![Local artist Anthony Noble Mr Charles Standers (George Municipality) and Dr Ivan Meyer with the oil painting of the Gwaing River mouth. Photo by Christo Vermaak (George Herald) Local artist Anthony Noble Mr Charles Standers (George Municipality) and Dr Ivan Meyer with the oil painting of the Gwaing River mouth. Photo by Christo Vermaak (George Herald)](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/local_artist_anthony_noble_mr_charles_standers_george_municipality_and_dr_ivan_meyer_with_the_oil_painting_of_the_gwaing_river_mouth_photo_by_chri.jpg)
"We should not be ashamed of our culture. We should embrace it with pride.” This was the message by the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer to guests in George at the bicentennial celebrations of Pacaltsdorp on Saturday, 6 April 2013.
The Minister joined members from the Pacaltsdorp community, George Municipality and the Universal Congregational Church of South Africa to celebrate this milestone at the banquet hall in George. Pacaltsdorp was established in 1813. The theme for the evening, “From past to present”, was illustrated through historical narratives and anecdotes by George Municipality representatives and the local Congregational Church.
The programme was introduced with a video recording of interviews conducted with some of the oldest residents of Pacaltsdorp. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport values the importance of heritage and its celebration in the Western Cape.
Dr Ivan Meyer suggested that the video material should be made available in all the libraries in Eden District and George. He encouraged the guests to practise cultural warmth in order to motivate and inspire the next generation.
Dr Meyer believes that freedom must be exercised through the celebration of culture, heritage, history and legacy. He handed over documents regarding Pacaltsdorp and George’s history to the Executive Mayor, Mr Charles Standers, the Deputy Mayor, Mr Daniel Maritz, and Reverend Gerhardus Human.
A variety of art and cultural items by local artists added warmth to the celebrations. Local artist Tony Noble finished an oil painting of the Gwaing River mouth in 40 minutes and handed it over to Dr Meyer. The enthusiasm and pride displayed by this community showed that arts and culture is alive and well in the region.
Daniel Johnson
Spokesperson for the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 3261
E-mail: Daniel.Johnson@westerncape.gov.za