Community

Royal Gun Salute

To mark Her Majesty The Queen’s 96th birthday, a 21-Royal Gun Salute was fired by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment at Grand Battery House.

Special Olympics Reception

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD hosted a reception for the athletes of the Special Olympics Gibraltar who will shortly be participating in The Special Olympics Malta Invitational Games.

15 athletes were selected to travel to Malta to compete in the Games amidst 550 athletes from 23 countries. They will be accompanied by National Director and Head of Delegation Annie Risso and the coaches of the four sports the Gibraltar athletes will compete in: swimming, athletics, bowling events and 5-a-side.

His Worship welcomed the athletes, coaches, the Executive Committee of Special Olympics Gibraltar, sponsors and guests to the Mayor’s Parlour. Also in attendance were the Minister for Equality, The Hon. Samantha Sacramento MP and Deputy Mayor Carmen Gomez, who joined His Worship in wishing the athletes the very best for the Malta Invitational Games.

Nico Goes back to school

GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition students at Bayside School were visited last week by Chef Patron Nico Fitzgerald, who demonstrated a number of high-skilled dishes. Nico is a London-based chef who was born and raised in Gibraltar. He recently reached the quarter finals in Masterchef: the Professionals and is currently in the process of opening his own restaurant in St Albans, Llanito by Nico Fitzgerald.

GCSE students work towards making 3 complex and layered dishes of this nature in just 3 hours at the end of their GCSE. Watching Nico cover some of the skills they have already been building and showing them how to put together attractively presented plates gives them the confidence that they can produce quality dishes at the end of the course.

This amazing opportunity saw Bayside’s Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE students watch Nico make confit chicken leg and pan-fried chicken breast with spiced celeriac purée along with boulangère potatoes and charred tender stem broccoli, accompanied by a chicken and madeira jus and tarragon oil. This was followed by an apple tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream and raspberry fluid gel.

During the demonstration Nico asked the students questions and offered explanations to link the cooking methods to the theory they are developing in their GCSE. Students were fascinated by the multiple layers of skills and the level of preparation that goes into making these dishes in a restaurant. The different career pathways in this valuable profession and the possible routes they could take should they wish to gain experience in this field were explained.

Senior Teacher Analise Benitez said, “This was a really valuable opportunity for students to learn first-hand from a professional in the field. Thank you Nico – it not only looked stunning but we can honestly say it tasted absolutely amazing!”

AMBULANCE STAFF ACE TEST

The GHA’s Ambulance Service recently held an Emergency Response Driving test for their three new Ambulance Care Assistant members of staff; Mr Francis Vallejo, Ms Joely Borda and Ms Naomi Martinez.

Stuart Ryan, Chief Ambulance Officer (Ag) said, “I am absolutely delighted that Francis, Joely and Naomi have all successfully completed and passed their Emergency Response Driving Test.

I would like to thank our driving instructors Mr Paul Watson and Mr Charlie Noguera for their continuous efforts in making this possible.”

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE MIDWIFE

The GHA marked the International Day of the Midwife with a stand in Cathedral Square that explores and celebrates the past, present and future of Midwifery. Director General Patrick Geoghegan also paid a visit.

Mayor’s Awards Ceremony

The annual Mayor’s Awards Ceremony was held on 5th April 2022. The Chief Minister, The Hon Fabian Picardo QC MP attended the Ceremony held at the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall.

Following nominations from members of the public and endorsed by the Awards Board, His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, conferred fifteen Mayor’s Awards to worthy recipients.

Well done everyone.

ROYAL VISIT TO THE ROCK. 

His Excellency The Governor Sir David Steel has welcomed the announcement that The Earl and Countess of Wessex will visit Gibraltar 7-9 June.

The Governor said, “The visit in Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year is a reminder of the unbreakable bond between the UK and Gibraltar. I look forward to receiving Their Royal Highnesses. They will be warmly welcomed.”

LATERAL FLOW TESTS

HM Government of Gibraltar has announced that COVID-19 Lateral Flow Tests will be made more widely available in Gibraltar and will provide people with greater options for self-testing.

ved by the Director of Public Health will be able to be imported into Gibraltar and sold in pharmacies and other retail shops. It is, however, important to note that only tests that appear on the Director of Public Health’s list of approved lateral flow tests and which can be found on the Public Health Website, will be allowed to be imported.

Members of the public are urged to share details of their lateral flow test result, whether negative or positive, using the online form setup by Public Health.

It will enable the Health Protection team to continue to identify outbreaks in vulnerable settings and implement control measures to prevent further spread.

