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15 September 2025 Media Release: GRDM joins Knysna Municipality and others to clean up some beach areas

Media Release: GRDM joins Knysna Municipality and others to clean up some beach areas

For immediate release
15 September 2025

To celebrate International Coastal Clean-Up Day in Knysna from 11 to 12 September 2025, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) joined hands with the Knysna Municipality, the Western Cape Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP), CapeNature, and the South African National Parks (SANParks).

Participants clean-up the Main Beach of Buffalo Bay, in celebration of International Coastal Clean-up Day.

The annual International Coastal Clean-Up Day is celebrated on 20 September 2025 every year, however this initiative is celebrated worldwide with various coastal, estuarine, river, and marine clean-up activities. According to Dr Nina Viljoen, GRDM Head: Environmental Management, ‘this initiative is a meaningful approach to raise awareness on the impact of waste and littering on the Garden Route’s sensitive coastline, and why coastal and marine wildlife, birds and plants rely on a clean coastal and marine environment”.

“It inspires sustainable habits, as awareness is the first step towards change,” she said.

On Thursday, 11 September, Knysna Municipality hosted a coastal clean-up awareness event at the Hornlee Civic Hall in Knysna, where High School Tourism learners from surrounding schools were treated to awareness talks and exhibitions. Organisations, including CapeNature, the SANParks, and Knysna Tourism, collectively raised awareness to learners about the Tourism Industry, focusing on the benefits of eco-tourism and the challenges within the Sector.

Learners are educated about various marine life species during the Clean-up operation at Buffalo Bay beach.

The next day, Knysna Municipality also hosted a clean-up operation along the Buffalo Bay main beach. During the event, learners from the Rondevlei Learning Centre participated to clear the beach as they collected waste and small litter particles they came across. In rewarding them for all their efforts, the CapeNature team presented an interactive activity to them, where they had to identify marine life on the beach, and were furthermore educated on ‘why clean beaches are important’. The GRDM Environmental Management team, under leadership of Dr Nina Viljoen, furthermore spoiled them with stationery packs and snacks that were donated by the Western Cape DEA&DP.

This collaborative partnership between these participating organisations symbolises how Government institutions take hands and make a difference in ensuring the success of environmental projects rolled out within communities of the Garden Route district.

Did you know?

Rondevlei Learning Centre is established in 2019 and is a registered NPC (2024/453120/08) and PBO with Section 18A registration. Their aim is to provide stimulating forms of learning to children struggling with mainstream education.

Also read: https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2025/09/01/46214/

ENDS

11 September 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Bids Farewell to a ‘Big One’

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Bids Farewell to a ‘Big One’

 11 September 2025

Colleagues from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) mourn the passing of their beloved colleague, Mxolisi John Klaas, fondly known as Uncle John.  He sadly passed away on Sunday, 31 of August, at the Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town after a short illness.

Mxolisi John Klaas was born on 12 October 1965 in the small Eastern Cape town of Middelburg in the Great Karoo.  He would have celebrated his 60th birthday this coming October.

Uncle John joined the then Eden District Municipality (now GRDM) on 08 September 1997 as a General Operator, but due to his dedication and eagerness to learn, he ends up operating a wide variety of plants and machinery.

Since 2019, Uncle John worked under the Roads Services Workshop Section, reporting directly to Melissa Koen.

“It’s difficult to put into words what Uncle John meant to us, not just as a colleague, but as a person. No matter the changes around him, one thing never changed, his attitude. He was consistent, respectful, and deeply committed to his work. For 16 years, he drove the lowbed truck with a quiet sense of purpose, showing up day after day with a calm, steady presence that made him stand out in the best possible way,” said his direct supervisor, Melissa Koen.

Colleagues remember that even in the final weeks before he became severely ill, Uncle John continue to show up for work with dedication and commitment. He worked through discomfort, pain and even when it would have been more than understandable for him to step back. “That kind of dedication is rare. It wasn’t for recognition or praise, but it was simply who he was,” Koen said.

