Press Release
For Immediate Release
Date: 26 February 2025
Goodwood Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (GRRA) Holds Successful Elective Annual General Meeting
On 25 February 2025, the Goodwood Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (GRRA) held its Elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Goodwood Library Hall. The event marked a significant moment for the community as it reflected on the achievements of the outgoing committee and welcomed a new leadership team dedicated to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Goodwood.
Reflecting on the Past Year
Outgoing Chairman Mogammad Noordien delivered a comprehensive report highlighting the committee’s accomplishments over the past year. Key achievements included:
- Ward Committee Representation: Three GRRA members—James Ellis, Mohammed Safedien, and Jas Visser—served on the ward committee, ensuring Goodwood’s issues were prioritized at the sub-council level.
- Improved Communication: Enhanced communication platforms, including the GRRA website and newsletters, kept residents informed about important developments.
- Collaboration with Councillors: Strong relationships with ward councillors Cecile van Rensburg and Francesca Walker, as well as the Displaced People Unit and Solid Waste teams, led to progress in addressing infrastructure issues, crime, and street cleanliness.
Despite these successes, Noordien acknowledged ongoing challenges such as infrastructure problems, crime, and the need for greater resident engagement. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with authorities and community groups to address these issues.
Introducing the New GRRA Committee
The AGM also saw the election of a new committee, which will lead the GRRA for the coming term. The newly elected members are:
- Chairman: Ryno Palm
- Vice Chairman: Mohammed Patel
- Secretary: Aslam Hamdulay
- Treasurer: Jas Visser
- Non-Executive Members: Mujahid Gamieldien, Jacobus Olivier, Husayn Abrahams, Beverly Wessels, Shiraaz Swartland, Nuhr Schroeder, James Ellis, and Firdows Sirkhotte.
Outgoing Chairman Noordien expressed confidence in the new committee, urging residents to support their efforts in building a stronger, more inclusive community.
Ward Committee Report
James Ellis, a member of the outgoing committee, provided a detailed report on the ward committee’s activities over the past year. Key points included:
- Public and Ward Meetings: Several meetings were held to address community concerns, including infrastructure issues, liquor license renewals, and road repairs.
- Infrastructure Challenges: Ongoing issues with potholes and burst water pipes were discussed, with limited budgets posing challenges for repairs.
- Goodwood Swimming Pool: After years of delays, the pool was finally reopened, providing much-needed relief during the hot summer months.
Ellis emphasized the importance of resident participation in public meetings and budget discussions to ensure community needs are prioritized.
Looking Ahead
The outgoing chairman encouraged the new GRRA committee explore the following in more depth in their upcoming term, including:
- Increasing Resident Engagement: Expanding membership and ensuring all sectors of Goodwood are represented.
- Strengthening Collaboration: Reviving efforts to work with other residents’ associations and community groups.
- Improving Infrastructure and Safety: Continued engagement with authorities to address infrastructure issues and enhance community safety.
- Enhancing Communication: Further improving communication channels to keep residents informed and engaged.
Conclusion
The GRRA remains committed to making Goodwood a better place to live, work, and play. The outgoing committee expressed gratitude to all residents, councillors, and stakeholders for their support, while the new committee looks forward to building on this foundation.
For more information, please contact:
Ryno Palm
Chairman, GRRA
Chairman@GoodwoodRRA.co.za