Gibraltar Then & Now 

A book by Robert Santos focusing on Gibraltar’s landscape and streetscapes and how these have changed over the years is due to be launched in May. The initiative supported by Gibraltar Cultural Services will raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Gibraltar Charity. The retired senior civil servant explains his original interest was piqued during his time working in the Building Control Section. Since, he has been posting photographic comparisons of different areas of Gibraltar online over the years and was inspired to write the book after support and encouragement.

This illustrated book is divided into sections covering the entire territory of Gibraltar with a complete chapter on Main Street. Another section focuses on the bygone bars, restaurants and nightclubs of the Rock which are part of our social history.

Robert has researched historical landmarks and elaborated on them to generate interest and includes curious historical facts which he has discovered during this process. The author believes some of the anecdotal content will surprise some people and amuse others, with some “Yanito” terms included.

The book will be available for purchase as from Wednesday 11th May from the John Mackintosh Hall Reception, and the Gibraltar National Museum priced at twenty pounds.

To pre-order a copy call 20075669 or email jmhreception@culture.gov.gi

Pipes And Drums At The Convent

His Excellency, The Governor, Sir David Steel, was delighted to welcome the Band of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment to The Convent to perform a wide range of music in front of family members and friends.

GHITA Assembly At St Joseph’s Lower

St Joseph’s Lower Primary School hosted the GHITA Chairperson, Edgar Triay, at their assembly about raising awareness of hearing impairment. The children learned about the different causes of hearing loss, and also elements of the alphabet in sign language.

Mr Triay showed the children a model ear and the key parts of it. The children were very enthusiastic and took home information to share with their family members.

Blood Donor Drive

The GHA has called on members of the public to come forward and register their interest to donate blood, as part of its Brexit contingency planning to increase blood stock levels on the Rock.

The GHA’s blood department is also currently contacting all existing blood donors to start the process of apheresis – when the blood is passed through a machine separating platelets before returning the remaining blood back into the donor.

Members of the public can register as blood donors by email blooddonations@gha.gi or by calling 200 72266 ext. 2252, between 8am and 4pm Monday-Friday to speak to a Senior Donor Carer.

Blood donors must:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 60

• Have had no tattoos, piercings or acupuncture within the last year

• Have no any underlying medical health conditions

A full assessment will be carried out on an individual basis during the first appointment to determine the eligibility and compatibility of the donor.

Director of Nursing and Ambulance Services, Sandie Gracia, said, “It is very important that Gibraltar becomes self-sufficient when it comes to blood donations. I strongly encourage all of our existing and new donors to come forward and donate blood. This will help us save lives. Remember, it could be your neighbour, family or friend who may need your blood. Donate blood, save a life.”

AIRPORT FIRE SERVICE TRAINING

A number of Airport Fire and Rescue Service personnel were actively engaged in various specialist training courses during December. In the first instance FF Craig Bonnici, who recently qualified as a firefighter in October, returned to the UK for aviation specific training. This 2-week aircraft firefighting and rescue course took place at the International Fire Training Centre (IFTC) in Teesside where he was able to further develop his skills and knowledge at this specialist centre.

The IFTC has extensive facilities to allow very realistic aviation related fire and rescue scenarios. This intensive course covered all areas necessary to qualify him for his future role and provided an opportunity for FF Bonnici to widen his experience, working alongside colleagues from various UK airports. Following his return, he has now commenced a further local development training phase as an operational firefighter on crew at the AFRS.

NEW GHA CHARGE NURSES

The six new charge Nurses will take up the clinical managerial responsibilities of overseeing patient care which involves further developing the direct delivery of quality assured patient services, staff management and the day to day operational management of their respective clinical departments, within the wide range of the clinical services that the Gibraltar Health Authority provides.

This includes the Mental Health Services, Day Surgery, Night Services, the Accident & Emergency department and Medical Rehabilitation services. The newly appointed Charge Nurses will assist in the provision of an accessible and authoritative presence in the clinical areas, to whom patients, family members and staff can turn to for clinical leadership, advice and support.

Director of Nursing and the GHA’s Ambulance Services Ms Sandie Gracia RN, MBE, FRCN welcomed the six new Charge Nurses saying, “this is an important step in the continued hard work and enhancement of current service provision. This will be greatly beneficial to nurse led clinical services that will also prove beneficial towards ensuring that our service users and their relative’s experiences of care delivery are positive and responsive to their current and future needs.”

MAYOR’S AWARDS

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, would like to remind the public they are invited to submit nominations for the next conferral of the Mayor’s Awards to be held at the end of March.

