Mayor Janice Moriarty joined community members on Sunday 11 August 2024 at the Jewel of the Gemfields event in Sapphire, hosted by the Gemfields Lapidary & Craft Club.
The event was part of the week-long Gemfields Festival program, which featured markets, workshops, and entertainment across the four towns of the Sapphire Gemfields area, including the return of Anakie’s Gemfest.
‘This annual program of events not only showcases the incredible talent and creativity within the Sapphire Gemfields but also plays a vital role in boosting our local economy,’ said Mayor Janice Moriarty.
‘By bringing together traders, artisans, and visitors, we’re not just sharing the beauty of our gems and crafts, we’re fostering growth and sustainability in our community.’
President of the Gemfields Lapidary & Craft Club Deb Wouters spoke about the tremendous turn-out for their event.
‘This event was huge – over the 3 days we estimated roughly 10,000 visitors. The entire car park and street was filled,’ she said.
‘It was just amazing to see so many local tourists and people all around Australia travel to come to our event.’
Mayor Moriarty said council was proud to support the festivities by making sure venues and facilities were clean and tidy, ready to welcome visitors and locals alike.
Want to view more photos from the Jewel of the Gemfields event? Visit the Gemfields Lapidary and Craft Club’s Facebook page here.