National Gem show expected to fill Rockhampton next Easter

Published on 10 July 2018

Rockhampton has been chosen to host Australia’s largest national gem and mineral show which will bring more than 5,000 visitors to the Region during the 2019 Easter break.

The 55th annual Gemboree will be held at the Rockhampton Showgrounds from 19-22 April and will showcase gemstone and minerals activities of Australia to local, national and international visitors and exhibitors.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said Gemboree adds to the growing list of national events making Rockhampton their choice of location.  

“It’s very fitting for our Region to play host to a tradeshow of this kind especially with our roots in the Mount Morgan Gold Mine and with a number of Gemfields in neighbouring communities, Rockhampton is the best vantage point to explore these unique attractions in Central Queensland,” Mayor Strelow said.

“We know the importance of ensuring the Region is alive with events during the Easter break and an event like this bringing thousands of visitors is a fantastic opportunity for our community to experience something new and it’s great for our local economy too.”  

2019 Gemboree Coordinator Arthur Cleary said the organisation is aiming to make this years’ event the largest Gemboree to date.

“For the first time we will include an international symposium sponsored by the Gemmological Association of Australia which will attract even more national and international visitors than normal with a great program of presentations that will interest gemmologists and jewellers,” Mr Cleary said.

“In addition to a vast array of rocks, fossils and gems, the Gemboree tradeshow will be a display of the finest lapidary work with demonstrations and workshops as well as jewellery making competitions which will attract competitors across Australia. Patrons will also have the opportunity to join field trips in the local area.”

Mr Cleary said the event is organised and coordinated by volunteers of the Queensland Gem Clubs Association (QGCA) and will cost in excess of $250,000 to run.

“To help us make this the greatest Gemboree event that Australia has ever seen, we are inviting locals, clubs and organisations, gemstone businesses and tourism operators to partner with us,” Mr Cleary said.

For more information visit www.aflaca.org.au/gemboree.