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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Kouga Municipality has extended its Call Centre operating hours to 24 hours a day as severe weather continues to impact communities across the region.
Heavy rainfall has caused flooding, road closures and dangerous driving conditions in several areas. In addition, emergency teams continue to monitor rising water levels and respond to weather-related incidents as they develop.
The municipality has also urged residents to remain alert and to avoid unnecessary travel where possible.
Emergency Teams Remain On High Alert
Municipal officials, emergency services and infrastructure teams are working around the clock to assess damage, monitor flood-prone areas and support affected communities.
Meanwhile, several roads remain closed or hazardous due to flooding, mud, potholes and rockfalls. As conditions continue to change, authorities are encouraging residents to follow official updates and heed all safety warnings.
In some areas, emergency teams have also assisted residents affected by rising water levels.
Around-The-Clock Assistance Available
To support residents during the current weather emergency, Kouga’s Call Centre will operate 24 hours a day until Friday.
As a result, residents can report emergencies, request assistance and obtain updated information at any time of the day or night.
Residents can contact the Call Centre on 042 200 2200.
Alternatively, they can send a WhatsApp message to 081 760 9183.
Community Asked To Stay Vigilant
The municipality continues to urge residents to prioritise safety.
Therefore, motorists should avoid flooded roads, obey road closure signs and remain aware of rapidly changing conditions.
Furthermore, residents living in low-lying areas should monitor official announcements and take precautions where necessary.
Kouga Municipality said further updates will follow as weather conditions develop across the region.
Kouga residents are urged to exercise caution as persistent rainfall continues to impact roads across the region.
Several roads have been closed, while others have become hazardous due to flooding, potholes, mud, and rockfalls. Kouga Municipality’s Roads and Stormwater Department is monitoring conditions and assessing affected areas.
Felix Street Closed In Humansdorp
Felix Street in Humansdorp is currently closed.
The road has deteriorated significantly due to saturated ground conditions. Small vehicles face a high risk of becoming stuck.
Motorists should use Lawrence Street as an alternative route.
Hazardous Conditions On The R102
Drivers are advised to avoid the section of the R102 between Mondplaas and Steel Bridge.
Current hazards include:
Water across the roadway
Numerous potholes
Poor road conditions
Reduced visibility
Travel should only be undertaken if absolutely necessary.
Further along the R102, past the Ferry Turn-off towards Thornhill, rockfalls have been reported. Continued rain may trigger additional falls.
Gamtoos River Road Difficult To Access
The gravel road running along the Gamtoos River has become extremely muddy.
Normal passenger vehicles and light delivery vehicles are likely to experience difficulties.
Flooding Reported At Several Locations
Floodwaters are affecting a number of areas across Kouga.
Motorists should avoid:
Corner of Duine and Haring Streets
Dolphin Drive, Ocean View
Apiesdraai
St Croix
Gamtoos Mondplaas Turn-off on the R102
Officials report that water levels continue to rise in several locations.
Safety First
Kouga Municipality urges motorists to follow these safety guidelines:
Never drive through floodwater.
Turn around if water crosses the road.
Follow all road closure signs.
Obey instructions from emergency personnel.
Expect conditions to change rapidly.
Emergency services remain on high alert and will continue monitoring the situation.
Further updates will be issued as conditions develop.
Kouga Local Municipality has issued an urgent appeal for mattresses and blankets as severe weather conditions approach the region.
The municipality is calling on residents to support vulnerable community members who may be affected by the expected cold, wet conditions. Community assistance plays an important role during periods of challenging weather, especially for families and individuals who have limited resources.
Donation Drive Underway
Residents are encouraged to donate mattresses and blankets to help provide warmth, comfort and protection during the coming days.
Every donation has value. A single blanket or mattress can make a significant difference to someone facing cold and difficult conditions.
As weather systems move into the area, the municipality is working with emergency services and community partners to prepare for possible impacts. At the same time, residents have an opportunity to support those who may need assistance.
Where To Drop Off Donations
Donations can be delivered to any of the following collection points:
Humansdorp Fire Station
Jeffreys Bay Fire Station
St Francis Bay Fire Station
These stations are serving as collection hubs for the donation campaign.
Community Support Matters
Kouga has a strong history of community spirit. Time and again, residents have stepped forward to help neighbours during periods of hardship.
