Guided Nature Walk

Friday 13th December: Afternoon Guided Walk at 2pm
Join us for our guided walk starting and ending at Manikata.
Adults: Eur 5, Students/over 60's Eur 3.
Book on walks@majjistral.org

Treasure Hunt in the park

Team up with some friends and join in for this fun treasure hunt, organised i.c.w Sky's The Limit, which will give you plenty of fresh air, exercise as well as insights into Malta's own National Park. 

Teams participating can have a maximum of 4 persons - if you do not have your own team email us anyway and we will set up groups of any individual bookings. Please note this event is by booking only and each team is asked to donate Eur 10 which will acts as small fundraiser for the park's educational and activities fund. 

The meeting place and all details will be given by email upon booking. Email walks@majjistral.org by 3rd December.

January-February Events

Please find below our planned activities - kindly send your bookings or queries in a new email to walks@majjistral.org :

SUNDAY 12 JANUARY 10AM -2pm (by booking only -  until Friday morning)
Join us for this guided walk in the Xaghra l-Hamra area up to Rdum id-Delli and inland towards Koperattiva Rurali Manikata's lovely medieval setting where we will have a small lunch and local wine. Eur 10 for adults (payable on the day). Children under 12 - Eur 4

TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 6.30PM - MALTA’S UNDERWATER LANDSCAPES 
A Public Lecture by Dr Aaron Micallef. @  Din l-Art Helwa 133, Melita Street Valletta

SUNDAY 9 FEBRUARY 10AM - COAST TO COAST ... From Simar Bird Sanctuary to Majjistral Park
A birdwatching session with BirdLife Malta members followed by a walk across the Bajda Ridge to Majjistral park (return by bus)  (by booking - limited places)

WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRAURY 6.15PM (date and time to be confirmed - email for updates) - Public Lecture on The Shearwaters i.c.w BirdLife Malta. This lecture will serve as an introduction to our site visit at Majjistral park at sunset on SATURDAY 22nd February led by Dr Benjamin Metzger to learn more about the Yelkouan Shearwater. (By booking - limited places)
 

March-May 2014 Activities

Bookings/ info on walks@majjistral.org 

9th March - An interesting lecture by botanist Edwin Lanfranco is being planned by the Malta Classics Association at 10am at the Radisson Golden Sands to look into the Latin names of plants. We aim to follow this up with a short walk in the park at around noon.

29th March - cleanup!

30th March 3pm - we join up with members of L-Għaqda tal-Malti for a guided walk in Maltese. 

19th April - Botanic walk

22nd April - A children's event with the park's resident Organic Farmer Joe Sciberras at Majjistral EcoFarm

26 April - we join up for an informal walk and talk with Ħwawar u Fjuri - a project which "aims to highlight human experiences and stories which revolve around the use of herbs and flowers as used in kitchens, worship, love & romance, grief & sorrow and for beauty." (date and time TBO)

27th April - another birdwatching walk in the migration season with BirdLife Malta 
1st May - Entomology - the Insect World. An activity for children (and parents) i.c.w the Entomological Society of Malta 

11th May - Treasure Hunt for children (and parents) i.c.w Mosta Cycling Club

17th May - The world of Lichens -  a special guided walk with Biologist Jennifer Fiorentino (late afternoon walk)

Open Day at the Park - Inauguration of the Park's Visitors' Centre

Join us at the Għajn Tuffieħa Barracks for the opening of the Park's Visitors' centre!

Build an APP for Majjistral Park - COMPETITION

Open to students - deadline is 20th June 2014

Read and download all the info here: https://mita.gov.mt/en/buildappchallenge/Pages/Build-an-App.aspx

Public Lecture - ‘The Mediterranean’s Underwater Forests’ by Dr Joseph A Borg

Public lecture by Dr Joseph A Borg organised jointly by Majjistral Park and Din l-Art Helwa.

Held at 133 Melita Street Valletta.

No booking required - seating on a first come first served basis. For queries email walks@majjistral.org 

Description

Meadows of the endemic seagrass Posidonia oceanica meadows are arguably the most important shallow water habitat in the Mediterranean Sea. The habitat supports numerous marine plant and animal species by providing them with a surface for attachment and food, while it also serves as a nursery area and refuge against predators for many species of fauna, including ones that are of commercial importance. Furthermore, Posidonia oceanica meadows have important physical interactions with the environment and give rise to other habitats which have different but very important biological and physical roles in the marine ecosystem. Dr Borg will present the main characteristics of Posidonia oceanica meadows, and their roles as habitat and as a very important component of the Mediterranean marine ecosystem.

