GEORGE NEWS - Following recent attacks on tourists in the Wilderness and Victoria Bay areas, George Tourism in collaboration with the municipality, police and municipal protection services secured four additional security guards who will be deployed in identified security hotspots in these areas.
The additional security guards have been active since 28 November and form part of a pilot project that will be assessed and revised throughout the tourist high season.
"Safety and security is not a municipal mandate, but the safety of visitors to our area is of utmost importance, especially at a time when George Tourism is taking its products to market in our main source markets overseas," said George tourism manager, Joan Shaw.
"Funding was a major hindrance in implementing this initiative, but we were able to secure what was required for this festive season. It is indeed heartening to see so many stakeholders, internal and external, working together towards a common goal and I would like to extend a heartfelt 'thank you' to everyone who has stepped up."
The security hotspots were identified during a stakeholder meeting early in November and responsibility assigned to the various stakeholders.
According to municipal communications manager Chantel Edwards-Klose, George Municipality undertook to assist with securing one of the four hotspots identified.
"Working closely with law enforcement, the George / Wilderness police stations and the WRRA (Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association), the municipality was however able to expand this mandate and cover more than one area," she said.
The other stakeholders taking responsibility for the remaining hotspots are the Garden Route District Municipality, SANParks, Sanral, and ward councillors from George and Wilderness.
"The WRRA has shown strong commitment and did a sterling job in getting their members involved in the solution-based outcomes," said Edwards-Klose.
A brochure highlighting safety and security tips for travellers is in the process of being printed by the Garden Route District Municipality and will be distributed widely throughout the region, with hotels and guesthouses requested to warn their guests to be vigilant and not display valuable items.
It is also strongly recommended that if visitors want to hike in isolated areas, they request an accredited tour guide to accompany them. For information of such guides available, please contact the Wilderness Tourism Office on 044 877 0045.
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