This appeal provides another opportunity for the community to work together and support those who may be most affected by the approaching weather conditions.
In addition, the municipality has thanked residents for their continued kindness and generosity. Officials said that community support can have a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable people.
For enquiries regarding donations, residents can contact Annelise Rossouw on 071 482 2428.
The municipality encourages residents who are able to assist to drop off mattresses and blankets as soon as possible. Early donations will help ensure that support reaches those who need it most before the severe weather arrives.
Kouga residents are once again keeping a close eye on the weather as another significant rain system belts the region.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 8 warning for parts of the Eastern Cape. The warning comes as a powerful Cut-Off Low pressure system brings widespread rain, colder temperatures, and strong winds to the province.
Saturated Ground A Key Concern
The latest rainfall arrives after weeks of wet conditions across Kouga.
As a result, many areas already have saturated ground. This means that even moderate rainfall can generate substantial surface runoff. Instead of soaking into the soil, water flows quickly into rivers, streams, wetlands, and stormwater systems.
Consequently, localised flooding remains possible in low-lying areas.
Kromme River Catchment Under Watch
Residents along the Kromme River and throughout the broader catchment will be monitoring conditions closely.
Rain falling across the catchment area eventually makes its way into rivers, canals, dams, and estuaries. Therefore, rising water levels remain a possibility if rainfall continues over an extended period.
Property owners near waterways, canals, and drainage channels should remain aware of changing conditions.
Travel With Care
Motorists are advised to drive cautiously during periods of heavy rain.
Reduced visibility, standing water, and slippery road surfaces can create hazardous conditions. In addition, strong winds may affect exposed coastal areas around St Francis Bay, Cape St Francis, Oyster Bay, Jeffreys Bay, and Humansdorp.
Staying Prepared
At this stage, the focus remains on sensible precautions rather than alarm.
Residents should keep drains clear, secure loose outdoor items, and stay informed through official weather updates.
For now, Kouga continues to navigate another wet weather system while hoping for the least disruptive outcome possible.
Kouga Local Municipality is calling on residents to take two important community actions this week.
Residents with Small-Scale Embedded Generation systems are reminded to register their installations. At the same time, the municipality is appealing for donations to support vulnerable residents ahead of severe weather.
Register Your SSEG System
All Small-Scale Embedded Generation systems must be authorised by Kouga Local Municipality before installation.
This includes solar photovoltaic systems, battery-only storage systems, wind systems, biogas systems, generators and micro-hydro systems.
Registration helps ensure that these systems are safe, compliant and legally connected to the municipal electricity network.
Safety And Compliance
Authorised systems help protect municipal workers, residents and property.
Unapproved installations can create serious risks. These include electrocution, fire hazards and possible insurance claim problems.
Registration also helps the municipality manage the electricity network as more households move towards self-generation.
Free Municipal Registration
Registration and authorisation with Kouga Local Municipality are free of charge.
However, installers or third-party service providers may charge residents to assist with the process.
Residents are encouraged to make sure that all installation, registration and compliance requirements are clearly included in quotations and service agreements.
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Donations Needed Ahead Of Severe Weather
In preparation for incoming severe weather, Kouga Local Municipality is also appealing to residents to assist vulnerable community members.
The municipality urgently needs donations of mattresses and blankets.
These items will help provide comfort and support to residents affected during this difficult period.
Drop-Off Points
Donations can be delivered to the following locations:
Humansdorp Fire Station
Jeffreys Bay Fire Station
St Francis Bay Fire Station
Donation Contact
For donation enquiries, contact Annelise Rossouw on 071 482 2428.
Your support can make a meaningful difference to people in need across Kouga.
Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Adds New Prizes And Partner Activations
Premium surfboards from Bilt International, a four-night stay from The Royal St Andrews Hotel, prizes from Bliz Eyewear, support from Harcourts, and an official opening function at The Pottery add further momentum to the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro and Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Junior.
VICTORIA BAY, SOUTH AFRICA – The countdown to the 2026 Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro continues, with event organisers confirming a range of prizes, partner activations and event activities ahead of competition getting underway in June.
These events will once again bring South Africa’s top surfers to Victoria Bay as they compete for valuable World Surf League ranking points, prize money and national recognition.
