Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to footer

Local Government News

03 October 2024 Media Release: Stenden South Africa Second-Year Students Tour Garden Route District Municipality’s Disaster Management Centre

Media Release: Stenden South Africa Second-Year Students Tour Garden Route District Municipality’s Disaster Management Centre

03 October 2024

Earlier this week the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre welcomed a group of second-year students from Stenden South Africa as part of their educational tour. This visit marked an important stop on the students’ Cape Town-bound journey, which began in the Eastern Cape at the Sarah Baartman District Centre. Along their route, the students are scheduled to visit various Disaster Management Centres (DM centres) and important sites, including the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station.

Stenden South Africa is an international university that offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Honours degree in Disaster Management. The institution is renowned for its approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, equipping students to manage real-world disaster scenarios and global development challenges. Their four-year program builds expertise in key areas such as disaster response, humanitarian security, and global social development.

Among the key modules covered during their studies are:

  • Conflict Management and Humanitarian Security Law
  • Disaster Response, Role Players and Relationships
  • Introduction to Accounting
  • Logistics & Business Communication 2
  • Research Methodology & Field Research 1

The program’s structure is designed to progressively cover foundational topics in the first year, such as Disaster Management Planning, Project Management, and Economics. By the third year, students engage in more advanced subjects like Climate Variability and Strategic Management. Furthermore, specialized international modules in Thailand, such as Global Social Development and International Relations, enhance the students’ global perspective.

The GRDM Disaster Management Centre was one of the major highlights of the trip, providing students with a first-hand look at operational disaster management processes. During the visit, the current GRDM interns were invited to share their experiences, offering the students valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of disaster management. These exchanges provided practical context to their studies and gave them a glimpse into potential career paths.

In addition to the intern presentations, a Stenden South Africa alumna, now working as a disaster management officer at GRDM, shared her personal career journey. Her reflections on transitioning from student to professional provided inspiration and guidance for the visiting students, showing how their studies could shape their future roles in the field.

This visit is one of many ongoing collaborations between GRDM and Stenden South Africa, nurturing a dynamic exchange of knowledge and mentorship. Each year, such engagements provide students with practical exposure to disaster management, enhancing their academic experiences. The inclusion of GRDM interns in this year’s program offered the students peer-level insights and further emphasized GRDM’s commitment to developing the next generation of disaster management professionals.

Featured image caption: GRDM Disaster Management Officials alongside second-year students from Stenden South Africa during their visit to the GRDM Disaster Management Centre.

-END

02 October 2024 Media Release: 32 New Signs for Garden Route Peaks to Boost Adventure Tourism

Media Release: 32 New Signs for Garden Route Peaks to Boost Adventure Tourism

3 October 2024

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) is world-renowned for its breathtaking hiking, trail-running and mountain biking trails, offering adventure seekers routes that traverse peaks reaching up to 1,578 meters (Cradock Peak) above sea level in the George area.

During an informal handover ceremony, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel met with members from the Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT), the Garden Route Trail Running community-based running group and a Conquer Together community enthusiast.

Mayor Stroebel said: “In support of enhancing these trails for local and international visitors, the GRDM is proud to donate 32 new signs to rebrand key mountain peaks”.

“These new signs will replace the current faded ones, ensuring a refreshed experience for hikers and trail runners.”

Each sign will prominently feature the GR&KK logo, a QR code and a few other brands, which offer a gateway to valuable resources, including links to:

The signage and trail maintenance in George have long been carried out by the dedicated members of the Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT) group, who fund these efforts independently. Recognising their hard work and commitment, GRDM’s contribution aims to alleviate some of the financial pressure on the group, helping to ensure these trails remain safe, clear and accessible for all.

The highest peak, Cradock Peak, will also receive a new sign right at its highest point.

Feature image: The handover ceremony took place at the GRDM Mayor’s Office. Each person held a sign featuring one of the 6 big peaks in the George area – Vensterberg, Losberg, George Peak, Cradock Peak, Tierkop and Groenkop. The stakeholders present included (fltr): Jacques Mouton (FKT & GTR), Herman Pieters (GRDM Communication Manager), Andrew Stroebel (GRDM Executive Mayor), Clare Mouton (FKT & GTR), Zane Schmal (MUT), and Attie Bedeker(Conquer Together).

