Updated Walks Programme

Walks Programme: February/March 2010


RAM presents the programme of walks proposed for the first three months of 2010. All walks are circular walks unless otherwise noted. Some walks might present problems to anyone who is not used to walking over unpaved ground. Good walking shoes and suitable clothing for the weather are recommended. It is always a good idea to bring some drinking water along, especially on the longer walks. RAM endeavours to adhere to the published walks programme but reserves the right to make changes without prior notice as the need arises.
Walks are organized for the benefit of RAM members. Guests are welcome but a contribution of €5 will be requested.

RAM takes great care in picking the trails but one’s safety is ultimately one’s responsibility. One can choose to stop walking at any stage as one deems it fit to suit one’s abilities. RAM declines all responsibility for any personal injury or loss of belongings.

Only in case of very bad weather will walks be cancelled. If in doubt please consult the blog (http://ramblersassociation.blogspot.com/) or phone 99497080.

RAM Grading Standards:

Very Hard - only for hardy ramblers loving difficult challenges, ready to take a beating.
Hard - for the fit rambler in good physical shape to take on steep inclines and long stretches.
Moderate – for the average rambler who can take on up to four hour stretches of walking on uneven surfaces.
Easy – for the occasional rambler who prefers leisurely strides at a slower pace.

Note: Booking a place on a restricted walk is not the same as buying a ticket to a concert. I.e., if a member is accepted on the walk, then the member cannot decide to transfer his/her place to another person. If a member cannot make it to a walk that he/she has booked, he/she should inform the organisers at once as there might be others on the waiting-list eagerly waiting to come along.

Wed 17 Feb: Mellieha-Selmun Circular (Scenic, Historical, Geological)
Starting at the imposing parish church dedicated to Marija Bambina we will climb down to pay a visit to the very old Sanctuary of Il-Madonna tal-Mellieha. Skimming the coast the walk will proceed over the hill towards Selmun and its famous Palace, and then on to Fort Campbell. A tour of this fortification will be complemented with the magnificent scenic views over the Bay of St Paul’s. Our way back to Mellieha will take us past the paleo-christian tombs and a Girna.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate with some steep inclines
Meeting Place: Mellieha parish church
Time: 1400.

Wednesday 24th February: Walk Cancelled

Friday 26th to Sunday 28th February: Gozo Weekend.
The programme of walks for each day will be given only to participants at the hotel every morning during our stay.
Rates at the San Andrea Hotel have remained unchanged from November. The rates per room on Half-board basis, are:

Side view: €120.00 per twin room for 2 person 2 nights (€30.00 pppn)
Sea view: € 138.00 per twin room for 2 persons 2 nights (€34.50 pppn)
Side view: € 160.00 per triple room for 3 persons 2 nights (€26.67 pppn)
Sea view: € 182.00 per triple room for 3 persons 2 nights (€30.33 pppn)
Side view: € 82.00 per twin room for 1 person 2 nights (€ 41.00 pppn)
Sea view: € 90.00 per twin room for 1 person 2 nights (€ 45.00 pppn)
(Please note that the third bed in the triple room will be a folding bed that needs to be folded away during the day to make space in the room.)
Participants can check into the hotel anytime after noon on Friday 26th Feb. The management of San Andrea has always given us the best service and our sixth time should not be an exception. We have been promised good value for money once again. Only paid-up members need apply, as always on a first-come first-served basis.

To book your place, please send your details to ram205@gmail.com, and complete with a cheque made out to the Ramblers Association of Malta, to the above address. Booking opens on 1st February.

Saturday 6th March:The North West + Buffet (Scenic,Gastronomical)
We will take a westerly direction to Anchor Bay, climb behind Popeye Village to follow the cliff-edge right down to ic-Cumnija. We will sweep Qammieh taking in the views in all directions. A Luncheon will follow at the Danish village, where we will have the choice of an extensive buffet, including coffee and one drink, for the price of €17. The menu is attached to this programme. Please book by sending an email to ram205@gmail.com, and a cheque for €17 payable to the Ramblers Association, to P.O. Box 108, Sliema, SLM 1000, after the 1st day of February .
Duration: 3.5 hours plus the lunch
Rating: Moderate, with rough terrain and moderate inclines
Meeting Place: Mellieha Bay Bus terminus
Time: 0900

Saturday 13th March: National Rally at Valletta calling on Government to Enforce the Law to protect our Environment
This Rally is being organized in collaboration with other environmental NGOs for the purpose of calling on the Authorities to enforce the law with respect to the protection of Maltese Urban and Natural Environment. Your attendance is very important and it is expected that you give support to your Association by bringing members of your family and your friend with you. Unless we impress upon the Authorities that our numbers count the Association will never be able to achieve its objectives to open access in and protect the Maltese countryside which is the source of our walking activities.
Duration: 2 hours
Rating: Grave
Meeting Place: City Gate, Valletta
Time: 10.00am

