Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1538943
SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL FRIDAY 29 AUGUST 2025 • ISSUE 060 • PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY gozotoday €1.00 'Keep Gozo unique,' says Gozo Tourism Association SEE PAGE 6 Mary Portelli's latest exhibition features 45 new works NADUR local Mary Portelli, an established mosaic artist, is just weeks away from the opening of her upcoming exhibition at Il- Ħaġar Museum in Victoria on September 13. Portelli told GozoToday that from the moment she discovered mosaic, she was "hooked on it," and soon gave up other art forms to focus entirely on mosaic work. Since then, she has developed a distinct style, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary approaches. Gozo Tourism Association presents its 2026 budget proposals STRENGTHENING connectivity, di- versifying tourism, safeguarding the en- vironment, and investing in people are among the key proposals put forward by the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) ahead of the 2026 budget. Key priorities include upgrading ferry and port infrastructure, exploring new air links, and implementing "smart transport solutions to improve accessibility." Furthermore, the association said that there needed to be a greater focus on niche sectors, like diving, cultural heritage and agritourism. Whilst also acknowledging that legislation must modernise to keep with evolving visitor demands. The association added that protecting Gozo's unique character requires tailored planning policies, conservation incen- tives, and the establishment of marine re- serves. It also emphasised the importance of joint marketing, digital innovation, and targeted support to position the island as a year-round destination. CONTINUES ON PAGE 4-5 LAURA CALLEJA lcalleja@mediatoday.com.mt Photo: The People Malta