Welcome to the Gouritsmond Ratepayers Association (GMBBV)
Gouritsmond: Historical Overview
Gouritsmond is a small coastal town with a rich and unique history:
- Early inhabitants: The area was originally inhabited by the Khoi-Khoi Gouriqua people.
- Early settlement: Farmers and fishermen began settling in the region during the 1700s, with most land becoming privately owned by around 1900.
- Original name: The settlement was first known locally as “The Fisheries”.
- Formal establishment: Gouritsmond was officially established as a residential area in 1915.
- Access and isolation: Until 1983, access to the town was limited by a gravel road with 25 gates, helping preserve its peaceful and rustic character.
- Name evolution: The town was later known as Gouritzriviermond before becoming widely recognised as Gouritsmond.
Attractions and Natural Heritage
On 9 June 2015, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) approved the designation of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve, of which Gouritsmond forms part. This is South Africa’s seventh and largest biosphere reserve, covering approximately 3 187 893 hectares.
Key attractions include:
- Gourits River Estuary: A unique ecosystem where the river meets the Indian Ocean, supporting rich biodiversity.
- Angling: Gouritsmond is nationally recognised as a premier fishing destination, offering rock, river, and deep-sea fishing opportunities.
- Blue Flag Beach: A pristine beach with Blue Flag status, ideal for swimming, surfing, and leisure walks.
- Walking Trails: The renowned Oystercatcher Trail and several shorter routes offer opportunities to explore local flora and birdlife, including the Black Oystercatcher
- Tidal Pool: A large tidal pool provides a safe swimming area for families.
About the GMBBV
Gouritsmond is a natural gem that deserves to be preserved, protected, and managed to the highest standards. This requires active cooperation between residents and local authorities.
The Gouritsmond Ratepayers Association (GMBBV) has existed in its current form since 2023. It evolved from the former Gouritsmond Forum and was previously part of the Gouritsmond Umbrella Body, which has since been dissolved.
Our Objectives
The GMBBV is a community-driven organisation representing the interests of Gouritsmond ratepayers within local government structures. Our key objectives include:
- Representing ratepayers’ interests to the local municipality
- Providing input on budgets, tariffs, and municipal expenditure
- Contributing to future town planning and development
- Addressing service delivery and maintenance matters
- Ensuring representation on the ward committee
- Strengthening communication with councillors and municipal officials
- Engaging regularly with municipal management on service delivery standards
Focus Areas
The GMBBV actively engages with Hessequa Municipality on ongoing service delivery matters, including:
Community Projects and Collaboration
Each year, the GMBBV initiates projects aimed at improving and enhancing the town. In 2025, these included the restoration and replacement of coastal benches and the Bietouville garden competition.
We also work closely with local organisations such as the Gouritz Boat and Fishing Association, the Conservation Organisation , and the Community Police Sub-Forum (GPSF) to promote a clean, safe, and well-maintained environment.
Management Committee
The current GMBBV management team consists of:
Ben Stander (Chairperson), Ronnie Schultz (Deputy Chairperson), Hannelie Leonard (Secretary), Christo Boshoff, Ben Baartman, Matty van Jaarsveld, Charles Geldenhuys, and Hendie Grobbelaar.
Ben Stander also serves on the ward committee alongside Glaudine Horne, ensuring continued engagement with local government structures
Membership
Membership of the GMBBV is open to all Gouritsmond ratepayers at an annual fee of R50.00, reviewed at the Annual General Meeting in December.
To join, please visit our membership page.