Sunday 21st March: Marsaxlokk area (Scenic)
From our meeting place, this circular walk skirts the power station to Ras il-Fenek, then around Munxar to St.Thomas Bay, where we can take a short break. We will then proceed to tas-Silg Chapel, passing near a fireworks factory, then back down to Marsaxlokk,
Duration: circa 3.5 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Hunters' Tower Restaurant (a short walk from the church and bus stop)
Time: 0930

Saturday 27th March: Marsascala area (Historical/geological/Scenic)
This walk includes visiting some interesting historical features such as a watermill and historical towers. We will pass through the Munxar headland and Xrobb l-Ghagin and then back to Marsascala.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Inspire (ex-Razzett tal-Hbiberija)
Time: 0900

Wed 31 March: Siggiewi- Fawwara Circular (Scenic, cultural)
From Siggiewi we cross the valley towards Is-Salib tal-Gholja, then we climb up to the ridge. We then head towards Fawwara cliffs, from where we have an easy walk down to Siggiewi passing by interesting cultural edifices.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Siggiewi main square near Police Station
Time: 0900

Tuesday, 9th February 2010 - 08:46CET

Ramblers' Association president steps down

Lino Bugeja, president of the Ramblers' Association, has stepped down. He will be turning 80 this week.

Mr Bugeja told the association's annual general meeting that he was not standing for re-election and it was time for him to call it a day. This, he quipped, would help lower the average age of the committee. The members approved a motion to declare him honorary president.

Association Secretary Alex Vella, speaking on behalf of the committee and members, thanked Mr Bugeja for dedicating the past five years to furthering the objectives of the association, which he was instrumental in founding in 2005.

The seven members that will make up the new committee of the association are: Joe Agius, Romano Cassar, Mark de Marco, Saviour Grech, Michiel Paetzel, Josette Sultana, Alex Vella.

Two other members under 40 years of age will be co-opted to the committee by the elected members, according to the terms of the new statute.

Comments

Victor Carmelo Sciberras(3 weeks, 5 days ago)

Many Happy returns Lino, I have always loved reading your features about the three cities, maltese history and our countryside. Hope you will continue to write, which always makes my Sundays all the better by bringing Malta a little closer when I read your work on line.

Best wishes.

Pule' Carmel(1 month, 2 days ago)

I guess both of us always knew the real hidden beauty of Vittoriosa better than many people, as we grew, played and spent our childhood years roaming, its war ravished streets. In the name of all the people of Cottonera, I wish to sincerely thank you for popularising and projecting the real beauty of our three historic cities with your detailed writings and spectacular photographs, in many publications, in addition to your great efforts in preserving the beauty and tranquillity of our countryside. To that I must add further thanks, for your efforts, and examples, as a teacher, sportsman, family man, in assisting the youths of Cottonera to expand their education, their sport abilities, their personalities, their happiness, from what a meagre war battered zone provided and offered for you, to the highest levels which you helped to achieve.
Thank You,
Carmel Pule’and Family, Joe, Anthony, Victor, Marian, Bernadette, (Parents), Toni, Cettina.
And all the people of Cottonera,

Joseph V. Grech(1 month, 3 days ago)

Thank you Lino Bugeja for your tireless work on behalf of the environment and people's basic rights!
How despicable that the Ramblers' sterling work was not fully appreciated - and backed - by our politicians. Sadly we still keep putting political interests before all other considerations.

Marco Cremona(on 9/2/10)

Thank you for the thankless campaigning for the protection of Malta's environment and for furthering a culture of rambling and appreciation of Malta's natural beauty

From a fellow environmentalist
Marco Cremona

Sandro Bugeja(on 9/2/10)

Thank you to a true gentleman.

R Muscat(on 9/2/10)

Thank you Lino for all the good work that you have done over the years to open up the countryside to all those who appreciate and love nature, history and Malta.
Wish you very happy birthday and best wishes to the new committee may they be successful in their task which is an uphill battle against greed, destruction, machismo and ignorance.

S Zammit(on 9/2/10)

Prosit Lino for all the good work you did to protect our ever diminishing countryside. Well done!! you are a good example to others and the island would be a better place for all of us if people would create awareness and protect nature so well as you did.
Best regards

MSciberras(on 9/2/10)

IF ONLY MORE MALTESE HELD THEIR ISLANDS AS CLOSE TO THE HEARTS AS LINO BUGEJA............

Victor Fiorini(on 9/2/10)

Happy birthday Lino. and thanks for your services

R. Bugeja(on 9/2/10)

I feel proud to form part of your family tree Mr. Bugeja :)

Well done for all you've done for Malta and I wish you all the best!!

Frank Portelli 2BFRANK(on 9/2/10)

Ad Multos Annos Lino

keep writing those interesting articles

Frank Portelli

peppi micallef(on 9/2/10)

Grazzi minn qalbna Lino.

