Public Notice: Closure of Garden Route District Municipality Offices
Friday, 12 December 2025 at 12:00 Notice Number: 125/2025
Notice is hereby given that the offices of the Garden Route District Municipalitywill close on Friday, 12 December 2025 at 12:00 and re-open on Monday, 5 January 2026 at 07:30.
All emergency services will continue to be rendered during this period. The numbers 044 805 5071 / 081 709 5193 (WhatsApp) can be contacted at all hours for such services.
MG Stratu Municipal Manager 54 York Street P.O. Box 12 GEORGE 6530
In South Africa, the highest rabies fatalities have historically been reported in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Free State/Lesotho border, mainly resulting from infected dog bites. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), numerous cases of rabies were confirmed in Cape fur seals along the Western Cape shoreline in May 2024.
Rabies is a fatal zoonotic viral disease but is 100% preventable through the vaccination of pets and the administration of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis after contact with a suspected rabid animal. It is transmitted to humans through bites and scratches from infected animals. There is no cure for rabies once a person or animal begins to show clinical signs.
Legally, every pet owner must have their dogs and cats vaccinated to protect both humans and animals against rabies.
Image credit: Department of Agriculture
For more information enquire with your local state or private veterinarian, animal health technician or welfare organisation. Contact details of the State Veterinarian in our district: Tel 044 8735527
For any additional information regarding this article, or to report any incidents, please contact:
Mr Johan Compion
Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 5161
DID YOU KNOW?
“Rabies is a preventable tragedy, and we have the power to stop it. By vaccinating our pets and raising awareness within our communities, we can mitigate the factors that allow this deadly virus to spread.”
Media Release: Lack of government funding fighting invasive plants poses a challenge
For immediate release 18 November 2025
“The multiple fires we’ve seen in the Garden Route over recent weeks again confirm what we have warned about for years,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF). “With rainfall figures remaining low, invasive alien plants proliferating, and climate conditions becoming harsher, the region is facing rising fire danger and intensifying pressure on already stressed water resources.”
Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are one of the greatest threats to the Garden Route’s critically endangered habitats, sensitive mountain catchments, and the ecological functioning of rivers and estuaries. Species such as pines, wattles, Lantana, bugweed, gums and hakeas consume large volumes of water, starving rivers of sustained flow and undermining the health of estuaries that depend on reliable freshwater input. At the same time, these invasives create dense, highly flammable fuel loads that can turn ordinary wildfires into uncontrollable events.
To better understand and respond to these risks, entities such as the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA), SANParks, CapeNature and the Garden Route District Municipality established the Risk Reduction Task Team – a working group that continuously evaluates the growing threats posed by IAP’s and advises on coordinated mitigation.
However, the challenge is outpacing the resources available. Government grants, including those that previously supported large-scale clearing under programmes such as Working for Water, have shrunk dramatically. The breeding and release of biological control agents- once an essential tool for suppressing the spread of several invasive species is now no longer freely available, further compounding management difficulties. As a result, landowners, conservancies and local initiatives are increasingly left to carry the financial burden themselves, with uneven success.
More sustained investment from government is essential. Firefighting is expensive, and so are the preventative measures required to reduce risk, but prevention is far cheaper than disaster. Alien plant control must be funded consistently, prioritised strategically, and integrated with fire management, biodiversity conservation and climate-adaptation planning. Without this, the region’s water security, natural heritage and community safety will remain increasingly vulnerable.
The Garden Route Environmental Forum is a public platform for landowners and environmental managers and a climate change think tank. (www.grefecsf.co.za)
Photo: Homestead saved from raging wildfire by determined GRDM fire fighters and the landowner in Hessequa in October 2025 – Michael Raimondo.
Members of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament,
MECs, Councillors, Municipal Managers,
Distinguished guests, officials, and stakeholders,
Ladies and gentlemen, a very warm welcome to the Garden Route District Municipality.
It is an honour for us to host this important engagement as part of the NCOP Provincial Week 2025. On behalf of the Garden Route District Municipality, I extend a sincere word of welcome to every delegate and stakeholder who has travelled to our beautiful region to participate in this crucial programme.
This week’s engagements remind us of the importance of cooperation between all spheres of government, National, Provincial, and Local, to address the service delivery challenges that directly affect the lives of our residents. Together, we share one goal: to strengthen municipalities so that every household in our province can experience reliable, efficient, and dignified basic services.
The Garden Route District is a region of great potential, blessed with natural beauty, vibrant communities, and economic promise. Yet, like many other regions, we face challenges that require partnership, innovation, and accountability. I am encouraged that this Provincial Week provides a platform for honest reflection, practical solutions, and shared learning between municipalities and government departments.
