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20 February 2025 Media Release OBO Outeniqua WheelChair Challenge: Garden Route Mall jumps in, and the Outeniqua Wheels start spinning

Media Release: Garden Route Mall jumps in, and the Outeniqua Wheels start spinning

20 February 2025

George, Garden Route (February 2025) – Much has been penned in local publications and posted on social media about the fabulous joint effort made by George businesses and provincial bodies to get this year’s Outeniqua (Wheel)Chair Challenge (OCC) back on track.

The event takes place on 15 March, with Carpe Diem School once again serving as race hub. Participation in the 5km fun event is free for participants from George.

One of the biggest contributions came, literally overnight, from the Southern Cape’s foremost shopping centre. Garden Route Mall general manager, Rion Olivier, explains: “Around 5am on a Friday morning I saw the previous day’s George Herald article about the OCC being postponed for lack of funds. I immediately forwarded the info to our stakeholders and CEO, saying ‘We need to jump in here’.”

“It’s a unique event, the first in South Africa to focus exclusively on athletes who are physically challenged. Having known the late OCC founder, Esther Watson, it’s an event I’m really passionate about. This year, the OCC celebrates over two decades of the community taking hands, but of course Covid has had its impact and all businesses have had to recover, which is why the 21st OCC event was at risk of not taking place. That would have been a shame.”

“We understand that sponsorships for the race were limited during this recovery period, and it took us only 24 hours to make the call. Halfway through our financial year, business is going well at Garden Route Mall, and it was a pleasure to pledge R250,000 towards this excellent cause,” says Olivier.

Presented by the Disabled Road Race Foundation, OCC25 is also supported by the Western Cape Government, George Municipality, Master Cargo, Lancewood, Safari, Garden Route District Municipality, George Herald, AlgoaFM, and iX; many of these sponsors have previously been involved, and organisers thank them as well as new backers on the OCC block.

On Saturday 15 March, the OCC will be hosted for the 21st time and once again cyclists in the starting line-up of pro races will include stars of the South African Paralympic Team, as well as racers from Ghana, Botswana, Namibia and other continental neighbours.

The only race of its kind in the country, the OCC serves as a major economic and tourism boost for George. But most importantly, it is an occasion greatly anticipated by scores of members of SA’s disabled community every year.

Race director Alewijn Dippenaar says this year’s 5km fun event will be free for local participants, and he invites young and old to join in the name of community spirit. “The professional races over 10km, 21.1km and the 42.2km marathon attract world-class athletes, and this combination of fun and pro participants makes our George event a true flagship event for SA para-cyclists.”

Entries close on 28 February and event registration takes place on 14 March from 11am to 6pm at the Carpe Diem grounds. Download entry forms at www.outeniquachairchallenge.co.za and contact Alewijn Dippenaar on 082 457 5675 or at dyndev@mweb.co.za for more information or to contribute towards OCC25!

Press release on behalf of the Disabled Road Race Foundation:
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mimi finestone | mimi@gojipr.net | +27 84 583 3144

20 February 2025 Media Release: Twenty GRDM Roads Employees successfully complete ‘Dangerous Goods’ Training

Twenty GRDM Roads Employees successfully complete ‘Dangerous Goods’ Training

For immediate release
20 February 2025

Recently, twenty (20) Roads employees from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully attended and completed one-year Dangerous Goods training. This initiative was aimed at equipping employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle, transport, and store hazardous materials safely and in compliance with legal and organisational regulations.

“I am incredibly proud of our Roads employees for successfully completing the rigorous ‘Dangerous Goods’ training. Their dedication to enhancing their skills and knowledge demonstrates a strong commitment to not only their own safety but also the safety of our communities,” said GRDM Mayor Andrew Stroebel

All participants in the programme are stationed within the Garden Route district, playing a crucial role in ensuring road safety and the effective management of hazardous substances. The training was structured to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling employees to navigate the complexities of transporting dangerous goods with confidence and competence.

The Dangerous Goods Training is essential in workplaces that involve the movement of potentially harmful materials. It enhances workers’ ability to identify risks, apply best practices, and ensure adherence to safety standards when loading, conveying, and off-loading dangerous goods.

