George Fire Department honoured at National Fire Indaba

GEORGE NEWS - The fire chief and disaster manager for George Municipality, Neels Barnard, received a certificate of recognition on behalf of the department at the National Fire Indaba on Friday 6 December.

The certificate was presented by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, alongside Mayor Jackie von Brandis.

This accolade honours the George Fire Brigade's outstanding hands-on commitment and service in humanitarian efforts, including search, rescue and recovery operations for the victims of the Victoria Street Building Collapse in George in May.

"Your dedication to safeguarding lives and property stands as a beacon of hope and strength for our community," said Von Brandis. "You are the unsung heroes who step forward when others must step back, and we are deeply proud of your service."

Several stakeholders who assisted during the building collapse recovery were also recognised at the ceremony, which concluded the successful two-day indaba hosted in George.

The recognition was not the only outstanding aspect by the George fire department.

Station commander Santa Sternsdorff earned a standing ovation for her sterling presentation on 5 December detailing the department's rescue and recovery efforts after the building collapse.

Her insights highlighted the team's technical expertise, coordination, and resilience in managing one of the most challenging disasters the municipality has faced.

For more on the event, visit CoGTA's LinkedIn post: https://tinyurl.com/4jmsz8ef

George fire chief Neels Barnard with the certificate of recognition. It was handed over by Mayor Jackie von Brandis (left) and Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa.