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Code B and C Driver’s License Training Opportunities for employed and unemployed persons from rural parts of Kannaland (Zoar, Ladismith, Calitzdorp and Van Wyksdorp).

Code B and C Driver’s License Training Opportunities for employed and unemployed persons from Kannaland rural areas (Zoar, Ladismith, Calitzdorp and Van Wyksdorp).

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites employed and unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Drivers License Code B and C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative.

Closing Date: 22 April 2026

Opportunities are currently available within the above mentioned Kannaland rural areas:

  • Zoar
  • Ladismith
  • Calitzdorp
  • Van Wyksdorp

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must register and apply using the online RED BUTTON (Unemployment Solutions) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Web site at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/ or browse to this shortlink: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. 

Those unable to access the website, can apply by printing this application form https://tinyurl.com/28m8vxnt and submitting it to the address listed.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345 or e-mail nolwando@gardenroute.gov.za, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 or e-mail sisandas@gardenroute.gov.za during office hours only.

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.

 

Code B and C Driver’s License Training Opportunities for employed and unemployed persons from rural parts of George (Uniondale, Haarlem, Avontuur, Waboomskraal, Touwsranten, Hoekwil, Kleinkrants and Noll)

Code B and C Driver’s License Training Opportunities for employed and unemployed persons from rural parts of George (Uniondale, Haarlem, Avontuur, Waboomskraal, Touwsranten, Hoekwil, Kleinkrants and Noll)

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites employed and unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Drivers License Code B and C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative.

Closing Date: 22 April 2026

Opportunities are currently available within the above mentioned George rural areas:

  • Uniondale;
  • Haarlem;
  • Avontuur;
  • Waboomskraal;
  • Touwsranten;
  • Hoekwil;
  • Kleinkrants; and
  • Noll.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must register and apply using the online RED BUTTON (Unemployment Solutions) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Web site at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/ or browse to this shortlink: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk

Those unable to access the website, can apply by printing this application form https://tinyurl.com/28m8vxnt and submitting it to the address listed.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345 or e-mail nolwando@gardenroute.gov.za, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 or e-mail sisandas@gardenroute.gov.za during office hours only.

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.

15 April 2026 Save the Date: Notice of a Council Meeting on 28 April 2026 at 13:00

Notice of a Council Meeting on 28 April 2026 at 13:00

Notice Number: 41/2026

Notice is hereby given that a COUNCIL MEETING of the Garden Route District Municipality will be held at the CA Robertson Council Chambers and via Zoom, 54 York Street, George, on 28 April 2026 at 13:00.

Members of the public are invited to view the proceeding through the GRDM YouTube channel at:
https://youtube.com/live/h_H01TZsSBg?feature=share

MG Stratu
Municipal Manager
54 York Street
P O Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel:   044 803 1300

14 April 2026 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and Eden Sport Council to host the Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and Eden Sport Council to host the Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba

For immediate release
14 April 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) in collaboration with the Eden Sport Council, including sports federations and local municipalities in the district, are gearing up to host the first ever Sports Indaba within the Western Cape, on 23 April 2026.

The Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba will be attended by representatives from the Western Cape Provincial Government’s (WCG) Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport led by Minister Ricardo Mackenzie, Executive Mayors and representatives from the Eden Sport Council including sports federations, as well as sport representatives at local municipal level in the district.

The purpose of the event will be to inclusively address ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve sport structures across the district. The programme will also focus on how:

  • the role of municipalities in sport development can be strengthened;
  • access to and maintenance of sport facilities can be improved; and
  • opportunities to position the region as a leading sport tourism destination, can be explored.

Developing a clear and shared understanding of roles and responsibilities among all sport stakeholders operating within the district, is thus a vital focal point as these aspects will be addressed.