The closing date to receive nominations is Friday 4th February 2022.

The Mayor’s Awards have become a permanent fixture in Gibraltar’s annual civic calendar and serve to highlight the extraordinary achievements of members of our community.

Having started as a lifesaving award for members of the essential services displaying a high degree of valour, the scope of the awards was later widened to include persons who have served Gibraltar in a distinguished manner, over a prolonged period and/or for a specific event or achievement.

The Nomination Form can be found at www.mayor.gi or collected from the Mayor’s Office in the City Hall.

For more information, please contact mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi or 200 47592.

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING

The Department of the Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change and Heritage has indicated that it would like to remind people of the recycling programme for real Christmas trees.

The species generally used for Christmas trees, even if rooted, will not survive in Gibraltar’s climate. Recycling trees by turning them into mulch for use in planted areas helps to protect soils around Gibraltar and minimises the amount of waste going to landfill.

Members of the public are encouraged to recycle any real Christmas trees by removing all decorations and depositing them at the Civic Amenities Facility on Europa Advance Road. The facility is open seven days a week from 8am to 8 pm Monday – Friday and 9 am to 5pm at weekends. The trees will then be shredded for mulch by staff from the Department of the Environment and Climate Change and used in planted areas around Gibraltar.

Michael Danino Award Announced

The Gibraltar Live Music Society (GLMS) has announced the winner of this year’s Michael Danino Award.

The Award launched in 2017 is the brainchild of the GLMS Committee and is awarded to the musician whom they feel has had the most energy, passion and drive on and off the stage as well as acknowledging their accomplishments. Previous winners include James Montegriffo, Adrian Pisarello, Mark Muscat and Robin Fitzpatrick. Due to the world pandemic, no recipient was awarded the accolade in 2020.

A spokesperson for the GLMS said, “This year has been quite a challenge for musicians across the Gibraltar Music Scene but despite that, they have worked hard behind the scenes to work on new projects and this year’s recipient has definitely done just that. This musician has flown the Gibraltar flag everywhere with a lot of grace and we can’t wait to see where their career goes from here.”

The GLMS is therefore pleased to announce that this year’s recipient is Hollie Buhagiar.

Hollie is a multi award-winning Gibraltarian composer based in London, who specialises in crafting bespoke scores for film, TV and Theatre. She has worked on a plethora of projects including shorts, feature length films and series alongside Grammy and Academy Award winning engineers in the finest studios across London. 

Graduating from Leeds College of Music with first-class honours in Music production, Hollie continued on to complete a Masters at the National Film and Television School.

Throughout her career she has been hailed for her unique and varied sonic palette as well as her ability to create fascinating scores that approach traditional composition from a new and exciting perspective.

On being awarded this year’s Michael Danino Award, Hollie said, “It means a great deal to have been presented with this award. I’ve missed home so much, over these last couple of years most especially. You’re all always in my thoughts and it’s so wonderful to know I’m there in yours too. Thank you to everyone involved in choosing me for this wonderful honour, I am so excited for what’s to come, I’ll be flying our flag as high as I possibly can!”

Well done Hollie from everyone in Gibraltar and all your friends at Insight.

NEW YEAR HONOURS

Her Majesty The Queen has granted the following National Honours:

Ms Hazel Cumbo to be a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Justice in Gibraltar.

Mr Lewis Stagnetto to be awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the Marine Environment in Gibraltar.

On behalf of the Gibraltar Honours Board, His Excellency the Governor, Vice Admiral Sir David Steel KBE DL, has granted the Gibraltar Award to:

Msgr Charles Azzopardi for services to the pastoral care of the community in Gibraltar.

Mrs Paulette Finlayson-Napoli for services to the promotion and teaching of dance in Gibraltar.

Calpe House for services to the people of Gibraltar.

EXTENSION OF BRIDGING MEASURES

On 31 December 2020, the Transition Period under the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement came to an end. This brought an end to what used to be the position prior to 1 January 2021 whereby Gibraltar, its citizens and its businesses, enjoyed EU rights. The end of the Transition Period brought about important changes.

However, certain provisions have been made to rollover the existing measures into the New Year.

Persons with a right of access to public healthcare in Gibraltar will continue to be able to access public healthcare in Spain, up to 30 June 2022, on terms equivalent to those which existed under EU law prior to 31 December 2020. This arrangement will therefore allow for persons entitled to healthcare provided by the GHA to be able to continue to access medically necessary, state- provided healthcare in Spain during a temporary stay in Spain. It will also allow for persons resident in Spain but covered by Gibraltar social security legislation (including frontier workers) to continue to access public healthcare in Spain.