ENDS

30 September 2024 Toughest Firefighter Alive (South Africa) competition drawn to a close – Message from Chief Fire Officer

Message From GRDM Chief Fire Officer: TFA-SA competition drawn to a close

For immediate release
30 September 2024

Whilst the Toughest Firefighter Alive South Africa (TFA-SA) Competition has drawn to a close, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Services would like to close out this year’s journey by extending our GRATITUDE to fellow colleagues, the municipality, managers, and most importantly, family and friends, as well as sponsors and volunteers, whom not only assisted at the event, but also our firefighters.

You have jumped into this with the firefighters and adjusted your schedules, your weekend, and SCREAMED and JUMPED with equal passion and fire, as those who battled on the course.

We heard you, we’ve seen your excitement, the smiles, the special dress-ups and even the help with taking off the the kits, and equipment after each stage, to bring some fresh and cool energy to the competitors.

We have seen the support and and messages of encouragement on social media, leading up to the event and we felt all of it over the weekend.

Thank you for being the Heros off the pitch – it certainly pushed us all to give our very best and achieving the results we did over this weekend.

* Personal Bests
* Finishing the course
* First Time Participation
* Improvement
* Medals
* New Supporters
* Future firefighters.

TEAM, the camaraderie, expertise, and teamwork were invaluable. Together, we pushed boundaries and achieved greatness.

Thank you for the exceptional weekend and may this strengthen us even further.

ENDS

26 September 2024 Media Statement: Innovative Measures Announced to reduce sporadic offensive odours in Great Brak River

Media Statement: Innovative Measures Announced to reduce sporadic offensive odours in Great Brak River

26 September 2024

There are currently three industries in Great Brak River that are regulated through Atmospheric Emission Licences (AEL) issued by the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Air Quality Unit. According to Dr Schoeman, Manager: District Air Quality Control: “It is important to emphasize that these AEL`s have stringent conditions, and the industries are mostly compliant with their respective licence requirements. The industries are regulated through various conditions of their licence, of which the annual emissions monitoring by an independent authority, is a key requirement.  The industries meet the minimum emission limits, which are established based on factors such as the potential health effects on the surrounding environment.”

“Since early 2024, residents from various communities near these industries have reported suspected offensive odours.  Some of these industries emits compounds known for releasing an offensive odour and has a low odour detection threshold,” says Dr Schoeman. He further explained, “Weather conditions play a significant role in the dispersion of odours, which tend to be more noticeable during the colder winter months.”

GRDM and the industries acknowledge all concerns and are working together to address them. Dr Schoeman noted that while the industries comply with its minimum emission limits, the companies recognizes that offensive odours may occasionally be released. Some of these industries are also regulated in terms of their operating times, to minimize the effect during the night and over weekends.

In response to these concerns, the industries have committed to best available technology to address the offensive odours. Some of which has already being implemented. In collaboration with GRDM, the industries have proposed a phased approach to reduce any odours. These measures include, among other things, the venting of gas through pipe ducting systems filled with water and odour suppressant liquid to act as a scrubber system. There is also an installation of rubber curtains at building entrance points to address wind drafts, the replacement of old boilers with improved technology with improved combustion, and the conversion of manufacturing processes to more energy efficient technology, which lowers fuel usage and subsequent emissions. It must also be noted that all these measures come with capital and operational costs and some of these changes do require environmental approval from the relevant authorities before it may be implemented. Dr Schoeman pointed out that “measures requiring authorisation are bound to take longer to implement, however, it is anticipated for the long-term measures to be implemented within the next 1-2 years”.

There remains strong cooperation between GRDM and industry, and all parties are confident that these measures will effectively mitigate and reduce the offensive odours associated with their respective industry.

ENDS

26 September 2024 Media Release: Regenerating degraded land may prove a lifeline to Garden Route biodiversity

Media Release: Regenerating degraded land may prove a lifeline to Garden Route biodiversity

26 September 2024 

“Well over a million hectares of agricultural land in the Southern Cape interior, Karoo and neighbouring Eastern Cape has over time degraded to a point where it can no longer be regarded as suitable for sustainable farming,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

There are multiple reasons for land to degrade to a point where it can no longer sustain biodiversity. The most significant of factors instigating land degradation generally include a combination of climate change, over grazing, irresponsible land management practices, over-extraction of water resources and deforestation.

