Last week, the community of Lightning Ridge showed what they do best during their annual Opal Festival, drawing treasure hunters from around the world. 

The four-day festival (26-29 July) is an opportunity for opal and gem wholesalers and jewellers from across the country to exhibit their products.

“Opals come from all the Australian opal mining regions…different types and different qualities appeal to a different market,” event organiser Sally Weeks said.

In a town that heavily relies on the tourism that opal mining draws, supporting sellers and miners is an important aspect of the festival. 

“Considering the tough financial times, I think a lot of people enjoyed the opportunity to put their product in front of buyers instead of hoping that a buyer turns up in their town,” Mrs Weeks said. 

“Having everybody in oneplace made it easy for buyers to come together in a nice safe and secure environment.”

With an estimated 1000 people attending the festival each day, over 200 stalls kept visitors entertained. 

“Town was bursting at the seams, people were having to stay in nearby towns,” Mrs Weeks said. 

“There was a significant number of international buyers who were back this year, which was a bit of a first since covid.”

Opal Queen crowned

The festival went out with a bang, celebrating the new Opal Queen Elisabeth Gale at the evening’s Opal Queen Ball. 

After deciding against entering last year, 12 months later, Ms Gale was ready to give the competition a crack.

“It’s really out of my comfort zone to be modelling on a catwalk, but I’m glad I did it,” said Ms Gale. 

The 49-year-old entered the competition to make her grandson proud. (Supplied)

With her new title, Ms Gale will take on the role of an advocate for Lightning Ridge opals, beginning at this weekend’s major opal exhibition on the Gold Coast. 

“I feel privileged and excited to be able to represent Lightning Ridge and the industry, it’s quite a unique town that we live in and I feel blessed to be involved.”