DISTRICT NEWS - Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) councillor alderman Petru Terblanche has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of public service spanning both the Mossel Bay and district municipalities.

His passing was announced shortly after a GRDM council meeting on Wednesday 21 October.

Terblanche served on the district council from 2021 to 2026, including as portfolio chairperson for Roads and Transport Services from December 2021 to July 2024.

His involvement in politics began at a young age, but at 22 he put his political ambitions on hold to take over the family butchery when his father's health deteriorated.

For the next 32 years, he managed both the butchery and his farm, while also serving as a judge at agricultural shows.

After selling his business, Terblanche returned to politics and served two terms as a Mossel Bay municipal councillor. During his first term, he was a mayoral committee member for Community Services. In his second term, he became speaker of the council and was awarded the title of alderman.

GRDM Speaker Georlene Wolmarans remembered him as a caring and approachable colleague who was always willing to offer advice.

"He was someone who always made the effort to come over and greet others as soon as he entered the building – a small gesture that spoke volumes about his character and humanity," she said.

Wolmarans said it was often the smallest gestures that left the most lasting impression.

"A friendly greeting, the willingness to offer advice, and the respect shown to others – alderman Terblanche embodied all these qualities."

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