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The latest edition of the Australian Opal Exhibition was one to remember, unfolding in Queensland over two days. | Source: Australian Opal Exhibition Inc

2024 Australian Opal Exhibition: National gemstone in the spotlight

Posted August 13, 2024 | By Samuel Ord

The latest edition of the Australian Opal Exhibition was one to remember, unfolding in Queensland over two days.

Visitors and exhibitors returned to Southport Sharks for a second time after the venue was first used for the 20th anniversary edition of the show.

Event coordinator Maxine O’Brien said attendance was slightly down compared with the previous year; however, given the current economic climate, that was to be expected.

“It’s all yours baby!” New incoming president of the Opal Association Of Australia, Ruth Benjamin-Thomas of Black Opal Direct, taking over from Paul Sedawie of Seda Opals.

“The feedback has been really positive so far. I always take rebookings as the most important type of feedback, and they’ve been good. Everyone seems to like the new venue; it’s a bit more relaxed,” she told Jeweller.

“There were quite a few new retail buyers present, which was great to see. The dinner was great, it wasn’t too formal, so there was a big emphasis on mingling and chatting.”

She added: “There were some fantastic displays from our exhibitors, and we also had a showcase of three winning pieces from the recent Australian Opal Awards. It was a great opportunity to show the amazing things jewellers are capable of when working with opal.”

Australian opal has been a hot topic recently, generating significant interest in local and abroad markets.

That passion was reflected at the recent Australian Opal Awards in Lightning Ridge, which more than 250 people attended.

O’Brien believes the industry is continuing to move from strength to strength and added that there was one clear highlight from this year's show.

“I think it’s great when new people come along,” she said.

“I think they’re often pleasantly surprised at what they see, and we love to hear that they’ve enjoyed themselves. Over the years, seeing new faces become regular visitors is a big thrill.”

The Australian Opal Exhibition will return to Southport Sharks in 2025.