25 – 31 July 2011Click here to go to the official
Lightning Ridge Opal Festival website.
2011 is a blockbuster year for opal mining in Lightning Ridge with 5 huge events packed into a week long celebration.
25 – 27 July: The National Opal Symposium
25 - 28 July: Opal Jewellery Design Awards Competition
28 – 31 July: Opal & Gem Expo
28– 31 July: Opal Jewellery Design Awards Competition Entries Display and Trade Show (Opal Carving)
29 July (Fri): International Opal Jewellery Design Awards Presentation Dinner
30 July (Sat): Opal Queen Ball
Jewellers, buyers, wholesalers, miners, rock hounds, lapidary enthusiasts and tourists are invited to experience the best Lightning Ridge has to offer with this culmination of information, spectacular jewellery, collectables, great deals and fantastic networking opportunities.
The highlight of the opal calendar this year is the International Opal Jewellery Design Competition, with jewellers from around the world vying for the Professional Prestige Award. For more information about entering the awards or Stall Bookings at the Opal Trade Show, please see www.iojdaa.com.au or phone 0428 292 118.
The Opal & Gem Expo boasts over 120 stalls with a range of products including gemstones, tools, lapidary supplies and lifestyle products. For bookings, please download the following form:
Lightning Ridge Opal & Gem Expo Stall Booking Form.
Enquiries: 0407 455 413
Date: Saturday, 30 July 2011
Time: Doors open 7.15pm (starts 8.00pm)
Venue:Lightning Ridge & District Bowling Club
Tickets: $25 per person. Tickets go on sale from 9.30am - 11.30am, Saturday, 30 July from the Bowling Club reception, or you may buy them at the door on the night. Ticket price does not include food, however, a complimentary glass of champagne will be served on arrival.
Dress:Smart casual to Cocktail (prizes for best dressed)
Don’t miss a fun filled night of glamour and style with the announcement of this year’s Opal Queen. About 10 local ladies will all be vying for the honour of becoming the town’s ambassador. Be there when judges unveil this year’s lucky winner.
Charities – put your support behind your favourite entrant – the winner of Miss Popularity will receive a $500 cheque to donate to her nominated charity.