THINGS TO SEE & DO

BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Holiday-Village-Saffire-Gemfields-min

The Gemfields

You’re sure to catch gem fever when you visit the Sapphire Gemfields, one of the largest sapphire bearing areas of the world. Taking in the townships of RubyvaleSapphireAnakie and Willows, the Sapphire Gemfields are only a 45-minute drive west of Emerald and cover almost 900 square kilometres. People from all over the world descend on the Sapphire Gemfields each year to experience fossicking firsthand, trying their luck to uncover the ultimate gem. CLICK FOR MORE INFO

BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Holiday-Village-Blackdown-Tableland

Blackdown Tablelands

Rising abruptly above the surrounding plains, Blackdown Tableland National Park is a cool oasis. Covering approximately 47,950 hectares, this sandstone plateau boasts colourful wildlife, spectacular views and a range of nature-based activities. Blackdown is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people, who have visited this place for thousands of years and have left behind rock art; vivid reminders of their special culture. Note: The 6km sealed road up the tableland is steep and winding so is unsuitable for towing heavy trailers or caravans. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Holiday-Village-Virgin-Rock-Springsure

Virgin Rock Springsure

Virgin Rock, which is situated four kilometres from Springsure is on the eastern side of Mount Zamia and has a naturally formed likeness to the Virgin Mary and Child. The spectacular cliffs are floodlit at night and can be viewed from the Lions Park. The formation is amazing and a must see when travelling to Carnarvon Gorge. For more info visit:  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Holiday-Village-Emerald-Gardens-min

Emerald Botanic Gardens

Relax as you meander through an oasis like no other within Queensland’s Central Highlands. The Emerald Botanic Gardens is a tropical paradise providing the perfect location for a relaxing afternoon stroll or an early morning walk. Situated on the banks of the Nogoa River, the Emerald Botanic Gardens are the only botanic gardens located within the Central Western District of Queensland. Covering an area of 42 hectares (420,000 square metres) the gardens provide residents and visitors with not only a place to relax and unwind but also an opportunity to gain further insight into the region’s natural environments. The gardens have six kilometres of walking tracks that lead to picnic areas, playgrounds, mazes, sculptures and specialised plant communities. Established in 1987 by the Emerald Shire Council and local residents Lawrie and Myra Stanton, the Gardens are home to 12 different themed plant communities, most representing plant species that are native to the region. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Holiday-Village-Emerald-Gardens

Van Gogh Sunflower Painting

The world’s biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting is situated in Morton Park, Emerald. The superstructure is 25 metres high with approximately 13.6 tonnes of steel involved in its construction. It is part of a concept by Cameron Cross to erect seven Sunflower sculptures in seven different countries, reproducing Van Gogh’s seven different Sunflower paintings. Emerald’s Sunflower Painting was finished on 8 November 1999. The painting celebrates the Central Highland’s past as a major sunflower producer. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
BIG4-Lifestyle-Parks-Lake-Maraboon-Emerald-Train-Station-min

National Trust listed Railway Station built in 1900

Emerald’s first Railway Station was built in 1899 but, unfortunately, burned down within a year. In 1900 a new Railway Station was built of timber, with an iron roof, wrought iron trimmings and pillared portico. The building design was signed by Henrik Hansen was built by Thomas Moir. The station building was built in the federation style of architecture, and is one of the few examples in Queensland of stations built in timber using this style. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in October 1992. It was restored in 1986 and is well worth a visit.   CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.