Habitat loss as a result of new development and rapid urbanization is fast causing the Garden Route to lose biodiversity posing a challenge to those tasked with environmental management and sustainability. Efforts to conserve, grow and protect intact biodiversity is vital for the future well- being of the Garden Route and the quality of life of all dependent on it.

Land restoration and rehabilitation is a complex process which takes time and absorb substantial resources before the full benefit thereof take effect, but the restoration of thousands of hectares of degraded agricultural land holds the key to mitigate biodiversity and habitat loss elsewhere. At the same time eco-system restoration has the potential to earn carbon credit benefits and in parts of Kannaland there are already such efforts underway.

The creation of conservation corridors allowing for the free movement and survival of terrestrial species are increasingly understood and supported by landowners outside the urban edge, whilst conservancies and green belts within the urban edge goes a long way towards that objective.

The creation and maintenance of a healthy environment is a shared responsibility and GREF would like to urge land owners and land managers to contribute towards re-establishing natural habitats and the conservation of threatened eco-systems in the Garden Route.

Feature image caption: Degraded land in the Southern Cape interior, Karoo and bordering Eastern Cape can be restored to sustain biodiversity.

ENDS

25 September 2024 Media Release: Millions Invested in Garden Route District Municipality’s Fire and Disaster Management Response Units by Western Cape Government

Media Release: Millions Invested in Garden Route District Municipality’s Fire and Disaster Management Response Units by Western Cape Government

25 September 2024

Grant funding for capacity building to date has surpassed R15 million, provided by the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCG) Department of Local Government (DLG), Directorate Fire & Rescue and Disaster Management’s Fire Services, to the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).

Fire Chief Deon Stoffels commented on the significance of the funding: “The purpose of the capacity building ensures that the GRDM’s emergency capacity, mobilization, response, and mitigation systems are of a standard that meets the region’s risks. This also ensures that the GRDM at a Local Government level builds enough capacity to assist with fire and disaster management responses across the region at local municipalities.”

Key projects to date, backed by Provincial funding, include:

  • Assistance of R3 million for the Regional Fire Station that was official unveiled on 2 February 2024;
  • In June 2024, a hook lift truck for flood and related response was delivered to the cost of R 2,5 million;
  • A fully equipped firefighting light duty vehicle to the value of R 981 000;
  • A mobile hazmat response unit to the value of R 500 000;
  • Ongoing roll-out of smoke detectors and the past year contribution were to the value of R 500 000;
  • A water delivery tanker was acquired, to the cost of R 1,2 million.

All the above projects have been concluded within the 2023/2024 financial year.

For the current and next financial year, further assistance in terms of grant funding is for an amount of R 7,2 million. This includes funding of R5 million to build a flood response unit, with various containerised equipment caches, including a hovercraft, an overhead housing facility. In addition, R 1 million will be made available for hazardous material equipment, mobile units. Lastly, one more water delivery truck worth R 1,2 million will be acquired to assist areas that are affected by water services issues.

These projects are implemented in line with relevant supply chain management procedures, and the recent handover marks the final step in meeting the objectives outlined in the various Business Plans and Transfer Payment Agreements.

Official Handover Ceremony held on 25 September 2024 at the GRDM Regional Fire Station

During the official handing over ceremony, the GRDM invited a Ettienne du Toit, the Western Cape Provincial Government Deputy Director for Fire Services to a handover ceremony of the assets the GRDM procured.

GRDM Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, during the ceremony, said: “It is only recently, due to climate change, that there has been an increased push for more response units. There has been an increase in disaster-related incidents . We see this every year as we face floods and fires. Stratu said that the GRDM Council appreciates the WCG efforts in providing the district with critical resources. “With our current budget constraints, we simply do not have the capacity to acquire these assets on our own, so your assistance is invaluable.”

The Municipal Manager also said the demand for the GRDM to assist local municipalities continues to grow – “being a fire-prone district, we need all the help we can get.”

“Thank you, Western Cape Government, for these life-saving contributions,” he concluded.

