Statement From The Kromme Joint River Committee On The River and Canals
Please be advised that due to the significant rainfall and subsequent run off the water levels in the river and canals have once again risen, while the river and canals remain open, we strongly recommend that boat users stay off the water for the time being while conditions continue to settle and the water currents and levels once again normalise.
Should you choose to use the canals and river, we strongly recommend doing so with extreme caution.
Please note that no water skiing, tubing or related towing activities are permitted on the river until further notice.
The safety of all canal and river users remains the priority and your cooperation is appreciated.
An Afternoon in St Francis with PW Harvey & Ninety One
Last week, around 50 guests joined us at the Brewery in St Francis for lunch and a conversation we always look forward to having.
We opened by sharing how we approach one of the most common challenges PW Harvey & Co see: a portfolio scattered across different advisors, platforms and opinions. Over time, this can create unnecessary complexity and make it difficult to see the bigger picture.
Our work is to bring all of that together into a single consolidated plan. The goal is to create a structure that is tax efficient, reduces the fees you are paying and provides a clear roadmap for you and your family through every stage of life.
A Global Economic Perspective
On the subject of life’s uncertainties, we were delighted to welcome Jeremy Gardiner, Director at Ninety One.
Jeremy took us on a tour around the world, starting in the United States, where tariffs and ongoing conflicts continue to shape the global economy and create ripple effects that reach us here in South Africa.
He then turned to Europe and China, two of our largest trading partners. During his presentation, he unpacked how changing economic conditions in those regions could influence markets, investment sentiment and economic activity closer to home.
Finding Reasons for Optimism
Finally, Jeremy brought us back to South Africa and highlighted a number of positive developments that are often overlooked.
It is easy to focus on daily headlines and short-term concerns. However, Jeremy reminded us that there are encouraging signs of progress and that the country’s long-term story contains far more opportunity than many people realise.
Looking Ahead
Our thanks to Jeremy and to everyone who joined us for the afternoon.
These gatherings remain a real highlight for our team. They provide an opportunity to share ideas, gain valuable insights and spend time with clients and friends in a relaxed setting.
We look forward to seeing you at the next one.
– PW Harvey
St Francis Property Owners Newsletter – June 2026
Community Updates, Coastal Protection and Thyspunt Developments
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The past few weeks have brought significant rainfall, major storm events, progress on the Long Term Coastal Protection Scheme, important developments regarding the proposed Thyspunt nuclear project, and several community initiatives aimed at keeping residents informed, connected and safe.
Here is a summary of the latest news and updates affecting St Francis Bay and the surrounding area.
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SFPO Supports Thyspunt Alliance Opposition To The Proposed Nuclear Development
The SFPO Association and the SFPO NPC have formally aligned themselves with the Thyspunt Alliance in opposition to the proposed nuclear development at Thyspunt.
As part of this support, the SFPO Association has contributed R50,000 towards the Thyspunt Alliance and its ongoing legal, environmental and organisational efforts surrounding the proposed development.
We believe the Eastern Cape coastline represents one of South Africa’s most valuable long-term environmental, lifestyle, tourism and economic assets.
More specifically, the proposed nuclear build raises significant concerns regarding the future viability of St Francis Bay. The town will sit within the EPZ (Emergency Planning Zone), defined as an area within a 16km radius of the nuclear power plant. Eskom will have the mandate to prevent future development in the area should Thyspunt proceed as a nuclear site.
Read the full newsflash for further information.
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Kouga Municipality Stance On Thyspunt
Mayor Hattingh Bornman has issued the following statement:
“Kouga Municipality has serious concerns regarding the proposed nuclear development at Thyspunt, particularly considering the rapid growth currently being experienced across the region.
Our region is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. The municipality is concerned about the potential impact such a development could have on critical infrastructure, including roads, water supply, housing and electricity networks, as well as the potential environmental implications for the surrounding coastline and sensitive ecosystems.
While the importance of national energy security is acknowledged, it is essential that the long-term sustainability and capacity of local municipalities are fully considered. The municipality has established an internal technical team to assess the potential implications of the proposal and to formally submit its concerns to Eskom as part of the consultation process.
Kouga remains committed to constructive engagement to ensure that the interests of residents, environmental sustainability and the future growth of the region are protected.”