The Gibraltar Government will provide reciprocal treatment, in Gibraltar, for visitors to Gibraltar or persons resident in Gibraltar, under the same terms.

The period which allows for persons legally resident in Spain to continue to have their Gibraltar driving licences recognised in Spain has been extended again up to 28 February 2022. For the avoidance of doubt, the public should note that this information is relevant only to holders of Gibraltar driving licences who are legally resident in Spain.

With respect to the recognition of Gibraltar driving licences for persons visiting Spain, the position remains as set out in the Government’s Technical Notice of 15 June 2021. Gibraltar driving licence holders who are not legally resident in Spain do not require an International Driving Permit when driving in Spain.

Again, the Gibraltar Government continues to provide reciprocal treatment, in Gibraltar, for visitors to Gibraltar or persons resident in Gibraltar, under the same terms.

GFRS Gearing back

Like most organisations, the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service’s training schedule, has been slowly returning to some form of normality, after being seriously disrupted by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

As soon as restrictions allowed, personnel were engaged in both local and overseas training events, resulting in a busy schedule of late.

Incident Command Course – ICL3

Station Officers Jason Mesilio and Adrian McComb completed the Advanced Tactical Incident Command course (ICL 3) at the Fire Service College (FSC) in Moreton-In-Marsh, Gloucestershire. The course provides delegates with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding, to perform advanced tactical incident commander duties when managing larger and more serious incidents.

Tactical Ventilation Instructor Course

Also at The Fire Service College, Sub/Officer Jared Olivero and Leading Fire Fighter Martin Posso, together with colleagues from the Airport Fire and Rescue Service, attended Tactical Ventilation Instructor’s Course,

This course encapsulated “modern” firefighting techniques, whereby fires and products of combustion are mechanically and/or naturally managed, in order to create less arduous environments for fire fighters and survivable conditions for trapped occupants.

HM Naval Base Exercise – HMS Dragon

Closer to home, personnel took part in an exercise on board HMS Dragon. Simulating a fire on board the vessel, GFRS personnel, assisted by the vessel’s crew, conducted “search and rescue” and firefighting operations. This provided an excellent opportunity to test various aspects of our response, including JESIP interoperability principles.

A Time To Remember

A wreath was laid to commemorate the armistice and to honour The Fallen. Station Officer Jason Mesilio, proudly represented the GFRS at both events.

The Minister with responsibility for Fire and Rescue Services, the Hon Samantha Sacramento, also added “Training enables firefighters to learn new skills and techniques in order to make their jobs safer. Training days such as these keep firefighters active and engaged in this important field of work. It serves so many purposes that it is imperative for all firefighters to undertake as many courses and training events as possible to strengthen the capabilities of our Fire Service.”

Ultimate Goal

The Minister for Sport, the Hon Steven Linares met with local female footballer Shania Robba who is taking part in The Ultimate Goal Season 2, currently showing on BT Sports 1.

The Ultimate Goal, now in its second season, is a football academy programme in search for the next female football star, featuring 26 players recruited from around the globe. The academy is run by former and present superstars of football with the participants receiving masterclasses, guidance and mentorship assisting them in their football careers. The final stage of the competition is an 11- a-side football match against top class opposition in front of dozens of scouts from all around the world.

Each week the programme follows the life of one of the competitors, with Shania who is currently in the last 16 of the competition featuring in an episode filmed in Gibraltar.

Minister Linares said, “I wish to publicly congratulate Shania for her great achievement and joining so many Gibraltarian sportsmen and women in placing Gibraltar on the world stage of sports. Her hard work, determination and the many hours of training since a very young age is reflected in her success. I wish her all the best in the programme and in all her sporting endeavours.”

School Visits To HMS Dragon

Having just appeared on the big screen in the latest James Bond adventure, HMS Dragon provided the perfect venue for what turned out to be an action-packed adventure for Gibraltarian schoolchildren.

They had opportunities to find out more about the wide range of roles and equipment on board and to get hands-on with some very special activities.

From sitting in the Captain’s chair to working on their firefighting skills using hoses, the children were fascinated by all that they saw. They even used binoculars to try and spot their school from on board!

Vicky Stephens, St Christopher’s Early Years Foundation Stage Leader said, “It was brilliant to be able to provide an insight into the world in which some of their parents work.”

Sonia Lopez, headteacher from St Bernard’s added, “I can’t thank the crew of HMS Dragon enough for the simply phenomenal tour given to our children today. The children had an amazing time which I am sure they will hold dear in their memories for many, many years to come. The teachers who attended said it was the best educational visit they had ever been on.”

