Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Emerald, Australia

This rural community is located in Queensland’s Central Highlands, situated just beyond the eastern edge of a sprawling sapphire-producing region.

Many of the names in proximity to Emerald are inspired by precious stones, such as Rubyvale and Sapphire Central, while to the east lies Queensland’s coal-mining center, Blackwater.

Visitors can venture to the Sapphire Gemfields and Blackwater for experiences in gem hunting and coal mining.

Emerald’s growth in the 19th century was significantly driven by the establishment of the railway and has long been associated with the cultivation of crops such as cotton, various grains, and citrus fruits.

The town boasts an impressive botanical garden along the banks of the Nogoa River, and two national parks worth visiting are Minerva Hills and Blackdown Tablelands.

1. Emerald Botanic Gardens

Emerald is located just ten kilometers from the Tropic of Capricorn, offering visitors from more temperate regions an opportunity to observe plants and trees typical of this latitude.

The Emerald Botanic Gardens underwent renovations in 2017, providing an excellent, well-labeled overview of various biomes from the Central Highlands region.

In total, there are 12 distinct themed plant communities, alongside a preserved historic windmill and numerous public art pieces.

Visitors can stroll through the 42-acre park along gravel and poured concrete paths and pause by the Nogoa River that flows through the gardens.

Moreover, the gardens feature exercise equipment, BBQ facilities, and a complimentary camping area near the entrance.

2. Minerva Hills National Park

Located south of Emerald, near Springsure, this park features remnants of Oligocene hotspot volcanics amidst a rugged terrain of volcanic peaks, sheer cliffs, and gorges.

Minerva Hills National Park rises dramatically above Springsure, boasting four lookouts that provide stunning views of the town and surrounding areas.

One notable peak is Mount Zamia, with a formation known as “Virgin Rock” on the town-facing side, due to its resemblance to the Virgin Mary holding Child.

These features are illuminated at night and can be appreciated along the 1.6 km Skyline Lookout trail, also offering views of the fertile farming region between Springsure and Emerald.

3. Fairbairn Dam (Lake Maraboon)

Situated immediately southwest of Emerald, this reservoir holds three times the capacity of Sydney Harbour.

The dam, which impounds the Nogoa River, began construction in 1968 and was completed four years later, primarily serving as an irrigation source but also supplying potable water.

Fairbairn Dam is renowned among anglers, stocked with species such as bass, silver perch, Mary River cod, barramundi, and southern saratoga, in addition to various other species present in the reservoir.

For those not fishing, the dam imposes no boating restrictions, allowing for diverse water sports. Additionally, the shore features a designated swimming area, picnic facilities, and a magnificent lookout that offers views over the lake and dam spillway.

4. Van Gogh’s Sunflower Painting

Australia is known for its “Big Things,” oversized novelty sculptures that function as minor tourist attractions and celebrate local pride.

The prominent feature in Emerald is a massive easel that stands 25 meters tall and consists of 13.6 tonnes of steel.

Displayed on this “canvas” is a vibrant reproduction of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers (1889), the original of which is housed in a major art institution.

This piece aligns with the extensive sunflower fields of the Central Highlands and was created by Canadian artist Cameron Cross in 1999. It is part of an international initiative to construct seven sunflower sculptures in seven countries, one for each of the sunflower still lifes painted by Van Gogh in 1888-89. The sunflower painting in Emerald is the second of three completed to date.

5. Sapphire Gemfields

Spanning approximately 900 square kilometers and located a short drive west of Emerald, the Sapphire Gemfields represent one of the largest sapphire-bearing areas worldwide.

This region encompasses several townships, including Rubyvale, Anakie Siding, Sapphire Central, and Willows Gemfields, offering a plethora of activities.

Foremost, visitors can explore numerous gem shops and galleries, some featuring skilled gem cutters and jewelers available to assist in creating unique pieces.

Nine areas across the Gemfields are dedicated to fossicking (a license is required), allowing individuals to dig and sift for their own gemstones.

For more guided experiences, visitors may join a fossicking tour or visit a fossicking park where the digging has been pre-done, enabling immediate sifting for sapphires and zircons.

6. Emerald Historic Railway Station

The railway played a pivotal role in Emerald’s late 19th-century development, and the grand National Trust station is one of the town’s finest heritage landmarks.

When the Central Western Railway extended through Rockhampton in 1879, Emerald was designated as a junction for branch lines that still connect to Clermont and Springsure.

The Neoclassical station building, constructed in 1900, is prominently located on Clermont Street, featuring a central portico adorned with intricate ironwork and two adjacent pavilions with elegant awnings.

7. Emerald Art Gallery

To experience the vibrant arts scene of the Central Highlands, the Emerald Art Gallery is a distinguished venue that hosts high-caliber exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and competitions.

