Events

Guided Snorkelling Tours for July 2018

Summer is now with us and during the hot months of July and August, Il-Majjistral Park offers an alternative experience of the park off the beach of Golden Bay and within the Marine Protected Area of Rdum Majjiesa.

The park teams up with Sharklab-Malta to organise guided snorkelling trips for groups (age 9+). The fees include the rental of equipment where necessary and an activity fee which will help fundraise projects at Il-Majjistral Park and for marine research and awareness activities conducted by Sharklab-Malta.

In July, Guided Snorkelling events will be held on the following dates:

Friday 13th July 2018
Saturday 28th July 2018

Snorkeling Activity duration: 2.5hrs (including coastal talk, briefing on shore) from 09:30 to noon.

Age: 9 years and over (must be good swimmers)

Fee:

Snorkelling for kids/students = Eur 10 (with own equipment: Euro 6)

Snorkelling for adults = Eur 12 (with own equipment: Euro 10)

Booking and info on walks@majjistral.org. When booking kindly indicate your preferred date as well as if you need equipment and if yes, the fin size.

Photo courtesy of Shark-lab Malta

Birdwatching for Beginners

For anyone who would like to start doing a spot of birdwatching, winter is an excellent time.

Richard Cachia Zammit, Il-Majjistral Park guide and event organiser, will be doing a presentation about how to identify 10 of the most common species of wintering birds to be found in our islands.

This will be followed by a walk in the park to try and spot some of them. This knowledge will add to ramblers, hikers and even those who just love to walk leisurely in our countryside at this time of the year, something extra to enjoy apart from the countryside itself.

The event will be held first on Saturday 16th December 2017 and repeated the day after i.e. Sunday 17th December 2017.

The larger the group, the less chance of seeing birds at close range so for each session, the number of participants will be limited to 10. Children have to be 12 and over.

Place: Il-Majjistral Visitor Centre
Time: 09:30 - 12:30

For booking send an email to walks@majjistral.org stating for which day you are booking.

Photo: Male Black Redstart taken by Aron Tanti

Wildlife Photography Course conducted by Guido Bonett

3 session course about Wildlife Photography conducted by well known local Wildlife photographer Guido Bonett.

This course is aimed at people who already have some idea of photography.

First session will be dedicated to wildlife photography using telephotos. Second session will be about macro photography and the third will be a practical session which will be held in the park.

Dates: 11th, 25th November and 2nd December (Saturdays)
Time: 10:00 to 12:30 (including coffee break).
Place: Il-Majjistral Park Visitor Centre

Participation limited. Booking only accepted by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org

The Weather and Autumn Flowers - Talk & Walk

The subject for our next talk is The Weather. We will be lucky to have with us professional meteorologist, Mr Saviour Porter who will be explaining to us some of the most common aspects of this natural occurence that controls so much our lives.

Weather permitting (pun intended) we will go for a walk in the park to look out for autumn flowers which thanks to the rain we had up to now, have blossomed in good numbers.

Date: Sunday 22nd October 2017
Place: Il-Majjistral Park Visitor Centre
Time: 09:30

Booking accepted only by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org

3 SESSION COURSE ON THE PROPAGATION OF MALTESE TREES

A 3 session course conducted by Alfred E. Balacchino spread on 3 Saturdays from 7th to 21st October. The first 2 sessions will include lectures which will be held at Il-Majjistral Park Visitor Centre whilst the last session will be a visit to Buskett, which is one of the best places to see mature specimens of our indigenous trees. To make it easier for our Gozitan friends who would like to attend this course, the session will start at 10:00.

Places are limited.

Book by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org

SURVIVAL - Talk & Walk

SURVIVAL - Sunday 17th September 2017.

Join Il-Majjistral Park for our first Talk & Walk activity scheduled for this autumn / winter season. An interesting presentation by well known environmentalist / blogger Alfred E. Baldacchino who will explain how wildlife in our islands survive extreme temperatures. The talk will be followed by a walk in the park.

All details regarding this activity are given in the poster. Places limited, so it is important that those who are interested to attend book by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org

Guided Snorkelling with Sharklab Malta at Golden Sands.

Summer is now with us and during the hot months of July and August, Il-Majjistral Park offers an alternative experience of the park off the beach of Golden Bay and within the Marine Protected Area of Rdum Majjiesa.

