The Diamond Valley Gem Club has been in operation for more than 50 years, offering lapidary classes to seasoned experts and novices alike, as well as holding an annual gem and crystal exhibition.
The club will use its North East Community Fund grant towards expanding and offering workshops for young people with an interest in gems and jewellery making.
The fund contributed $20,750 to the club, which will be used to buy equipment needed to expand its workshops, with a focus on encouraging and collaborating with local youth groups to get involved and develop new skills.
Diamond Valley Gem Club President Leigh Carbines said the funding was very exciting for the club.
As the club moves into its new premise in Bundoora, new workshops will be offered to youth groups in 2023 including shaping and polishing gemstones, silver smithing, rock carving and jewellery making.
The club’s project is one of 50 projects funded as part of the North East Community Fund in areas including sport and recreation, environment and sustainability, education and community events.