Ettienne du Toit, Deputy Director of Fire Services in the Western Cape, added:

“For the Western Cape Government, it’s an absolute pleasure to be involved here. We see this as a partnership—we all serve the same communities, and they trust us to help protect them. We must ensure we don’t disappoint them. The Western Cape has already faced eight disasters this calendar year, mostly involving floods, fires, and a significant electricity outage.” According to du Toit, the damage so far in the province is recorded at R9 billion, and the WCG has absorbed these costs.

“We must safeguard our emergency response resources, particularly as the province faces financial challenges that have led to job cuts.

The Water Response Project is the first of its kind in the Western Cape, and we are proud to see its rollout here at the Garden Route district. Given the increasing frequency of floods and fires, this investment is crucial. The water tankers are designed for humanitarian assistance, while the large vehicles aid in lifting containers. The plan is to expand this, not just for water but for hazmat, humanitarian, and chemical incidents.

“There’s a growing need for heavy-duty vehicles, and the goal is to ensure every town in the Western Cape is equipped with a well-resourced hazmat capability. As informal settlements continue to grow, so too does the risk of fire fatalities. For over eight years, we’ve been working to install smoke alarms in these areas, but there’s still much more to be done. It’s encouraging to see the development of the fire station and the fitness of the firefighters, and we look forward to seeing this partnership continue to grow. It is a pleasure to hand over these resources to you,” concluded du Toit.

ENDS

20 September 2024 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export  Seminar in George

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export  Seminar in George

For immediate release
20 September 2024

Yesterday, 19 September 2024, various stakeholders including the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Wesgro and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and other support organisations convened at the George Banquet Hall to participate in an export seminar.

The seminar that was hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, in collaboration with Wesgro and the GRDM, created a platform for potential exporters in the region to be informed about the new export markets and export opportunities. The seminar allowed for businesses to engage in information sharing, awareness creation and networking with strategic partners. Mechanisms to enhance export competitiveness were also shared at the event.

In his welcoming address to attendees, the Deputy Mayor of George, Ald Raybin Figland, said that the engagement is a platform for like-minded individuals with one goal in the centre of it all; how to promote and drive economic growth, so that the economies, district and the Western Cape, can flourish.

Extending a message of support to all organisations, businesses owners and entrepreneurs who formed part of the event, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, Portfolio Chairperson for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM said: “The Garden Route District Municipality has a dedicated Business Support and Development Programme through which we support various businesses including those with export potential”. In addition, Ruiters highlighted that exporting products presents an invaluable opportunity for economic diversification and growth, creating jobs and generating wealth for our communities as is stated in the GRDM’s Growth and Development Strategic Vision”. Ruiters also emphasised that the success of the region’s export initiatives relies on strong partnerships. “Collaboration between government, private businesses, and trade experts is essential to building the networks that will open doors to new markets, ” she said. Ruiters encouraged all businesses present to utilise these resources and networks as they embark on or expand their export journeys, and that the event will leave them inspired and ready to take the next steps toward expanding their business globally. While encouraging all present to seize the opportunities ahead and transform potential into prosperity, she said: “The world is looking for what the Garden Route has to offer, and together, we can ensure that our district shines on the global stage”.

Ilse van Schalkwyk, Chief Director for Economic Sector Support at DEDAT provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches and shared some background of the provincial Growth for Jobs and export strategies. She also presented the export trends for the Western Cape and sensitized exporters on support levers available to the private sector.

Richard Dyantyi, Manager responsible for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM, delivered a presentation on the Garden Route Export Development initiatives. He further proudly mentioned a few commodities that are being exported from the region, that includes: canola, pomegranate, wines, ostriches to name a few. In terms of the potential commodities that are ready to be exported, honeybush was highlighted as one of the products as an example. With regards to a conducive environment to compliment these export activities, Dyantyi said that plans to develop the port in Mossel Bay are fast progressing for the purpose of diverting goods that need to be exported and he that “Mossel Bay port is a strategic link between Cape Town and Richards Bay and/or Durban. Dyantyi further emphasised that all stakeholders need to focus on a plan that is fit for purpose, specifically for the Garden Route, that will also consider the inputs from businesses of the district in terms of exporting.