Joe Morana(on 9/2/10)

Thank you very much Lino for your meaningful contribution towards safeguarding what is left of 'our' natural environment and heritage. You have been an example for others (of all ages ) to follow.
Best wishes.

S Debono(on 9/2/10)

Thank you Mr. Bugeja. It is people like yourself who left a positive effect on Malta's natural environment and heritage. Maybe the Times could commemorate by carryng out some investigative work on current MEPA applications, and their impact on the environment. Hopefully environmental NGOs would be willing to assist.

a attard(on 9/2/10)

Dear Mr. Lino Bugeja, your work and enthusiasm in bringing about so much awareness and contributing towards the protection of our very little left open countryside and also heritage is greatly appreciated. Your energy will be a great inspiration for those who will follow on your path. Thankyou for all your work,

Paul Buttigieg(on 9/2/10)

Hapy birthday May God bless you with many many more years of good health.

I would like to thank you (and I think I am not just talking for myself but for many others) for your ongoing work to save the natural beauty of our islands.

I always admired your true dedication by encouraging others to care for the environment like you do.

Hope to still hear you on the radio.

All the best

Paul and Carmen

Charles Sacco(on 9/2/10)

Indeed, Mr Bugeja did a lot for the country, especially we boys who in the late fifties/early sixties hailed from Cottonera where, as a then Standard V class master he prepared us for the Lyceum entrance examination ... and all students passed with flying colours. Those were the days when the Cottonera excelled. I have always respected Mr Bugeja for his verve to pass on education to one and all and even now he continues to strive for a better Malta. At 80 years young, Ad Multos Annos, dear Sir!

schembri .ml(on 9/2/10)

Lino Bugeja is the person who did something for the future of our children.I would like to thank him on behalf of my grand children.

Evarist Saliba(on 9/2/10)

Dear Lino,
It is a long time since we last met. Thank you for the initiatives you have taken to make the Maltese public more aware of the beauty of the countryside, which you have also sought to enhance and make it more accessible. May your example of graciously handing the baton to others be an inspiration to others.

Enjoy the fruit of your work in your new retirement.

Evarist

Charles Flores(on 9/2/10)

Lino Bugeja deserves every tribute he can get. He led by example. Even his decision to call it quits is an example to leaders in other sectors. Giving way to younger men and women is a natural process that many sadly resist. Doing a "Harold Wilson" is very much a part of that same process.
One hopes Lino's rambling days, though, are not over......

Muscat. Pat(on 9/2/10)

Thank you Mr Bugeja; you are an honest gentleman.

J Brownie (on 9/2/10)

A big thank you to a real gentleman who has Maltese enviornment and people's health close at heart .

Tony Mangion (on 9/2/10)

Dear Lino, although you stepped down from the precidency of the Ramblers Association, every one hope that you will not stop stepping around our villages. Good luck and good health.

Gino Schiavone(on 9/2/10)

Well done Lino. The Malta Exercise Health and Fitness Association wishes the best of luck in life. You have worked hard as a professional in your Free time to give the best to the community- and as an NGO representative you did this for Free. We hope there will be more professionals who set up NGO's where required- like a Federation of Outdoor Activities.

As an NGO MEHFA thanks you for your excellent work as we all benefit from such great initiatives.

Enjoy LIFE.

Joe Azzopardi(on 9/2/10)

A big thank you to Lino Bugeja who has done much to bring to the attention of the general public the problems, but also the beauty, of the Maltese countryside. My complements also for his decision to step down after giving the Ramblers a solid base. It must be hard to let go of something one has given so much to create. Sahhit!!!

Kevin Zammit(on 9/2/10)

A big heartfelt thank you Mr. Bugeja.

RAM Statute

THE RAMBLERS' ASSOCIATION OF MALTA

THE STATUTE

AS APPROVED BY THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF 06.02.2010

1. TITLE

1.1 The Association shall be named THE RAMBLERS' ASSOCIATION OF MALTA,

herein called "the Association".

2. ADDRESS

2.1 The address of the Association shall be Room 83, National Swimming Pool

Complex, Triq Maria Teresa Spinelli, Il-Gzira, or any such venue that the Committee

shall opportunely determine.

3. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

3.1 The Association shall be an apolitical, non-profit, voluntary, non-governmental

organisation set up to promote the following aims and objectives:

3.1.1 To promote rambling activities as a means of education on the Maltese natural

and cultural endowment and as a means of a healthy lifestyle,

3.1.2 To develop and protect the natural beauty and cultural heritage to be found in the

countryside of the Maltese Islands,

3.1.3 To organise walks and other educational activities and to disseminate among civil society information leading to a greater respect of the countryside;

3.1.4 To identify and to ensure the maintenance of a network of public footpaths in the open countryside,

3.1.5 To establish and to preserve the right of access to the open countryside and to the coastal zones,

3.1.6 To make representations to competent authorities and institutions in order to ensure that the aims and objectives of the Associations are pursued and that laws are enforced with respect to citizens' rights in accordance with the Environmental standards operative in the European Union,

3.1.7 To encourage and organise exchanges with foreign ramblers in order to strengthen mutual understanding internationally.

