As the sun rises on December 8, 2024, GO GEORGE marks a milestone moment – 10 years of proudly serving the people of George with safe, reliable, and affordable public transport. This decade of dedication, supported by the National Department of Transport, Western Cape Provincial Government and George Municipality, is a testament to what is possible when communities and authorities work together to improve lives.
Reflecting on the journey, it’s clear that GO GEORGE has become more than just a bus service. It has transformed into a lifeline for thousands of residents who rely on it daily to commute to work, schools, healthcare facilities, and more. From its humble beginnings, launching three routes with 12 buses in 2014, the service has expanded significantly, now transporting almost 20 000 passengers per weekday with a fleet of 133 buses, over a network of 33 routes and 465 km.
Milestones that moved GO GEORGE forward
Over the past decade, GO GEORGE has celebrated numerous achievements, each contributing to its reputation as a model public transport system in South Africa. Key highlights include:
Passenger-centred innovations: The introduction of accessible buses and infrastructure for passengers with disabilities, continuous service enhancements based on community feedback, and user-friendly trip planning features using cutting-edge technology.
Sustainability in motion: Initiatives to minimise the environmental impact, including a modern fleet designed to reduce emissions.
Economic impact: Creation of hundreds of jobs within the system and through infrastructure upgrades, as well as indirect opportunities through improved access to education and employment.
Rising above challenges
The past decade has not been without hurdles. The early years were marked by intensive negotiations to integrate informal operators into the system, a process that required patience, collaboration, and resilience.
2017 and 2018 saw the bus service being deployed instantly to help evacuate people from threatened areas during the devastating fires in Knysna and George respectively – some of the most rewarding experiences in the existence of the GO GEORGE service with staff being on standby day and night and saying “yes, I’ll go” without thinking twice.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic tested the system’s adaptability, prompting swift adjustments to prioritise health and safety while maintaining essential services. GO GEORGE lost several staff members to the pandemic – brave champions who will never be forgotten.
Not forgetting the shocking incidents that occurred in March 2023 when criminals hurled two petrol bombs into a GO GEORGE bus, injuring some passengers and causing severe trauma to all involved, as well as August 2015 when violent protest action saw five GO GEORGE buses set alight.
Despite these challenges, GO GEORGE has emerged stronger, thanks to unwavering support from all stakeholders and the community it serves.
Looking ahead
As GO GEORGE embarks on its second decade, the vision remains clear: to continue improving mobility for all, deepening its impact on the community, and driving regional development. Plans are in place to extend routes, embrace cutting-edge technology, and further integrate green initiatives.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 10 years of serving this vibrant community,” says Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager. “This milestone belongs to every passenger, staff member, and partner who has been part of our journey. Together, we’ve shown what a community-focused public transport system can achieve.”
Join the celebration
The anniversary festivities for the public will include lots of fun on special birthday buses during the week running up to the birthday, an outdoor radio broadcast at the Transport Hub in the CBD on Saturday, 7 December, and photo opportunities with the GO GEORGE mascots, Georgie and Smartie at the George Lights Festival later that afternoon.
A decade of progress, connection, and growth will be celebrated. With GO GEORGE, the journey never stops! For more information, phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044, visit www.gogeorge.org.za, send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za, or follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page.