Safari Braai Products representative, Peter Reinstorff, presented the export operations of the local braai company that is exporting for almost 11 years. The company is currently exporting a diverse range of products across the world. To potential exporters present, he advised that businesses need to focus on the quality of the product, and that business owners should study the market to determine the demand for the product and most importantly they should thoroughly study the relevant legislation in relation to exporting e.g. packaging requirements etc.

The event also allowed for the George Business Chamber representative, Theo Adams, to present the operations and projects successfully rolled out by the Chamber. While sharing detailed information of the Chamber, he also shared information on funding opportunities and the type of compliance documents that need to be submitted.

Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities. Cameron further shared valuable advice on international trade and various factors on how geographic dimensions need to be considered for international trade. A few examples included socio-economic factors, e.g. religion, culture, taste, as well as transport focusing on circulatio]n and movement, commercial transactions as well as economic activities (supply and demand).

The event concluded with Nomandla Nene from Wesgro demonstrating to all business representatives how to access and navigate the Cape Trade Portal, which can be accessed at: https://capetradeportal.com/.

Cllr Cobus Meiring, Councillor at GRDM, extended a word of appreciation to the DEDAT and all stakeholders involved for hosting the event in the district, also focusing on seeing a database of exporters to be created, to utilise it as a working tool for potential exporters in the Garden Route.

ENDS

18 September 2024 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

18 September 2024

Today, 18 September 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) witnessed a historic moment with the official launch of the National Skills Fund Hospitality and Tourism Project for the Garden Route. This training project is coordinated by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) – the first and only Skills Mecca at a municipality in South Africa.

The primary goal of the Skills Mecca is to create jobs and improve livelihoods across the district by offering work-based learning opportunities for unemployed individuals, helping them develop the skills needed to secure meaningful employment. In doing so, the programme also strengthens the local economy.

Attendees at the launch event  included the Principal, her team and learners from Carpe Diem school, representatives from the National Skills Fund, CEOs of Sector Education and Training Authority and members of the business and tourism community, learners, councillors, officials, and other key stakeholders involved in the district’s skills development efforts.

Elzeth Grobler, Principal of Carpe Diem School, welcomed the guest to ‘the best special needs school in the district’. She provided a brief overview of the school and said: “We are a unique school with all disabilities except blind students. We do not just educate, but we strive to prepare each learner to reach their full potential”.

During his speech, GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, highlighted the significance of the three Skills Summits previously held by the GRDM. At these summits, stakeholders unanimously supported the initiatives of the GRSM, leading to the development and endorsement of ten strategic resolutions that now guide the Skills Mecca’s objectives.

Cllr Stroebel emphasised that the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project directly aligns with one of these key resolutions, which focuses on linking skills development to investment and economic development opportunities. This connection, he noted, is vital for advancing the well-being and prosperity of all communities within the Garden Route District.

Mayor Stroebel further highlighted the broader success of the GRSM beyond the current project. He mentioned other successful initiatives, such as the Home-Based Care Personal Assistants programme, Patrol Officers training, and Renewable Energy Workshop Assistants. “Collectively, these projects have created over 54 jobs and directed R8 million into local communities and households, showcasing the tangible impact of skills development in our region,” he stated.

Stroebel also shared an interesting fact from the impact analysis: “For every learner on a Skills Mecca programme, which includes a stipend, there is a benefit for 3.56 persons in that learner’s household. So, every Rand spent has a significant ripple effect on our community.”

Athenkosi Tshayingwe from the Department of Higher Education and Training expressed gratitude for being part of the impactful project. He highlighted that the initiative aims to train, mentor, and develop 400 unemployed residents of the Garden Route District, focusing on youth aged 18 to 35, to enhance their employability in the Tourism and Hospitality sector, with 200 specifically trained as cooks.

Tshayingwe also emphasised his department’s commitment to skills development, noting that the National Skills Fund (NSF) has invested over R5 billion in the Western Cape, benefitting more than 40,000 learners. The NSF has allocated R36.3 million to the GRDM project to equip young people with skills needed by the local industry and address unemployment.