4. MEMBERSHIP

4.1 All persons believing in the objectives of the Association may become members on

payment of the membership fee. Membership entitles one to :

(i) participate in the activities organised by the Association;

(ii) receive publications and other communications issued by the Association;

(iii) the right to nominate candidates for, to vote at, and to contest, the election for the Committee during the General Meetings, on condition that his

membership had been fully endorsed for at least four months.

4.2 Members who fail to pay their annual subscription after two reminders will forfeit their membership.

4.3 The Committee has the right to withdraw or withhold the membership of an

applicant; however the applicant will have the right to appeal to the General

Meeting for reinstatement. In this case, a two thirds majority of members present

at the General Meeting is required to over-rule the decision of the committee.

5. THE COMMITTEE

5.1 Composition

5.1.1 The Committee will be of nine members. Seven of these will be elected during the AGM. Two others will be selected by the elected members from among all the members of the Association. This selection is intended to ensure that, whenever possible, the committee will include at least two persons under the age of forty years.

5.1.2 If the candidates standing for election are seven or less the members nominated will be automatically declared elected.

5.1.3 Elections of the Committee members will be held every three (3) years during the Annual General Meeting. Nomination of candidates must be received by the Secretary at least one week prior to the AGM date. Every nomination must be signed by a proposer, a person who seconds it, and by the nominee himself signifying his acceptance; and all three must be paid-up members. During the AGM the Secretary shall state the number of positions that still have to be filled and will call for more nominations from the floor. If more nominations than required are received, an election will be held to fill such remaining positions

5.1.4 The nine Committee members will assign among themselves the following roles:

President and Vice-President, Secretary and Asst. Secretary, Treasurer and Asst

Treasurer, PRO, a Walks Coordinator and a member who will be assigned a role as deemed necessary by the committee.

5.1.5 A vacancy of an elected candidate will be filled by the candidate with the next highest number of votes obtained in the last election.

5.1.6 The quorum for a committee will be of five if there are eight or nine members on the

committee, and of four members if there are seven or less

5.1.7 No person who holds a position on an administrative or executive committee of another environmental organisation or a political party may be nominated for election or allowed to become a committee member. Any existing committee member will forfeit membership on the Committee automatically if he contests the election of such committees.

5.1.8 Committee meetings may be convened as frequently as deemed necessary, but at least

once every two months. Prior notice and agenda will be circulated to all members of the committee at least three days in advance.

5.1.9 Any two members may call a meeting by written request to the Secretary, who will

convene the meeting within ten days.

5.2 Authority and Responsibility

5.2.1 The Committee will have the authority to co-opt members should there be no other

unelected candidate available. Co-opted members will enjoy the same rights as elected members.

5.2.2 The committee will have the authority to appoint sub-committees with such remits as may be established.

5.2.3 The Committee shall have the authority and the responsibility to administer and manage the Association, to formulate policy and procedures, to determine membership fees, and to ensure that all members will pursue the Aims and Objectives of the Association effectively. The Committee shall also be empowered to establish foundations or similar entities for the further promotion of the Association’s aims and objectives.

5.2.4 The Committee shall be authorised to deregister/register the Association as a legal person or to enrol the Association as the Committee deems fit when and where applicable. Accordingly the Committee shall be authorised to apply for grants, sponsorships or other financial aid or such exemptions, privileges or other entitlements that the Government or other institutions may make available to voluntary organizations from time to time.

5.2.5 A Committee member who fails to attend two consecutive meetings without justification, will be asked whether he intends to keep his place on the committee. He will be given another chance to attend the next meeting. The Committee will take a vote on his status if s/he again fails to attend inasmuch as the Committee needs committed persons to carry on its duties. .

5.3 Representation

5.3.1 The President of the Association, or if so delegated by him the Secretary, shall act as

Administrator for the intents and purposes of the Voluntary Organisations Act. The Administrator shall be vested with the legal and judicial representation of the Association. However the committee may appoint any other one of its members to act in lieu of the two officers indicated.

6. GENERAL MEETINGS

6.1 The ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be convened on a Saturday during February of every year with the following Agenda:

i) President’s address

ii) Annual Administrative Report for the previous year ending 31st January.

iii) Annual Statement of Account and Auditors’ Report

iv) Amendments to the statute, if any

v) Appointment of Auditors for the current year

vi) Every three years, hold the election by secret ballot for the members of a new

committee. In this event two election commissioners will be appointed to conduct the election.

vii) Other matters

6.2 The Secretary will call an EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING within one

month from date of a written request by at least fifty paid up members of the

Association to consider those matters raised in the request. The relative notice will be

circulated to all members of the Association at least one week before the meeting.