Key Topics Covered:

During the training, employees engaged in in-depth discussions and practical exercises focused on the following key aspects:

  • Compliance with Legal Documentation Requirements: Understanding the necessary legal documentation and regulatory obligations associated with transporting hazardous materials.
  • Application of Safety and Standard Operating Procedures: Ensuring the correct protocols are followed during the loading and off-loading of dangerous goods to minimize risks.
  • Incident Response Procedures: Learning how to effectively respond to and manage incidents involving hazardous materials to prevent harm to personnel, the public, and the environment.
  • Adherence to SANS 10231 Requirements: Understanding and complying with the South African National Standard (SANS) 10231 regarding safe behaviour and operational conduct while transporting dangerous goods.

With these critical topics covered, participants are now well-equipped to apply their newfound expertise in real workplace scenarios. They can confidently and safely transport dangerous goods in line with legal, safety, and industry standards, while also being prepared to manage potential incidents effectively.

Upon successful completion of the programme, all learners were assessed and declared competent. These certifications and permits affirm their ability to handle dangerous goods responsibly and in full compliance with regulations.

The GRDM commends the dedication of its Roads employees in completing this vital training. Their commitment to safety and compliance ensures that dangerous goods are managed with the highest level of professionalism, ultimately contributing to a safer working and public environment.

Feature image: Facilitator of the Dangerous Goods Training programme, Elton Olivier from Victoria Driving School (right), with the GRDM Roads employees who successfully completed the Dangerous Goods training.

ENDS

12 February 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Assists Vulnerable Communities in Disaster Recovery Efforts

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Assists Vulnerable Communities in Disaster Recovery Efforts

12 February 2025

The Emergency Call Centre, a crucial component of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre (DMC), handles approximately 25,000 emergency calls per month. However, disaster management extends far beyond immediate incident response—it encompasses four key pillars:

  1. Mitigation
  2. Preparedness
  3. Response
  4. Recovery

Disaster management also includes planning and development, ensuring a proactive approach to both natural and human-made disasters. Beyond coordinating responses during major incidents, the DMC continuously works to enhance the district’s resilience against disaster risks.

DISASTER REHABILITATION AND RECONSTRUCTION EFFORTS

The GRDM DMC is responsible for facilitating local disaster declarations and motivating funding requests from both provincial and national governments for disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction.

Currently, GRDM DMC is overseeing the implementation of several disaster rehabilitation projects, including:

2021/22 Flood Disaster Grants:

  • George: R237.5 million
  • Oudtshoorn: R26.6 million

2023 Storm Surge Disaster Grants:

  • Knysna: R2.6 million
  • Hessequa: R5.18 million

June 2024 Floods:

A disaster grant request of R115 million has been submitted to the National Disaster Management Centre and National Treasury and is currently pending approval.

RELIEF TO COMMUNITIES IN NEED

GRDM DMC plays a crucial role in ensuring that disaster-affected communities receive urgent assistance.

Emergency Water Relief – Gamka West (Calitzdorp) | 26 January 2024

After residents of Gamka West, who rely on the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme, were left without water for over four days, GRDM DMC dispatched a water tanker from the Ladismith Fire Base to deliver several loads of water to affected families.

GRDM Firefighters recently assisted families after they were left without water from the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme for four days.

Storm Damage Relief – Volmoed (Oudtshoorn) | 29 January 2024

Following heavy rain and gale-force winds, 32 households in Volmoed, outside Oudtshoorn, were left destitute. Responding to a request from the GRDM Deputy Mayor, GRDM DMC provided:

  • 52 blankets to the Oudtshoorn Municipality for evacuated residents housed in a local church hall.
  • The Oudtshoorn Municipality also distributed 32 mattresses and 32 starter kits to affected families.
  • GRDM DMC facilitated additional support from the Gift of the Givers, who provided food relief to affected individuals the following day.

A property in Volmoed that was severely damaged after rain and gale-force winds.

STRENGTHENING WATER AND SANITATION SECURITY

Recognising the importance of water security, GRDM DMC is spearheading the development of a District Water and Sanitation Master Plan. This initiative focuses on identifying and implementing bulk water and sanitation projects across municipal boundaries to enhance water security for all residents in the district.

The GRDM is assisted by the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP) to develop this Master Plan. The assistance of the company Partners in Performance (PiP) was subsequently obtained to develop this District Water and Sanitation Master Plan. At this point in time most of the technical information required, have been obtained from the current Water Services Authorities in the District. PiP is currently busy analysing this data.

The GRDM is working towards having a first draft available by the end of March this year.

DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

The DMC also assists local municipalities in developing Disaster Risk Reduction Plans (DRR) ensuring alignment with local risk assessments.

It is important to remember that DRR should always be a holistic multi‐hazard/threat and multi‐stakeholder approach, and it should be mainstreamed into development projects to increase the resilience of the built environment.

DRR must be considered and where relevant implemented at the earliest appropriate stage of the design and planning process rather than added onto a project as an after‐thought. It is important to build back better, especially when opportunities arise in the aftermath of a disaster. Professional institutions can play a very positive role in educating students and members about their roles in disaster risk reduction.

DRR Plans vary for each local municipal area with the focus on addressing the following priority disaster risks in the District, namely flooding, fires – especially wildland fires, drought, coastal as well as river erosion, transportation incidents including Hazmat incidents as well as human and animal diseases .

Some of these plans include the following:

  1. Flood hazard mapping linked to the Spatial Development Framework of each Local Municipality.
  2. Emergency breaching of estuaries protocol and the pro-active management of low-lying flood prone areas.
  3. Eradication of invasive alien plants.
  4. Protection of riverbanks – especially in the Duiwenhoks River.
  5. Establishment of integrated fire management protocols.
  6. Public awareness campaigns.
  7. District Safety Forum as well as establishment of Local safety Forums.
  8. Building back better as an integral part of post disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction projects.

When these plans are updated, they form part of spatial development frameworks. This ensures that that emerging disaster risks are factored into planning of town infrastructure.

Feature image: GRDM Firefighters recently assisted families after they were left without water from the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme for four days.

ENDS

6 February 2025 PUBLIC NOTICE OF 2023/2024 ANNUAL REPORT AND OVERSIGHT REPORT

PUBLIC NOTICE OF 2023/2024 ANNUAL REPORT AND OVERSIGHT REPORT

Notice 05/2025

Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 129(3) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act 56 of 2003) that the Garden Route District Municipal Council hereby makes the Oversight Report on the Annual Report for the 2023/2024 financial year public.

The 2023/2024 Annual Report was also approved in a Council Meeting on 30 January 2025.

The 2023/2024 Annual Report and Oversight Report is available 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 www.gardenroute.gov.za.

For further enquiries, please contact: Mrs. M James (IDP Unit) Tel no: 044 803 1431

Click here to view/download the Official Notice.

M STRATU
MUNICPAL MANAGER

Click here and download 2023/2024 Final Annual Report – February 2025

Click here and download 2023/2024 Oversight Report – February 2025

6 February 2025 Media Release: The 2017 Knysna Fires vs. 2025 California Wildfires

Media Release: The 2017 Knysna Fires vs. 2025 California Wildfires

6 February 2025

Wildfires have long posed a major threat to communities worldwide. Two (2) of the most deadly fires in recent history occurred in vastly different regions: the Knysna and Bitou Wildfires in South Africa (2017). Now also abroad – the most recent California wildfires (2025). Despite geographical differences, both events share alarming similarities in their causes, impacts, and lessons for the future.

Weather and Climatic Conditions

On 7 January 2025, Santa Ana winds exceeding 161km/h drove wildfires in California, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires. As a result of severe drought conditions, this situation was even worse. As a result of low humidity and strong winds, fire spread across Los Angeles. A gale-force north-westerly Berg Wind reaching 120 km/h fueled the Knysna fires on 7 June 2017.

A prolonged drought had left vegetation dry, exacerbating fire intensity. The fires consumed 19,000 hectares of plantations and indigenous forest and led to widespread destruction in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.

Warnings and Preparedness

Both regions received early weather warnings. In California, the National Weather Service issued Red Flag Warnings days before the fires, highlighting extreme fire risk. Despite these warnings, the wildfires overwhelmed emergency responses.

In the Western Cape, the South African Weather Service warned of a major storm expected on 6 June, prompting school closures and disaster management activation. The strong winds fuelled the fires instead of bringing anticipated rain.

Emergency Response

California mobilised extensive resources, including 7 500 emergency personnel, 65 fire engines, and military support. Private firefighters were also deployed to protect high-value properties.

In Knysna, firefighting efforts included nearly 1 200 firefighters from various Municipalities, the City of Cape Town, local forestry companies, private firefighters, and Working on Fire (WOF) crews, as well as aerial water bombers Working on Fire, the South African National Defence Force, and Savanah Helicopters. Emergency operations were coordinated through a Joint Operating Centre in Knysna, as well as Multi Agency Coordinating Centre at the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre. Despite efforts, the fire spread uncontrollably, forcing thousands to evacuate, this being the only safe option at the time.

