Townships within Central Queensland Highlands are set to shine at this year’s Gemfest, Festival of Gems from 12th – 15th August. With planning well underway for the iconic event, which was dampened by pandemic restrictions in 2020, Australia’s Premier Gem Show promises to be yet another huge success.
Connecting the treasure mining localities of Sapphire Gemfields, Rubyvale, Sapphire, Anakie and the Willows Gemfields, and highlighting the appeal and sheer beauty of precious and semi-precious stones, the four-day celebration will play host to traders and merchants, activities, exhibitions, entertainment, workshops, prizes, demonstrations and more.
President Bruce McFarlane together with the Gemfest committee, is proud to be rolling out the sparkling spectacular, that will welcome thousands of visitors to the COVID-safe event.
“Aside from all of the old favourites, we will also be bringing some new entertainment to this year’s festival,” Bruce said.
“Brisbane-based police officers, The Murphy’s Pigs will feature as Saturday and Sunday’s headline performances, breathing new life into old classics and placing their unique stamp on contemporary treasures, including some of their own original songs.”
“They have graced some massive stages including the world’s largest celtic festival, Festival Interceltique de Lorient in France, Tamworth’s Country Music Festival, the Woodfood Folk Festival, Gympie Music Muster, Winton’s Way-Out West Fest, and the Australian Celtic Festival,” Bruce said.
“This is a big band, with a big sound and nearly an acre of suit fabric! If you like singing your heart out, tapping your feet, and dancing like no one is watching, this year’s Gemfest is for you.”
While local sapphires are undoubtedly the gem of choice at Gemfest, diamonds, pearls, zircons, opals and other gemstones will also be on display, along with gold, crystals, fossils and minerals.
“Gemfest in 2021 is back, so mark it on your calendars and get ready for the biggest and best year yet,” Bruce said.
More details still to be released closer to the event. To learn more about Gemfest, Festival of Gems 2021, visit www.gemfest.com.au.
