Words by Nick Crockford
Caboolture Gem Club will have two huge reasons to celebrate its annual Gem Fest, which is planned for Saturday August 14.
Lockdown permitting, the Gem Fest will be back after missing last year due to COVID and this year will mark the 50th anniversary of the club’s first meeting.
It began in 1971 as Murrumba Lapidary Mineral Club, folded in 1974 and reformed in 1981 using the Ben Johnson Pavilion at Caboolture Showgrounds.
'Incredible achievement'
In 1995 the club became affiliated to QLACCA (Queensland Lapidary and Crafts Club Association) as The Caboolture Gem Club Inc.
“I think the club turning 50 is a testament to the hard work and dedication members past and present have provided,” said club president Jo Anne Delahunty. “Fifty years of volunteers is an incredible achievement.
“The club has started from humble beginnings and grown and developed and be able to provide the community with group that loves all things lapidary and sharing that with them.”
Still happening
Caboolture Gem Club posted on Facebook on Monday: “At this stage it (Gem Fest) will still be happening. Let’s hope the lockdown does end next Sunday.”
Gem Fest will be open 9am-4pm, at Caboolture Historical Village, Beerburrum Rd. Entry $5 for adults. Under 16 free.
The club has around 100 volunteer members whose skills will be on show at the Fest, which will have hand-crafted jewellery, rocks, opals, gemstones and fossils on sale.
There will be plenty of other attractions at this family event, including a chance to explore Caboolture Historical Village.
Club meetings
Caboolture Gem Club is open Monday-Saturday 8.30am-2pm and Monday 5.30-8pm.
Morning sessions have stone cutting and polishing (cabbing), faceting of crystal-type gemstones, silver fabrication for the setting of gemstones and casting, using molten metal to make charms and jewellery settings.
“The club is extremely well equipped to teach all these aspects of our craft,” said Ms Delahunty, “very few other local clubs have the resources we do.”
Visit caboolturegemclub.com.au or facebook.com/caboolturegemclub for more information.
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