Other key focus areas for discussion at the event will include:

  • Custodianship of Sport – who holds the responsibility for sport at municipal and district level, and how this role is
    exercised in practice.
  • Role of Municipalities in Sport Development – how municipalities can support federations, clubs, and athletes through programmes, partnerships, and policy implementation.
  • Infrastructure, Facilities and Development – ensuring access to quality facilities, maintenance of infrastructure, and long-term planning for sport development.
  • Sport Tourism and Major Events – opportunities to position the Garden Route district as a hub for sport tourism and major events.
  • Funding and Resource Support – available funding streams, support mechanisms, and opportunities for financial sustainability within sport structures.
  • Municipal Sport Council Structures and Jurisdiction – the structure, legitimacy, and operational boundaries of municipal sport councils within the district.

The event will take place at the Council Chambers of GRDM, starting from 10:00 and it will include approximately 80 delegates in hybrid format.

Through constructive dialogue and shared understanding, stakeholders aim to position themselves to better serve federations, local councils, and athletes, while fostering stronger partnerships together with municipal stakeholders.

Photo caption: Ready for the Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba are (fltr): Zelda van Staden (Eden Sport Council Secretary), Ald. Marais Kruger (GRDM Executive Mayor) and Desmond Speelman (Eden Sport Council Chairperson).

ENDS

13 April Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo well represented at the World Travel Market Africa 2026

Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo well represented at the World Travel Market Africa 2026

For immediate release
13 April 2026

The World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2026 officially kicked off today in Cape Town where teams from the Garden Route and Klein Karoo Regional Tourism Offices (RTOs) and Local Tourism Offices (LTOs) are in attendance to represent the entire region.

The event is taking place until 15 April at the Mother City’s well-known International Convention Centre.

Ald. James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, overseeing tourism, investment, and business development, visiting the stalls of GR&KK at the WTM Africa 2026. (Left and right) Ald. Vos in discussions with GR&KK’s Tourism Intern, Reatile Mathabathe and (middle) Ald. Vos with the Iconic Mossel Bay team at the event.

The WTM Africa is the continent’s premier travel and tourism trade show, connecting over 6,000 international buyers, media, and industry leaders. The presence of the various local tourism officials and other stakeholders, is to ensure the region is showcased on a global stage, strengthening the regional and local brands, building long-lasting and meaningful partnerships, and driving new tourism opportunities.

The region is exhibiting at a 90m² exhibition space, which can be found at stand M02 at the CTICC (Main Exhibition Hall).

The following representatives from across the region are present, including:

  • Hessequa Tourism with partners like Inverroche Distillery and Gourikwa Coastal Nature Reserve.
  • Mossel Bay Tourism alongside Cape Saint Blaize, Global Blessing Solutions and Masambe Tours.
  • Oudtshoorn & De Rust Tourism with attractions such as Cango Caves, Safari Ostrich Farm, Cango Wildlife Ranch, De Zeekoe Guest Farm and Surval Boutique Olive Estate.
  • George, Wilderness & Uniondale Tourism with Redberry Farm.
  • Plett Tourism with Offshore Adventures and Athina’s Cove.
  • Visit Knysna with Lithemba Crafts & Tours.

The mission is clear: to increase tours and trips to the Garden Route & Klein Karoo, strengthen international networks, and showcase the region’s unique blend of nature, culture, and hospitality.

During a walkabout as part of day 1 (today) at the event, Ald. James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, overseeing tourism, investment, and business development, visited the team and commended  them for their “excellent marketing initiatives and team work while promoting the region as a whole”. 

Members of the public or investors are invited to visit the stand (M02), where they will have the opportunity to experience the region’s work firsthand and also engage with representatives. Alternatively, follow the Facebook page Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism or visit www.visitgardenrouteandkleinkaroo.com to stay informed, receive the latest updates, and ensure that you do not miss any highlights or announcements.

ENDS

9 April 2026 Garden Route District Municipality Recognises Industry Excellence in Air Quality Management

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Recognises Industry Excellence in Air Quality Management

9 April 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has officially launched its Annual Industry Air Quality Best Practice Recognition Programme, culminating in a handover ceremony held to honour industry excellence in environmental stewardship.