The park teams up with Sharklab-Malta to organise guided snorkelling trips for groups (age 9+). At the moment we do not cater for individual requests unless there is an ongoing planned activity. The fees include the rental of equipment where necessary and an activity fee which will help fundraise projects at Il-Majjistral Park and for marine research and awareness activities conducted by Sharklab-Malta.

In August, Guided Snorkelling events will be held on the following dates:

Friday 11th August 2017
Saturday 26th August 2017

Snorkeling Activity duration: 2.5hrs (including coastal talk, briefing on shore) from 09:30 to noon.

Age: 9 years and over (must be good swimmers)

Booking and info on walks@majjistral.org When booking kindly indicate your preferred date as well as if you need equipment and if yes, the fin size.

Please note that there will be a representative from Sharklab who will keep an eye on the participants' belongings on the beach during the activity.

Natura 2000 Day - Half day seminar - Sunday 21st May 2017

On Sunday 21st May 2017, we will be celebrating Natura 2000 Day together with BirdLife Malta, ERA and the National Museum of Natural History Malta. Special events will be held both at Il-Majjistral Visitor Centre as well as at Ghadira and Simar Nature Reserve.

It was on the 21st of May 1992 that two successful European measures were approved for the preservation of our unique natural heritage, the LIFE Programme and The Habitats Directive. The Habitats Directive created Natura 2000 Day – the heart of EU nature policy – a network of protected areas which also includes the sites designated under the Birds Directive (approved in 1979). This makes up 18% of the EU’s land area and almost 6% of its marine territory..., consisting of more than 27,000 sites across Europe, and more than 30 in Malta!

Despite its long history of supporting our precious enviornment and its ecological, social and economic importance, the Natura 2000 and LIFE Projects are only known by a small number of citizens so we want to raise awareness and celebrate all of this amazing work!

Amongst the events to celebrate the day, there will be a morning seminar mainly about the Natura 2000 sites managed by the different organisations involved at Il-Majjistral Visitor Centre. The presentations for the morning will be as follows:

10:00 Introduction by Mr Saviour Vella, Chairperson of The Heritage Parks Federation.

10:10 Overview of the Natura 2000 Network in Malta presented by
Mr Christopher Cousin from ERA.

10:35 Għadira, Simar and Is-Salina Nature Reserve presented by Mr Raymond Vella from BirdLife Malta.

11:00 Il-Majjistral Park presented by Mr Darren Saliba.

11:25 Coffee Break.

11:45 LIFE Arċipelagu Garnija project, by Mr Martin Austad from BirdLife Malta.

12:10 Għar Dalam, by Mr John Joseph Borg from the National Museum of Natural History.

There will be also info stands of ERA and BirdLife Malta.

Attendance is free but booking is required by sending an email to events@birdlifemalta.org

Apart from that, BirdLife Malta will also be opening the following reserves for the general public as follows, organising special activities to celebrate the event:

10:00 – 16:00
Għadira Nature Reserve and Is-Simar Nature Reserve
25 years of EU supporting Nature – by BirdLife Malta experts
Environmental education for kids – by BirdLife Malta
Environment & Resources Authority Info Stand – at Għadira.

All events are free but donations are more than welcomed.

Sustainable Gardening Course

Many have the perception that just because it is organic than it has to be good. Things are not exactly like that. For example, there are organic pesticides which are indiscriminate in their effect, killing both harmful and beneficial insects. Like everything else, to be beneficial, gardening has to be sustainable and that is what this course is all about.

The lecturer for this course will be Peter Gatt. Peter is now retired after a career of more than 40 years in banking. But his love for animals and nature in general was always evident in his various hobbies.

For 28 years he bred and showed 'Il-Kelb tal Fenek', a local breed of dog. He exported this breed to the USA, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Holland, Morocco, UAE and China. He promoted the breed abroad and fought for the Maltese name of Kelb tal-Fenek to be used for this breed instead of the fancy name of Pharaoh hound by which some breeders referred to. In 1990, Peter started a joint web site to promote the breed and was the official judge for the breed in Holland, Sweden and in the USA.