Bionote
Dr. Joseph A Borg is Senior Lecturer and currently Head of the Department of Biology at the University of Malta. After receiving academic training within the field of marine ecology, Dr Borg spent the past 20 years carrying out research on ecological aspects of the seabed. He has contributed to numerous marine surveys and monitoring around the Maltese Islands, many of which have rendered new information on ecological aspects of the local marine environment.

First autumn walk

Join us for our first autumn walk starting and ending near Golden Bay bus stop and walking along the clifftop of Rdum Majjiesa. The first autumn flowers are out and the walking season has started!

The walk is about 5-6Km long along some uneven tracks.
Children are welcome to join with parents if theya re used to walking over slightly rough ground for about 2.5 hours.

This walk is free of charge - book on walks@majjistral.org

Nature Photography at the Park - for juniors aged 11-13

Join our special guest expert wildlife photographer Guido Bonett for an activity focusing on nature and organised in conjunction with the Malta Tourism Authority APPREZZA Campaign for juniors.

You do not need to have a camera but you can bring your own if you have one. 5 cameras will be available for use by participants. We will enjoy a short walk with plenty of stops to look out for nature and learn some tips on nature photography. 

The photo attached is by Guido Bonett and is just a taste of his impressive repertoire. 
Note - we do not expect hedgehogs to be modelling on the day as they will be asleep :)

Book a place on walks@majjistral.org as space is limited

Bionote
Guido Bonett ARPS, AMPS was born in Birkirkara in 1956 and has had a keen interest in nature conservation from a very young age, and has travelled widely in his quest to observe and photograph wildlife, visiting various European countries as well as expeditions to North Africa, the Amazonian rainforests of French Guiana in South America, Costa Rica in Central America, Namaqualand in South Africa, the Namib and Kalahari deserts of Namibia, the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zambia. His latest expedition to Africa took him to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar. In recent years, he participated in a number of research projects the University of Malta was involved in, as a nature photographer. In 2005, he co-authored two volumes entitled ‘The Maltese Countryside’ a pictorial guide to the flora and fauna of the Maltese Islands. 2011 saw the publication of his latest work, 'The Natural History of the Maltese Islands, As Seen Through A Photographer's Lens'. In 2005, he was awarded the status of Associateship of The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain (ARPS). In 2008, he was awarded an Associateship of The Malta Photographic Society (AMPS). Guido is married to Jane, and they have two children, Matthew and Sarah. 

'An overview of the underwater assets of local Marine Protected Areas

A public lecture by Dr Alan Deidun organised jointly by Majjistral Park and Din l-Art Helwa

Venue: 133, Melita Street Valletta

Despite ca. 5% of Malta's territorial waters being enclosed within 5 different Marine Protected Areas (MPA's), most Maltese are as yet unacquainted with the term 'MPA's', let alone with the rich biodiversity harboured within the same protected areas. The talk will give graphic evidence of the marine biodiversity and fragility within 2 local MPA's (Rdum Majjiesa and Mgarr ix-Xini) by including snippets from underwater documentaries shot locally within the same areas. 

BIONOTE – Dr. Alan Deidun BSc (Hons) PhD CSB MSB

Dr. Deidun holds a PhD in Coastal Ecology, having conducted his research on the ecology of Central Mediterranean sandy beaches. He has co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed scientific papers on aspects of coastal and marine biology. He is currently Senior Lecturer at the IOI-Malta Operational Centre of the University of Malta, where he acts as Project Manager on a number of European-funded projects under the Italia-Malta 2007-2013 and the ENPI-CBCMED funding programmes, namely, PANACEA (through which he acted as executive producer for two pioneering underwater documentaries for the MPAs of Dwejra and Rdum Majjiesa), BIODIVALUE and MED-JELLYRISK. He is also participating in the PERSEUS project, funded under the FP7 funding programme. He coordinates the ongoing Spot the Jellyfish citizen science campaign (www.ioikids.net/jellyfish) and lectures within numerous undergraduate and post-graduate courses at the University of Malta. 