Today’s discussions will focus on how we can collectively improve the state of municipalities, strengthen leadership and governance, and accelerate the delivery of essential infrastructure such as water, sanitation, housing, and roads. These are not just service delivery targets, they are the building blocks of hope, opportunity, and stability in our communities.
As the Garden Route District Municipality, we remain fully committed to working hand in hand with our local municipalities – George, Knysna, Mossel Bay, Bitou, and others, as well as with our provincial and national partners to ensure that our residents experience tangible improvements in their daily lives.
Let us approach today’s session with openness, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive Garden Route and Western Cape.
Once again, welcome to the Garden Route, where we strive to serve with integrity, inspire progress, and deliver results for our communities.
Media Release: GRDM Prioritises Safety and Compliance with Essential Small Plant Equipment Training for Roads Teams
For immediate release 17 November 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is significantly investing in the safety and operational capacity of its Roads Department personnel by launching the GRDM Use and Maintain Small Plant Training Programme. This essential training is designed to ensure all relevant staff are fully compliant with Construction Regulations and proficient in operating the small plant equipment critical to daily operations.
The program’s core focus is on enhancing skills across the maintenance, reseal, and concrete sections of the Roads Department.
“Safety and competency are non-negotiable, particularly when operating machinery,” said Gert Verwey Manager Maintenance. “By standardising this training, we are not only protecting our valuable staff but also guaranteeing that we meet all regulatory requirements, enabling us to deliver better, safer, and faster service delivery on our road network.”
This critical training initiative ensures full compliance with the current Construction Regulations, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to employee safety, regulatory adherence, and the delivery of high-quality infrastructure.
The training program is essential for all workers who operate small plant equipment and is designed to mitigate operational risks while maximising efficiency across all roadwork disciplines. The comprehensive curriculum is structured around four key areas of competence:
Identify and Select: to correctly identify and select the appropriate small plant and equipment for specific tasks.
Prepare for Use: training in the essential pre-operation checks and preparation procedures necessary to ensure equipment is ready and safe.
Utilise Effectively: skilled and efficient utilisation of the equipment to achieve required roadwork standards.
Maintain Equipment: in-depth training on basic maintenance and fault-finding to ensure equipment longevity and minimal downtime.
Specific equipment covered in the hands-on and theoretical modules includes:
Jumping Jacks (Tampers)
Rollers (various types)
Bomags (Compactors)
Pedestrian Rollers
Grinders
Electrical Equipment
Concrete mixers and related apparatus
Generators
“The Head of department, John Daniels, said. “By investing in this specialised training, we are not only ensuring compliance with the Construction Regulations, but are also empowering our workforce with the skills needed to execute projects safely and to the highest professional standards. Our commitment to worker safety and the integrity of our national road network remains paramount.”
The programme will be completed by the end of November 2025, accommodating approximately 144 learners from various regional teams including Oudtshoorn, George, Ladismith and Riversdale,
The training will be facilitated by Nqobile Mkhize and Richard Fembi form the company South Africa Value Education (SAVE), ensuring expert guidance for all participants across the various sites.
This proactive approach confirms GRDM’s commitment to creating a highly skilled, legally compliant, and safe working environment for all its employees.
Media Release: GREF: Western Cape Nature Reserves Offer a Safe Haven for Biodiversity and Holiday Visitors
For immediate release 12 November 2025
As the holiday season approaches, the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) highlights the importance of the Western Cape’s nature reserves, which continues to stand out as a beacon of conservation excellence and effective environmental management in South Africa.
A recent report by the EMS Foundation (NGO) on 53 provincial nature reserves across South Africa paints a grim national picture: widespread decay, biodiversity loss, and crumbling infrastructure threaten the future of many protected areas. The Western Cape, through CapeNature, remains a rare exception. Its network of reserves, spanning marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystems is renowned for strong management, skilled personnel, and innovative conservation practices.
Partnerships with SANParks and private landowners and conservancies further extend the province’s conservation footprint, while collaboration with local authorities ensures a coordinated approach to protecting fragile ecosystems. In addition, private reserves and conservancies, driven by passionate environmental custodians, contribute invaluable expertise, resources, and on-the-ground stewardship to safeguard biodiversity and habitats that are increasingly rare.
“Our quality of life depends on how we manage what remains of the Western Cape’s biodiversity and unique ecosystems,” says Cobus Meiring, GREF Convener. “Through responsible stewardship, public–private partnerships, and community engagement, these reserves continue to thrive — providing safe havens for wildlife and natural beauty for all to enjoy.”
