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 OversightReport 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
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.
Palisades Fire – Los Angelas County 2025
Knysna Fires – 2017 Photo credit: Edward Stander
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, National Deputy Minister of Electricity & Energy, Samantha Graham-Maré and GRDM Municipal Manager, Monde Stratu, during the engagement.
Deputy Minister, Samantha Graham Maré (middle), with representatives from municipalities in the Garden Route district, soon after the discussions.
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”.
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)
Garden Route District Municipality Achieves Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) welcomes another Clean Audit outcome issued by the Auditor General of South Africa (AGSA). This is the fourth consecutive year for the GRDM to reach such a milestone.
According to GRDM’s Municipal Manager, Monde Stratu: “This achievement once again reflects the dedication and hard work of all our personnel, and the commitment by the GRDM Council to do their oversight”.
“While I acknowledge this milestone and remain thankful to every person who contributed to this outcome, I wouldn’t be celebrating it as the focus will remain on service delivery and fulfilling our mandate to improve the lives of residents in the district,” said Andrew Stroebel, GRDM Executive Mayor.
“Stable and accountable leadership, coupled with a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, not only ensures good governance but also creates a trustworthy environment for investment.Transparent government provides confidence to investors and stakeholders alike,” concluded Stroebel.
NOTICE OF A COUNCIL MEETING ON 30 JANUARY 2025 AT 11:00
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 30 January 2025 at 11:00.
Notice is hereby given that a COMBINED MPAC/ APAC 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 January 2025 at 14:00.
Media Release: Garden Route environment key to its economic prosperity, but wild fires remain a threat
For immediate release 13 January 2025
“Thousands of tourists from all over the world flocked to the Garden Route over the 24/25 holiday season to experience one of the most beautiful places on earth, and in doing so, they make a vital contribution to the regional economy,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).
Garden Route regional and local government and conservation bodies consistently go to great lengths to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to ensure a well- managed environment for all to enjoy. These efforts do come at a cost for those responsible for managing the environment, but the return on investment is high and the jobs created through the tourism sector is vital to the quality of life for all those living in the region.
Easily accessible clean and safe beaches, several world class nature reserves, hiking trails through forests and mountains, picnic spots, restaurants and high standard accommodation options – all contribute to the Garden Route value proposition for tourists.
Unfortunately during the festive season, the Garden Route suffered from increasingly frequent wild fires which kept authorities busy in actively fighting and monitoring several wild fires scattered all over the region. This ever- present threat will only increase as summer temperatures are set to rise to record highs in 2025.
The devastating fires presently raging through Los Angeles is a stark reminder to Garden Route residents who experienced the Knysna wildfire disaster back in June 2017. Fact is that, as climate change shows its teeth, the danger of regional wild fire disasters are clear and present and on the increase, and in many respects, there are correlations between the factors which contributed to the ferocity of the LA and Knysna wildfire disasters.
Garden Route regional authorities and professional firefighting entities such as the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (FPA), are better prepared than ever to prevent and manage wildfires. Despite best efforts and equipment, the Los Angeles disaster showed that when nature unleashes its full fury, nothing will stop it from destroying everything in its path.
The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think- tank (www.grefscli.co.za)
Photo: The scenic Garden Route is a major draw card for thousands of tourists and makes an invaluable contribution to the economic prosperity of the region.
