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Joe Grech, Malta’s First Eurovision Representative, Dies at 90

Joe Grech, Malta’s First Eurovision Representative, Dies at 90
Dec 30 2024 Share

Joe Grech, the first artist to represent Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest, has passed away at the age of 90.

Born in Cospicua, Grech began his musical career as a bandsman with Żejtun Band before transitioning to singing. He achieved national fame in 1960 after winning the Malta Song Festival with Vola Uccellino, marking the start of his illustrious career.

Grech gained international recognition in 1971 when he represented Malta at Eurovision with the song Marija l-Maltija, Malta’s debut entry. Throughout his career, he performed for Maltese communities abroad, holding concerts in countries with large expatriate populations, including Canada, the UK, and Australia.

In 1964, Grech’s talent was further acknowledged when he won a trophy for best singer-composer at the International Song Festival in Bari with his song Dorina. His albums, Eviva l-Maltin (1995) and Katarin (2000), remain cherished by fans.

A dedicated philanthropist, Grech often collaborated with Caritas, led by his brother, Mgr Victor Grech, donating proceeds from his music sales and engaging in voluntary work.

Joe Grech leaves behind a legacy as a pioneer of Maltese music, beloved at home and abroad.

#MaltaDaily

’Jump For Life’ Event In Fight Against Addiction

’Jump For Life’ Event In Fight Against Addiction
Dec 30 2024 Share

The ‘Jump for Life’ event, organised by the OASI Foundation, came to a successful close yesterday, serving as motivation for individuals battling addiction to take the bold step towards seeking help.

The day began with a hike to the Sanap Cliffs and was followed by kayaking along Gozo’s shores. The event’s main highlight was the symbolic sea jump, where 26 participants plunged into the cold water, symbolising the bravery it takes to embark on the journey to recovery.

The ‘Jump for Life’ event unites participants and raises awareness about the vital role of community involvement in overcoming addiction.

#MaltaDaily 

Meridianbet Celebrates 17 Years in Malta and 5 Years of Retail Operations

Meridianbet Celebrates 17 Years in Malta and 5 Years of Retail Operations
Dec 30 2024 Share

Meridianbet, a prominent name in the betting industry, is celebrating two significant anniversaries in Malta this year. The company is marking 17 years since establishing its presence on the island and 5 years since venturing into the retail sector in Malta. This dual celebration highlights Meridianbet’s commitment to the Maltese market and its growth in the region.

Meridianbet’s Footprint in Malta

Meridianbet’s 17-year history in Malta represents a substantial period of operation in one of Europe’s key gaming jurisdictions. This longevity speaks to the company’s stability and its ability to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape of the iGaming industry.

The company has leveraged Malta’s reputation as a gaming hub to expand its digital offerings, providing a wide range of sports betting and casino games to customers across Europe and beyond.

Meridianbet Celebrates 17 Years in Malta and 5 Years of Retail OperationsRetail Operations:

Meridianbet currently operates six betting shops across Malta:

  • 85, Triq il-Gandofflli, Buġibba
  • 184, Triq is-Santwarju, Ħaż-Żabbar
  • 174, Naxxar Road, San Ġwann
  • 42, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara
  • 152 Constitution St, Mosta
  • 59 Triq Gorg Borg Olivier, Il-Mellieħa.

Acquisition of MGM

In a significant move to further strengthen its position in the Maltese market, Meridianbet has acquired Media Games Malta. This acquisition brings with it a number of additional shops around the island, expanding Meridianbet’s retail footprint and enhancing its presence in the local betting landscape.

The acquisition of Media Games Malta demonstrates Meridianbet’s commitment to growth and its confidence in the Maltese market. It also provides the company with an established network of retail locations, potentially allowing for faster expansion and increased market share.

Part of the Golden Matrix Group (GMGI) Powerhouse

Meridianbet, one of the country’s oldest and fully licensed betting operator, is also the sports betting division of the Golden Matrix Group (NASDAQ: GMGI), which includes:

  • Expanse Studios, the fastest-growing iGaming studio in Europe for game development
  • Rkings, a leading platform for physical and digital sweepstakes in the UK
  • Classics for a Cause, the strongest brand in sweepstakes and loyalty businesses in Australia
  • Mexplay, the most popular online casino platform in South America
  • GM-AG, the largest global platform for developing and licensing gaming software solutions

In the third quarter of 2024, Golden Matrix recorded an impressive revenue growth of 75% compared to the same period the previous year. Total revenue for the first half of the year increased by 41%, while gross profit rose by 31%.

Meridianbet Celebrates 17 Years in Malta and 5 Years of Retail OperationsLooking Ahead

As Meridianbet celebrates these milestones, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the company’s growth and its future plans in Malta. The dual anniversaries suggest a strong foundation for continued operations and potential further expansion in the Maltese market.

Disclaimer | Meridianbet is licensed by the MGA. License number MGA/B2C/134/2007. Play responsibly. For help visit www.rgf.org.mt. Players must be over 18. Terms and conditions apply.

Men Caught with Suspected Drugs in Ħamrun to Be Charged in Court

Men Caught with Suspected Drugs in Ħamrun to Be Charged in Court
Dec 30 2024 Share

Two men are expected to appear in court today at 1 pm after being arrested yesterday in connection with an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking.

The suspects, a 31-year-old man from Bormla and a 26-year-old man from Valletta, were apprehended by police at approximately 7 am on Triq Manuel Magri in Ħamrun following surveillance by the Anti-Drug Squad. The men arrived at the scene on a motorbike and in a car, where they were stopped and searched. Over 100 sachets, allegedly containing cocaine, were found in their possession.

Further searches were conducted at an apartment in Ħamrun belonging to one of the suspects and another in Mosta frequented by the other. Police seized additional sachets suspected to contain cocaine and heroin, as well as €20,000 in cash.

The operation, which included assistance from the Special Intervention Unit, was overseen by Magistrate Dr Philip Galea Farrugia, who is leading the inquiry.

The suspects will face charges including drug trafficking before Magistrate Dr Marse Ann Farrugia. Police investigations remain ongoing, and further legal action may be pursued.

#MaltaDaily