City’s hidden jewel Mount Gambier Gem Club Open Day this month

The Mount Gambier Gem Club, a fascinating little jewel tucked away on the Hastings Cunningham Reserve, first emerged in our community in 1974. It has been a long and dedicated journey over the past 49 years as the club has continued to share all things mineral, rock and crystal as it keeps the lapidary vision active.

The club meets on two Saturdays each month with extra midweek workshops. Memberships are available for individuals or for the whole family. Families can come together in an alternative hobby and discover new or inexpensive crafts.

Learn to work with rocks, metals, shells or something entirely different.

Field trips have become a regular part of the annual program, along with workshops and social events. Specimen collecting draws individuals towards a whole new world of discovery.

There are activities suitable for people with disabilities and children of school age.

If you are a hobbyist, a serious rock hound or just looking to try something new, then come along to the open day on Sunday, September 17 between 10am and 2pm and learn to think outside the box. There are different ways to achieve that piece of decoration or funky new jewellery. The members of this hub of activity are keen to share their crafts and knowledge with the community.

The club will be showcasing rocks, minerals, gemstones, cutting, polishing and jewellery making.

People are invited to bring along a special rock to discuss with members, or examine specimens under a light or microscope, to discover how light penetrates different formations. Children are invited to participate in jewellery making or rock painting while the family explores the club facilities. Come along and talk with our friendly members and share a biscuit and cuppa.

Enquiries can be directed to Trevor Fulton (president) on 0427 978 777 or Chrissy Pudney (secretary) on 0447 255 557.