Holidaymakers visiting the Western Cape this season can look forward to exploring well-managed, secure, and scenic reserves, from coastal pathways to pristine fynbos landscapes and vibrant estuaries. GREF encourages visitors to respect these special places: leave no trace, avoid littering, and follow reserve guidelines to ensure that every footprint remains clean.
GREF applauds CapeNature, private reserve managers, and the province’s conservancy networks for their tireless efforts to protect biodiversity. These reserves are more than tourist attractions — they are essential to the ecological health of the Western Cape and the protection of its natural legacy for future generations.
By working together, authorities, landowners, and visitors can ensure that the Western Cape remains a model of conservation excellence in South Africa — protecting biodiversity while offering unforgettable holiday experiences.
The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a regional platform for environmental managers and conservation entities, serving as a climate change think tank.
Media Release: Nineteen Garden Route Beaches Awarded Blue Flag Status for 2025 Holiday Season – again the most for a region in South Africa
11 November 2025
Nineteen (19) beaches across the Garden Route coastline have been awarded Blue Flag Status for the upcoming holiday season by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) There are 50 Blue Flag Beaches in the country and 20 Pilot Status beaches.
GRDM Executive Mayor, Marais Kruger said: “The municipalities in our region who received consistent Blue Flag Status and related awards, reflect their commitment to excellent water quality, safety, security, sound environmental management, and accessibility. Thank you for the local municipalities of Hessequa, Bitou, Mossel Bay and George, for once again helping us collectively secure our top spot on South Africa’s preferred tourism destination map.”
Lappiesbaai in the Hessequa Municipal area has maintained Blue Flag status for 20 consecutive years, while Witsand, also in Hessequa, celebrates its 10th consecutive year of accreditation.
Witsand, also in Hessequa, celebrates its 10th consecutive year of accreditation (Supplied: Hessequa Tourism)
More exciting statistics include the following:
Four of the Garden Route beaches were awarded pilot Blue Flag status (South Africa has 20), these include Santos Beach, Suiderkruis, Tweekuilen and Leentjiesklip.
Three out of 15 Green Coast sites (15 sites in South Africa), these include Nature’s Valley Beach, Swartvlei Beach and Gwaiing Beach.
Two Blue Flag Marinas (5 Blue Flag Marinas in South Africa), these include Thesen Harbour Town Marina and Thesen Island Home Owners’ Marina.
Two Sustainable Tourism Boats (7 in total in South Africa), these are from Offshore Adventures (Robberg Express and Oceanic).
Garden Route beaches with successful Blue Flag accreditation include the following:Hessequa (6): Witsand Beach, Preekstoel Beach, Lappiesbaai Beach, Jongensfontein Beach, Gouritsmond Beach and Still Bay West Beach.
Plettenberg Bay (6): Robberg 5, The Waves, Nature’s Valley, Lookout Beach, The Dunes and Singing Kettle Beach.
Mossel Bay (4): De Bakke Beach, Hartenbos Beach, Little Brak Breach and Glentana Beach.
George (3): Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay and Wilderness.
South Africa has proudly participated in the Blue Flag Programme for 24 years, since 2001.
Feature image caption: Lappiesbaai in the Hessequa Municipal area has maintained Blue Flag status for 20 consecutive years (Supplied: Hessequa Tourism).
Media Statement: Garden Route District Municipality elects new Executive Mayor, Marais Kruger
11 November 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Council has elected and sworn in Alderman Marais Kruger as the new Executive Mayor during a Special Council Meeting held on 11 November 2025. Mayor Kruger succeeds the former Executive Mayor, Ald. Andrew Stroebel, who vacated the office on 31 October 2025.
Kruger was nominated by Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard and seconded by Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi from the Democratic Alliance (DA). Councillor Christopher Taute (ANC) nominated and Cllr Vinolia Gungubele (ANC) seconded the nomination of Ald. Stephen de Vries as Executive Mayor.
The two nominations required votes to be cast by all Councillors present. Subsequently, the votes recorded were 19 in favour of Ald. Kruger and 7 in favour of Ald. De Vries; three Councillors abstained from voting.
During his acceptance speech, Ald. Kruger focused on his commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, supporting economic development, enhancing disaster management and fire services, and prioritising the well-being and future of all communities within the Garden Route District.
“To the people of the Garden Route, we are here to serve you. Your needs, your voices and your dignity remain at the centre of our work. Let us move forward together, building a district that is safe, resilient, inclusive and full of opportunity for all who call the Garden Route home”.
Ald. Georlene Wolmarans (Speaker), congratulating the newly elected Executive Mayor, Ald. Marais Kruger.
Executive Mayor, Ald. Marais Kruger during his acceptance speech.
