Emerald, Outback, Queensland

Emerald is a bustling town located in the Central Highlands district of Queensland. Built on the banks of the Nogoa River, it boasts of huge mining and agricultural sectors, largely supported by the creation of Lake Maraboon, which results from the construction of the Fairbairn Dam. The town is accessible through a nearby airport and by two major highways running through it, the Capricorn and the Gregory Highways.

The area around the Fairbairn dam is a popular recreation destination for locals and tourists alike. There are several camping grounds and a caravan park on the edges of the lake. Visitors enjoy its water recreation facilities, like kayaking, water skiing, and fishing. The lake is annually stocked with several species of freshwater fishes. Families and groups of friends come to Lake Maraboon to swim, have picnics, and bird watch.

There are several noteworthy attractions found within the town itself. One would be the huge Van Gogh ‘Sunflower’ painting installed at Morton Park. Visible for miles around, the painting provides a unique feature to this town. Also located within the park is the Emerald Centenary of Federation Mosaic Pathway. A number of local artists collaborated to create tiled displays commemorating significant periods of the town’s history. The park also provides a convenient location for picnics, jogging, hiking, and bicycling.

Another good recreation place would be the Emerald Botanic Gardens, situated on the banks of the Nogoa River. Swimming and kayaking are just few of the activities frequently done here. The wooded area is also a good spot to relax and spend quiet moments with loved ones. Nature lovers frequent the area to do some bird watching.

Historic attractions of the area include the Railway Station, the Pioneer Cottage Complex, and the fossilized tree. The Railway Station was built on wood and iron, with intricate architectural detailing that is a feast to the eyes. It is an ideal spot to relax and take pictures in. This structure is listed with the National Trust, and should not be missed by anyone passing through the town. The Pioneer Cottage Complex comprises of cottages first built in the area, a jail, a church, and a communications museum. A visit to this complex will give visitors clues on how early settlement in Emerald was like. It is also a good picnic spot and there are facilities for barbecues.

Another interesting feature of the town is the presence of a fossilized tree that was unearthed during excavation in 1979. Carbon dating results indicate that the tree is 250 million years old. It has long been relocated and is now displayed outside the town hall.

For interested individuals, tours of the area’s coal mines can also be arranged. Visitors and locals also frequent the nearby Sapphire Gemfields west of town, where quality gemstones can be purchased right out of its source mines.

There are a variety of affordable accommodations to be had in Emerald. One is the Emerald Cabin and Caravan Village, which is conveniently located near the town’s golf course and retail establishments. Those wanting for some sort of getaway without having to go far can book a room at the Lake Maraboon Holiday Village, with its own restaurant offering a variety of local yet delicious cuisine.