Located in the heart of the Central Highlands Region in outback Queensland, The Gemfields boasts the largest sapphire field anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. Despite this, it’s not just precious gems taking centrestage – this area is like a hidden secret, one that is abundant with Indigenous history and natural wonders to rival the Kimberley.

Search for sapphires

Travel four hours inland, west from Rockhampton, and you’ll arrive at The Gemfields. Comprising the small towns of Rubyvale, Willows, Anakie and Sapphire, The Gemfields is much like its name suggests: 900 square kilometres of a miner’s paradise. Come here to marvel at the true-blue sapphires. You’ll be joined by many gem hunters from all over the world who come to The Gemfields to find precious gems.

Explore the outback’s beauty

The beautiful blue sapphires aren’t the only exciting part of The Gemfields; the Central Highlands Region has a plethora of outdoor delights to make you feel at one with nature. While you’re in Rubyvale, be sure to head to Policeman’s Knob to catch stunning views across The Gemfields. Hilariously named after the policeman who would sit atop the lookout and search for criminals, Policeman’s Knob is a 56-million-year-old volcanic basalt plug that happens to be the oldest in the world! There’s also the nearby Carnarvon Gorge, which is home to a range of natural beauties, such as Boolimba Bluff.

Tour the country towns

While you’re in Emerald, take a relaxing stroll around the Emerald Botanic Gardens. Complete with picnic facilities, walking trails, playgrounds and a giant easel with Van Gogh’s Sunflowers on display, this family-friendly attraction is full of native palms (and even the odd wallaby!), and is a wonderful place to wind-down and admire all the amazing flora Queensland has to offer. Before you leave, grab a gourmet pie or baked goods at the Fairbairn Bakery, which claims to have the best pies in central Queensland.

The Winter 2022 edition of Caravanning Australia is out now!

_{Image: Boolimba Bluff (C) Tourism and Events Queensland.}