He was interested in gardening since a very young age, and was always helping his grandfather in his garden. He took the hobby seriously for the past 20 - 25 years. Peter attended various MCAST and University courses and even wrote a book on sustainable gardening (not yet published). He is such a believer in sustainability that in the last 5 years he also started to keep bees which obviously is very beneficial both for his garden as well as for the environment in general.

Course details:

Subject: Sustainable Organic Gardening

Duration: 12 sessions of 2 hours each totalling 24 hours.

Dates: Every Saturday starting from 1st April 2017 to 17th June 2017.

Time: 09:30

Place: Il-Majjistral Visitor Centre

This is a very comprehensive course and the subject matter to be discussed during this course will be as follows:

· Plant Nutrients

· Chemical fertilizers / insecticides / fungicides and their effects

· Soil types

· Soil biodiversity

· Soil organisms and their effect on plants and soil

· Soil eco-system

· The EU Thematic strategy for soil protection

· Compost & compost tea

· Wormery – how to build it.

· Benefits of vermicompost

· Worm tea; how to make it; how to use it; benefits.

· Humus

· Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)

· Endo & Ecto Mycorrhizal fungi.

· Glomalin

· Crop rotation

· Green Manure

· No-Dig gardening

· Mulch

· Companion planting

· Water-wise gardening; watering systems.

· Drought tolerant plants; more use of Maltese indigenous plants.

· Natural pest control (IPM)

· Organic fertilizers

For booking send an email to walks@majjistral.org.

Places limited and booking on a first come first served basis.

Closing date for booking Sunday 26th March 2017.

Endemic, Indigenous and Alien - Talk & Walk

What is the difference between indigenous and endemic? Why are some alien species referred to as invasive? Learn the answer to these questions plus much more during the presentation by well known environmentalist and blogger Alfred E Baldacchino on the subject of 'Endemic, Indigenous and Alien'.

The presentation will be followed by a walk to identify some of the species mentioned during the presentation.

Booking accepted only by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org

Photo: Chris Cachia Zammit

Life Arcipelagu Garnija - studying the secret lives of the shearwaters.

An insight on the scientific study being carried out on one of our most elusive breeding birds.

One of the birds which breed in our islands is the Yelkouan Shearwater (in Maltese Garnija). Shearwaters are pelagic birds spending practically all their lives out at sea except during the breeding season, when to avoid predation, they visit their breeding colonies at night.

Life Arcipelagu Garnija is an EU Life project being carried out by BirdLife Malta with an aim to further protect this species. The breeding population of this species in our islands makes up 10% of the whole global population and when one considers that this bird is listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, one can get a good idea of how important this project is.

We are lucky at Il-Majjistral Park to have these birds breeding along the coastline covered by the park. During this event, we first have a presentation about this project by BirdLife Malta. After that, we will move from the Visitor Centre to Il-Prajjiet (Anchor Bay), the Northern most part of the park. There, we will have a short walk to view a different part of the park which many rarely visit. Once along the cliffs, we will enjoy the sunset and wait until dark for the shearwaters to start visiting their nests. Hopefully we will be able to hear their eerie haunting calls.

Date: Sunday 12th February 2017
Time: 15:30
Meeting place: Il-Majjistral Park Visitor Centre

This event will end once the moon rises as shearwaters are more likely to enter their colonies during the darkest hours of the night and the moon will start appearing at around 19:00.

To move from the Visitor Centre to Il-Prajjiet we will pool cars.

For booking, send an email to walks@majjistral.org

Participants 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. Children are to stay alongside parents at all times of the walk.

Photo:Ben Metzger

Archaeological Walk - Sunday 29th January 2017

Join us for this walk from Mgarr to Manikata accompanied by our archaeologist friend Dr Keith Buhagiar.

We will start our walk from Mgarr centre and go down the valley and walk along the beautiful coast and countryside of Gnejna, Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay all the way to Il-Majjistral Park and ending at ir-Razzett tal-Qasam in Manikata where we will be met by an assortment of local delicacies prepared by the Koperattiva Rurali Manikata.

Along the route we will encounter watch towers build by the Knights of St John as well as the remains of 2 medieval hamlets and garden plus a water gallery also of that era.

This is not a circular route so there will be a coach waiting for us at Manikata to take us back to Mgarr. The walk is relatively easy as inclines are few and more often than not we will be descending, however the paths we will be following are rough so sensible footwear needs to be worn.

