it may lead to cross-contamination of food and lead to foodborne diseases that cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fever and dehydration. Severe infections can lead to kidney failure, liver disease, neurological complications, hospitalisations or death.
The public is also urged to remain vigilant about the importance of food traders being in possession of a valid Certificate of Acceptability. This is particularly important when they sell perishable homemade products such as vetkoek, scones, jams and sauces.
These products must be kept under prescribed conditions (under refrigeration or heating by means of an oven).
It is important to note that the certificate issued to Spaza Shops only allows the selling of food products (unless stated otherwise in the Nature of Handling section of the Certificate of Acceptability).
Who to report safety concerns to:
Johan Compion (entire region)
Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Solid Waste Management and Air Quality
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Cell: 082 803 5161
George Municipal Area
Emmy Douglas – Chief: Municipal Health (Outeniqua)
Tel: 044 803 1501 / Cell: 078 457 2824
Klein Karoo & Kannaland Municipal Areas
Desmond Paulse – Manager: Municipal Health (Klein Karoo)
Tel: 044 272 2241 / Cell: 083 678 6530
Mossel Bay Municipal Area
Dr Johann Schoeman – Manager: District Air Quality Management and Municipal Health (Mossel Bay)
Tel: 044 693 0006 / Cell: 083 530 3709
Knysna Municipal Area
James McCarthy – Chief: Knysna
Tel: 044 382 7214 / Cell: 082 805 9417
Bitou Municipal Area
Gawie Vos – Chief: Lakes (Bitou)
Tel: 044 501 1600 / Cell: 083 557 1522
Hessequa Municipal Area
Haemish Herwels – Chief: Hessequa
Tel: 028 713 2438 / Cell: 083 678 6545
Feature image caption: Some of the repackaging food often found by EHPS which are not allowed. These smaller portions may seem like a way to make food more affordable and accessible, but it can create food-safety risks when not done under proper hygienic conditions.
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 Hosts Environmental Health Information Session on Ulwaluko Preparedness
23 September 2026
One of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Municipal Health Sections, based in Knysna, recently participated in an information and training session alongside the Western Cape Department of Health which focused on environmental health aspects related to Ulwaluko. Ulkwaluko is a traditional male initiation and sacred rite of passage practiced by the isiXhosa people and other communities in South Africa to mark the transition from boyhood to manhood.
The session, attended by 44 Amakhankatha and men involved in Ulwaluko, was coordinated by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, and held on 19 September 2026 at the Methodist Church in Plettenberg Bay.
Education focused on practical environmental health and safety measures that should be implemented at traditional schools to help prevent and reduce potential health and safety risks, particularly ahead of the anticipated El Niño conditions during the upcoming summer season.
Topics covered included the potential impact of extreme weather conditions such as flooding, landslides and wildfires, as well as the structural requirements and suitability of amabhoma and traditional school structures. Participants were encouraged to consider the location and condition of traditional schools in relation to possible environmental hazards, including flooding, landslides, wildfires and extremely high temperatures.
Other key environmental health topics addressed included hand hygiene, sanitation practices, waste management, food safety and the safe use of water sources and rivers. The importance of appropriate fire control measures at traditional schools was also discussed.
The session further covered the relationship between people and the environment, including pest control, the responsible use of medicinal plants and the potential risks associated with wildfires.
An important aspect of the preparedness discussions was the identification and recording of the geographical locations of traditional schools. This information can assist relevant authorities with emergency planning and response in the event of floods, fires or other disasters.
The training was also attended by the Director of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Mr Mchunu including representatives from the Department of Health. The participation of local churches and religious leaders provided an additional platform for strengthening community awareness and preparedness around environmental health and safety.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen preparedness and promote safer conditions within traditional school environments.
During the session, an invitation was also extended for similar training and awareness initiatives to be considered in other areas across the Western Cape, to support a coordinated approach to environmental health preparedness during the upcoming Ulwaluko season.
Photo Captions: All role-players who attended the Ulwaluko environmental health training and information session.
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is providing an exciting opportunity to unemployed youth who have completed Firefighter 1, Hazmat Awareness, First Aid Level 3, and are physically and mentally fit, for a period of four (4) months, from 01 December 2026 – 31 March 2027.
