On-bus pedestrian-safety campaign hits home

15
Dec '25
Danny Cat and Georgie paid a last visit to passengers at the Beach bus stops in Pacaltsdorp on Thursday morning. Left of Danny Cat is traffic education officer Siphelele Motsepe, on Georgie’s right are GO GEORGE champions Nomhle Msenge, Janel van Rooi and Bridgette Dietricks, and Tyron Jeyi, community liaison officer. Behind them is traffic education officer Eddie Felix.

The festive season pedestrian-safety campaign jointly rolled out by GO GEORGE and the Traffic Education Unit of the George Traffic Department has concluded with resounding success, reaching far more passengers than anticipated.

Over a nine‑day period starting 2 December 2025, three traffic education officers boarded buses during the morning peak and shared practical safety reminders with passengers, while GO GEORGE champions reinforced the messages at busy transfer points. The initiative aimed to engage 2 000 passengers on bus, but in the end, 2 780 people received direct safety messaging — a clear indication of the campaign’s impact.

Passengers responded warmly to the officers’ presence and appreciated the reminders about safe crossing behaviour around in‑lane bus stops, asking them to frequently repeat this kind of campaign. The mascots, Danny Cat from Traffic and Georgie from GO GEORGE, added a playful touch, drawing fans eager to snap selfies and interact with the safety ambassadors.

Traffic Chief Janine Wells praised the collaboration: “We are delighted with the enthusiastic response from passengers and the smooth teamwork between our unit and GO GEORGE. The campaign not only exceeded its target but also created memorable, positive interactions that help embed safety messages in everyday behaviour.”

According to Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager, they are most pleased with the outcomes of the collaborative approach. “This campaign has laid a solid foundation for more regular campaigns in the year ahead.”

Building on this momentum, the next joint initiative will take place when schools reopen after the summer holidays. Learners will be the focus of a dedicated pedestrian-safety drive, ensuring that young road users start the year with practical knowledge and awareness to keep them safe.

Danny Cat said a last goodbye to passengers upon the conclusion of the on-bus pedestrian safety campaign. With him are traffic education officer Siphelele Motsepe and GO GEORGE champion Bridgette Dietricks.
Georgie and Danny Cat joined officer Eddie Felix in welcoming the passengers on board.

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