Date: Sunday 29th January 2017
Meeting Place: Mgarr Centre in front of the Church
Time: 09:00

The price includes the local delicacies plus transport back to Mgarr.

The Koperattiva Rurali Manikata will be preparing for us the following:

Maltese bread garnished with a selection of homemade products such as pickled onions, sundried tomatoes, capers and olives.
Galett with peppered cheeslets and bigilla
Fresh Fruit
Galett with jam
Glass of wine and water.

All products are grown in the area and there will also be a section for anyone who would like to buy such products.

Participation for this event is limited to 20 persons only.

Booking for this event has to be made by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org stating for how many people you are booking.

Discover our Wintering Birds - Talk and Walk

DISCOVER OUR WINTERING BIRDS - presentation by John Joseph Borg, Senior Curator at the National Museum of Natural History, followed by a walk in the park.

For about 6 months, our islands host various species of birds which spend the winter in the Mediterranean region. Which one of these birds you are most likely to see on your roof top? Which one every evening invades Valletta to roost? And which is our winter violin?

Join us for this event and learn about these species of birds, many of which can be easily seen even in urban areas. The presentation will be followed by a walk in the park with the aim of trying to spot some of the birds mentioned during the presentation so a pair of binoculars are recommen...ded.

Date: Sunday 15th January 2017
Place: Il-Majjistral Park Info Centre
Time: 09:00 till 12:30 (including presentation plus walk)

Places limited and booking accepted only by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org stating the number of participants.

Photo: White Wagtail (Zakak Abjad) taken by Aron Tanti

All the buzz about bees - Talk on bees

Honeybees have thrived for 50 million years. However we’ve all heard that bees are disappearing. But what is making bee colonies so vulnerable?

This is not a simple problem because bees pollinate a third of the world's crops.
During this informal talk we look at the gentle, misunderstood creature's important place in nature and the mystery behind its alarming disappearance.

Event to be held on 26th November at Majjistral Park Visitor Centre, from 4-6 pm

Marine biodiversity in Golden Bay
	A multimedia presentation about the biodiversity of the Golden Bay area, bordering Majjistral Nature and History Park. The talk will be accompanied with free refreshment provided by The Radisson Golden Sands Resort and Spa. Entrance: Free Date: 24 October 2016 Time 6 pm - 8 pm. Picture by Mark Anthony Falzon

Summer Solstice June 2016

Tuesday 21st June - SUMMER SOLSTICE SUNSET WALK at Majjistral Park

No fees - no booking
Walks start @ 6.30pm (allow till 9pm for end of walk)
Meeting Place: near Golden Bay bus stop (close to apple's eye restaurant)

Join volunteer nature walks Guide Annalise Falzon for the customary annual sunset walk along the cliffs and amidst the wild thyme of Rdum Majjiesa on occasion of the summer solstice.

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

NB
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.

SNORKELING ACTIVITY 19 SEPTEMBER 2016

Snorkeling Activity and marine awareness event with Shark Lab Malta on the 19 September 2016, 0900 am to 1200 pm at Golden Bay.

Nature photography Workshop
	Local renowned wildlife photographer Guido Bonnett will be conducting a photographic workshop at the park. Date : Saturday 13th February Time : 9:00 till 11:30 To book please send an email to walks@majjistral.org

Ranger for a day!

Join us for a day of volunteering at Majjistral Park. Experience what's like to be a ranger in the park.

Date : 24th January
Time : 9:00 - 12:00
Age: 5+

Meeting at the Visitor Centre, where we first watch the introduction video about the park and then move to site where we start working. Work will involve either clean up and/or closing of paths.

Activity is subject to number of people.

Booking please send am email to walks@majjistral.org

Reptiles of the park
	Malta Herpetological Society will be conducting a talk and a short walk about Maltese reptiles that can be found in the park. Location: Majjistral Park Visitor Centre Booking : send an email on walks@majjistral.org Date: 06/12/2015 Time: 11:00 - 13:30

A walk in the park....
	As part of the MEET project, we are conducting a public walk showing changes that are done in the park. Location: Majjistral Park Visitor Centre Free of charge Date: 15/11/2015 Time: 10:00 - 13:00

Wildlife Photography Workshop with Johan Siggeson - Birdlife Malta Activity

Multi-award winning wildlife photographer, Johan Siggeson, joins us for a nature photography workshop. The session will begin with a briefing on the basics of wildlife photography, after which we will venture into the park for a practical session. Johan will offer one-to-one guidance along the way. Please note, you must bring along your own camera.

