About Pats

The Pats Story

Pat’s Sapphire Central, also known to many as Pat’s Gems Tourist Fossicking Park, has been welcoming families, travellers and gem enthusiasts to Queensland’s famous Sapphire Gemfields for more than 50 years.

Founded by Pat and Dave, our business began with a simple vision—to share the unique experience of sapphire fossicking and introduce visitors to the people, history and beauty of the Gemfields. They never intended to create a major tourist attraction; they simply wanted people to experience the excitement of finding their very own gemstone.

Pat believed the best way to understand the Gemfields was to get your hands dirty. Rather than simply looking at gemstones in a display, visitors could fossick through local gravel, uncover sapphires and zircons, and take home a piece of the region’s incredible story. Her warm personality, genuine hospitality and passion for the Gemfields made every visitor feel welcome, turning first-time guests into lifelong supporters.

Today, Pat’s Sapphire Central proudly continues that legacy. We offer authentic fossicking experiences using genuine Gemfields wash, gemstone-cutting demonstrations, locally inspired jewellery and gifts, delicious food and refreshments, and a relaxed country atmosphere that reflects the spirit of our community.

More than a tourist attraction, we’re proud ambassadors for the Sapphire Gemfields. We love sharing the region’s rich mining heritage, local stories and unique landscape while supporting local businesses and encouraging visitors to explore everything the Central Highlands has to offer.

One of our greatest achievements is seeing generations of families return. Children who first visited with their parents now bring their own families to experience the same excitement of discovering a sapphire together. Those shared memories are what make Pat’s Sapphire Central so special.

As tourism continues to grow, our commitment remains the same—to provide an authentic, hands-on experience built on genuine country hospitality, local knowledge and a deep respect for the Gemfields.

Whether you’re visiting for your first fossicking adventure or returning to relive treasured memories, you’ll find more than gemstones here. You’ll discover the stories, friendships and unforgettable experiences that have made Pat’s Sapphire Central one of Queensland’s most loved fossicking destinations for more than four decades.