Sunset walk 29th August @ 6pm

One of our last summer evening walks to enjoy sunset. We may also spot some of the first autumn migrants. This event is free for all who volunteer at the cleanup. Otherwise we ask for the usual donation of Eur 5 per person (eur 3 for students).

We start at 6pm from near the Golden bay bus stop.
Bookings on walks@majjistral.org

Cleanup @ the park

The next cleanup to remove illegal structures at Majjistral Park is planned as a public event on two dates: 
Monday 18 August
and 
Saturday 23 August 5-8pm both days

Email: walks@majjistral.org to register your interest.

Please let me know what is your preferred date if you can make it and I will keep you updated on meeting place. 
Also - if you know anyone who can help with heavy duty vehicles or sponsor equipment of any kind or bring some skilled worksmen please let us know.

Cleanup @ the park

The next cleanup to remove illegal structures at Majjistral Park is planned as a public event on two dates: 
Monday 18 August
and 
Saturday 23 August 5-8pm both days

Email: walks@majjistral.org to register your interest.

Please let me know what is your preferred date if you can make it and I will keep you updated on meeting place. 
Also - if you know anyone who can help with heavy duty vehicles or sponsor equipment of any kind or bring some skilled worksmen please let us know.

Coast to Coast - birdwatching and sunset walking

Birdwatching at Ghadira Nature Reserve followed by sunset walk i.c.w BirdLife Malta and supported by MTA and Blue Flag. Read more.

Bookings on walks@majjistral.org (limited places available)

"In Search of the Shearwater"

A talk about Calonectris diomedea on Malta, Gozo, Filfla, Linosa, Zembra, Crete, Corvo (Azores) and others.

John J. Borg joins us once again to share some insights from the vast observations and research he has carried out on various islands. The talk will focus on the Scopoli's shearwater (MT: Ċiefa) one of the seabirds which forms colonies along coastal cliffs. 

John J. Borg is an Ornithologist and Mammalogist and researches Maltese birds, especially seabird ecology and Maltese micro-mammals mainly bats, two subjects on which he has published extensively.

----

Places are limited - please book on walks@majjistral.org 
The event is against a donation. It will be held at the park Visitor Centre

"Dragonflies of Malta"

 A talk by Charles Gauci followed by an on site nature visit late afternoon in time for sunset.

Places are limited, booking on walks@majjistral.org

An evening with shearwaters at Majjistral Park - for youths

An evening/night walk held jointly with Falko - BirdLife Youth section to learn more about the park's breeding birds and especially listen out for the returning Yelkouan shearwaters as it gets dark and they visit their colonies. For more info about research on seabirds visit the EU Life+ Malta Seabird Project page.

If you intend on coming please contact us! You can do so by email: falkoblm@gmail.com or walks@majjistral.org as a message on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/falkoblm. We will give you exact meeting place and time details. 

FALKO activities are for participants aged 13 to around 25. 

Full details here

Guided snorkelling at Golden Bay

Majjistral Park together with Sharklab (Malta) and supported by the Malta Tourism Authority and Blue Flag are organizing guided snorkeling sessions this summer. Join us to learn more about the sea. The only requirement is to be able to swim!

Place: Golden Bay, Majjistral Park Time: 9am till noon

Activity fee: Eur 8 with equipment, Eur 4 with own equipment

Book early as places are very limited - on walks@majjistral.org

RURAL AND NATURE WALK AT IL-MAJJISTRAL NATURE AND HISTORY PARK

We start with a guided nature walk of about 3-4Km and listen out for the National Bird the Blue Rock Thrush (Merill) while taking in the aroma of the Thyme Scented garigue. Before sunset we start walking inland towards Manikata where we will meet with members of the Manikata Farmers Cooperative for local products and wine tasting at their medieval farmstead.

Wear comfortable shoes for rugged terrain and suitable clothing. Get some water and a small torch.

Bookings: Send an email with subject title: 6th June walk on walks@majjistral.org

Price : To be announced

Entrance to the park is free. Visitors to the park are to take care of their own safety and that of any accompanying children and the park cannot be held responsible for any injuries or loss of property.

Note the park terrain is not suitable for pushchairs. Children are to stay alongside parents at all times of the walk. Please give advance notice of any cancellations as the food will need to be booked accordingly.

