If you’re after peace, quiet, and a bit of adventure (without the five-star fuss), the Willows Gemfields is the spot to check out. Just 11 km off the Capricorn Highway and about 45 minutes west of Emerald, this small town is known for its stunning green and yellow sapphires and a friendly community full of character.
What makes this place so special is that very little mining machinery has ever been used, meaning there’s still plenty of treasure hidden in the ground. In fact, one of the world’s most famous sapphires, the 332-carat Golden Willow, was found right here.
hands in the dirt, eyes on the prize
Fossicking here is all about old-school hand mining: digging into ancient creek beds, sieving out the rocks, washing the gravel, and spotting that glittering sapphire among the heavy stones. You might even uncover a zircon or the occasional diamond.
You’ll be happy to know that in the Willows Gemfields, the sapphire-bearing wash is found a lot closer to the surface than in other areas. That means less back-breaking digging for you!
Just a stone’s throw from town, fossicking areas like The Duffer, Augies Gully, and Thru-the-Fence are local favourites.
For fossicking notes and more information, you can head here.
join a fossicking tour
Prefer a guided adventure? Willows Gemfields Fossicking Tours offer small-group adventures led by a local who knows all the best spots and tips to help you find that perfect gem.
Photo Credit: Willows Gemfields Fossicking Tours
explore glenalva
A short drive away is Glenalva, another public fossicking area that’s well worth a visit. Here, the shallow wash hides sapphires in a range of colours, from striking greens to rare blues and even black star sapphires. Camping is allowed (with a permit), and the ridge-top views make it a pretty spot to spend the night.
Photo Credit: @tim.timo.timothy.timotheus (18ct green)
GOOD FOOD and GREAT COMPANY
Looking for a relaxed spot to unwind? The Willows Gemfields Recreation Club is your go-to on Wednesdays for a friendly pool comp, and on Saturdays and Sundays during tourist season for a cold drink and hearty pub meal. Run by volunteers, it’s licensed, welcoming, and the perfect place to meet locals and swaps stories from the day’s digs.
Visiting in summer? Best to check ahead to see if they’re open.
Photo Credit: Central Highlands Regional Council
bush buddies
Keep an eye out for the friendly local wildlife. Birds, kangaroos, and wallabies are common visitors, and you might even spot a rufous bettong (rat kangaroo), often seen hopping around local campfires, adding extra company to your fossicking adventure.
map it out
Want to know where to sleep, eat, and fossick? The Willows Gemfields Mud Map has it all, from caravan parks and local facilities to the tracks that lead you to all the top fossicking spots. Whether you’re here for the day or staying a while, it’s your go-to guide.
Pick up a copy from the Willows Gemfields Caravan Park.
where to stay
The township may be small, but it’s got the essentials – a general store, service station (unleaded only), and two caravan parks with cabin and camping options, including pet-friendly stays.
Willows Gemfields Caravan Park
Gem Air Village Caravan Park
Photo Credit: Willows Gemfields Caravan Park
important info
A quick heads-up: there’s no potable water available in the Willows Gemfields, so make sure to fill up your water tanks and bottles before you arrive.
stay in the loop
For the latest events and local news, take a look at the Gemfields Community Newsletter.