Location: Majjistral Park Visitor Centre
Date: 18/10/2015
Time: 10:00–14:00

Places for this workshop are very limited. Please book in the first instance to avoid disappointment.

Bookings: events@birdlifemalta.org. Include a contact number when booking.

Photographing Africa

Wildlife photographer Matthew Scerri will be sharing his experience and photos from his latest trips in Africa.

€5 (Money raised will be given as a donation to anti-poaching efforts in Africa)
Location : Radisson Blu Golden Sands Resort Spa
Time : 19:00
Booking: send an email to walks@majjistral.org
_______

Bio
Matthew Scerri is an amateur photographer from Malta. He got into photography in 2007 at first focusing on different photographic subjects.

Due to his interest in wildlife from an early age, he set off on his first trip to Africa in 2014. This only served to increase his fascination with what the continent has to offer and aims to bring this out through his images....

The big cats are what he likes to spend most time with, with the Cheetah being his outright favourite.

Guided Nature Walk
	Photography.... BirdWatching.... Walking.... Join us for a guided nature walk at Majjistral Park with the park's guide. Meeting place : Majjistral Park Date : 26/09/2015 Time : 3:30-5:30 PM

Macro Photography Workshop

Wildlife Photographer Johan Siggesson takes us on a photographic journey in an illustrated lecture about Macro Photography 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.

Booking : Email walks@majjistral.org (Limited number)

Meeting place : Majjistral Park
Date : 20/09/2015
Time : 3:30-5:30 PM

There and Back
	It's the time of year where birds start there long migration to Africa from Europe. Join us for a talk and special guided walk focusing on migratory birds with wildlife enthusiast and Majjistral Park guide Chris Cachia Zammit . Date : 13 Septemberat 15:30–19:00 Booking: Email walks@majjistral.org

Snorkling trips
	Next snorkeling activities coordinated with Sharklab (Malta) will be on 20th August and 29th August. (Limited numbers) Meeting place : Golden Sands Time: 9:00 till 12:00 To enjoy the view of the marine flora and fauna, don’t hesitate to book on walks@majjistral.org. Please indicate if you need equipment and the fin size.

EU Life+ Migrate Project Public Talk

Through the EU Life+ Migrate Project, the local team will hold a public speech about species of cetaceans (dolphins, whales & porpoises ) and marine turtles that are present in the Mediterranean Sea.

The project aims to obtain more information about the population and conservation status of these species in waters around the Maltese Islands and to map potential sites of importance, if found present and propose them for designation as Natura 2000 sites.

Date : 22nd August
Time : 19:00
Loacation : Din l-art Helwa, Valletta

If you are interested please send an email to walks@majjistral.org

Of meteors, astronomy and organic farming ...

Photo by: Joseph Caruana

Date: Thursday 13th August
Time: 7.15pm Opposite Manikata Church
End time - 10.30pm (or later)
Walk: Just 1km to the farm on slightly uneven terrain.
To bring: A torch (ideally with red filter) , insect repellant, wear sturdy shoes
Price: Adults: Eur 15, Children Eur 6

Family price: 2 adults and 2 children: Eur 38

Booking: on walks@majjistral.org indicating the number of persons and if any children are included and send your contact number.

Our annual Perseids event is coming up on Thursday 13th August and once again Majjistral Ecofarm within the park will be our hosts. Organic Farmer Joseph Sciberras will give us a brief tour of the farm and at sunset time we will sit down for a vegetarian meal prepared by his son, Chef Isaac.

As it gets darker we will lie down in the fields and focus on the night sky with our special guest all the way from Germany (and Gozo) - astrophysicist Joseph Caruana - who will be showing us the highlights of the summer sky.

Astronomy enthusiast Ramon Casha will be joining us on the night with a telescope to enable participants to have a closer glimpse of the night sky. We will be able to stay as long as we wish in the fields so you can bring something warm and comfortable and just lie down and gaze up! (the best of the meteors are always later into the night).