6.3 Half the number of the paid-up members will form a quorum for any General

Meeting. The quorum will fall to 25 members after the lapse of 15 minutes from the

publicised time of the meeting.

6.4 The General Meeting may appoint not more than two Honorary Presidents, and Honorary Members by simple majority of members present.

7. AMENDMENTS TO THE STATUTE

7.1 No articles of the present statute shall be altered or rescinded, nor any new ones

incorporated, unless notice of details of such alterations is received by the Secretary

thirty days prior to the date of a General Meeting. The Secretary shall circulate such detailed notice to all members of the Association twenty days before the date. Two thirds majority of voting members present at the General Meeting can carry the amendment/s through.

8. DISSOLUTION

8.1 The Association will be dissolved only by an Extraordinary General Meeting especially convened for this purpose by a motion which is not opposed by any one of the members present.

8.2 In case of dissolution of the Association all the net assets pertaining to it shall be transferred to the Environmental Non-government Organisation/s whose aims are closest to those of the Association. The specific organization/s will be determined by a simple majority of those present at the Extraordinary General Meeting.

9. INTERPRETATION

9.1 In this statute the masculine gender shall include the feminine.

Annual General Meeting Saturday 6th February

The 2010 AGM was held on Saturday 6th February at 10am at The Phoenicia Hotel, Floriana.


Rapport Amministrattiv ghas-sena 2009.

Il-kumitat li gie elett sentejn ilu ltaqa hdax il-darba matul is-sena 2009, u
tnax il darb jekk nghoddu il-laqgha ta’ Jannar ta din is-sena.
Kien kumitat li hadem bis-shih biex jissalvagwardja il-kampanja Maltija u
is-sabih ta’ go fiha. Sfortunatament ma rnexxielu jakkwista xejn affattu.
Laqghat u konferenzi, seduti u inviti kienu bzar fl-ghajnejn u ma ssarfu
f’xejn konkret. Ghalkemm il-kumitat ma naqas xejn fid-dmir tieghu lejn ilmembri,
ghax kif jista jixhed kulhadd l-attivitajiet, il-mixjiet u l-giti
organizzati kienu innovattivi u mzewqin bhal qatt qabel, l-isforzi talezekuttiv
centrali compost mil-President Lino Bugeja, minni Segretarju u l-
PRO Joe Agius ma swew xejn u ghazaqna fl-ilma. L-awtoritajiet ghaddewna
biz-zmien ghax komplew ikasbru il-ligijiet u direttivi li ahna dejjem
insistejna fuqom. It-talba taghna u ta’ siehba ambjentalisti ohra kienet li tigi
osservata il-ligi! Hawn xi pajjiz iehor fl-Ewropa fejn is-socjeta civili
taghmel pressjoni mal-awtoritajiet governattivi biex tigi mharsa il-ligi?
Mhux tal-biki li l-awtoritajiet stess ikasbru bla misthija il-ligijiet u direttivi
taghhom stess? Din hi s-sitwazzjoni li qed nittolleraw f’Malta taghna filwaqt
li naraw din l-art helwa titlef il-hlewwa taghha kolla b’decizzjonijiet qarsa u
ta’ hsara li ma tissewwiex.

Kien kumitat li matul is-sena tilef membri minn hdanu ghal ragunijiet ta’
nuqqas ta’qbil, nuqqas ta’ hin u konflit ta’interess. Dr Louis Vella, Marie
Louise Muscat Azzopardi, Sandro Bugeja, Anne Zammit kienu assi mitlufa.
Pero kienu akkwisti kbar il-membri ko-optjati Sam Grech, Christian
Colombo u Ingram Bondin, u dan ghalix dahlu ghall-impenn b’devozzjoni li
ftit kienu dawk li wrewgha. Sam Grech refa hafna mill-piz tas-Segretarjat u
wera li lest jidhol ghax-xoghol li jkun hemm bzonn, anke ta’ emergency
walks leader. Christian Colombo kien kagun li ntroduca lis-socjeta u lghanijiet
taghha liz-zghazagh u studenti tal-universita. Ingram Bondin
applika it-teknika tas-sengha li qed jipprofessjona fiha biex kompla fit-triq li
hejja JC Sullivan bit-twettiq tal-website taghna. Illum qeghdin posizzjoni
ahjar ghax Ingram f’kuntatt kontinwu u mil vicin biex izomm is-sit
aggornata minnufih bit-tibdil li jkun hemm bzonn u taghrif gdid li jidhol.
Madanakollu ma nistax ma naghtix hajr lil JC Sullivan tax-xoghol bikri
tieghu voluntarju u devot allavolja min post daqshekk imbieghed. Hajr ukoll
lil membri li servew u kellom jirtiraw minhabba pressjoni ta’ xoghol.
Nota ta’ kuragg tirrigwardja in-numru dejjem jikber ta’ membri godda.
Mindu dhalna ghad-difiza tal-wied tal-Bahrija kien hemm numru sostanzjali
ta’ abbonamenti li ma kienx rifless fis-snin ta’ qabel. Dan hu ta’ kuragg u
nitlob li l-kumitat il-gdid isib sistema effettiv ghat-tigdid tal-membership.
Il-laqghat l-aktar ricenti tal-kumitat uxxenti taw hafna hin ghar-revizzjoni
tal-istatut tal-Assocjazzjoni, biex dan jaspira ghac-cirkustanzi u ligijiet
godda taz-zmien. Il-kumitat wasal ghad-decizzjoni li jibghat ghall-iskrutinju
taghkom, l-emendi li jahseb li huma necessari biex ikum hemm tmexxija
ahjar. Nispera li lkoll kemm intom tajtuhom daqqa t’ghajn u nixtieq
nirringrazzja lil-dawk li kitbu lura bis-suggerimenti taghhom, li dawn ukoll
illum ser nikkunsidraw.