The park at dusk

We will meet near the barracks and walk up to Ir-Razzett tal-Qasam for some foodtasting and local wine until sunset prepared by Koperattiva Rurali Manikata. At twilight we will start our 6Km walk through the park and along the cliffs.

Wear suitable shoes, get a small torch (we would like to avoid excessive light), insect repellent and something warm if it is windy. 
The walk is along uneven ground on footpaths. 

Please book by emailing walks@majjistral.org  The foodstop can only be held if we have a minimum of 20 persons.

Eur 8 for adults
Eur 4 for children aged 12 years and under

Marine Turtles - i.c.w the Nature Trust Wildlife Rescue Team

Tuesday 16 July 7pm @ the Members’ Lounge, Radisson Blu Resort and Spa Golden Sands, Golden Bay

Nature Trust (Malta) President Vince Attard will be delivering this lecture about marine turtles and the rescue and rehabilitation process which takes place every year especially around summer time.

Nature Trust (Malta) has embarked on a project to create the first Wildlife Rehabilitation centre in Malta as part of its Phase 2 project at Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park in Marsaxlokk. Anyone can help make this unique project come true by taking part in the Adopt-a-Turtle campaign. Join us for this talk to learn more!

Further info from Nature Trust’s website with details of how you can adopt a turtle to support the Wildlife Rehab Centre : http://www.naturetrustmalta.org/how-you-can-help/adopt-a-turtle/

This activity is being supported by MTA and Blue Flag and by the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Golden Sands:

Bookings and info: walks@majjistral.org

Geology of Majjistral Park

Join us for a guided walk with University lecturer Avertano Role to discover more about the rocks and landscapes of the Maltese Islands with special reference to the northern part of the Park.

Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Adults: Eur 5

Students: Eur 3

Kids on the Coast

Majjistral Park activity for kids i.c.w the Nature Trust Wildlife Rescue Team

Bookings and info: walks@majjistral.org

Monday 22nd July 6.30pm -8.30pm @ Golden Bay, Majjistral Park

Nature Trust (Malta) Wildlife Rescue Team will be organising a 2 hour activity until just after sunset for children aged 7+. Parents are welcome to stay on for the activity. Children will learn about dolphins and about how volunteers of the team train in the case of a turtle or dolphin rescue.

The activity is free but donations are welcome for a project by Nature Trust (Malta) to create the first Wildlife Rehabilitation centre in Malta as part of its Phase 2 project at Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park in Marsaxlokk. On the day you can also adopt a Turtle to support this project.

Further information on Nature Trust’s Marine Rescue Team:  http://www.naturetrustmalta.org/what-we-do/marine-rescue-team/

Of Meteors and more - FULLY BOOKED

We will have a short walk to the Majjistral Eco Farm and a lovely varied vegetarian meal at sunset followed by astronomy observation with telescopes whilst keeping eyes wide open for the annual meteor showers of the Perseids. Astronomy amateurs Alessandro Bajada, Alex Pace and Ramon Casha will be bringing their telescopes and treating us to an evening of night sky observation (weather permitting!). 

book on walks@majjistral.org 

Price: Eur 15 adults; children Eur 8; 
Family of 2 kids+ 2 adults: Eur 38

Am happy to announce that the Park management has agreed to donate part of the proceeds for another challenge coming up: https://www.facebook.com/LifeCycleChallenge

Kids on the coast (for schools)

Tuesday 21st May 8.30am and 10.30am

Schools can book a group of 30 for either one of the 90minute sessions - by emailing walks@majjistral.org (first come first served). Recommended ages - 8-10 years

This activity forms part of the European Maritime Day events and aims to increase awareness about the fragility of our coasts and their ecological importance.

Free event.

Move for Health - SUNSET WALK TUESDAY 14TH MAY

A gentler paced walk with staff from the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Department who will outline the benefits of walking and start our nature walk with a light warming up. A route of about 4-5Km.

Move for Health - TREASURE HUNT SUNDAY 12TH MAY

Our next event -  a special treasure hunt to help you learn more about Majjistral Park while getting some exercise as you look for the answers... Organised with the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate and staff will be there to answer your questions about healthy lifestyles.

Coastal Life

On occasion of European Maritime Day being celebrated in Malta this year the Park is joining up with the Gaia Foundation for a relaxing evening along the coast. 

We will start with a brief visit to the sand dune remnants at Golden Bay followed by a short walk tp Ghajn Tuffieha Tower which will be opened especially for us by GAIA Foundation Volunteers.