Destruction and Loss

The 2025 California wildfires burned nearly 40,000 acres, destroyed 16,255 structures, and claimed at least 29 lives. The fires forced more than 100,000 people to evacuate, making them some of the most devastating in the state’s history. The economic loss for the USA is about one trillion sixty-nine billion eight hundred fifty-five million Rands.

The Knysna Fires left seven dead, burned 16,000 hectares, and displaced 10,000 people. More than 900 structures were either damaged or destroyed, with economic losses estimated at four and a half billion rands.

Environmental and Urban Planning Factors

Fuel loads played a significant role in both disasters. In Knysna, invasive alien vegetation, such as black wattle and pine plantations, contributed to extreme fire intensity. Studies confirm that fuel loads in plantations and invaded areas were significantly higher than in natural fynbos. Some natural fynbos were encroached with alien invasive species.

Similarly, in California, a build-up of dry vegetation due to prolonged drought and extreme wind, created conditions primed for wildfires. Invasive plants such as Harding grass and yellow star thistle further exacerbated fire spread.

Post-Fire Consequences

Following both disasters, heavy rains triggered mudslides and flash floods, exacerbating further negative impacts. In Knysna, five months after the fires, burned mountain slopes contributed to severe mudslides. In California, post-fire rains led to toxic ash runoff and landslides, further endangering residents.

Lessons Learned

Both wildfires highlight the need for proactive fire management and climate adaptation strategies. Key takeaways include:

  • Fuel Load Reduction: Managing invasive vegetation and reducing combustible materials through controlled burns and firebreaks, and other innovative measures can mitigate risks.
  • Urban Planning: Fire-resistant landscaping, strategic buffer zones, and defensible spaces are crucial for minimizing damage.
  • Preparedness & Early Response: Investing in predictive modelling, community awareness, and emergency planning is essential for minimizing losses.
  • Climate Change Action: Both disasters underscore the impact of rising temperatures and prolonged droughts on wildfire intensity, emphasizing the urgency for global climate mitigation strategies.

The Knysna/Bitou and California wildfires serve as stark reminders of the evolving wildfire threat. As climate change accelerates, regions must adopt proactive fire management, enforce strict land-use policies, and enhance emergency preparedness to prevent future catastrophes.

Feature Image:  Knysna Fire 2017 – Deon Raath

-End-

 

05 February 2025 Media Release: GRDM’s Bitou EHPs and Kurland Clinic Staff Host Norovirus and Health & Hygiene Awareness Session

Media Release: GRDM’s Bitou EHPs and Kurland Clinic Staff Host Norovirus and Health & Hygiene Awareness Session

For immediate release
05 February 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Bitou Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP), in collaboration with the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health’s nursing staff at Kurland Clinic, recently conducted an informative awareness session on the Norovirus.

Stakeholders also focused on informing community members about the critical importance of health and hygiene practices.

The GRDM and Kurland Clinic team are (FLTR):  Sophia Marthinus and Zoleka Goniwe (GRDM EHPs),  Lee Ann Joubert (GRDM Disaster Management), Sr. Zainab Hendricks (Kurland Clinic), Nokuphiwa Mbali (GRDM EHP) and Sr. Ronelle Sampson (Kurland Clinic).

The team provided comprehensive insights into the symptoms and effects of the virus, preventive measures to curb its spread, proper health and hygiene practices, symptom management, and recognizing signs of dehydration with appropriate responses. The heightened need for vigilance during peak seasons when Norovirus cases typically surge, was also raised.

In the second part of the program, the GRDM team conducted a step-by-step demonstration of proper handwashing techniques, highlighting that handwashing remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of Norovirus. They also demonstrated how to prepare a Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS), explaining its crucial role in preventing dehydration. The importance of staying hydrated was repeatedly stressed, with the team noting that “early hydration is critical to managing symptoms and preventing severe dehydration.” Participants were advised to seek immediate medical assistance if symptoms persisted.

Throughout the session, it became clear to attendees that hand hygiene plays a vital role in breaking the transmission chain of Norovirus.