Allura nieqaf hawn halli naghtu l-importranza u z-zmien dovuti lil dan laspett
tas-Seduta General tallum, u niehu l-ispunt biex nitlob sospensjoni tal-
Agenda biex nghaddu minnufih ghad-diskussjoni dwar dawn l-amendi.
Nahseb li importanti ukoll li hekk kif jigi approvat l-istatut nghaddu
mozzjoni biex jibdew japplikaw miinufih il-klawsoli kolla tal-istatut kif
imgedded.

Alex Vella
Segretarju
06.02.2010

Walks Programme: January to March 2010

See the 17th Feb 2010 post for the latest amended programme.

Walks Programme: January to March 2010

RAM presents the programme of walks proposed for the first three months of 2010. All walks are circular walks unless otherwise noted. Some walks might present problems to anyone who is not used to walking over unpaved ground. Good walking shoes and suitable clothing for the weather are recommended. It is always a good idea to bring some drinking water along, especially on the longer walks. RAM endeavours to adhere to the published walks programme but reserves the right to make changes without prior notice as the need arises.
Walks are organized for the benefit of RAM members. Guests are welcome but a contribution of €5 will be requested.

RAM takes great care in picking the trails but one’s safety is ultimately one’s responsibility. One can choose to stop walking at any stage as one deems it fit to suit one’s abilities. RAM declines all responsibility for any personal injury or loss of belongings.

Only in case of very bad weather will walks be cancelled. If in doubt please consult the blog (http://ramblersassociation.blogspot.com/) or phone 99497080.

RAM Grading Standards:

Very Hard - only for hardy ramblers loving difficult challenges, ready to take a beating.
Hard - for the fit rambler in good physical shape to take on steep inclines and long stretches.
Moderate – for the average rambler who can take on up to four hour stretches of walking on uneven surfaces.
Easy – for the occasional rambler who prefers leisurely strides at a slower pace.

Note: Booking a place on a restricted walk is not the same as buying a ticket to a concert. I.e., if a member is accepted on the walk, then the member cannot decide to transfer his/her place to another person. If a member cannot make it to a walk that he/she has booked, he/she should inform the organisers at once as there might be others on the waiting-list waiting to come along.

-----------------------
Sat. 9 Jan: Birzebbuga - Hal Far Circular. (Scenic, Historical, Geological)
From the Church of St Peter we will walk along the coast and the Freeport until we reach the cliffs. A country lane that follows the cliff will lead us through farmland to Fort Benghaisa and Ghar Hasan. Then we visit Hasan’s cave, which is connected to a traditional legend told at the time of Count Roger. An Arab named Hasan seized a Maltese girl and kept her in this cave to serve his various needs. We will walk back to Birzebbuga through Hal Far.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: St Peter’s Parish Church, Birzebbugia
Time: 0900

Wed. 13 Jan: Rabat - Zebbug Circular ( Scenic, Historical, Geological)
From St Dominic’s convent we will walk to the Archbishop’s Seminary where the view of the valley will be taken in. Our walk will lead to the old Observatory and through fields to the Rabat-Siggiewi main road. A country lane will lead us to Zebbug and on to San Blas, from where we will take the uphill trodden path back.
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Rating: Moderate with some traffic at times
Meeting Place: St Dominic’s Church parvis
Time: 1400


Wed. 20 Jan: Zebbiegh-Golden Bay Circular (Scenic Historical, Geological)
Walking on paths through the fields and country lanes, the Victoria Lines will be followed to the plateau on which the Lippijja Tower was built in 1637 on orders of Grandmaster Jean de Lascaris-Castellar. We will follow the cliff edge, taking in the lovely seaviews on our left until the sandy beaches of Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay come into view, with the lovely landscape to the right. Through farmland and beside the Roman Baths we will walk back to Mgarr and Zebbiegh.
Duration: circa 3 hrs Rating: Moderate with some uneven surfaces and inclines
Meeting Place: Zebbiegh parish church
Time: 1400 .

