Registrations are open for the Lightning Ridge Fossil Dig of August 2022!

WEEK 1: Monday 15 to Saturday 20 August 2022

WEEK 2: Monday 22 to Saturday 27 August 2022 (return participants only)

Location

The incredible outback opal mining town of Lightning Ridge, Australia.

Six days packed with discovery

Our team of fossil experts will take you to special locations seeking new opalised fossils for the Australian Opal Centre’s globally significant collection. Your discoveries will contribute to a world-class scientific and cultural resource. 

• Learn about opalised fossils and Australia in the Age of Dinosaurs
• Learn to distinguish opalised fossils from geological specimens
• Search for opalised plant and animal fossils at special sites
• Experience the excitement of a tailout - moment of truth for the opal miner!
• Collect and process fossil-rich claystones
• Mend, reassemble or prepare fossils
• Learn techniques for casting and moulding
• Attend fascinating lectures on opals, opal mining, opalised fossils and dinosaur hunting
• Experience an underground opal mine

Contribute to science, seize opportunities for experiences not available outside the special bubble of the Lightning Ridge Fossil Dig, make lasting friendships and enjoy the extraordinary sights, sounds and hospitality of the opal fields.

Your guides

Dig participants will be led and guided by:

• Dr Phil Bell: a dinosaur specialist at the University of New England. Phil has uncovered and studied dinosaurs around the globe including in Argentina, Canada, Mongolia and Kazakhstan.
• Jenni Brammall: palaeontologist, gemmologist, designer, writer and Special Projects Officer for the Australian Opal Centre.
• Clytie Smith: vice president of LROFC and a super fossil finder!
• Timothy Fraunfelder: palaeontology PhD candidate and university medal winner for his research on opalised sauropod dinosaur teeth.
• Other great team members and residents of Lightning Ridge.

Cost

$2,200 per person (incl. GST); return digger $1,980.

Price includes all activities and most meals, but excludes accommodation and transport. This is a science and fundraising venture for the Australian Opal Centre and Australian Geographic Society. 

Secure your place!

Don't miss out! Complete and send in your registration form and deposit; participants will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. 

Eligibility

Anyone 18 years and over is eligible to participate in a Fossil Dig; no experience is required. There is a maximum of 40 places available only (two separate groups of 20 volunteers).