Running since 1988, the annual Gemfest Festival of Gems is one of the most popular celebrations of sapphires and gems in Australia and this year promises to be bigger than ever! Running for 4 days from 11th to 14th August in Central Queensland’s Sapphire Gemfields, the festival offers fun and entertainment for the whole family: gem displays and exhibitions, music and live performances, a dedicated children’s entertainment area, gems and jewellery for sale, lapidary and equipment supplies for gem enthusiasts…Gemfest has something for everyone! And while you’re there, why not try your luck gem fossicking in some of the largest sapphire fields in the world!
If your luck runs out in the gemfields, there are thousands of dollars in prizes up for grabs so make sure you enter the daily Lucky Gate Prize Draw, Gemfest Raffle and Stake-A-Claim competition. The fantastic prize pool includes exclusive locally-made sapphire jewellery and other fabulous treasures.
The jewel in the crown of the festival is undoubtedly the Jewels of the Outback exhibition, featuring some of the best sapphires in the world! This must-see exhibit showcases remarkable and rare sapphires, some of which are only on display at Gemfest.
While local sapphires are the gem of choice at the Festival, a vast array of other precious gems and stones will be on display, such as diamonds, pearls, zircons and opals, along with gold, crystals, fossils and minerals.
The festival features different trader and exhibitor areas, each with their own feel and theme, plus a selection of top-notch entertainment including live music, comedians and roving performers.
Wondering how to keep the kids entertained? Gemfest also offers a Kids Amusement area, plus roaming clowns and kid-friendly entertainment, and Market Street stalls selling all kinds of toys and novelties; so the festival truly is a fun day out for the whole family.
Make sure you stick around for the party at Rubyvale Miners Reserve on Saturday night – kicking off with the lighting of bonfires at sunset, followed by live bands and a spectacular fireworks display; it’ll be a night to remember!
When: 11th to 14th August 2016
Where: Based at the Anakie School of Arts Hall and the Allen King Memorial Park, Anakie Queensland.
