THERE is no better way to experience the gemfields than on tour, say Peter and Pam Blackburn from Mt Surprise Gems.
They offer three different tours to give people a range of choices. There’s the tour to their own claim. You don’t need a fossicking licence, and anything you find is your own. The second is called the Goldfields Tour and provides a look at some historic areas on the fields to see how tin was mined. It’s a combination of history, flora and fauna, geology and a quick go at fossicking, plus smoko.
The third tour is a three-day experience which they have dubbed their See and Do It All Tour. It takes in fossicking at O’Brien’s Creek, a visit to the TerrEstrial Mineral Display at Georgetown, Cobbold Gorge, agate fossicking, Kidston and the Einasleigh Gorge. The tour starts from Mt Surprise and there are in-car or tag-along options. You can be fully accommodated or choose a camping option.
Mt Surprise Gems itself is a one-stop fossicking shop where you can buy jewellery and see gem facetting demonstrations. Beading with gemstones, agates and other materials can also be done at the store.
The shop’s eatery is superb. Relax on the verandah over breakfast, lunch, dinner – or takeaway is available. The eatery is licensed as well.
Wander through the themed garden which features native plants reminiscent of the granite environment of O’Briens Creek. See the little miner’s hut and play the giant games like chequers and hopscotch. The garden is part of the Open Garden Scheme and there is an entry fee ($5) on the official open day, July 20.
Check the store’s new online shop at mtsurprisegems.com.au.