Several beneficiaries of the GRSM program, rolled out in previous financial years, shared heartfelt testimonies during the event. These individuals, who are still gaining valuable practical experience, expressed their gratitude to the GRDM Skills Mecca for the opportunities provided. Their success stories underscore the program’s significant role in empowering communities and opening doors for personal and professional growth.

Alderman Stephen de Vries, who has a history of serving as the Chairperson of the Training and Development Committee at GRDM, shared his reflections during the event. He expressed pride in the program, stating, “The Skills Mecca is truly fulfilling the vision it set out to achieve.” Highlighting the initiative’s unique origins, he added, “To my knowledge, it is the only program of its kind in the country, born from the aftermath of a fire disaster.”

He concluded his speech by thanking all stakeholders for playing a role in this remarkable initiative. De Vries left the beneficiaries and learners with a powerful message, encouraging them not only to focus on becoming employable, but also to become entrepreneurs.

Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of GRDM Corporate Services, delivered the vote of thanks at the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Carpe Diem team and learners for their excellent performance and for hosting the event at their facility. She also extended her appreciation to the beneficiaries of the Skills Mecca initiative, who shared their personal learning experiences, inspiring all stakeholders present.

Caption for Featured Image: FLTR: Ald Stephen de Vries (GRDM), Themba Ndhlovu (CATHSSETA), Cllr Andrew Stroebel (GRDM), and Chris Mudau (SASSETA), united at the event, collaborating to foster skills development and community upliftment.

Did you know?

The Skills Mecca has promoted collaboration, cooperation, and integration among all skills development stakeholders within the district, and today’s launch of the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project reflects the ongoing commitment to this mission. Learn more about the Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative here: skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za

-END-

18 September 2024 Media Release: GRDM’s Emile Conrad achieved bronze (3rd place) in World Firefighter Games in Denmark

Media release: GRDM’s Emile Conrad achieved bronze (3rd place) in World Firefighter Games in Denmark

For immediate release
18 September 2024

This month, from 7 to 14 September 2024, Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter and current South African Toughest Firefighter Alive, competed in the World Firefighter Games in Denmark.

Victorious moments as Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter at GRDM won 3rd place (a bronze medal) at the World Firefighter Games.

After competing in his age category (40-44), Conrad won the third place, placing him fourteenth overall on the world ranking list of the Toughest Firefighter Alive (TFA)! This is proof of a remarkable achievement. Sharing his experience of the event and his overall performance, he said: “The challenge demanded skill, strength, and endurance to push through against the best competitors in the World in a rapidly growing sport”.

Further describing the stair running event, he said that the event proved to be a thrilling test of cardiovascular fitness. In terms of the Indoor rowing event, “it was another opportunity to hold on through mental and physically tough times,” he added. “By the grace of God and strength, I could improve on my personal best times and achieved one Gold medal in my age category, as well as being placed the third best time overall of 2:57 for the 1000m row”.

Senior Firefighter at GRDM, Emile Conrad, hard at work during the World Firefighter Games in Denmark.

Described being back at home, he said: “It is so great to be back home in South Africa after an exhilarating trip to Denmark, where I had the privilege of representing our country and our Municipality in the World Firefighter Games 2024”. In addition, he described the experience as an unforgettable event, as he pushed his limits in events like the TFA, Indoor Rowing and Stair Running, which tested his physical and mental endurance and all the hard work and preparation. Conrad also mentioned that the camaraderie among fellow firefighters from around the globe left them with invaluable lessons, new friendships, and unforgettable memories. “Denmark’s warm hospitality and vibrant culture made the experience even more enriching,” he highlighted.

In conclusion he said: “I’ve returned home feeling proud of our team South Africa and blessed that God has given me these opportunities to be an ambassador for Christ. Lastly thank-you to each and every one for their support, kind words of encouragement and prayers – God is truly Faithful”.

GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, and the Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, on behalf of the Council and staff of GRDM, congratulated Emile for his stirling performance at the competition and for bringing home a medal to the people of South Africa, especially to the residents of the Garden Route.

Very well done Emile Conrad!

Read related article:
https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2024/09/04/3-september-2024-media-release-emile-conrad-senior-firefighter-at-garden-route-district-municipality-set-to-attend-and-participate-in-the-world-firefighter-games/

ENDS