KNYSNA NEWS - Richard Meyer, well known head of disaster management and social services, has resigned from Knysna municipality after 28 years of dedicated service.
"Richard's selfless leadership and level-headed approach to any disaster situation has proven invaluable to the communities of Greater Knysna," said acting municipal manager Setloane Malepeng.
"His departure marks the end of an era for Knysna municipality."
Born in Uniondale, Richard moved to Knysna at the age of six. He matriculated at Knysna High School, but his fascination with uniforms began while serving on the scholar patrol in primary school.
He worked as a carpenter post-matric before applying for a learner traffic officer position on 1 December 1996. Richard then attended Traffic College and returned to serve Knysna as a traffic officer.
Quickly climbed ranks
He quickly climbed the ranks, becoming an examiner of vehicles and drivers' licences, pursuing studies in traffic management at what was then Pretoria University (now Tshwane University of Technology), and furthering his expertise in disaster management, fire services and even theology.
At one point, Richard held the distinction of being one of the youngest traffic chiefs in the Western Cape.
In his many years of service, Richard counts his marriage of 23 years to Geraldine as one of the highlights. Together, they have been blessed with two foster children.
Malepeng listed some of Richard's achievements. "He spearheaded the establishment of the disaster management unit, led the response to the 2016 Sedgefield floods, and played a pivotal role in managing the drought in Sedgefield through collaboration with the army to deliver water.
'International recognition'
"His leadership during the Karatara and Rheenendal fires and the Kiani Satu ship rescue operation in Buffalo Bay earned him international recognition for his ability to coordinate with local and global stakeholders," he said.
"Richard was at the forefront of addressing social unrest during xenophobic attacks and was instrumental in setting up the law enforcement unit.
"Perhaps his most significant challenge came in 2017, when our area was ravaged by fire. He mobilised his extensive network to bring in expertise, resources and support from across the country.
Character-building
"His efforts contributed to Knysna municipality receiving a silver award in the 2019 National Enviropaedia Eco-Logic Awards for Disaster Management."
Reflecting on his 28 years of service, Richard mused that his journey has been about character-building, mutual respect and forging relationships with people from all walks of life.
"It has truly been an honour," he said. "I always thought I was obsessed with a career in uniform, but I came to realise that my true calling was to serve - to give the best of myself.
"Once I understood that, I never looked back. I will sincerely miss the community I've served for so long, but I know that it is time to move on."
"Richard's contributions, built over years of experience and leadership, will undoubtedly outlast his time with the municipality," concluded Malepeng.
"His departure represents a loss for this organisation and the community at large, but he is sure to prove an incredible asset to the Cederberg municipality.
"Thank you for your unwavering dedication and sacrifice, Richard, we wish you all the best for your next chapter."
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