People from all over the world filled the Multiplex today as they attended Bundaberg Gemfair 2019 hoping to find a unique or precious stone.
Bundaberg Gem Club vice-president Judith Hopwood said there was a 20 per cent increase on traders compared to previous years, including a large number of locals.
“A lot of these traders have found the things they are selling themselves while fossicking,” Judith said.
“We have a mix of local people who are selling and national traders, rocks from Australia and a lot of international as well.”
Treasures for everyone at Bundaberg Gemfair
Jay Rimmington and Rebeka Coch’s eyes were drawn to the beautifully coloured and vast variety of geodes at the Bundaberg Gemfair.
Jay said he hoped to purchase two of the attractive rocks to represent himself and Rebeka.
“I am looking for a pink one and a blue one to sit in my display cabinet,” Jay said.
“They will represent us.”
Bundaberg resident Raelene Valzan and her friend Linda Fitzgerald, who was visiting from Pennsylvania, USA, had been looking forward to the Bundaberg Gemfair for weeks.
“This is my third trip to Bundaberg, and I am here for five weeks,” Linda said.
“I have been corresponding with the Gemfair (organisers) on Facebook and they have been chatting back, so I was excited to come here, and I'm hoping to take home a treasure or two.”
Bundaberg mother and daughter Narelle and Sarah Wilson took the opportunity to make unique keepsake jewellery together at the Bundaberg Gemfair by opening a clam to find a freshwater pearl each at the locally stall, Sweet Jewellery run by Mark and Sue Storey.
Sparkling ideas for Christmas gifts
Bundaberg Gem Club member Brett Tucker said because the annual Gemfair was held in November it was the perfect time for people to shop for a unique Christmas gift.
“They will be able to find some really good Christmas presents here this weekend,” Brett said.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey agreed saying it was the perfect opportunity to take home a treasure that would stay in the family for generations to come.
“The traders are all so proud to share their stories as you walk through the Multiplex for the Gemfair 2019,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“That’s the speciality of the Gemfair as each trader and seller here is sharing information.
“No matter where you go in the world, each city will have a gem store of some kind, and we are lucky enough here in Bundaberg to have a lot of that information all under one roof today.”
Bundaberg Gemfair continues on Sunday from 9am to 3pm and costs $5 at the door to enter.
- Earlier report: Stones from around the world at Bundaberg Gemfair 2019
