Fossicking fever ... the search for the 'big one' goes on.
The Northern Territory Government is hoping to lure more grey nomads and other travellers into remote areas by offering better access to fossicking fields and more updated information on how to find precious metals and gemstones.
NT Minister for Mines and Energy, Willem Westra van Holthe said fossicking in the Territory was an experience like no other.
“You can go and fossick in some areas of the Territory and see nobody else,” he said “Fossickers have been asking for better access to land across the Territory, and we are working on ways we can provide that.”
The NT Government has also launched an online portal to promote the region as a ‘fossicking tourism’ destination. Information on gemstone and mineral field locations, land access and permits are included in the new website.
However, the minister said it was important that visiting fossickers showed respect for their surroundings and that providing better information may also improve issues surrounding land access.
“Often pastoralists complain about gates being left open, rubbish left lying around.” said Mr van Holthe. “It’s really important that the relationship is strengthened between the pastoralists and those who go there … so we really need people to do the right thing.”
The portal can be accessed on the Department of Mines and Energy webpage at www.nt.gov.au/d/fossicking
Is fossicking a good ‘hobby’ for grey nomads? Where is the best place to make your fortune? Is there a special camaraderie of the fossicking fields? Comment below
I think most nomads dream of doing a little fossicking and getting lucky. Might as well while we’re out there! It’s all part of the great adventure, even if it’s only an occasional thing.