Participants expressed a heightened understanding of Norovirus, the significance of proper handwashing, and the preparation and use of the SSS. They also gained valuable knowledge on managing hydration effectively. The session was interactive, with many questions from the attendees, and was well-received by all.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a type of viral gastroenteritis causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms

  • Nausea; vomiting, and
  • diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

How Norovirus spread

  • Contaminated food,
  • water,
  • surfaces, and
  • person-to-person contact.

Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS):

  • Mix 1 liter of clean water with 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  • Sip slowly throughout the day.

Should anyone develop symptoms, they are reminded to stay well hydrated

  • Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, and dizziness.
  • In cases of severe dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Encouraged caregivers to watch for symptoms in vulnerable individuals, such as children and the elderly.

ENDS

03 February 2025 Media Release:  Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates a Successful Holiday Season at Its Resorts

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Celebrates a Successful Holiday Season at Its Resorts

3 February 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) annually reflects on the holiday season and how its municipal resorts faired. This year, the two coastal resorts—Victoria Bay and Swartvlei Caravan Parks—led the way. This past season was marked by high occupancy rates, excellent guest feedback, and an overwhelming sense of achievement across our facilities.

Victoria Bay and Swartvlei Caravan Parks

Both Victoria Bay and Swartvlei Caravan Parks recorded occupancy rates exceeding 80% during the season, with Victoria Bay maintaining a steady flow of visitors well into February. These resorts welcomed a mix of loyal regulars who return year after year, along with an impressive 50% of first-time visitors. Many of these newcomers fell in love with the breathtaking views, the serene atmosphere, and the unique experience of waking up to the sound of waves from their camping plots.

According to Acting Resort Manager, Medron Bussack, the past holiday season stood out as one of the most harmonious in recent memory, with minimal complaints. Any issues raised were promptly addressed and resolved internally, showcasing the staff’s commitment to guest satisfaction.

“Guest feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the exceptional service, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities, including the communal and private ablutions. I believe the impact of our social media marketing was evident, with numerous new guests discovering our resorts through Facebook posts and other platforms. Unfortunately, due to high demand, we were unable to accommodate all inquiries, underscoring the popularity of these destinations,” Bussack said.

Looking ahead, GRDM remains focused on enhancing all facilities within the constraints of the municipal budget to ensure an even better experience for visitors.

Victoria Bay Caravan Park

Swartvlei Caravan Park

De Hoek Mountain Resort

De Hoek Mountain Resort also had a successful season, surpassing the previous year’s booking numbers. While a significant portion of guests were loyal regulars, the resort also welcomed an encouraging number of first-time visitors.

Feedback from De Hoek guests was both positive and constructive. During the arrival and departure of visitors, reception staff actively promoted special off-season packages. Throughout the season, resort staff upheld a high standard of hospitality—cleaning the communal camping site bathrooms three times daily, addressing concerns around the clock, and ensuring every guest felt welcomed and well cared for. A big festival was also held at the resort, spanning over four days.

De Hoek Mountain Resort

Calitzdorp Hot Springs

One of the most significant challenges this past season was the temporary closure of the resort due to flood damage. The resort was shut down on 5 June 2024 and remained closed for over six months. During this time, we received numerous inquiries from clients eagerly awaiting its reopening.

“When we finally reopened on 1 December 2024, we were pleasantly surprised by the high turnout, particularly in the day visitors’ area. Guests were delighted by the affordability of our entrance fees, which contributed to strong attendance figures. However, the chalet and camping sections experienced slower occupancy, as many clients had already made alternative arrangements. Fortunately, we saw a steady increase in bookings, particularly in the last three weeks of December,” said Acting Resort Manager, Daryl Rondganger.

One ongoing challenge has been managing baboon activity around the chalets. Fortunately, staff have identified and successfully implemented several effective measures to mitigate this issue.

With the recent upgrade to the old cement road, accessibility from Oudtshoorn has greatly improved, making travel to the resort easier and more convenient for guests. This positive development is expected to enhance the visitor experience and contribute to the resort’s future success. One of the chalets were also upgraded – chalet four by the swimming pools. More are planned to be upgraded in due course.

Calitzdorp Hot Springs

With plans to upgrade facilities and further leverage social media marketing and word-of-mouth, we aim to build on this momentum and continue positioning our resorts as the preferred holiday destinations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our guests for their ongoing support and invaluable feedback. GRDM remains committed to providing exceptional experiences for everyone who visits our resorts and looks forward to welcoming both returning and new guests in the seasons ahead.