PS: You will be receiving confirmation of your booking by email and will then be contacted by Park Volunteer Annalise who will be leading this event and will be sending details to all participants two days before the event.

Bionote

Joseph Caruana is an astrophysicist residing in Berlin, whose main research interests revolve around the very early universe, particularly the first galaxies that formed in the cosmos. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher in extragalactic astrophysics at the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics in Potsdam, Germany. Outside academia, he is an avid photographer and scuba diver.

Website: http://www.josephcaruana.net/

Menu for the evening

Melanzana di parmegiana - Vegetable lasagna
Tomato salad
Couscous salad
Pasta salad with pesto
Rice salad
Potato salad
Bruschetta
Vegetable frittata
Organic wine
Water

Guided Nature Walk

13 December 2013 @ 2:00 PM till 5:00 PM

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

08 December 2013 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

12 January 2014 @ 10:00 AM

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

09 March 2014 till 17 May 2014

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

13 April 2014 @ 11:00 AM till 05 April 2014 @ 4:00 PM

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

Build an APP for Majjistral Park - COMPETITION

13 April 2014 till 20 June 2014

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

15 October 2013 @ 6:30 PM till 8:00 PM

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

20 October 2013 @ 3:00 PM till 6:00 PM

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

02 November 2013 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

19 November 2013 @ 6:30 PM till 8:00 PM

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

29 August 2014 @ 6:00 PM till 8:45 PM

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

18 August 2014 @ 5:00 PM till 23 August 2014 @ 8:00 PM

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

18 August 2014 @ 5:00 PM till 23 August 2014 @ 8:00 PM

Coast to Coast - birdwatching and sunset walking

13 September 2014 @ 4:45 PM till 8:15 PM

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"

20 September 2014 @ 7:00 PM till 9:00 PM

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"

28 September 2014 @ 4:45 PM till 7:30 PM

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

23 May 2014 @ 6:45 PM till 10:00 PM

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

31 August 2013 @ 9:00 AM

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

Snorkeling activity
	Majjistral Park together with Sharklab (Malta) are organizing guided snorkeling sessions this summer. Join us to learn more about the sea. The only requirement is to be able to swim! Fee : €8 (€4 with own equipment) Time : 9:00 AM Dates : 29th July and 1st August Place : Golden Sands Book on walks@majjistral.org

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

06 June 2015 @ 5:30 PM till 10:00 PM

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

13 September 2013 @ 6:15 PM

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

16 July 2013

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

19 May 2013 @ 5:30 PM

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

22 July 2013

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

21 June 2013 @ 6:30 PM

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

A world in miniature – temporary and quite extreme in its conditions. Harbouring several rare species and even endemics this often overlooked environment has been granted the status of Priority Habitat within the European Union.

Dr Sandro Lanfranco takes us into the fascinating realm of tiny creatures and limestone expanses.

Join us for another lecture organized by Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park at Din l-ArtĦelwa, 133 Melita Street Valletta.

Entrance is free, donations welcome.

Info: walks@majjistral.org Web: www.majjistral.org

Bionote:

Sandro Lanfranco lectures in Biology at the Department of Biology of the University of Malta. His main research interests are the ecology and systematics of plants and algae. He has carried out or directed several studies, including long-term ones, on freshwater pools and their biota. He has authored or co-authored various scientific studies, technical reports, book chapters and books.

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)

10 November 2013 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

15 June 2014 @ 8:45 AM till 11:30 AM

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

21 June 2014 @ 6:30 PM till 10:30 PM

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

05 July 2014 @ 9:00 AM till 16 August 2014 @ 12:00 PM

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

19 July 2014 @ 7:00 PM till 9:30 PM

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

01 August 2014 @ 7:00 PM till 11:00 PM

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

19 October 2014 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

25 October 2014 @ 12:00 PM

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

07 November 2014 @ 6:30 PM till 8:00 PM

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

15 November 2014 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

13 December 2014 @ 2:30 PM till 6:00 PM

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

21 December 2014 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

11 January 2015 @ 10:00 AM till 28 February 2015 @ 5:00 PM

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

22 February 2015 @ 10:00 AM till 19 March 2015 @ 9:00 PM

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

22 February 2015 @ 10:30 AM till 12:00 PM

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

04 April 2015 @ 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM

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

25 April 2015 @ 11:00 AM till 05 June 2015

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

25 April 2015 till 12:00 AM

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

21 June 2015 @ 6:30 PM

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/

Majjistral Park 10th Year Anniversary - "I Love Majjistral "

Date: Sunday 26th November 2017

Place: Il-Majjistral Interpretation Centre - Mellieha

Time: 10:00 till 16:00

Come and join us and enjoy the beauty of autumn at the Majjistral Nature and History Park on Sunday 26th November while celebrating the 10 th Year anniversary of Malta’s first national park.