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Ward 12 WhatsApp Group
Kouga Local Municipality encourages all Ward 12 residents to join the official Ward 12 WhatsApp group to stay informed about important community news, municipal updates, service delivery notices, public participation opportunities and local developments.
The group provides a convenient way for residents to receive timely information directly from the municipality, helping them stay connected and informed about matters affecting the ward and the broader Kouga community.
Join the Ward 12 WhatsApp Group.
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New St Francis Community Policing Forum Executive Committee
The new St Francis Community Policing Forum Executive Committee was elected for a five-year term at the Forum’s Annual General Meeting on 30 April 2026.
From left to right: Frank Harpur, Liezl Clause (Treasurer), Clint Carstens (Chairman), Lyn Aitken
(Community Relations Officer), Johan Barnard and Chris Marais (Deputy Chairman).
Chantelle van Vuuren (not pictured) will serve as Secretary.
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Groyne Project Update: Storm Impact, Repairs And Dredging Progress
Between 5 and 7 May, a significant cut-off low-pressure system impacted large parts of the Western and Eastern Cape, resulting in widespread flooding, road closures, infrastructure damage and evacuations across multiple regions.
The weather system generated sustained and shifting wind conditions ranging from south-easterly to south-westerly directions, accompanied by substantial rainfall that led to regional dam overflows. The event has been widely described as a one-in-a-hundred-year storm occurrence.
During the initial phase of the storm event, swell energy was predominantly driven by south and east swell directions, coinciding with a neap tide cycle.
While sections of the coastal protection infrastructure sustained damage, particularly in areas where construction activities remain underway, the groyne system performed effectively in protecting the revetment and broader shoreline infrastructure under highly challenging oceanic conditions.
Repair work is currently underway on the angled groyne, while construction continues on both the Peter Crescent and Anne Avenue groynes.
Progress on the Peter Crescent groyne has reached approximately 50 metres of its planned 175-metre total length, while the Anne Avenue groyne currently stands at approximately 150 metres of its planned 175-metre length.
Although some sand loss occurred during the storm event, dredging operations continue uninterrupted. Sand replenishment activities remain focused in and around the angled groyne area while construction progresses on the remaining structures.
The broader coastal protection program continues to advance steadily, with ongoing emphasis on shoreline resilience, infrastructure protection and long-term coastal stabilisation outcomes for the St Francis Bay coastline.
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Supporting Community Road Repairs
The SFPO Association recently contributed R25,000 towards Barry Buchman’s community-led pothole repair project.
This repair work is being carried out on the R330 Provincial Road between Cape St Francis and Humansdorp.
The SFPO was pleased to support this practical community initiative, helping improve road conditions for residents, visitors, emergency services, local businesses and the many people who travel the route every day.
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Winter Home Security Checklist
Calibre Security has shared practical winter safety and security advice for residents of St Francis Bay and surrounding areas.
Check Outdoor Lighting
Ensure driveway, garden, gate and entrance lights are working correctly.
Test Security Systems
Regularly test alarms, beams, outdoor sensors and panic buttons.
Inspect Cameras
Clean cameras after bad weather and ensure vegetation, spider webs and sea air residue are not affecting visibility.
Review Daily Habits
Keep gates, garages and vehicles secure and store keys out of sight.
Check Gates And Outdoor Equipment
Clear gate tracks after storms and secure tools and ladders.
Prepare For Power Outages
Test alarm and gate backup batteries before they are needed.
If You Are Travelling
Avoid creating the appearance of an empty home and ensure emergency and keyholder information is up to date.
Winter Preparedness Matters
A few simple checks can prevent much larger problems later. Winter security is about preparation, awareness and maintaining the systems that help keep homes and families safe.
Stay warm and stay safe this winter.
Calibre Security is on Facebook.
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Staying Connected
Thank you for your continued support of the St Francis Property Owners Association and the many community initiatives that help protect, improve and strengthen our village.
We will continue to keep members informed as important developments unfold.
SFPO Association Contact:
Lyn Aitken – Administration Manager
Phone: 042 294 0594
Email: info@sfpo.co.za
Office Address: 9 Philippa Place, St Francis Bay.
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Read more:
Newsflash from St Francis Property Owners NPC (SRA): Groyne Construction Advances At Anne Avenue.
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