The George Municipality says amidst the diligent efforts of emergency personnel, police and municipal officials during the festive season there were some lighter moments.
Spokesperson Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe says it added a touch of humour and positivity during the holidays.
He says although no alcohol was allowed on any of the beaches people still found innovative ways to hide and smuggle in their beverages.
Alcohol was hidden between food, clothing, camping equipment, on their bodies and even in baby nappies.
The George municipality had zero tolerance for lawbreakers during the festive season and made use of "The Access to Public Premises and Access of Vehicles Act (53 of 1985)" to search bags and vehicles.
Mangqwengqwe says on 6 January, seagulls made an unexpected appearance chasing a drone.
He says the drone, operated by a member of the public, assisted in spotting six sharks in Herolds Bay, which led to a brief closure of the beach.
Even the dolphins came out to play and unexpectedly joined lifeguards in their rescue efforts swimming alongside them in the waves.
Mangqwengqwe says law enforcement officials also encountered a few individuals running naked in the streets for a midnight swim in Herolds Bay.
The popular beach closed for swimming for several days in early December due to E-Coli levels exceeding acceptable norms.
Although the municipality could enjoy the lighter side of the festive season some took it one step too far.
Vandalism
In December, the George Municipality offered a reward of R2 500 to find the culprits responsible for vandalising the Christmas lights in the CBD.
Repair work at Unity Park Circle started immediately, however, the municipality made an urgent call for an eyewitness to come forward and go on record.
The municipality urged the members of the public to refrain from destroying their property as vandalism is a crime and ultimately costs ratepayers money.
Theft of NSRI devices
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) says 12 of their bright pink emergency flotation devices known as the pink buoys had been stolen in the Garden Route.
Drowning Prevention Manager at the NSRI Andrew Ingram says the devices were snatched from beaches between Mossel Bay and Sedgefield.