Each August, the prestigious Central Highlands Regional Council Annual Art Awards are held here.

This prized award has fostered the growth of a remarkable collection of oil and acrylic artworks on canvas, accumulated since the early 1970s.

It is advisable to consult the calendar for solo exhibitions featuring notable Queensland artists, touring shows from major Australian institutions, and showcases of various media representing local talent from Emerald and surrounding areas.

8. Rubyvale Observatory

With minimal light pollution, the remote atmosphere of the Sapphire Gemfields provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing.

Even with the naked eye, one can observe celestial bodies, nebulae, planets, and satellites with remarkable clarity.

To amplify this experience, visitors are encouraged to study the night sky through a high-powered telescope.

This experience can be undertaken at Rubyvale Motel & Holiday Units, which features a professional-grade observatory.

During an observatory session, participants start with a naked eye overview before entering to view the universe through a 14” Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, accompanied by Mick, the founder who constructed the facility.

9. Emerald Aquatic Centre

The Emerald Aquatic Centre, which operates from September to March, is an outdoor pool complex that many towns strive to emulate.

Equipped with a 50m international standard pool, a 25m heated pool, a shaded splash pad for young children, and a complex featuring three water slides of varying speeds, the facility caters to a myriad of aquatic activities.

The entire center underwent renovations in the 2010s and offers spacious shaded grassy areas for picnicking, making it an exemplary destination for families.

10. Central Highlands Visitor Information Centre

Given its remote location, visitors to Emerald should prepare adequately before exploring national parks, distant townships, and mining areas.

Numerous activities, such as fishing and fossicking, require licenses and permits, underscoring the significance of the visitor information centre.

Patrons can obtain tailored itineraries, brochures, maps, and valuable firsthand knowledge from locals well-acquainted with the Central Highlands.

While planning your next activity, enjoy a hot beverage or ice cream and take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi.

11. Blackdown Tablelands National Park

Located east of Emerald and approximately a third of the distance to Rockhampton, this national park preserves a significant expanse of Central Highlands scenery.

The park features a sandstone plateau rising 900 meters above the surrounding plains.

At this elevation, a more temperate climate prevails, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna unique to the region, flourishing within the fern-lined gorges, heathland, and forests.

Creeks cutting through the tableland cascade into breathtaking gorges, including the remarkable Rainbow Falls.

The park is the traditional home of the Ghungalu people, whose rock art can be found on various walls throughout the area.

Marked trails lead visitors through these rare plant communities, taking in sites adorned with extraordinary rock art and beautiful lookouts; camping is also available in the bush at the Munal camping area.

12. Blackwater International Coal Centre

Further east of Emerald lies Blackwater, a town recognized as Queensland’s coal capital during the 20th century.

Although coal mining peaked in the 1970s, it still serves as the primary employer, with six substantial open-cut mines and one underground operation.

For those interested in industrial heritage, the Blackwater International Coal Centre showcases the Australian coal mining industry, offering a deep dive into its history.

This museum features numerous interactive exhibits and models detailing the evolution of coal mining, complete with a detailed timeline spanning 50 meters.

Additionally, visitors can observe gigantic mining equipment, and tours of active open-cut pits are available, presenting the opportunity to witness large machinery in action.

Within the centre, a Japanese garden offers a peaceful retreat.

13. Old Rainworth Fort (Old Rainworth Stone Store)

A drive along the Gregory Highway leads to this fascinating piece of settlement history, located just outside Springsure.

Dating back to 1862, the Old Rainworth Fort stands as a testament to the conflicts between pastoralists and the local Kari people, who in 1861 attacked a pastoral property in Cullin-la-ringo, resulting in the death of 19 individuals. This fortified blockhouse was constructed to provide a safe, fire-resistant refuge during potential raids, made using basalt, bricks, and mortar, topped with a corrugated iron roof.

The property is furnished with period-appropriate items and is managed by two knowledgeable women, Coleen and Lorna, who possess extensive knowledge of Central Queensland’s pastoral history.

14. Emerald Golf Club

Located on a long parcel of land adjacent to the Nogoa River, Emerald Golf Club is a well-respected public course set in picturesque surroundings.

The 18 holes are bordered by natural forests and are adorned with rhododendrons, ferns, and azaleas, while the abundance of water presents a diverse range of hazards.

Competent players can participate in two separate competitions, one held on weekdays and another over the weekend, with opportunities to win prizes.

All necessary equipment is available for hire from the pro shop, and there is a bistro offering refreshments and meals.

15. Vicki Peters Park

Parents accompanying energetic children need look no further than this revitalized park situated in southern Emerald.

Enclosed and equipped with shade sails, the playground at Vicki Peters Park received upgrades in 2019 following extensive community input.

The facilities, including slides, swings, and climbing structures suited for various abilities, are situated on soft fall tiles within a grassy area detailed with trees and seating.