Lest We Forget

This ten metre veil, adorned with almost 5000 poppies, was created by members of the Arts and Crafts Association with help from residents of Mount Alvernia, Knit Gibraltar and other members of the public during lockdown.

His Worship the Mayor was extremely pleased to see this beautiful and creative tribute to the fallen, take pride of place at City Hall for all the community to see.

Minister for Culture John Cortes met with Chenille Brown, together with her Dance Teachers from The Showdance Company to congratulate her on her recent success abroad.

Chenille, who had come fourth in the International Dance Organisation European Jazz Championships, won representation at the prestigious Sussex Festival of Dance at this year’s Gibraltar International Dance Festival. She competed in the Sussex Festival recently and was placed 2nd in the Contemporary division and 4th in the Modern section.

The Minister, Chenille and the Showdance team discussed various aspects of Dance in Gibraltar, remarking on how successful dancers from Gibraltar have been at competitions, and professionally, abroad, and on the large number of young people who take part in the performing arts in Gibraltar.

The Minister wished Chenille, currently studying A levels at Westside, well for the future and success in pursuing Dance as a career.

Calpe House London Visit

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD was delighted to accept an invitation by Albert Poggio and the trustees of The Calpe House Charitable Trust to visit Calpe House in Norfolk Square, London.

His Worship had the opportunity to meet the staff and trustees, the people who work tirelessly to ensure this building lives up its motto of being ‘home from home’ for patients requiring medical treatment in the UK and their escorts.

He met current guests of the House and prepared a meal with them. An avid cook and host himself, His Worship can fully appreciate the importance of sitting around a table with friendly faces, especially at times when a family member or friend is not feeling their best.

For more information, please contact
mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi or call 200 47592.

48th Gibraltar International Art Exhibition 

The Gibraltar International Art Exhibition organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture is being held at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery.

Artists from Gibraltar, Spain and Romania submitted a total of one hundred and twenty-eight works.

The Minister for Education and Culture, the Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change, Heritage and Public Health, The Hon Prof. John Cortes MBE JP MP officially opened the Exhibition and presented the awards on Tuesday 2nd November 2021. Mr John Maine RA RWA, a Royal Academician from the United Kingdom, carried out the adjudication.

The Prize winners included:

The Gustavo Bacarisas Prize

1st Prize Karl Ullger ‘Forgotten Patio’

The Jacobo Azagury Prize

2nd Prize Monica Popham ‘Blue Light’

The Leni Mifsud Prize

3rd Prize Cristina Lopez Ramirez ‘Carrusel’

The Rudesindo Mannia Prize

Best Gibraltar Theme Ronald Gingell ‘Majestic Rock’

The Mario Finlayson Prize

Best Young Artist Tyrone Anthony Vera ‘Disconnection’

World heart day

World Heart Day is a global campaign where individuals, families, communities and Governments around the world participate in activities to take charge of their heart health and that of others.

Created by the World Heart Federation, World Heart Day informs people around the world that cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease and stroke is the world’s leading cause of death claiming 18.6 million lives each year, and highlights the actions that individuals can take to prevent and control CVD.

In order to mark this very important day, the GHA hosted an awareness stand outside St Bernard’s Hospital. The GHA invited the community to visit the awareness stall where Healthcare professionals shared their knowledge and provided Gibraltarians with the tools they need to live longer and healthier lives. The stall contained information leaflets prepared by the GHA’s Cardiac Rehab team and nurses also provided basic life support demonstrations.

Clinical Nurse Specialist, Mr Gerry Fortuna, who leads Cardiac Rehabilitation Services said, “World Heart Day is only one day a year to reflect upon heart health. How we think, and the choices we make, the remaining 364 days of the year, is equally as important towards cardiac health and overall wellbeing. Our healthcare specialist team at the Lionel Perez Cardiac Rehab Centre, remain totally committed to offering cardiac clients and their families, effective evidence- based, cardiac prevention and rehabilitation strategies; structured programmes and a platform of patient support. The team’s main objective on this day is to create maximum cardiac awareness, which will assist us to keep cardiac incidence in Gibraltar to a bare minimum”.

The Minister for Health and Care, The Hon Samantha Sacramento, opened the awareness stand this morning and added, “As the world struggles to fight the Pandemic, we’ve never been more aware of the importance of our and our loved one’s health. Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death globally and it has many causes; from smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Taking care of our hearts right now is more important than ever. The GHA, as the Government’s healthcare provider, remains committed to implement policies and initiatives that will lead to positive changes and encourage individuals to lead a healthier lifestyle. I therefore thank the community who attended our awareness stall”.