Sat 23 Jan: Siggiewi and a Visit to the Malta Falconry Centre (Scenic, Cultural)
A straight-forward walk through part of Wied Xkora onto part of Wied Qirda back onto Wied Hesri which takes us back towards and below the village of Siggiewi, culminating on the road between Siggiewi cemetery and Ta Bria cemetery.
The highlight of this walk is a visit to the Malta Falconry Centre where a live display of birds of prey (hawks, owls, falcons eagles) will be put on and we will also have the opportunity to observe and handle these birds. The visit to the falconry centre will be at a reduced price of €5.50.
For those wishing to visit the Falconry Centre, please book by sending an email to ram205@gmail.com, and a cheque for €5.50 payable to the Ramblers Association of Malta, to P.O. Box 108, Sliema, SLM 1000.
Duration 2.5 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Siggiewi bypass by The Limestone Heritage siteTime: 0800


Sat. 30 Jan: Qawra, Burmarrad,Wardija Circular(Scenic and Historical)
From the St Pauls Bay promenade and the Salini Park, we take country paths through the fields of Burmarrad to San Pawl Milqi’ and a Roman Villa of the 10th century BC. A steep hill road to Wardija will provide overwhelming views of the valley below and the sea beyond. Wardija is an important village with imposing palaces like Palazzo Promontorio, the hunting lodge of Grandmaster de Rohan, villas and farmhouses. We will folllow the country lane back to Qawra.
Duration: circa 3 hrs Rating: Moderate with some inclines
Meeting place: Qawra Police Station
Time: 0900

Wed. 3 Feb: Luqa, Sta Lucija, Ghaxaq, Gudja Circular (Scenic, Historical)
A small path through the meadows will take us to Santa Lucija for a visit to the dainty Chinese Garden. After a short break, another lane will lead us to the 1585 Santa Lucija Church in the limits of Ghaxaq. Then we will continue the ramble to the center of the village of Gudja and the quaint parish church of Santa Marija and its square. Thence we will walk on to the Bir Miftuh chapel and follow a country lane back to Luqa.
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Rating: Moderate with some traffic
Meeting Place: Luqa parish church.
Time: 1400

Sun 7th Feb: Xemxija, Mistra and the Underground Flour Mill (Historical)
The highlight of this circular walk is a visit to the underground flour mill in the area, now scheduled as a Grade 1 national monument. This is one of seven underground flour mills constructed in the 1950s, during the cold war, as part of civil defence measures. The complex is entirely cut into the rocks, consisting of an entrance passage leading to the milling chambers, where the 80hp Petter-Fielding main drive engine and the milling machinery are placed. This mill is one of only two that are in working order, restored recently by volunteers and the local council. This will be a planned tour guided by people who are very familiar with the place and the machinery, and we are sure that it will be enjoyed by everyone who attends. The machinery will be run during our visit, something which is not done during normal visits.
This is a restricted walk. There will be a charge of €3.50 per person to go towards the upkeep of the mill. Please book by email to: ram205@gmail.com, Send a cheque for €3.50 payable to the Ramblers Association of Malta, at P.O. Box 108, Sliema, SLM 1000. Booking opens on 7th January.
Duration: About 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Xemxija, near the entrance to the Simar reserve, just before Xemxija hill.
Time: 0900


Wed. 10 Feb: Mellieha, Qammieh, Ghadira Circular ( Scenic, Geological)
Leaving Mellieha village we take a path on uneven terrain and down a slope which we will follow up to Popeye Village. The Roman road will lead to a rough landscape right up to the new Sewage Plant at ic-Cumnija. We will climb up a steep path to the plateau of Qammieh, viewing the old apiary on the way. The magnificent views from there will be enjoyed until we reach the Red Tower. Down to Ghadira we will then climb the road to Mellieha.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate to hard, with steep inclines and uneven ground
Meeting Place: Mellieha parish church
Time: 0900

Wed 17 Feb: Mellieha-Selmun Circular (Scenic, Historical, Geological)
Starting at the imposing parish church dedicated to Marija Bambina we will climb down to pay a visit to the very old Sanctuary of Il-Madonna tal-Mellieha. Skimming the coast the walk will proceed over the hill towards Selmun and its famous Palace, and then on to Fort Campbell. A tour of this fortification will be complemented with the magnificent scenic views over the Bay of St Paul’s. Our way back to Mellieha will take us past the paleo-christian tombs and a Girna.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate with some steep inclines
Meeting Place: Mellieha parish church
Time: 1400.

Friday 26th to Sunday 28th February: Gozo Weekend.
The programme of walks for each day will be given only to participants at the hotel every morning during our stay. The first walk will be held on Friday afternoon at 2.30pm after check-in at the hotel.

