3 George beaches retain Blue Flag status

GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality has proudly retained Blue Flag status for Wilderness Main, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay beaches following the national awards ceremony hosted by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) in Cape Town on 28 October.

Leentjiesklip beach continues as a Pilot Blue Flag Beach, while Gwaiing Beach and River Mouth received the Green Coast Award, recognising sustainable management at this biodiverse site.

Nosidima Vumindaba, George Municipality’s Manager of Parks and Recreation, and Cllr Marchell Kleynhans, MMC for Community Services, accepted the awards on behalf of the municipality. Vumindaba highlighted the benefits of Blue Flag and Green Coast status for enhancing local tourism, protecting coastal ecosystems, and raising environmental awareness. “Blue Flag status has international significance. These accolades help establish our city and district as top tourism destinations. We are grateful for the partnership with SANParks Garden Route National Park, which shares management of Wilderness beach with us.”

She said the Blue Flag season will run from 1 December to 31 January, requiring high standards in water quality, public safety, and facility maintenance.

Beautiful Herold's Bay. Photo: Charl Kemp

"These awards reinforce George Municipality’s reputation as a leading, eco-friendly tourism destination on South Africa’s coastline."

The Green Coast Award, launched in 2017, is given to coastal sites with high biodiversity, promoting community engagement in managing these natural areas.

In South Africa, the Blue Flag Programme is managed by Wessa. In total, 48 beaches, four marinas, and seven tourism boats were recognised for meeting the standards.

Wessa CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete, said earning a Blue Flag is no small feat. There are 33 stringent criteria to meet, ranging from water quality to environmental education, accessibility, and visitor facilities.

"The award highlights the dedication of local municipalities, tourism operators, marinas, and volunteers in educating, advocating, and acting for the beauty and biodiversity of the country's coastlines."

She said Wessa aims to promote a strong connection between communities and the protection of South Africa's coastal environments. "This is in an effort to ensure the well-being of both people and our coastal ecosystems."

V&A Waterfront Executive Manager of Marine and Industrial Andre Blaine (left) and Wessa CEO Cindy Lee Cloete (right) presenting the George Blue Flag awards to George Manager of Parks and Recreation Nosidima Vumindaba and MMC for Community Services Marchell Kleynhans.