-End-

29 January 2025 Media Release: National Deputy Minister of Electricity & Energy, open and ready to support municipalities in the Garden Route in terms of Energy

Media Release: National Deputy Minister of Electricity & Energy, open and ready to support municipalities in the Garden Route in terms of Energy

For immediate release
29 January 2025

During an engagement on the 20 January 2025 between the National Department of Electricity & Energy, Executive Mayors and officials of the Garden Route district, Ms Samantha Graham-Maré, the Deputy Minister, shared her department’s willingness to support the municipalities in terms of energy and electricity.

The meeting was hosted by the GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, which created a platform for officials from the National Department to share valuable information on the initiatives of the Department and various types of assistance that the Department is able to provide to municipalities.

Information presented by the Deputy Minister and officials included: issues experienced by Eskom, the financial sustainability of municipalities regarding energy, IPP procurement, wheeling and small-scale embedded generation frameworks, waste-to-energy projects, and the clean and safe cooking programme. They also shared information about the ongoing program of Energy Efficiency which enables municipalities to replace air conditioning systems and lights for more energy efficient ones.

Municipal representatives also presented their projects, programmes and challenges, in terms of energy and electricity within their respective municipal areas. The biggest concern raised by municipalities, is the need to accommodate informal settlements to ensure their needs are met in terms of the provision of energy. The issue of unaffordable electricity rates was also noted. Municipal representatives, as part of their challenges, also mentioned the need for increased capacity, financial resources and funding for the pursuance of studies and projects.

Sharing her strong passion for Local Government, Graham-Maré recognised the immense pressure on municipalities to provide services whilst acknowledging infrastructure and maintenance backlogs and simultaneously having to navigate policies and overarching concepts on a national level and how easily people on the ground may be forgotten.

She praised the Western Cape Province by describing them as being “on the pulse of energy” with numerous energy-related projects in place. Graham-Maré shared her plans on various types of support that the Department envisages for the district.

In terms of informal settlements, Graham-Marè said: “We have to find ways to look at addressing the needs of the informal settlements differently – how to get at least some level of access to electricity on the normal grid or alternative energy sources, for e.g. microgrids for larger informal settlements, villages and areas where it is difficult to get normal grid access and electrification”.

Another significant aspect she pointed out, was that “we need to simplify our initiatives, particularly as we look into new methods of doing things, especially with the new technology continuously being developed,” she added.

Graham-Maré expressed her gratitude to all municipalities present for the honest engagement when they shared their respective challenges with the Department. This engagement with the District Municipality will be followed by consultations with the local municipalities in the area.

In his closing remarks Monde Stratu, Municipal Manager of GRDM extended his support to local municipalities and said: “As the Garden Route District Municipality we stand ready with colleagues in respect of capacity and look forward to working together with all stakeholders in terms of this initiative”.

ENDS

28 January 2025 Media Release: Knysna has sympathy for the people of Los Angeles

Media Release: Knysna has sympathy for the people of Los Angeles

For immediate release
28 January 2025

“For the moment overshadowed by President Trump’s inauguration, the full impact of the Los Angeles (LA) fire disaster is fast unfolding, and the hearts of the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay communities who endured a similar experience in 2017 goes out to the people of LA,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

From the Knysna experience, trauma and loss experienced by all those who lived in the LA burn scar and the city as a whole, is something that will take time to fully manifest and much hardship lies ahead for all affected.

Fire damage done to LA is seemingly obvious but only time will tell how bad it will be for the environment given that the toxins and debris from 12 000 burnt structures are severe. Because of the toxins present, homeowners are currently banned from cleaning their own property. It is feared that toxins are already finding their way into the ocean through rain water running down seep lines and stormwater systems and dispersed through wind, and is expected to have a detrimental impact on marine life.

Globally experts agree that the severity of wildfires has been growing because of climate change. This has put more homes in danger.

Over time the Garden Route will burn again and again and as long as invasive alien plants on the landscape prevail, the fire danger rating will remain unnecessarily high and rapidly increase. As a result of climate change and unpredictable weather, the regional fire season is now all-year round impacting on sparse resources of those tasked with fire-fighting.

GREF would like to urge landowners at risk to clear their land of invasive alien plants and in the process prevent an imminent repeat of the 2017 Knysna disaster.

(The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a Climate Change think-tank – www.grefscli.co.za).

Photo: Remains of a Knysna homestead following the June 2017 wildfire disaster – (Cobus Meiring)