Doe recruitment

The Duke Of Edinburgh’s International Award is looking to recruit new participants in Gibraltar.

If you are aged 14 to 24 years then you can take part in your own time, and at your pace.

The Award comprises three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold; with each level having four sections: Voluntary Service, Physical Recreation, Skills and Adventurous Journey. There is an additional section, Gold Residential Project, for those at that level.

If you’re a pupil at Bayside, Westside Schools or Prior Park School keep an ear out for announcements in the coming weeks.

Or, if you belong to the Air Training Corps or Scouts Gibraltar, ask your Leaders about undertaking the Award.

Even iff you are no longer in school, or not a member of the above, but want to find out more, including how to enrol, get in touch – info@thedukes.gi

New life for an old lime kiln

The on-going programme of heritage restoration has completed restoration works on the Old Lime Kiln located at Willis’ Road on the Upper Rock. 

The Lime Kiln was constructed in the late 19th Century or very early 20th Century and is one of two such kilns located on either side of Gibraltar’s western and eastern slopes, which produced quicklime for use in the construction of Gibraltar’s water catchments and underground reservoirs. This a practice that can be traced back to the 14th Century, when quicklime was employed to paint houses and patios.

Minister for Heritage John Cortes commented, “The restoration of another heritage asset continues our policy of investing in small scale but highly valuable projects that enhance and develop what we have on offer. Yet again, we have found a way to beautify a site that had been neglected for decades”. 

​The Rotary Club of Gibraltar youth grant funded by the Duke of Edinburgh Golf Charity fund is now open to applicants.

The Duke of Edinburgh Golf Charity was launched by Deputy Governor Nick Pyle and his wife Ros Day.  A cheque for £10,000 was also presented by the Deputy Governor to Rotary President, Jane Hart Simmons, during a formal handover ceremony at the start of August in the Convent Garden. During the presentation Nick Pyle commented that he was delighted to partner with Rotary in helping those young people in the community in need.

The Rotary club of Gibraltar will be distributing grants totaling £10,000 in the forthcoming year. These grants are available to youth groups and individuals within Gibraltar. The Rotary Club expects a wide ranging selection of projects from short educational and vocational courses, to sports or endurance attainment.

Applicants should be aged between 14 and 19 years old and will need to show that a specific project for which funding is sought will improve their physical and mental well-being. 

The grants awarded range from £200-£500 and applicants can find the application form at rotaryclubgibraltar.org Completed applications should be sent to info@rotaryclubgibraltar.org

Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, is pleased to announce the nominees for the 2021 Cultural Awards. The Awards are aimed at celebrating the best of Gibraltar’s arts and culture to recognise potential, ability, talent, and achievement supporting the community’s cultural development. 

As part of the process, the public is encouraged to vote for their preferred nominees. The public lines will be launched in September with the support of Gibtelecom, who will be providing the telephone numbers. Proceeds from the calls will be donated to the GBC Open Day. 

JUNIOR (Under 15’s) 

1. Gino Ochello 

‘Best Youth Actor’ Drama Festival, involved in GAMPA online programming and other Academy performances. 

2. Louis Pitto 

Short Story Competition winner, year group 6/7 (Spring Festival), Poetry Competition Highly Commended, year group 7/10 (Autumn Festival). 

3. Mia Hook 

Overall winner of Bookmark Competition & school years 7/10. 1st Place Jazz Duet & 2nd Place Commercial Solo at online Global Dance Open. 

YOUTH (Under 25’s) 

1. Carmen Anderson 

‘Best Supporting Actress’ at Drama Festival, & jointly directed additional play. Online blog, ‘Into the Industry’ series of interviews with professionals working in the Arts. Regular contributor to local papers & magazines. 

2. Darius Oliva 

Young Musician of the Year (top prize) Gibraltar Festival of Young Musicians, Parasol Foundation Scholarship recipient, involved in GAMPA online programming. 

3. Louis Emmitt Stern 

Directed and performed play ‘Lungs’ post lockdown. Ran series of workshops to promote access to drama courses for young people receiving free school meals in the UK. Delivered drama and writing workshops in Gibraltar working with various organisations. 

4. Stephane Dominicy 

Composed music for ‘Times of Closure’ documentary. Collaborated in video that won category in Spring Visual Arts Competition. Created several musical pieces during lockdown available on Spotify. 

5. Zulaika Vallance 

‘Young Artist prize’ at International Art Exhibition 2020, 1st Prize at the Young Art Exhibition 2021 and received a Highly Commended Award at the Spring Visual Arts Exhibition 2021. 