We will be meeting at the Park’s Visitor Centre where visitors will be welcomed and can watch
the introductory documentary about nature and the life at the Park.

Information about the Park and its endeavours plus free guided walks by volunteers and Park
staff will be carried out between 10:00 till 14:30.

Walks will be preceded by the documentary and will start from the Visitors Centre at 10:30,
12:30, 13:30 and 14:30.

At the end of each walk visitors will be given a 10th Anniversary pack as a souvenir. Bring your
families and tell your friends about our activities so the Park can be enjoyed by many.

Guided Snorkelling Tours for July 2018

Guided Snorkelling Tours for July 2018

Birdwatching for Beginners

Birdwatching for Beginners

Wildlife Photography Course conducted by Guido Bonett

Wildlife Photography Course conducted by Guido Bonett

The Weather and Autumn Flowers - Talk & Walk

The Weather and Autumn Flowers - Talk & Walk

3 SESSION COURSE ON THE PROPAGATION OF MALTESE TREES

3 SESSION COURSE ON THE PROPAGATION OF MALTESE TREES

SURVIVAL - Talk & Walk

SURVIVAL - Talk & Walk

Guided Snorkelling with Sharklab Malta at Golden Sands.

Guided Snorkelling with Sharklab Malta at Golden Sands.

Natura 2000 Day - Half day seminar - Sunday 21st May 2017

Natura 2000 Day - Half day seminar - Sunday 21st May 2017

Sustainable Gardening Course

Endemic, Indigenous and Alien - Talk & Walk

Life Arcipelagu Garnija - studying the secret lives of the shearwaters.

Archaeological Walk - Sunday 29th January 2017

Discover our Wintering Birds - Talk and Walk

All the buzz about bees - Talk on bees

Marine biodiversity in Golden Bay

Summer Solstice June 2016

SNORKELING ACTIVITY 19 SEPTEMBER 2016

Nature photography Workshop

Ranger for a day!

Reptiles of the park

A walk in the park....

Wildlife Photography Workshop with Johan Siggeson - Birdlife Malta Activity

Photographing Africa

Guided Nature Walk

Macro Photography Workshop

There and Back

Snorkling trips

EU Life+ Migrate Project Public Talk

Of meteors, astronomy and organic farming ...

Guided Nature Walk

Treasure Hunt in the park

January-February Events

March-May 2014 Activities

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

Build an APP for Majjistral Park - COMPETITION

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

First autumn walk

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

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

Sunset walk 29th August @ 6pm

Cleanup @ the park

Cleanup @ the park

Coast to Coast - birdwatching and sunset walking

"In Search of the Shearwater"

"Dragonflies of Malta"

An evening with shearwaters at Majjistral Park - for youths

Guided snorkelling at Golden Bay

Snorkeling activity

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

The park at dusk

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

Geology of Majjistral Park

Kids on the Coast

Of Meteors and more - FULLY BOOKED

Kids on the coast (for schools)

Move for Health - SUNSET WALK TUESDAY 14TH MAY

Move for Health - TREASURE HUNT SUNDAY 12TH MAY

Coastal Life

Summer Solstice Sunset Walk

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

Life in Freshwater Rockpools - Tuesday 5th February 6pm

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

Birdwatching at Majjistral Park Saturday 23rd March 10am

COSTA RICA WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUIDO BONETT

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

Autumn at Majjistral Park - Guided Walk (by booking)

Reptiles and more @ Majjistral Park

Summer Solstice and more @ Majjistral Park

Guided Snorkelling trips at Majjistral Park

Nocturnal Life at the Park 19th July @ 7pm

Sunset walk and food in the fields

Nature Photography at the Park