According to his colleagues, some of the outstanding characteristics of Mxolisi John Klaas were his steady nature, his calm and reserved demeanour and his ever-present warm smile. He never drew attention to himself, but you always noticed when he was there and even more so now that he is not around.

Uncle John leaves behind not just memories, but a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of working with him. He’ll be fondly missed not just for what he did, but for who he was.

He leaves behind his wife, Vuyiseka Veronica Klaas, 3 daughters and 2 grandchildren.

-END-

05 September 2025 Media Release: GRDM assists Knysna Municipality with water for the Buffalo Bay residents

Media Release: GRDM assists Knysna Municipality with water for the Buffalo Bay residents

For immediate release
05 September 2025

Last week, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre received a request from Knysna Municipality to assist with the tankering of water to residents of the Buffalo Bay area.

“The need for water developed due to the high salinity levels in the Goukamma River at the point of abstraction, about 10 kilometres up-stream from the sea,” said Gerhard Otto, Manager for Disaster Management at GRDM.  Otto explained: “These high salinity levels were a result of the combination of the following:

  • The river mouth being closed.
  • There has been very little rain for an extended period of time, therefore very little run-off reached the river from the river catchment area; and
  • Due to evaporation, the salinity of the water in the river increases day-by-day”.

The GRDM Disaster Management and Firefighting teams immediately dispatched the 10 000-litre water tanker to Sedgefield where the tanker was filled and then used to transport water to the main reservoir in Buffalo Bay. The operation was supported by a fleet of three additional tankers; two rented by Knysna Municipality from private service providers, and one made available by the Central Karoo District Municipality.

Due to the lengthy process to fill-up the tankers in Sedgefield, the GRDM reinforced the fleet with an additional 6,000-litre tanker to improve turnaround times.

While assisting in Knysna, a fire broke out in Albertinia, requiring the temporary diversion of the GRDM firefighters who had been driving the tankers. From Monday, 1 September 2025, however, the GRDM team resumed daily water deliveries to Buffalo Bay.

The GRDM is aware that the tankering of water is only a temporary solution and that the only short-term solution would be to do an emergency breaching of the Goukamma River Mouth. This process, however, does not reflect in the current Management Plan of this system,” said Otto. He added: “GRDM is in ongoing discussions with CapeNature – we received confirmation from Cape Nature that a special emergency breaching committee meeting will be scheduled for Tuesday next week, where all the latest data will be assessed to decide on a way forward”

ENDS

04 September 2025 Notice of a Special In-Closed Council Meeting on 10 September 2025 at 10:00

NOTICE OF A SPECIAL IN-CLOSED COUNCIL MEETING ON 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 AT 10:00

Notice Number: 96/2025

Notice is hereby given that a SPECIAL IN-CLOSED 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 10 September 2025 at 10:00.

 

03 September 2025 Media Release:  GRDM rolls out First Aid Level 3 Training in Oudtshoorn

Media Release:  GRDM rolls out First Aid Level 3 Training in Oudtshoorn

3 September 2025

Last week, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) course facilitators Gail Bekeer and Wouter Jacobs trained 30 unemployed young people in Oudtshoorn area. They were joined by GRDM Firefighters.

The GRDM Disaster Management Section throughout the year conducts several First Aid Level 3 training sessions at the GRDM Head Office in George, however, a need for expanding the training to areas outside George was identified as word of the success of the programme spread.  The GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, was subsequently requested by Oudtshoorn’s Mayor Johannes Allers, to also accommodate residents from Oudtshoorn in the training, but in their home town for logistical purposes. According to Andrew Stroebel, “This training is of vital importance because it equips people with advanced life-saving skills and prepares them to respond effectively to medical and other emergencies during various incidents”.

In Oudtshoorn, 125 people showed up for the training, but unfortunately only 30 unemployed young people could be accommodated. Samuel Misemengo from the Oudtshoorn Tourism Office, together with the Office of the Oudtshoorn Executive Mayor, shared a call-to-action to WhatsApp Channels, used word-of-mouth, shared messages at the Oudtshoorn Thusong Service Centre, and social media, to inform youth about the training opportunity.