SENIOR (Over 25’s) 

1. Ian Serra 

Production of full-length horror film with Gibraltar as the setting using a local cast, the first feature film produced entirely in Gibraltar by Gibraltarians. 

2. Karl Ullger 

1st Prize in Heritage Trust’s 2020 online competition. Shortlisted for UK’s Jackson painting prize out of 8674 entries. Highly Commended in 2020 International Art Competition. ‘Best Gibraltar Theme’ at Spring Visual Arts Competition 2021. Strong online presence. 

3. Kitchen Studios 

Organised two exhibitions at GEMA with interactive material and collaborations. Provided online content throughout lockdown, with artist takeovers. Ran workshop for Youth Arts Jamboree 2021. 

4. Richard Garcia 

Published two volumes on Gibraltar’s social history ‘Forging a Civilian Population’ and ‘Ordinary Life in Peace and War, 1749-1783’. Current editor of Gibraltar Heritage Trust Journal. Contributed to Literature Week 2020, and published series of articles on Loreto Convent 175th Anniversary. 

BEST EDUCATIONAL PROJECT 

1. Geraldine Martinez

Street Art Mural selected for Department of Education Façade as urban renewal programme, raises awareness of the environment and nature. 

2. Gibraltar Heritage Trust Painting Competition

In its 32nd edition the competition promotes awareness of Heritage sites whilst producing an artistic record of Gibraltar. It attracts participant of all ages and abilities. The 2020 lockdown edition went ahead with the theme ‘A View from my Window’, the 2021 version attracted around 60 artists. 

3. Westside School Writer of the Week

English Department’s ‘Writer of the Week’, an anthology of creative writing as part of the school’s ‘Writer of the Week’ initiative. The project was promoted online with a video produced by students. Additionally, Westside produced a thoughtful and intrinsic display to mark Armistice Day. 

The Awards ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday 3rd November 2021 at the Sunborn Hotel. 

The Gibraltar Youth Service is excited to invite young people to participate in their #Rockthrifters project.

#Rockthrifters is a collaborative project between the Gibraltar Youth Service & Clubhouse Gibraltar, with the vision to create a culture in Gibraltar of buying previously loved items of clothing and to encourage reuse, repurpose and up-cycling of garments.

Charlene Figueras, Senior Youth Worker said, “The aim is to deliver a programme that educates young people around the issues of fabric waste. This initiative allows them to understand budgeting skills, encourage them to buy smarter and inspire them to be more creative in how they present themselves and dress by reusing what they have and to be unique.

“We encourage the public to support this project and buy from the Clubhouse charity shop and post their outfits with the @rockthrifters handle and #rockthrifters hashtag to social media.”

Event Guidance Update

Public Health Gibraltar has revised the guidance for small, seated, ticketed events. This means that ticket holders need to be either fully vaccinated with two doses or have had a negative COVID test within the previous 24 hours in order to attend the event.

The revised guidance supersedes earlier information whereby ticket holders attending small, seated, events were required to be double vaccinated and have a negative COVID test within the previous 24 hours.

Event organisers are reminded that if they wish to hold an event they are to complete an event notification form Appendix_B_Event_Notification_Form from  www.culture.gi and submit it to entertainment.licence@gibraltar.gov.gi

HERITAGE AWARDS

The Gibraltar Heritage Trust has invited nominations from the public for this year’s round of Heritage Awards. 

The Heritage Awards have been presented annually by the Gibraltar Heritage Trust since 1993. The awards will be made for outstanding sensitivity or contribution to Gibraltar’s heritage.  They may be made to an individual (including juniors under the age of 16), group, team, club, firm or company for a positive contribution, of any kind, that has enhanced Gibraltar’s heritage, or for exceptional, successful efforts in preserving a part of Gibraltar’s heritage.  The object of the awards is to recognise heritage conservation projects and developments and encourage the involvement of the community in achieving high standards of restoration of buildings, structures and monuments in Gibraltar, thus promoting public recognition and awareness of Gibraltar’s heritage and history. 

There are four categories of Award: 

Junior Heritage Award: 

Awarded to projects carried out by a school, youth group or individual under the age of 16.

Group Heritage Award: 

Awarded to companies, groups or developers.

Individual Heritage Award: 

Awarded to projects undertaken by private individuals.

Special Commendation: 

Awarded at the discretion of the Board of the Heritage Trust to individuals, groups or companies felt to have contributed to the positive promotion of heritage issues. 