CLOSING DATE: 20 October 2026 PERIOD: 4-Months
Candidates who wish to apply must meet the following minimum requirements:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
· Firefighter 1 course, completed at an accredited firefighting training institution
· Hazmat Awareness course, completed at an accredited firefighting training institution
· First Aid Level 3 course, completed at a registered first aid training institution
· Provide a valid police clearance or proof of payment of the police clearance.
· Speak at least two of the three (3) official languages of the Western Cape.
· Unemployed and not registered on any other Learnership, Internship and/or WIL Programme.
· Must reside within the Garden Route District.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
· Certified copy of Identity Document.
· Proof of police clearance or proof of payment.
· Proof of Firefighter 1, Hazmat Awareness, and First Aid Level 3 completed courses.
· Completed Curriculum Vitae.
· Completed EPWP application form.
APPLICATION FORMS AND FURTHER INFORMATION:
Please submit a completed EPWP application form along with your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a certified copy of your Identity Document, and police clearance at one of the Garden Route District Municipality Satellite Offices listed below or via email to: epwp@gardenroute.gov.za.
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.
Media Release: Garden Route strengthens preparedness for 2026/27 summer season amid climate risks
23 September 2026
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is strengthening its preparedness for the upcoming 2026/27 summer and fire season, with a focus on early action, changing weather patterns, increased visitor numbers and the possibility of multiple emergencies occurring simultaneously.
According to GRDM Disaster Manager Gerhard Otto, the latest global climate outlook indicates that El Niño is established and expected to strengthen before peaking towards the end of 2026. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) estimates a nearly 100% likelihood that El Niño will persist through February 2027. Very strong El Niño conditions can influence rainfall and temperature patterns and increase the risk of extreme heat, drought and other weather-related hazards.
While the strength of El Niño does not determine the severity of impacts in a specific region, GRDM is preparing for increased pressure on fire response, water resources, traffic, coastal activities and emergency services.
“We have learned difficult lessons from the fires, floods, severe weather and other incidents experienced in recent months and years. Climate change and changing weather patterns mean that preparedness cannot only begin when a disaster occurs; it must be an ongoing effort,” said Otto.
GRDM’s preparedness is supported by district standby arrangements, early-warning systems, inter-agency coordination, fire response capacity, municipal health services and emergency equipment. Three strategically positioned fire stations in George, Riversdale and Ladismith, mutual-aid arrangements with local municipalities, PetroSA and neighbouring districts, and an operational Incident Command System further strengthen response capacity.
Mr Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head: Disaster Management
GRDM Head of Environmental Management, Dr Nina Viljoen, emphasised that climate impacts will vary across the district. Coastal areas, inland farming regions and the Klein Karoo have different vulnerabilities, with prolonged hot and dry conditions potentially increasing water stress and veld-fire danger, while heavy rainfall can contribute to flooding, erosion and pressure on rivers, estuaries and coastal environments.
Residents, landowners, businesses and visitors are encouraged to use water responsibly, prevent avoidable fires and protect environmentally sensitive areas, including wetlands, rivers, catchments, dunes and indigenous vegetation.
Water security remains a key focus. No immediate water-security threats are currently foreseen in Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George or Bitou, while medium- to long-term concerns remain in Kannaland, Knysna and Oudtshoorn.
Priority interventions include water-supply measures in Dysselsdorp and the Klein Karoo, groundwater augmentation in Calitzdorp, additional water sources for Zoar, borehole refurbishment in Ladismith, and alternative groundwater schemes for Knysna, Buffalo Bay and Sedgefield.
GRDM will also have access to one 6 000-litre and two 10 000-litre water tankers, as well as mobile and static generators to support emergency operations. Drinking and recreational water will continue to be monitored through regular sampling during the holiday period.
From 1 December 2026, seasonal firefighters and dedicated aerial firefighting resources will be activated, while lifesaving services will also be deployed.
The busy December and January holiday period will require close coordination between traffic services, law enforcement, emergency services, municipal health, waste management and beach safety teams.