The next training sessions will be on:

06 – 10 October 2025

10 – 14 November 2025

There is no cost involved if you do the training and sign up to become a Disaster Management Volunteer. However, if you are not planning to become a volunteer, the fee payable is R682.00 (rate valid till 30 June 2026).

Download the application form: https://tinyurl.com/m5sjuzmk

Send a completed form to gail.bekeer@gardenroute.gov.za or wouter@gardenroute.gov.za

For more information contact Gail Bekeer (044 803 1347) or Wouter Jacobs (044 803 1316)

Photo Caption: Garden Route DM facilitators pictured with unemployed young people who attended the training session in Oudtshoorn.

-END-

03 September 2025 Update 9 – Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

Update 9 – Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

Upgrading of the Gwaiing road between the R404 and the R102 remains the focus of the GRDM Road Construction Team.

The final tests have been conducted on the material and Basecourse layer on the right hand side (RHS) lane, and the team is awaiting the final results and approval before the RHS lane can be completed in full. After approval has been granted to proceed with works on the RHS lane, the surface will be slushed, primed, and the final seal will be placed on the road.

Preparation works on the left hand side (LHS) lane has commenced in the interim, with the sub-grade layer being bladed. Material for the second to last layer (subbase) will be imported from next week, after which the processing of the cemented subbase layer on the LHS will be done.

All concrete structures have been completed in full, and the team is in the process of completing the concrete lined side drains.

Completion date of the project still remains at 31 January 2026.

ENDS

Public Notice: GRDM Integrated Development Plan, Budget, Performance Management Time Schedule adopted by Council; 2024/2025 Draft Unaudited Annual Report is also now available for Public Comment

Public Notice: GRDM Integrated Development Plan, Budget and Performance Management Time Schedule adopted by Council;  2024/2025 Draft Unaudited Annual Report is also now available for Public Comment

Notice number: 81/2025

Notice is hereby given that the 2026/2027 IDP, Budget and PMS Time Schedule has been adopted in terms of Section 21 of the Municipal Finance Management Act (Act 56 of 2003) by the Garden Route District Municipal Council, at a Council meeting held on 22 August 2025.

Furthermore, the 2024/2025 Draft Unaudited Annual Report has been noted by Council in terms of Circular 63 of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, Act 56 of 2003. The Unaudited Draft Annual Report for the 2024/2025 financial year is open for comments. Comments must be lodged in writing to The Municipal Manager, PO Box 12, George, 6530 or by e-mail at rekords@gardenroute.gov.za before or on 30 September 2025.

The document will be available for public inspection during office hours at the IDP unit, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, George as well as at all the satellite offices of the Garden Route District Municipality: Riversdale, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Knysna and Bitou. Copies will also be accessible at all main local libraries and on the municipal website here: https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/document-category/2024-25-annual-report/

Those 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 or objections. For any further enquiries, please contact: Ms M James (IDP Unit: Garden Route District Municipality) on telephone number: 044 803 1431.

Access the following documentation by clicking on the links below:

M G Stratu, Municipal Manager


01 September 2025 Expanded Public Works Programme Seasonal Firefighters

Expanded Public Works Programme Seasonal Firefighters

 The EPWP of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is offering an exciting opportunity for unemployed youth who have completed Firefighter 1, Hazmat Awareness, and First Aid Level 3, and who are physically and mentally fit. This opportunity will run for a period of four (4) months, from 1 December 2025 – 31 March 2026.

PERIOD:  4 Months

Candidates who wish to apply must meet the following minimum requirements:

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

·        Completion of Firefighter 1 course at an accredited firefighting training institution.
·        Completion of Hazmat Awareness course at an accredited firefighting training institution.
·        Completion of First Aid Level 3 course at a registered first aid training institution.
·        Valid police clearance or proof of payment for police clearance.
·        Ability to speak at least two of the three official languages of the Western Cape.
·        Must be unemployed and not registered on any other Learnership, Internship, or WIL Programme.
·        Must reside within the borders of the Garden Route region.