The programme, aligned with the objectives of the GRDM’s 2025 Air Quality Management Plan, seeks to recognise industries that demonstrate outstanding commitment to compliance, innovation, and collaboration in air quality management.

This initiative forms part of the Municipality’s broader commitment to proactive environmental governance, developed in partnership with industry stakeholders, local air quality officers, and provincial authorities.

Dr Johan Schoeman highlighted the importance of the programme, stating: “This recognition programme is designed to encourage a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within industry. It acknowledges those Section 21 industries that not only comply with regulatory requirements but actively engage with authorities and implement innovative solutions to improve air quality outcomes.”

  • Industries are assessed against a transparent and rigorous set of criteria, including:
  • Active participation in Air Quality Working Group meetings
  • Timely submission of statutory reports
  • Compliance with minimum emission standards
  • Implementation of voluntary measures to enhance air quality performance

The evaluation process is conducted by a multi-stakeholder panel and internally audited to ensure fairness, transparency, and credibility.
The 2026 recipient of the Air Quality Best Practice Award, based on performance during the 2025 evaluation period, is Cape Karoo International Tannery in Mossel Bay, which achieved full marks across all evaluation criteria.

Charl du Pisani, who is the Technical Director, said “Cape Karoo International Mossel Bay Tannery feels privileged to receive the recognition for our efforts to continually improve environmental matters in line with international requirements”.

Cape Karoo International is a globally recognised leader in the tanning of ostrich and other exotic leathers and has consistently demonstrated excellence in environmental management. As one of the first industries to receive an Atmospheric Emission Licence from GRDM, the company has remained an active and committed participant in the Municipality’s Air Quality Working Group.

During the assessment period, the tannery:

  • Attended all working group meetings
  • Submitted all required quarterly and annual reports
  • Maintained full compliance with licence conditions and emission limits
  • Demonstrated continuous improvement in air quality performance
  • In addition, the company implemented targeted interventions to reduce the release of harmful gases, further strengthening its environmental impact.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Executive Mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality said:

“Today’s recognition is not only about compliance, but about leadership. It is about acknowledging those industries that go beyond minimum requirements and actively contribute to protecting our environment while supporting economic growth.

Cape Karoo International has set a benchmark for responsible industrial practice in our region, demonstrating that sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand. As a Municipality, we are proud to partner with industry in building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Garden Route.”
The programme is designed to complement, not replace, regulatory enforcement, and aims to foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration across the district.

The GRDM continues to make significant progress in environmental health, with a Municipal Health Compliance Rate of 88%. In addition, Oudtshoorn, within the Garden Route district, was recognised by IQAir as the least polluted city in Africa during the 2022/23 period.

Caption:  The winners of the Air Quality Best Practice Award from Cape Karoo International Mossel Bay Tannery, front (fltr):  Ms Anya Bits (Environmental Officer), Dr Francois de Wet (Managing Director) and Mr Charl du Pisani (Technical Manager / Director). Back (fltr): Angus Andries (District Air Quality Officer), Dr Johann Schoeman (Manager: District Air Quality Control), Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard (Mayoral Committee Chairperson: Community Services) and Ald. Marais Kruger (GRDM Executive Mayor).

ENDS

Media Queries

Kabelo Mohlohlo (Manager: Support Staff)
079 133 0543 / kabelo@gardenroute.gov.za

Herman Pieters (GRDM Communication Manager)
081 4555 699 / communications@gardenroute.gov.za

Public Notice: Adjusted 2025/26 GRDM Top Layer Service Delivery & Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP)

Public Notice: Adjusted 2025/26 GRDM Top Layer Service Delivery & Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP)

8 April 2026

Notice is hereby given that the Garden Route District Municipality’s SDBIP for 2025/26 has been adjusted.

All questions must be directed to:
GRDM Manager: Performance Management, Ms Ilse Saaiman
Tel: 044-803 1300 / E-mail: pms@gardenroute.gov.za.

