Gemfest to rock Bribie Island

If you've never truly experienced the natural beauty of rocks, minerals and gemstones, mark your calendar now for the annual Bribie Island Gemfest.

Held over two big days from September 21-22, the event will feature live demonstrations including gem cutting, as well as more than 60 stallholders selling everything from rough and polished stones to lapidary tools, supplies, and handmade jewellery.

There will also be a free fossicking table where kids can uncover their own gemstones to take home, plus a raffle, food, and refreshments.

Hosted by the Bribie Island Gem and Fossicking Club, president Maz Naci says Gemfest is a great opportunity for the community to find out more about the club and pick up some unique items.

“Last year we had around 10,000 people attend, and I expect we will get that number again because it’s such a great event,” Maz says.

“It’s a chance for the community to get an introduction to jewellery making, with our knowledgeable trainers set to show the crowd what you can create with rough rocks you find on the ground.

“Everyone at our club is extremely knowledgeable and love sharing what they know with other gem and rock enthusiasts who are interested in learning.

“Once you have seen how we cut and polish the rough stones, you can then wander around the many jewellery stalls and see all the incredible pieces people have made.

“Every piece is handmade and unique – you won’t find anything like them anywhere else.

“Many of the stallholders will also be selling gems they have already polished, so you could find one you like and then have it made into something just for you.”

Boasting 160 members, the club is always on the lookout for new friends to come and join in the fun, just like Ronda Duclos did.

She joined in April and hasn’t looked back.

“I have always enjoyed creating things, so I thought this would be a great way to pursue my passion,” Ronda says.

“I started off learning how to make chains and earrings, but I want to learn everything so I can make lots of beautiful jewellery.

“Everyone has made me feel so welcome – if you’re wanting to learn something new and fun, I recommend coming along and finding out more about this great club.”

Gemfest will be held on Saturday, September 21 from 8.30am-4pm, and Sunday, September 22 from 8.30am-1pm.

It will be held at Banksia Beach State School, located at 133 Sunderland Dr, Banksia Beach.

Tickets are $5 for adults. Children under 15 are free.

To see more photos, click through the gallery below.

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-12pm where people from the community can visit the gift shop and purchase some of the beautiful hand-crafted jewellery that is for sale.

The Bribie Island Gem Club is located at 191 Sunderland Dr, Banksia Beach, in the grounds of the Community Arts Centre complex.

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