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, together with your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a certified copy of your Identity Document, and proof of police clearance at one of the Garden Route District Municipality Satellite Offices listed below, or via email to: epwp@edendm.co.za.

Click here and download the EPWP Database Application form.

Click here and download the Official Advert.

CLOSING DATE: 19 October 2025

Notice number: 86/2025

MG Stratu
MUNICIPAL MANAGER

01 September 2025 Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month

Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month 2025

For immediate release
1 September 2025

Tourism Month, celebrated every September, highlights the vital role tourism plays in South Africa’s economy and communities.

In the Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region, tourism is a powerful driver of sustainable transformation, creating jobs, attracting local investment, and fostering a sense of regional pride. By promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the area’s rich heritage and traditions, tourism not only strengthens the local identity but also encourages responsible travel practices that preserve the environment and empower communities for future generations.

A basic intro of the GR&KK

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region is one of South Africa’s most breath-taking and diverse travel destinations. Stretching over 24,000 km from Witsand in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east, this region is home to lush forests, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and charming towns like Still Bay, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, and Ladismith and more!

As a key tourism hub, the GR&KK offers something for everyone from thrilling outdoor adventures and rich wildlife to cultural heritage and culinary delights. Under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the region continues to grow in ways that protect its natural beauty, celebrate its people, and create lasting opportunities for local communities.

Find out what the Garden Route & Klein Karoo has to offer or for more information, visit/contact:

ENDS

01 September 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality calls on residents to “Grow a Living Legacy” this Arbor Week (01–07 September 2025)

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality calls on residents to “Grow a Living Legacy” this Arbor Week (01–07 September 2025)

01 September 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) will join the nation in celebrating National Arbor Week from 01 to 07 September 2025. This annual campaign raises awareness about the importance of trees and encourages communities to plant indigenous species, conserve our natural heritage, and contribute to sustainable environmental management.

Arbor Week also highlights South Africa’s Champion Trees – some of the country’s oldest, largest, and most culturally significant trees, such as the Sophia Town Oak Tree and the Sagole Baobab Tree in Limpopo. These trees symbolize the connection between our natural and cultural heritage, which is celebrated during Heritage Month in September.

The key objectives of Arbor Week are to:
• Emphasise the importance of planting and protecting trees.
• Increase knowledge and appreciation of indigenous tree species.
• Promote sustainable and eco-friendly living practices.

Why trees matter

Trees supply oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, support biodiversity, stabilise soil, and provide both medicinal and cultural benefits. By planting and caring for trees, communities can actively contribute to tackling climate change and building a greener, healthier environment for future generations.

Restoring what we’ve lost

In the Garden Route, Arbor Week takes on even greater importance as we work to restore areas affected by the polyphagous shot hole borer (PSHB). First detected in George in 2018, this invasive beetle has spread rapidly and is likely present in other parts of the municipality where susceptible trees, such as English Oaks, occur. Residents are encouraged to be vigilant for signs of infestation, report sightings to their municipality, and chip infested wood to prevent further spread. Planting new indigenous trees during Arbor Week will help replace lost trees, restore biodiversity, and ensure our communities remain shaded, resilient, and beautiful for generations to come.

Community involvement

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) encourages residents, schools, community-based organisations, and businesses across the district to participate in tree planting and greening activities. Greening refers to the planting, care, and management of vegetation in urban and rural spaces — ensuring that disadvantaged areas, such as townships and informal settlements, also benefit from parks, trees, and green open spaces.

How to plant a tree
• Selection: Choose the right tree for your location — indigenous and endemic species are recommended.
• Location: Plant trees at least 3 metres away from walls, powerlines, and municipal utilities.
• Planting: Dig a 1m x 1m x 1m square hole, remove stones, and separate or mix topsoil and subsoil. Place the tree in the hole, refill with topsoil first, and water thoroughly.The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) calls on all residents to join hands during Arbor Week to create a greener and more sustainable Garden Route. Together, we can grow a living legacy that benefits both people and the environment.

-END-