Opal Fossicking

Fossicking for precious stones is a pre-occupation for many people in the hope of striking it rich. There are a number of fossicking sites throughout Queensland's Outback - particularly Quilpie, Yowah and Opalton. The south-west of the region is particularly well known for its opals and visitors are able to fossick either in a tour or by obtaining a fossicking permit.

If your luck is in, you might find some boulder opal or one of the famous Yowah Nuts. You may want to use hand tools, picks, shovels and sieves to help you dig. For those with less time you can walk round specking for colour on top of the ground. The locals call this 'emu bopping'. Talk to the locals to get some advice on where and how to fossick.

Mining Regulations
Mining activities of any kind comes under the control of the various Acts administered by the Department of Minerals and Energy. Intending fossickers or miners should consult the Mining Registrars for legislative requirements. Although many miners allow tourists to prospect or 'speck' over their dumps, you should remember that unauthorised entry onto anyone else's mining claim or lease is trespassing. Always get permission before entering an area held under mining tenure. For other areas, a Prospecting Permit is usually required. For more information visit the Department of Natural Resources and Mines website.



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