Rotary friendship was celebrated in style during a very enjoyable dinner held at the Royal Malta Yacht Club, bringing together members of Rotary Club La Valette and Rotary Club Damme of Belgium. The event was promoted by RC La Valette member Christine Dalli and RC Damme member Patrick Hamilton, whose long‑standing friendship served as the link behind this successful exchange. Rotarian Sandra La Rosa expertly coordinated local arrangements.
The Belgian group arrived in Malta on Thursday and immediately began exploring the island’s rich heritage. On Friday, April 24th, they enjoyed a full day in Gozo, taking in its landscapes, history, and relaxed charm. Saturday was dedicated to discovering the ancient capital of Mdina and the neighbouring town of Rabat, where the visitors experienced Malta’s medieval past and vibrant cultural layers.
A highlight of the programme was the visit to Valletta, with particular emphasis on St John’s Co‑Cathedral. The Belgian Rotarians were deeply impressed by the cathedral’s splendour and especially by the opportunity to view Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St John the Baptist, a work that never fails to captivate visitors.
On Saturday evening, RC Damme President Stephen Douitreluingne led the Belgian delegation to the Royal Malta Yacht Club, where RC La Valette President Clare Vassallo and club members warmly welcomed them. The open‑air terrace overlooking Valletta’s historic bastions provided a stunning backdrop for the evening. A pleasant sea breeze, excellent food, and lively conversation created an atmosphere that perfectly reflected Rotary’s core values of fellowship and international understanding.
The evening also celebrated the growing collaboration between the two clubs. RC La Valette and RC Damme have recently joined forces to secure a Global Grant of USD 40,000 in support of Dar T’Ghanniqa t’Omm in Mosta. The Grant, approved by The Rotary Foundation, will commence in July and represents a meaningful commitment to supporting vulnerable mothers and children in Malta.
As the evening drew to a close, guests were treated to a spectacular surprise: the fireworks display of the 25th International Fireworks Festival illuminated the sky over Valletta, offering a festive and unforgettable farewell to our Belgian friends. The night ended with warm goodbyes and a heartfelt promise of au revoir.
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If you would like to donate to support the Club’s work and projects, you can do so through a direct bank transfer to the following Bank Account, specifying “Club Donation” when effecting the transfer. You are also encouraged to write to us on: [email protected] so that we may acknowledge your donation personally. Thank you.
Bank account details:
Account Name: Rotary Club La Valette Malta
Bank: HSBC Bank Malta plc, High Street, Sliema, Malta
Account No: 006 123467 001
Sort Code: 44060
IBAN: MT35MMEB44060000000006123467001
Swift Code: MMEB MTMT