We will enjoy sunset and then proceed to the Elysium Centre to have some refreshments and taste the local organic extra virgin olive oil followed by a presentation about coastal life.

Do book early to avoid disappointment!

Bookings on: walks@majjistral.org 

Adults: Euro 8

15 or less: Eur 2

Summer Solstice Sunset Walk

Fundraising walk 

Join us for our customary sunset walk along the cliffs and amidst the wild thyme of Rdum Majjiesa for a relaxing walk in aid of ALIVE Charity Foundation. 

We are asking for a donation on the day - it is up to you how much.

Departure Point - Golden Bay Bus Stop (opposite the public carpark near hotel)

About ALIVE: 
Volunteers from Alive will be cycling from London to Paris in July in a bid to raise funds for promoting health awareness. 

If you cannot join the walk but want to contribute here are the details: 
Please support our cause by either sending an SMS (Malta) to 50619208 (€ 11.65) - 50618913 (€ 6.99) - 50618081 (€ 4.66) - 50617364 (€ 2.33) or online by going tohttp://www.alivecharity.com/ and clicking on Donate.

COAST TO COAST 1st June- i.c.w BirdLife Malta

Saturday, June 1, 2013 6:00pm until 9:30pm

Majjistral Nature and History Park

COAST to COAST, Sunset to Dusk

IL-MAJJISTRAL NATURE AND HISTORY PARK 
in conjunction with
BIRDLIFE (Malta)


A walk before sunset and at dusk. We start from the northwest coast at Majjistral Park and cross the narrowest part of the island to the northeast coast at Għadira. We visit Għadira Nature Reserve, managed by BirdLife (Malta), which will be opened for an evening visit especially for us. After visiting the hides with expert birdwatchers we will wait for the bats to come out at dusk. A short night walk takes us back to the starting point. 

Meeting: 6pm @ Anchor Bay, Majjistral Park
Length of walk – 4km. Donation: Eur 5, Students/ BirdLife members: Eur 3

Booking:walks@majjistral.org

Bring along: torch, binoculars, insect repellent, water and silence.

Life in Freshwater Rockpools - Tuesday 5th February 6pm

Flora and Fauna Of Majjistral Park - Saturday 2nd March 10am

This walk is held in conjunction with Nature Trust (Malta) and will focus on the biodiversity of herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) of the park as a follow-up of the past lecture by Arnold Sciberras. He will be accompanied by his brother Jeffrey Sciberras who will highlight the habitats and vegetation of the park as we go along.

Meeting point: Golden Bay Bus Stop. Allow about 3 hours for the walk. Wear suitable shoes for walking on uneven terrain along a route of about 5Km.

Adults: Eur 5, Children (7+) /Students/Pensioners: Eur 3. Nature Trust Members join free.

Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Bionote:

Arnold Sciberrashas been studying the Maltese natural history for many years focusing mostly on entomology and herpetology. He also has a special interest on the microhabitat of the minor islets and rocks of the Mediterranean. He published extensively on these subjects  focusing mostly  on new records and observations on the behaviors of several species. Jeffrey Sciberrasgraduated as Scientific officer in the agricultural sector, has been studying the Maltese natural history for many years focusing mostly on Mediterranean botany. Like his brother Arnold, he also has a special interest on microhabitats of the minor islets and rocks of the Mediterranean. He has published on these subjects  focusing mostly  on new records, and has also contributed many articles about flora and fauna for young children and adults alike.

Birdwatching at Majjistral Park Saturday 23rd March 10am

Join us for a special guided walk focusing on birds with wildlife enthusiast Aron Tanti.

Allow 3hours for the walk. Silence and binoculars are two suggested items to bring along. As well as something waterproof. Meeting: 10am Manikata Church  Fee: Eur 5, Students: Eur 3 

Bookings: walks@majjistral.org 

Bionote

Being born in a family in which the majority of the male members practised bird trapping, it was only natural that Aron was brought up surrounded by birds. At a certain point in time, Aron decided that he ought to find an alternative way how to enjoy his beloved birds, hence he decided to start shooting... with a photo camera! His passion for birds, together with years of practice, and also lots of experienced-birdwatcher friends, his image library of local birds is now quite ample. Aron is married to Alexia, and now has the not-so-easy task of training their 6-year-old son Francesco in the shooting practice! Apart from being so fond of nature photography, Aron is a full-time Computer Studies teacher at San Gorg Preca College, (Il-Liċeo) Ħamrun. His website can be viewed at arontanti.com

Photo: Tawny Pipit by Aron Tanti

COSTA RICA WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUIDO BONETT

Tuesday 26th Marchat 6.00pm – Lecture at Din l-Art Ħelwa office 133 Melita Street Valletta.

