Fossicking inOberon

In the cool country south and west of Oberon, three public reserves are set aside for fossicking: the Little River Fossicking Reserve at Porters Retreat, Sapphire Bend in Vulcan State Forest, and the Campbell's River Bridge Reserve. Panning the gravels and creek washes can turn up sapphires, zircons, small industrial diamonds and the occasional colour of gold. Entry is free, several sites have picnic areas and toilets, and the reserves suit families trying their hand at the pan.