FOR ABOUT 30 years, Ashworth’s has been a major tourist attraction in Home Hill.

And really, it’s no wonder the complex has endured for so long. Situated just 2km south of the Burdekin Bridge on Eighth Avenue, it is truly a treasure house.

Within its doors is the amazing Treasures of the Earth Gallery, which is known to rockhounds throughout the world but is just as interesting to the first timer who has never before seen any of the wonderful treasures from within the earth.

Rocks from different parts of the planet, collected over a period of more than half a century, are on show within the gallery. In fact, there’s everything from agates to rocks from outer space.

For a small admission fee, see this superb display of gems, minerals and fossils. See other fascinating objects - fossils, iron meteorites, opalised wood and even a dinosaur egg.

The founder of the collection, the late Len Ashworth, spent a lifetime collecting rocks. His interest never waned. Even when he was in his late eighties, he could often be found near the agate display, which as well as being world renowned was his personal favourite because of the beauty and huge variety of colours and shapes of the specimens.

The complex also has a souvenir and gift shop, a lapidary and rock shop, jewellery and gems, rest rooms and a covered picnic area.

Ashworth’s is run by Jim and Pam Ashworth, and Pam said that each year more minerals and unusual items were added to the collection. Depending on your interest, it usually takes between 20 minutes and two hours to visit Ashworth’s.

The complex is open from 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, 8.45am to noon on Saturday and from May to August it is also open each Sunday from 10.00am to noon.