Guido Bonett is once again delighting us with some of the inspiring nature shots taken during his trip.Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua to the North and Panama to the South. It also borders the Pacific Ocean to the West and the Caribbean Sea to the East. It comprises of 51,100 square kilometers, 25% of which are protected by the National System Of Conservation Areas. Costa Rica is home to a rich variety of plants and animals. While the country has only about 0.25% of the world's landmass, it contains 5% of the world's biodiversity. All this makes it a nature photographer's paradise.

This Majjistral Park event is being held in conjunction with Din l-Art Ħelwa at their office. It is a free event but donations are welcome. For more information about the park email walks@majjistral.org

Bionote: Guido Bonett ARPS, AMPS was born in Birkirkara in 1956 and has had a keen interest in nature conservation from a very young age, and has travelled widelyin his quest to observe and photograph wildlife, visiting various European countries as well as expeditions to North Africa, the Amazonian rainforests of French Guiana in South America, Costa Rica in Central America, Namaqualand in South Africa, the Namib and Kalahari deserts of Namibia, the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zambia. His latest expedition to Africa took him to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar. In recent years, he participated in a number of research projects  the University of Malta was involved in, as a nature photographer. In 2005, he co-authored two volumes entitled ‘The Maltese Countryside’ a pictorial guide to the flora and fauna of the Maltese Islands. 2011 saw the publication of his latest work, 'The Natural History of the Maltese Islands, As Seen Through A Photographer's Lens'. In 2005, he was awarded the status of Associateship of The Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain (ARPS). In 2008, he was awarded an Associateship of The Malta Photographic Society (AMPS). Guido is married to Jane, and they have two children, Matthew and Sarah.

Photo: Green-breasted Mango

Nature Photography activity for Kids- 28th March 10.30am till 1.30pm

Due to the popularity of this activity we will be repeating it again during the Easter Holidays

An activity for kids interested in nature. Suggested age: 8-12.

Do not worry if you do not have a camera - we will be working in small teams with CANON cameras kindly donated by AVANTECH Ltd.

By booking only: walks@majjistral.org  

Autumn at Majjistral Park - Guided Walk (by booking)

Join us for our next autumn walk starting and ending near Golden Bay bus stop and walking along the clifftop of Rdum Majjiesa. After the rain we expect some new plants and birds to be out and about.

The walk is about 5-6Km long along some uneven tracks.
Children are welcome to join with parents if used to walking over slightly rough ground for about 2.5 hours and if always accompanied by parents.

The donation for the park is of Eur 5 per person, Eur 3 for children, students or senior citizens

Book on walks@majjistral.org

Reptiles and more @ Majjistral Park

We repeat our popular herpetofauna walk but this time at a different location in the northernmost section of the park.

We team up with Arnold Sciberras from Nature Trust Malta - NTM in the search for reptiles as well as microfauna of the park along a coastal section of the park.

Fee - donations are welcome. 
Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Please wear adequate shoes for some rough ground, sun hat and bring water along. 

This event is being supported by MTA and BLUE FLAG

Bionote: 
Arnold Sciberras has been studying the Maltese natural history for many years focusing mostly on entomology and herpetology. He also has a special interest on the microhabitat of the minor islets and rocks of the Mediterranean. He published extensively on these subjects focusing mostly on new records and observations on the behaviors of several species.

Summer Solstice and more @ Majjistral Park

We will start the evening with our guest from the Astronomical Society of Malta - Leonard Ellul-Mercer, Amateur astronomer & Astro-imager as he takes us on a "Cosmic Journey" focusing on how to capture some interesting images during night walks, what equipment is required to do this and how images can be processed. We will watch an animation produced with images captured during these last couple of years. 
We will follow this up with a short walk to the cliffs to enjoy sunset and return at dusk to our starting place to start the astronomical observation with members of the society. 

Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Guided Snorkelling trips at Majjistral Park

Join our popular guided snorkelling trips this summer - choose any of the preferred dates and email us on walks@majjistral.org

Activity fees:

Eur  8  (eur 4 with own equipment)

Children's event is free of charge thanks to the support of Malta Tourism Authority and Blue Flag Programme

Image provided by: Sharklab-Malta

Nocturnal Life at the Park 19th July @ 7pm

We meet with naturalist John J. Borg for a talk on bats followed by a nocturnal nature walk in the park.

Book on walks@majjistral.org

This activity is being held in conjunction with the National Museum of Natural History, Mdina and is supported by MTA and the Blue Flag Programme.

Bionote: John J. Borg is the Senior Curator of the Natural History Unit of Heritage Malta, in charge of the National Museum of Natural History and Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum. John research work focuses primarily on birds, especially seabirds but as a sideline he has been studying Maltese bats since 1987 and has published a number of publications on the subject.  His ongoing work has helped in creating an awareness on this much misunderstood group of animals.

Photo credit: Christian Falzon

Sunset walk and food in the fields

Join us for the annual evening summer walk followed by a visit to Majjistral Ecofarm where we meet with organic farmer Joseph Sciberras and his son Isaac who will be preparing a vegetarian meal for us to eat in the fields under the stars. Plenty of time to lie down in the fields afterwards and enjoy the night sky!

Please book on walks@majjistral.org

Fee: eur 15 for adults and eur 5 for children under 13 years.

Nature Photography at the Park

A joint event with Birdlife Malta and nature photograper Johan Siggesson. 

View the attached poster for details.

Bookings on events@birdlifemalta.org

The park will also be hosting an indoor lecture by Johan Siggesson later on on 7th  November @ 6.300pm at the Visitor Centre (bookings for the latter only on walks@majjistral.org)

Launch of the Majjistral Mobile App

The Majjistral App launch will be held at the visitor centre on Saturday 25th October, 2014, from 12:00 onward. Events will be:

Mobile photography competition

Treasure hunt

Guided walks

How to use the majjistral App

Everyone is invited

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Wildlife Photographer Johan Siggesson takes us on a photographic journey in an illustrated lecture at the Park's Visitor Centre. Join us for an insight into how he views the natural world through the lens and enjoy some lovely photography together with practical tips on how to take better photos. 

Please book on walks@majjistral.org as places are limited.

Check out his website 

BIO:
Johan is a wildlife and nature photographer from Sweden but residing here in Malta since 2002. From an early age He was passionate about animals and the natural world. Before Animal Planet, Nat Geo Wild and the likes, he was always glued in front of the weekly nature program on Swedish state television. No matter if it was lions in Africa, wolves in Yellowstone or Polar bears in Svalbard, he practically grew up with Sir David Attenborough’s voice at the back of his head.
From the moment he bought his first digital camera he was hooked. The creativity that is unleashed with instant feedback on the screen, variable ISO and more or less unlimited image capacity is something that really appeals to him. This, combined with a passion for animals, is a recipe for a wildlife photographer.

Wintering and Resident Birds of the Park

BIRDWATCHING WALK - Saturday 15 November @ 10am
Meeting: Majjistral park Visitor Centre
Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Donations: Eur 5 . Students/ Kartanzjan holders: Eur 3

Join park staff member and naturalist Alex Casha for a leisurely walk to spot resident and wintering birds and learn more about birdwatching whilst also enjoying the first autumn flowers. 
Alex will give a short presentation as an introduction and the walk will then take till around 1pm max.
if you do have bring along a set of binoculars and do wear suitable shoes for uneven ground as well as weatherproof gear.


Note: Visitors to the park are to take care of their own safety and that of any accompanying children and the park cannot be held responsible for any injuries or loss of property.

Underwater landscapes

Public lecture and geowalk. Walk starts at 2:30pm from visitors centre, highlighting Malta's geological aspect. The walk will be followed by public lecture at around 5pm. 

Guide walk donation is Eur 5 (Free for students/teachers).

The lecture is by Dr. Aron Micallef, lecturer in marine geology and Marie Curie Fellow at the University of Malta. Dr. Micallef will also join in the walk.

Bookings on walks@majjistral.org as places are limited

Majjistral Park Photographic Treasure Hunt

Majjistral Park Photographic Treasure Hunt for kids aged 11-13. Bookings on walks@majjistral.org. Event is by donation and adults are invited to join with their children. Cameras will be provided and children will be asked to work in teams.

