Sapphire has been sparkling since the early 1900s, when miners and gem buyers from around the world were drawn to its rich deposits. The town quickly grew into a lively hub of discovery and community spirit, a vibe that still shines through today.
Whether you’re here to try your luck at fossicking or just soak up the character of the region, here are 10 things to do in Sapphire.
1. POLISH YOUR SKILLS
Tucked in Roy Day Park, you’ll find the Gemfields Lapidary and Craft Club. This volunteer-run centre is a welcoming place for anyone who loves gems and getting crafty! Pop in on Wednesday or Saturday mornings (9 am–12 pm) for hands-on activities like silversmithing, polishing stones, faceting, and cabbing (cabochon). They’ve also got a craft space with everything from wire wrapping and Viking knitting to painting and crochet. And yes, there’s smoko, complete with a cuppa and homemade treats.
2. Stroll the Sunday Markets
For a taste of local life, don’t miss the Sapphire Central Markets! Every Sunday from April to October, Roy Day Park fills with stalls and friendly chatter. Wander through everything from sparkling sapphires and handmade jewellery to pre-loved clothes, crafts, books, bric-a-brac, and delicious food. It’s the perfect way to spend a lazy morning, and maybe pick up a quirky souvenir or two.
Photo credit: Elaine Mack
3. Wander the Wetlands
The Sapphire Gemfields Wetland Reserve is a peaceful 14-hectare escape on Rockhound Road. Enjoy 3.6 km of walking or bike trails winding through Coolibah, Brigalow and Poplar Box woodlands. Depending on the season, the wetlands shift between a lush, rain-fed habitat and a dry, tranquil landscape.
Keep an eye out for wallaroos (they’re like kangaroos but darker and stockier), eastern grey kangaroos, native birds, and even rare invertebrates like fairy shrimp, tadpole shrimp and clam shrimp.
Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
4. Dig for Treasure
You can’t visit Sapphire without giving fossicking a go.
For beginners, start at a dedicated fossicking park like Gemfields Fossicking Park or Pat’s Sapphire Central. These spots are set up with everything you need – buckets of sapphire wash, tools, troughs, and friendly locals to show you how it’s done. They’ll guide you through sieving, washing, sorting, and spotting the sparkle.
Warning: once you find your first gem, you’ll be hooked!
Feeling adventurous? Buy a fossicking licence online or by calling MyMines on (07) 3199 8133. Then head to public fossicking areas like Big Bessie or Graves Hill. These DIY spots require a bit more effort, so bring water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Sapphires in the rough can look like ordinary gravel, so take your time and look closely!
5. Shop the Sparkle
Whether you’re buying or just browsing, it’s fun to check out the jewellery stores in town. Expect everything from delicate keepsakes to dazzling statement pieces. If you’ve found your own sapphire, local jewellers can cut and set it into something special before you leave. Don’t miss Aussie Gem Designs, Coolamon Mining, Foote’s Gems, McArthur’s Jewellers, and M&M Sapphires.
6. Pull Up a Stool at the RSL
The Gemfields RSL Sub-branch is open Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 3 pm to 8 pm between May and October. Enjoy a drink, a casual meal and a yarn with friendly locals. If you’re eligible, the RSL Veterans Retreat also offers accommodation for service members, ex-service members, and first responders.
Photo credit: Sarah Duguid
7. Meet the Makers
Creativity runs deep in Sapphire. Book a visit with local artists like Grace Petterson, Livforever Creations, and Shona Nicholls, Shona’s Watercolours, or drop into Ron’s Red Barn Handcrafted, a gallery of recycled art and locally made pieces. Open weekends from 10am to 2pm, or call ahead to arrange a visit (0428 384 500).
Photo credit: Ron’s Red Barn Handcrafted
8. Stretch and Recharge
Need a moment to reset? Join a Saturday morning yoga class with Little Gem Yoga at Kangoulu Park or visit the Sapphire Healing Centre for an integrated healing session.
9. Say Hi to the Camels
Yep, camels! As you drive along Rubyvale Road between Sapphire and Rubyvale, you might spot a few camels grazing on the roadside.
Gordon and Von O’Connell’s camels roam the Miners Common, charming visitors with their big personalities and even bigger history. Back in 1988, Gordon and his camel Carla took on the legendary 3,300km Great Australian Camel Race — and won! These days, their camels enjoy a slower pace, grazing freely and wandering home for a weekly visit.
10. Snap a Pic with the Big Things
Australia is known for its ‘Big Things’, and Sapphire has its own collection! Grab a selfie with the Big Pickaxe, Big Sieve and Shovel, Big Sapphire Ring, and Big Spanner.
WHERE TO EAT
Exploring works up an appetite, and Sapphire has plenty of options. Try a burger at Blue Gem Tourist Park, a meal or snack at Pat’s Sapphire Central, classic pub fare at the RSL, or coffee and fresh produce from Fresh Gemz.
WHERE TO STAY
Need a place to rest after all that adventure? Check out these comfy local options:
Blue Gem Tourist Park
Gemini Caravan Park
Sapphire Caravan and Cabin Park
The Barn on Sunrise
Veterans Retreat at the RSL (for eligible guests)
STAY IN THE LOOP
For the latest events and local news, take a look at the Gemfields Community Newsletter.