Rates at the San Andrea Hotel have remained unchanged from last year. The rates per room on Half-board basis, are:

Side view: €120.00 per twin room for 2 person 2 nights (€30.00 pppn)
Sea view: € 138.00 per twin room for 2 persons 2 nights (€34.50 pppn)
Side view: € 160.00 per triple room for 3 persons 2 nights (€26.67 pppn)
Sea view: € 182.00 per triple room for 3 persons 2 nights (€30.33 pppn)
Side view: € 82.00 per twin room for 1 person 2 nights (€ 41.00 pppn)
Sea view: € 90.00 per twin room for 1 person 2 nights (€ 45.00 pppn)
(Please note that the third bed in the triple room will be a folding bed that needs to be folded away during the day to make space in the room.)
Participants can check into the hotel anytime after noon on Friday 26th Feb. The management of San Andrea has always given us the best service and our sixth time should not be an exception. We have been promised good value for money once again. Only paid-up members need apply, as always on a first-come first-served basis.

To book your place, please send your details to ram205@gmail.com, complete with a cheque made out to the Ramblers Association of Malta, to the above PO Box address. Booking opens on 1st February.


Saturday 13th March: Siggiewi- Fawwara Circular (Scenic, cultural)
From Siggiewi we cross the valley towards Is-Salib tal-Gholja, then we climb up to the ridge. We then head towards Fawwara cliffs, from where we have an easy walk down to Siggiewi passing by interesting cultural edifices.
Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Siggiewi main square near the Police Station
Time: 0900

Sunday 21st March: Marsaxlokk area (Scenic)
From our meeting place, this circular walk skirts the power station to Ras il-Fenek, then around Munxar to St.Thomas Bay, where we can take a short break. We will then proceed to tas-Silg Chapel, passing near a fireworks factory, then back down to Marsaxlokk,
Duration: circa 3.5 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Hunters' Tower Restaurant (a short walk from the church and bus stop)
Time: 0930

Saturday 27th March: Marsascala area (Historical/geological/Scenic)
This walk includes visiting some interesting historical features such as a watermill and historical towers. We will pass through the Munxar headland and Xrobb l-Ghagin and then back to Marsascala.Duration: circa 3 hrs
Rating: Moderate
Meeting Place: Inspire (ex-Razzett tal-Hbiberija)
Time: 0900

Wednesday 31^st March: The North West with Lunch (Scenic, Gastronomical)

We will take a westerly direction to Anchor Bay, climb behind Popeye Village to follow the cliff-edge right down to ic-Cumnija. We will sweep Qammieh taking in the views in all directions. A lunch will follow.

This walk was initially planned for the 6^th March, but had to be moved because of the rally. More details will be given later on.

Duration: 3.5 hours plus the lunch

Rating: Moderate, with rough terrain and moderate inclines

Meeting Place: Mellieha Bay bus terminus

Time: 0900

-----------------------------------
Green Country Code – for a more respectful approach to our countryside
Adapted from Malta, Gozo & Comino: Off the Beaten Track - a Nature Trust publication 2002

Refrain from collecting or causing harm to any specimens of flora, fauna, geological items such as fossils and stalactites or archaeological artefacts.
Respect natural habitats, sensitive sites and the local inhabitants. Tread lightly and avoid disturbance.
Avoid causing noise and light pollution (especially in caves or at night)
Do not dispose of any waste in the countryside or sea
Do not light fires in vulnerable locations such as caves, beneath trees, on dry grass or garigue areas
Keep to paths where possible – avoid trespassing on defined private property and cultivated fields.
Avoid trampling
Be informed beforehand of the protection status of any sites you will be passing through – some activities may be restricted in such areas or at least they may require extra attention upon visiting
Report any grass fires or emergencies on 112
Enjoy the countryside!

Important telephone numbers:

· Emergencies, Fire, Police: 112
· Police: 2122 4001
· Administrative Law Enforcement MALTA: 2122 4001 or 21235761
· Administrative Law Enforcement GOZO: 21562040

Report environmental issues to MEPA on their 24-hour emergency tel no: 2069 9595.
As per the MEPA advert, this should be used for all emergency reports related to pollution, littering, nature protection, illegal development, construction site management.

> If you encounter injured wildlife contact immediately International Animal Rescue Malta
(Mr Max Farrugia mobile: 9947 1212)
> If you encounter marine wildlife (injured/stranded/dead) contact Nature Trust’s Marine Rescue
Team on 9942 2085/6.
> Report sightings of marine mammals, reptiles and sharks to Nature Trust on 9942 2085/6 or
mailto:info@naturetrustmalta.org
> Be extremely cautious when handling injured animals!
> For weekend emergencies i.c.w. injured pet animals such as cats and dogs contact the Vet
Emergency Service on 50043888


Report archaeological findings to: Anthony Pace, Superintendent of Cultural Heritage, 138, Melita Street, Valletta. VLT 08. Tel. +356 21 230711; +356 21 251874; Fax. +356 21 251140 E-mail anthony.pace@gov.mt
http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/ http://www.culturalheritage.org.mt/


The Natural History Museum at Mdina may be interested in knowing about any dead wildlife you encounter.