Residents, businesses and visitors are urged to help keep the Garden Route safe by using water responsibly, preventing veld fires, following fire and beach safety instructions, obeying traffic rules, disposing of waste responsibly and staying informed through official warnings.
“Our focus now is on being proactive rather than reactive. We must monitor risks continuously, prepare early, respond together and ensure that support is available when local capacity is stretched,” said Otto.
GRDM enters the 2026/27 summer season with established readiness arrangements, strong partnerships and clear municipal preparations. Preparedness, however, remains a shared responsibility.
Media Release: Firefighters Conduct Wildfire Basic Training in Heidelberg
21 September 2026
Recently, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire and Rescue Services conducted basic wildfire training in Heidelberg at the request of the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA). The training was aimed at farm communities and other stakeholders in the surrounding areas, helping participants gain basic knowledge and skills to prevent and respond to wildfires.
The training focused on essential wildfire knowledge and preparedness, including:
Wildfire behaviour and fire dynamics
Wildfire prevention
Safety precautions and personal safety
Understanding the Fire Triangle
Identifying escape routes and safety zones
Fire extinguisher awareness and practical training
Basic Incident Command System (ICS) principles
The session was very well received, with participants actively engaging throughout the training and showing a strong willingness to learn and improve their understanding of wildfire safety and preparedness.
“Effective wildfire management starts with knowledge, preparation and cooperation. By equipping communities and stakeholders with the right knowledge and skills, we strengthen our collective ability to prevent, prepare for and respond to wildfires,” said Heinrich Lesley, GRDM Fire Station Commander.
Featured Image Caption: Farm communities and local stakeholders who gained basic knowledge and practical skills to help prevent and respond to wildfires.
Media Release: R26 million in disaster response funding transferred to Garden Route local municipalities
Immediate release 16 September 2026
The repair of critical services infrastructure in the Garden Route District is set to be majorly accelerated, following the transfer of R26 million in Municipal Disaster Response Grant (MDRG) funding by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to five local municipalities in the Garden Route. More projects will be submitted separately for consideration under another grant, known as the National Disaster Rehabilitation Grant, which will be presented to the National Cabinet later this month alongside the national budget adjustment.
According to Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head: Disaster Management, “Oudtshoorn, Knysna, Bitou and George will receive R5 million each, while Kannaland would be receiving R6 million”.
At the Bitou and Oudtshoorn local municipalities these funds would be used for the emergency repairs required on some streets, while George Local Municipality would focus mainly on the repairs required to the main water supply line from the Haarlem Dam to Uniondale.
At Kannaland Local Municipality, both the repairs required to one of the main access bridges in Calitzdorp, as well as emergency repairs and protection required at a transformer in Ladismith, would receive attention, and at Knysna Local Municipality the slope remediation and repairs required at Fedricks Street would be addressed.
The funding must be spent within six months on repairing damage caused by the severe weather events which adversely impacted the district in May 2026. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), NDMC and Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), will be meeting with local municipalities to formally launch the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) process required under the grant conditions.
These funding injections mean that municipalities would not need to wait for new municipal budget cycles for the repair works to commence. Adjustment budgets will be presented to the various Councils, officially confirming the funds that were allocated by the NDMC.
“Allocations typically prioritise basic services related water and sanitation works, including repairs to main water supply pipelines and sewerage infrastructure’, said Gerhard Otto.
Mr Gerhard Otto, GRDM Head: Disaster Management
He further elaborated that this emergency fund originates from a nationally allocated R213,4 million, which was released to three provinces as a practical intervention to address damages sustained during the May 2026 floods. “Of this, the Western Cape received R71,4 million,” confirmed Otto.
Each municipality will be expected to report on its readiness to implement approved projects, flag any completed projects eligible for fund reallocation, and identify any outstanding environmental approvals that could affect implementation timelines.
As the district municipality, GRDM is mandated and has successfully, under the Disaster Management Act, supported the PDMC and NDMC for more than 20 years in overseeing how the funds are spent by local municipalities.
Feature image: Damage to a low-lying bridge adjacent to Calitzdorp Hot Springs during the floods in May and June 2026.
