By LYN JABLONSKI

Lightning Ridge was undoubtedly alive and well, with the unknown population of the Ridge exploding to well over 8,000, including locals, tourists, Jewellers, buyers, wholesalers, miners, rock hounds, and lapidary enthusiasts contributed to the Lightning Ridge Opal Festival held at the end of July.

The event ran efficiently, and the organisers were happy with the outcomes. 

Sally Weeks, Coordinator of the Lightning Ridge Opal Festival, said, “There were some changes to the layout this year with the marquee being set up in the Sports ground carpark.” This enabled street closures to allow a safe flow of visitors between the various indoor and outdoor venues.

Mrs Weeks told Western Plains App that there were more stall holders this year, plus those new to the Opal & Gem Festival.

“This is a good sign that the event's popularity is growing. We also had many more visitors to the festival on the first two days than last year, and most stall holders reported good trading over the four days, Mrs Weeks said. Then she added, “The fact that many stall holders expressed interest in booking for next year is a great sign.”

Western Plains App asked Mrs Weeks if she would make any changes to grow the festival for next year and what they would be? “I would really like to continue to attract more varied stall holders. While our primary focus remains the opal and gem industry, we really do want there to be something for everyone.”

Over 200 stall spaces were allocated before the festival began, and Mrs Weeks managed to squeeze in a few late arrivals on the first day.

ABOVE: Ormie Molyneux and Fred Mallouk, Lighting Ridge Miners Association

“We had traders from all the eastern states plus South Australia. International buyers were present, a great sign for the Opal and gem industries.”

There were many significant aspects of the festival; Mrs Weeks believes that the new indoor setup in the marquee was a standout. “The light, airy and bright environment allowed the gems on display to shine,” Mrs Weeks said.

Besides the stalls and demonstrations, buskers performed during the day, “ the crowds and helping create a festive atmosphere.

“The local Lightning Ridge Central School Drum Line performed at the official opening and also performed each day during the festival. This was a great way for the students to showcase their talent and a way for the community to see the results of the student's hard work,” she said.

ABOVE: Local lady Carol Clemson with Jan, the lovely Lavender Lady

The marquee housed demonstrations, lapidary tools and demonstrations. Opal in the rough and finished products set in jewellery were for sale. 

Patron of Opal fabric designer Linda Jackson visited on Saturday. Linda was part of the Jenny Kee fashion industry in the 1980s, celebrating bright colours, including opal. The Outback Opal Hunters film crew was also present and filmed various aspects of the festival.

Lighting Ridge Miners Association representatives were on hand to answer questions concerning mining in the area.

ABOVE: The Lads: Genadiy Karpenko, Lighting Ridge, Matt Coustley and Dan Danny, Cober Peady SA

The Lightning Ridge Opal & Gem Festival is a not-for-profit organisation. Any proceeds go towards supporting local charities and endeavours, with a large portion held over for running next year's event.

The Opal Queen Ball, held on the festival's final night, saw guests vote for a People's Choice winner. This entrant has $500 donated to a charity of her choice by the LRO&GF in her name. This year's winner, Tamara Thomas, will have $500 donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. 

Next year's festival will be the International Opal Festival, including the International Jewellery Awards, in July 2024.

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