UPCOMING GUIDED WALKS 2015

Below are the first set dates for our events this New Year - the list will be updated and more events will be added so keep checking or simply sign up for our online newsletter.

For details and bookings please always email us beforehand on walks@majjistral.org 

11th January @ 10am – First GUIDED WALK of 2015. First ten participant join free! usual fee is Eur 5 pp.

31st January  - MEDIEVAL LANDSCAPES a talk and walk with archaeologist Dr Keith Buhagiar and i.c.w the Manikata Farmers Cooperative as we end the walk with typical local refreshments. Fee: Eur 10

28th February - Our annual coast to coast birdwatching walk joining up two protected areas i.c.w BirdLife Malta.  Eur 5

Events February-March 2015

22nd February - Public lecture on Majjistral Park @ Mġarr Local Council 10.30am

28th February 2pm - Coast to Coast With BirdLife Malta - Birdwatching from Simar Nature Reserve to Majjistral Park - bookings on walks@majjistral.org  FULLY BOOKED

15th March @ 10.30am - Spring Flowers Walk - bookings on walks@majjistral.org (by donation)

19th March 5pm - Park nightlife: An evening with the Shearwaters - a lecture followed by a nocturnal site visit Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park in conjunction with BirdLife (Malta) Bookings on walks@majjistral.org

Tahdita l-Imgarr

Fit-22 ta' Frar se nkunu l-Imġarr biex nitkellmu dwar il-Park tal-Majjistral.Grazzi lil Kunsill Lokali tal-istedina!

Great Journeys - Migrating Birds

Join us for an informal illustrated talk about bird migration followed by a guided walk by the Park's expert birdwatcher Alex.

We will meet at the Visitor Centre. This is a free event but donations are welcome

Bookings: walks@majjistral.org

Photo: Aron Tanti 

Launch of the Photographic Exhibition

Il-Majjistral Park is organizing an exhibition in its visitors centre with the aim to show and raise awareness about the park itself, on the beauty of nature in the park and as a means of public education. The photographs, 30 in all, have been kindly provided free by 12 photographers and depict different subjects of nature including landscapes, insects, birds and marine life. The exhibition is a small “window” where people-especially those that have never visited the park- can have a small idea about the park and get to know it better.

In its exhibition, the park is also aiming at more public support and for the work that it is doing to manage the area. Il-Majjistral is still a young park with lots of challenges, especially of bringing the conservation of the environment in balance with human activities, so that everyone can enjoy in freedom the park without at the same time damaging the area.

The Park belongs to the public, and is inviting you to come and see the exhibition, to come and see the visitors centre and the park itself, to come and learn more about the park, and to support the park. Understanding the beauty of this part of Malta’s north-west region and the need to protect it from harm will go a long way in the proper management and safeguarding of il-Majjistral.

Wildlife Photography

A talk and practical site visit with Johann Siggesson on Saturday 25th April afternoon. Email walks@majjistral.org to book a place. 

Summer Solstice Sunset Walk

Fundraising walk 

Join us for our customary sunset walk along the cliffs and amidst the wild thyme of Rdum Majjiesa for a relaxing walk in aid of LifeCycle. 

Departure Point - Majjistral Park Visitor Centre. 
Price : 10 EUROS (which will be donated to the LifeCycle)
Bookings: Send an email with subject title: 21st June walk on walks@majjistral.org

Wear comfortable shoes for rugged terrain and suitable clothing. Get some water and a small torch.

Entrance to the park is free. Visitors to the park are to take care of their own safety and that of any accompanying children and the park cannot be held responsible for any injuries or loss of property.

Note the park terrain is not suitable for pushchairs. Children are to stay alongside parents at all times of the walk. Please give advance notice of any cancellations.

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LifeCycle main aims:

-To raise awareness about Renal Disease.
-To raise funds for the high tech equipment necessary to upgrade the Renal Unit at Mater Dei Hospital.
To increase the quality of life of Renal Patients by allowing them access to cutting edge levels of care.

If you cannot join the walk but want to contribute here are the details: 

Please support our cause by either sending an SMS (Malta) to :
5061 7370 €2.33
5061 8920 €6.99
5061 9229 €11.65 

or online by going to http://www.lifecyclechallenge.com/