Local Emerald Attractions
The Central Queensland Highlands is home to some of the State’s most unique attractions.
Carnarvon Gorge is one of the most visited National Parks in Central Queensland, and the soaring cliffs and natural beauty make it a major tourist attraction for the region. The Sapphire Gemfields are the largest of their kind in the southern hemisphere. The Blackwater International Coal Centre houses the Australian Coal Mining Museum, while Capella’s Pioneer Village and Springsure’s Old Rainworth Fort showcase the region’s European and Indigenous heritage.
The region’s social scene rivals that of larger centres, with horse racing, rodeos, agricultural shows, art and craft markets and various family fun days all regular features on the calendar. Major annual events include the Easter Sunflower Festival and the Dingo Trap Throwing Competition. Find out more at What’s On Central Queensland Highlands.
Emerald Township
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Rubyvale
Rubyvale offers many gem fossicking areas and the best place to start is the Rubyvale Gem Gallery.
You can purchase your fossickers licence and any tools you need and receive expert instruction in how and where to look for precious gems.
Lake Maraboon
Lake Maraboon was created when the Fairbairn Dam was built southwest of Emerald in 1972 for the primary purpose of irrigation. Its capacity is approximately three times larger than Sydney Harbour.
The lake is a popular fishing and swimming spot with a number of BBQ's and picnic tables provided for visitors.
Maraboon is Aboriginal for "where the black ducks fly".
Blackwater International Coal Centre
The Blackwater International Coal Centre provides amazing perspectives of the coal mining industry as it showcases the Australian coal industry to the world. See how early settlers lived and worked. Marvel at the size and scale of the massive equipment used today, and learn about Australia's leading role in the development of technologies of global importance. Experience the warm welcome of a country mining town and be amazed at the sheer size of this vital, world-class industry. It's a totally interactive learning experience for the whole family.
Emerald Railway Station
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 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.
Van Gogh Painting
The world's biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting, standing 25 metres high, is situated in Morton Park, Emerald. 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.
The painting celebrates the Central Highland's reputation as a major sunflower producer.
Blackwater Japanese Garden
The Blackwater Japanese Garden is a cooperative effort between the two sister cities Blackwater and Fujisawa establishing harmony and friendship now and for the future.
White gravel stones denotes water flowing from a waterfall. The placement of rocks within the gravel patterns symbolize the planets in space. The lanterns represent various facets of life and the Goju no tou lantern represents elements of water, fire, earth, wind and air. Some, like the Yamadoro lantern, are made from volcanic rock. The pond is an integral part of any Japanese garden as are all the elements of nature.
Blackdown Tableland
A pleasant one hour drive east of Emerald is the beautiful Blackdown Tableland. Magnificent rainforest gullies and extensive views reward the traveller. The waterfalls and rock pools provide fresh, clear, cool water for those wanting to take a dip.
Munall Campground provides toilets and the walking trails are close by.
Camp sites must be booked and you will need to bring your own water.
Minerva Hills National Park
A 45 minute drive will take you south to the town of Springsure and the Minerva Hills National Park.
The park features a rugged landscape with volcanic peaks, sheltered gorges, sheer cliffs, open woodlands and dry rain forest. There are four lookouts and a picnic area for visitors. Camping is not allowed in the park.
Miners Heritage Walk In Mine Tour
Australia's largest underground walk-in sapphire mine tour. Established in 1982 as a working mine , the mine entry & underground showroom were completed and the first official tour commenced in 1984.
The above ground air-conditioned showroom was completed in 2004 and gives visitors an insight into the craftsmanship of gem cutting.
Rubyvale Observatory
Rubyvale Observatory is in the grounds of the Rubyvale Motel.
The ‘Gems by Day, Jewels by Night’ Observatory Session is a fascinating tour into the wonders of the night sky above the Sapphire Gemfields.
Bookings are essential.
Botanical Gardens Playground
The children's play park has undercover BBQ facilities and a wide range of equipment. There is also an area with fitness equipment if you want to keep in shape.
A short 10 minute walk from Motel 707 quality budget accommodation
How did Emerald get its name?
How did Emerald get its name? It's thanks to a lush green hill - emerald in colour - located just north of the town called 'Emerald Downs Hill'. Established in 1879, this large country town has become the hub of the Central Highlands and gateway to one of the largest sapphire fields in the southern hemisphere.
Emerald used to be a major sunflower producer, which might explain why the town is now home to the world's biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting - measuring 25 metres high. The masterpiece can be found on an easel in Morton Park at the western end of Clermont Street.
Another 'must see' in the town is the National Trust listed Railway Station built in 1900 and restored in the mid-eighties. Featuring wrought iron lacework and pillared portico, it's a spectacular sight - as is the ancient fossilised tree that's found at the Emerald Town Hall, estimated to be over 250 million years old.