Challenger Series competitor Louise Lepront from Scottburgh at Vic Bay
The event has proudly welcomed Harcourts as a supporting sponsor. The partnership reflects the strong connection between surfing, coastal lifestyles and the communities that continue to thrive around South Africa’s premier beachfront destinations. Victoria Bay and the Garden Route remain among South Africa’s most sought-after coastal regions, creating a natural alignment between the event and one of the country’s leading property brands.
Prizes Add Extra Incentive
Supporting sponsor The Royal St Andrews Hotel has contributed a four-night stay at the iconic Port Alfred Hotel during the 2027 Port Alfred Easter Festival. The prize creates a connection between the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro and the Easter Festival, where the Royal St Andrews Hotel Rip Curl Cup QS 4,000 is confirmed to take place over Easter 2027.
Bliz Eyewear has further strengthened the prize offering, with premium eyewear products set to be awarded to the winners of both the QS 2,000 and the Pro Junior events.
Adding further incentive for competitors, leading surfboard manufacturer Bilt International will award two premium surfboards during the event.
Bilt International manufactures surfboards for some of the world’s most respected brands, including Channel Islands Surfboards, …Lost Surfboards by Mayhem, Chilli Surfboards and its own Bilt Surfboards range.
Two boards from these brands will be awarded for various breakout performances during the tournament. The awards are designed to recognise surfers who seize their opportunity, exceed expectations and make their mark during the event.
Opening Function For The Vic Bay Surf Pro At The Pottery
Competition weekend will begin with the official event opening function at The Pottery in George on Thursday, 18 June at 18:00.
Hosted by The Pottery, one of the event’s supporting sponsors, the relaxed meet-and-greet gathering will bring together competitors, sponsors, officials and invited guests ahead of the opening day of competition.
With world-class waves, valuable ranking points, prize money and a growing list of prizes and partner activations, the contest continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the flagship events on the World Surf League Africa calendar.
Watch Live
The event will be broadcast live on WorldSurfLeague.com and on the free WSL app, bringing all the action from Victoria Bay to a global audience.
Media Information
Complimentary high-resolution images are available for media outlets.
For Rip Curl South Africa media enquiries and photo requests, please contact:
The following winter safety and security advice has been provided by Calibre Security for residents of St Francis Bay and surrounding areas.
Winter in St Francis Bay brings darker evenings, stormy weather, power outages, and colder conditions. As a result, people tend to spend more time indoors and often rush inside to escape the rain and cold.
However, winter can also be a time when small security issues go unnoticed. A light that stops working, a gate that does not close properly, or a flat backup battery can quickly become a bigger problem.
The Calibre Security team has shared several important reminders for residents this winter.
Check Outdoor Lighting
Make sure driveway, garden, gate, and entrance lights are working properly during the longer nights.
Good lighting remains one of the simplest and most effective security measures around any property.
Test Security Systems
Winter weather can affect outdoor sensors, beams, alarms, and panic buttons.
Therefore, it is important to test all security equipment regularly and ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Inspect Cameras
Rain, mist, shifting light conditions, and overgrown gardens can affect camera visibility more than many people realise.
In addition, cameras should be cleaned after bad weather.
Sea air, rain residue, and spider webs can reduce visibility or trigger unnecessary activations.
Review Everyday Habits
People often leave gates, garages, or vehicles unsecured while rushing inside out of the cold or rain.
Furthermore, keys should always be kept out of sight and away from doors, windows, and entrance tables.
Small habits can make a significant difference to overall home security.
Check Gates And Outdoor Equipment
After storms, clear leaves, sand, and debris from gate tracks.
Otherwise, gates may fail to close properly without homeowners noticing.
Additionally, tools and ladders should be packed away and secured. Items left outside can potentially be used to gain access to a property.
Prepare For Power Outages
Winter often exposes alarm and gate batteries that are no longer holding charge properly.
For this reason, backup batteries should be tested before they are needed during an outage.
If You Are Travelling
If you are away from home, avoid creating the appearance of an unattended property.
Bins left outside, curtains remaining closed all day, and a lack of lighting can quickly indicate that nobody is home.
Finally, make sure your emergency and keyholder details are up to date and that your security company has the correct contact information.
Winter Preparedness Matters
A few simple checks today can help prevent much larger problems later.
Ultimately, winter security is about preparation, awareness, and maintaining the systems that help keep homes and families safe throughout the colder months.
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