Discover Inverell Australia – Dig For Sapphires, Diamonds and Topaz Gems
Inverell is an intriguing Australian town with a proud pioneering history. Perched along the Macintyre River, Inverell sits in-between Sydney and Brisbane in New South Wales. Set in the New England Tablelands in NSW, this picturesque valley is well worth a visit.
The Gaelic meaning of Inverell is: the meeting place of the swans. However, Inverell is now better known as Sapphire City as it is home to many valuable gemstones. In fact, you can try your luck at finding some gemstones yourself while you are visiting!
Stay for a few nights to really immerse into the history of this pioneering town. Inverell is very popular for people who love to camp out by the waters edge. But if a bed and doona is more your thing, there are hotels and motels available as well.
Get Active
Inverell is a great location for those who enjoy an active holiday. You will have the choice of bushwalking, Four-Wheel Driving, fishing, swimming, kayaking and even white water rafting! In fact, it is said that Inverell is one of the best areas for white water rafting in Australia, and this popular activity takes place on the Gwydir River between October and March. The walking trails on offer are also amazing for viewing waterfalls and rapids.
Inverell Pioneer Village
Immerse yourself in the glory of the olden days at the Inverell Pioneer Village. An authentic recreation of historic buildings and homes, the Pioneer Village will have you entertained with a gem museum, Pody’s Pub and Hotel, the Grove Homestead, a Miner’s Hut and a machinery exhibit. Each unique building houses an extensive display either of historical value or related to the building in which it is found.
When you have finished exploring these buildings, take some time out for afternoon tea at the Village Store. If you time your visit right, you might be lucky enough to be there during the Inverell Pioneer Village Machinery Rally
Fossicking
Inverell is known for its abundance of gems and minerals including; sapphires, diamonds, quartz, tourmaline, zircon and topaz among others. The best part is that you can go fossicking for these gems yourself!
There is a selection of outlets that will set you up on a creek to go fossicking. They provide you with all the equipment and instructions required for fossicking.
Olives and Wine
Inverell is starting to become a rather large producer of Olives and Olive products. Visit one of the Olive Groves during your stay to sample the delicious fare. While sampling, try the local wines at one of the four vineyards in this area. With both red and white wine on offer, it is definitely a good idea to have Inverell accommodation already booked and ready to go!
Sapphire City Festival
The Sapphire City Festival is a celebration of all the great things that Inverell has to offer. Usually held in October (but please check each year before booking your holiday), the festival goes for an entire week. There are activities for all of the family, from the children to the grandparents. The week is jammed packed with lots of fun including a cup race day, art exhibition, carnival rides, a duck race and ending it all is a spectacular fireworks display.
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About The Author: Tom Mallet is an Australian freelance writer and journalist. He writes extensively in Australia, Canada, Europe, and the US.
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