Further details about the awards and nomination forms can be obtained from the Trust’s office at the Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Square, Mondays to Fridays, during normal office hours, or can be requested from exec@gibraltarheritagetrsust.org.gi or downloaded from gibraltarheritagetrust.org.gi

Closing date for nominations is Tuesday 14th September 2021. 

GHA Recognition

The artist will be running a creative workshop using unwanted plastics and non-recyclable materials into art, based on her recent installation at GEMA, titled ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Mandala’. Participants are encouraged to bring clean, empty crisp packets and bottle tops. The workshop is suitable for children aged 10-14.

The GHA’s Director of Nursing Services and the Ambulance Service Sandra Gracia MBE has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Royal College of Nursing in recognition of her outstanding contribution to nursing.

A Fellowship is the highest honour that the Royal College of Nursing Council can bestow on a member.

Minister for Health and Care, the Hon Samantha Sacramento said, “I am delighted that Sandie’s remarkable contribution to nursing and healthcare in Gibraltar has again been recognised this time by the Royal College of Nursing. This prestigious honour is testament to Sandie’s exceptional professionalism and inspirational leadership in guiding the GHA’s nursing services through the extraordinary challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Congratulations, Sandie, on this well- deserved distinction.”

ERS PRECAUTIONARY VISITOR CLOSURE

The Gibraltar Health Authority and Elderly Residential Services have, with regret, made the decision under Public Health advice to stop visits to residential homes. This is in order to safeguard residents against the current high incidence of positive cases in the community and the increase in COVID-19 related hospital admissions.

The reinstatement of visits will be evaluated on a daily basis and held under constant review against the incidence of the positive cases in the community.

The GHA and ERS wanted to put it on record that they thanked all residents and their families for their understanding and cooperation in this matter.

The Minister for Health and Care, the Hon Samantha Sacramento said, “It is with a heavy heart that once again we have been advised to close our residential homes to visitors in order to protect the safety and wellbeing of our residents. This will be kept under constant review and visits will be resumed as soon as it is considered safe to do so.”

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE GDP

The Gibraltar Defence Police’s work to keep the Rock safe is continuous. Ahead of the recent Queen’s Birthday Parade, the GDP worked extensively with other agencies, as well as on their own, to ensure that the event could go ahead safely for everyone in Gibraltar to enjoy.

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, has invited nominations for The Pride of Gibraltar Awards 2021. These Awards, part of the We are One Campaign, and in collaboration with the Gibraltar International Bank, will celebrate the “unsung heroes” who have worked tirelessly and selflessly during the COVID Pandemic in Gibraltar.

The public has been asked to nominate individuals from all walks of life who have made a real difference in the community. These nominees may have sacrificed their time volunteering, helping friends, family or neighbours, or perhaps have gone above and beyond their duties at work.

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, has invited nominations for The Pride of Gibraltar Awards 2021. These Awards, part of the We are One Campaign, and in collaboration with the Gibraltar International Bank, will celebrate the “unsung heroes” who have worked tirelessly and selflessly during the COVID Pandemic in Gibraltar.

The public has been asked to nominate individuals from all walks of life who have made a real difference in the community. These nominees may have sacrificed their time volunteering, helping friends, family or neighbours, or perhaps have gone above and beyond their duties at work.

The Awards will highlight people whose actions made others more comfortable without asking for any recompense or recognition, and who made the impact of those trying times a little less arduous.

Nomination Forms are available at the City Hall Reception or can be requested  from mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi

The closing date for nominations is on Friday 23rd July 2021.

More information is available from 200 47592 or
mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi

olunteering, helping friends, family or neighbours, or perhaps have gone above and beyond their duties at work.

The Awards will highlight people whose actions made others more comfortable without asking for any recompense or recognition, and who made the impact of those trying times a little less arduous.

Nomination Forms are available at the City Hall Reception or can be requested  from mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi

The closing date for nominations is on Friday 23rd July 2021.

More information is available from 200 47592 or
mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi

More information is available from 200 47592 or
mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi

Covid cancels events

HMGoG has taken the precautionary step of cancelling all large events from now until September on its premises in response to the rising number of COVID cases in Gibraltar.

The only events that will for the moment proceed with will be smaller, seated, ticketed events, and only with patrons being double vaccinated and having had a negative COVID test within the previous 24 hours.

The Ministry of Culture and the Office of Civil Contingencies will be reaching out to event organisers to explain further, and the Ministry will assist in holding these events in the future when the situation once again improves.

The Government has also called on private bars, restaurants and nightclubs to be cautious in the events that they hold, to strictly control numbers, and to ensure that patrons are vaccinated and have a negative COVID-19 test result.