Ald. Stephen de Vries from the ANC congratulating the newly elected Executive Mayor, Ald. Marais Kruger.
GRDM Municipal Manager, Monde Stratu, congratulated the Executive Mayor and pledge his and the administration’s full support.
MAYOR MARAIS BACKGROUND
Mayor Marais Kruger (see profile here) hails from George. He matriculated at Outeniqua High School, holds a diploma in finance obtained from Moonstone Business School and is currently enrolled doing his MMC through Stellenbosch University School of Public Leadership. He entered politics in 2021 and currently serves as the Ward 22 Councillor in George. Until February 2025, he served as the Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Community Safety and Financial Services at George Municipality.
Prior to his election as Executive Mayor, he also held the position of Council Whip at GRDM.
At the same Special Council Meeting, Cllr Koos Malooi was nominated and elected as the new Council Whip. Ald. Clodia Lichaba was also nominated. Votes were subsequently cast and Cllr Malooi had 19 votes in his favour, Ald. Lichaba had 7 and 3 people abstained from voting.
Votes were cast for the new Executive Mayor and the Council Whip.
Ald. Werner Meshoa said amongst others that “From the coastal towns, farms and townships, the people expect fairness, transparency and bold action. In your hands lie the opportunity to unite us”.
Ald. Stephen De Vries (ANC), stated that the ANC looks forward to working with the Mayor for the betterment of communities. He also said he “looks forward to robust and respectful debates”.
Cllr Rosa Louw from GOOD said she trusts that Ald. Marais will uphold the highest standards in the public office. “We know the journey is not always easy, but we are looking forward to working with you to serve communities”.
Cllr Alberto Marbi from PBI, congratulated Ald. Marais on his significant achievement as Mayor and stated that “your leadership comes at a critical time and we trust that you will inspire positive change going forward”.
Monde Stratu, Municipal Manager conveyed his messages of support from the administration and said “we pledge our support and solidarity”. “We will avail our capacity and expertise to help you succeed in your vision. We stand with our professional ethics to deliver on the madate you require us to deliver on.” “Congratulations Executive Mayor, he condluded”
The GRDM remains committed to transparent governance, stability, and service excellence under the leadership of Executive Mayor Marais Kruger and the Council as a collective.
Media Release: GREF: Western Cape Nature Reserves Offer a Safe Haven for Biodiversity and Holiday Visitors
For immediate release 11 November 2025
As the holiday season approaches, the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) highlights the importance of the Western Cape’s nature reserves, which continue to stand out as a beacon of conservation excellence and effective environmental management in South Africa.
A recent report by the EMS Foundation (NGO) on 53 provincial nature reserves across South Africa paints a grim national picture: widespread decay, biodiversity loss, and crumbling infrastructure threaten the future of many protected areas. The Western Cape, through CapeNature, remains a rare exception. Its network of reserves, spanning marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystems is renowned for strong management, skilled personnel, and innovative conservation practices.
Partnerships with SANParks and private landowners and conservancies further extend the province’s conservation footprint, while collaboration with local authorities ensures a coordinated approach to protecting fragile ecosystems. In addition, private reserves and conservancies, driven by passionate environmental custodians, contribute invaluable expertise, resources, and on-the-ground stewardship to safeguard biodiversity and habitats that are increasingly rare.
“Our quality of life depends on how we manage what remains of the Western Cape’s biodiversity and unique ecosystems,” says Cobus Meiring, GREF Convener. “Through responsible stewardship, public–private partnerships, and community engagement, these reserves continue to thrive — providing safe havens for wildlife and natural beauty for all to enjoy.”
Holidaymakers visiting the Western Cape this season can look forward to exploring well-managed, secure, and scenic reserves, from coastal pathways to pristine fynbos landscapes and vibrant estuaries. GREF encourages visitors to respect these special places: leave no trace, avoid littering, and follow reserve guidelines to ensure that every footprint remains clean.
GREF applauds CapeNature, private reserve managers, and the province’s conservancy networks for their tireless efforts to protect biodiversity. These reserves are more than tourist attractions — they are essential to the ecological health of the Western Cape and the protection of its natural legacy for future generations.
By working together, authorities, landowners, and visitors can ensure that the Western Cape remains a model of conservation excellence in South Africa — protecting biodiversity while offering unforgettable holiday experiences.
The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a regional platform for environmental managers and conservation entities, serving as a climate change think tank.
Notice of a Special Council Meeting, 12 March 2026, 11:00
Notice Number: 17/2026
Notice is hereby given that a SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING of the Garden Route District Municipality will be held at the CA Robertson Council Chambers, 54 York Street, George and via Zoom, on 12 March 2026 at 11:00.
