Gem Fest is back at Bribie Island

Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club’s Gem Fest is returning in September.

The event will feature gemstones, rocks, minerals, jewellery, lapidary supplies, children’s fossicking, a raffle, and food and drinks.

It will be held at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre, 191 Sunderland Drive, Banksia Beach, on September 13 from 8am-4pm and September 14 from 8am-2pm.

This is a main annual fundraising event for the club, with money is used to maintain its equipment.

The Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club operates from its premises at the Bribie Island Community Arts complex and is a not-for-profit organisation with more than 95 members.

They enjoy learning skills associated with lapidary crafts, including casting, faceting, silversmithing, wax casting, enamelling and cutting and styling stones.

They also turn their work into wearable jewellery.

President Sandra Moran says: “The Gem Fest will have about 50 to 60 vendors, the club will have a stand selling rocks and minerals, plus we have a showroom full of jewellery made by members for sale and exciting rock and mineral displays to enjoy.

“For children there is lots to enjoy and see including the kid's fossicking tables where they can try their luck at finding a gem or two.”

Entry is a gold coin, or minimum $2 if using a credit card. Admission is free for children aged 15 years and under.

Join the fun

If you are interested in joining the Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club, it is open to members every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-1pm, as well as Monday evenings from 6-9pm.

The club is also open on the last Sunday of each month from 8am-noon, so the community can visit the gift shop and buy hand-crafted jewellery.

For more information about the Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club, plus the upcoming Gem Fest, visit the website.