Click here and download the document

 

Public Notice: Closure of Offices on Thursday, 2 April 2026 at 12h00

CLOSURE OF OFFICES: THURSDAY, 2 APRIL  2026

Notice is hereby given that all the offices of the Garden Route District Municipality will be closed on Thursday  2 April  at 12:00 and re-open on Tuesday, 7 April 2026 at 07:30.

All emergency services will continue to be rendered during this period. The number 044 805 5071 / 081 709 5193 (WhatsApp too) 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
Notice number 27/2026

SLUITING VAN KANTORE: DONDERDAG,2 APRIL  2026

Kennisgewing geskied hiermee dat die kantore van die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit op Vrydag, 2 April 2026 om 12:00 gesluit sal wees en op Dinsdag 7 April 2026 om 07:30, sal heropen.

Alle nooddienste sal steeds gedurende die tydperk gelewer word.  Indien nodig, kan die nooddiensnommer 044 805 5071 / 081 709 5193 (WhatsApp ook) te enige tyd geskakel word.

MG Stratu
Munisipale Bestuurder
Yorkstraat 54
Posbus 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300
Kennisgewing nommer 27/2026

UKUVALWA KWEEOFISI: NGOLWESINE, 2  APRIL 2026

Kunikwa isaziso sokuba zonke iiofisi zeGarden Route District Municipality ziza kuvalwa ngoLwesine, umhla wesi-2 kuApril 2026 ngo-12:00 kwaye zivulwe kwakhona ngoLwesibini, umhla wesi-7 ku April 2026 ngo-07:30.

Zonke iinkonzo zongxamiseko ziya kuqhubeka zinikezelwa ngeli xesha. Inombolo 044 805 5071 / 081 709 5193 (nakwi-WhatsApp) inokuqhagamshelwa ngamaxesha onke ukuze ufumane ezo nkonzo.

MG Stratu
UMphathi kaMasipala
54 York Street
P.O. Box 12
GEORGE
6530

Umnxeba: 044 803 1300
Inombolo yesaziso 27/2026

1 April 2026 Public Notice: Draft Amended 2022-2027 IDP, Draft 2026/2027 Medium Term Revenue & Expenditure Framework and Multi-Year Budget – Open for Comment

Notice 20/2026

Draft Amended 2022-2027 IDP, Draft 2026/2027 Medium Term Revenue & Expenditure Framework and Multi-Year Budget

Open for Comment

Notice is hereby given that the Garden Route District Municipal Council’s Draft Amended Integrated Development Plan for the period 2022-2027 and the Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) Draft Multi-Year Budget for the period 2026/2027-2028/2029, were compiled in accordance with the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 2000 (Act 32 of 2000) and Municipal Finance Management Act 2003 (Act 56 of 2003).

These documents were considered by the Garden Route District Council at a Council meeting held on Tuesday, 31 March 2026.

These documents will be available for public inspection and comments at all main local libraries, satellite offices and the Garden Route District Municipality’s IDP Unit, 54 York Street George and on the GRDM municipal website.

All comments and inputs must be directed to “The Municipal Manager, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, George 6530”, rekords@gardenroute.gov.za

Persons 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/objections.

Written comments and inputs regarding the above documents must reach the Office of the Municipal Manager on/or before 30 April 2026.

Please contact the District IDP Manager (Ms Mercy James) or Budget Manager (Ms Louise Hoek) at 044 803 1300, rekords@gardenroute.gov.za with any enquiries.

M STRATU
MUNICIPAL MANAGER

Click here to download the following documents:

31 March 2026 Public Notice: 2026/27 GRDM Top Layer Service Delivery & Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) open for public perusal

Public Notice: 2026/27 GRDM Top Layer Service Delivery & Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) open for public perusal.

31 March 2026

Notice is hereby given that the Garden Route District Municipality’s SDBIP is available for public perusal.

All questions and recommendations must be directed to:
GRDM Manager: Performance Management, Ms Ilse Saaiman
Tel: 044-803 1300 / E-mail: pms@gardenroute.gov.za.

Click here and download the document