Ladies over the age of 18 (and residents of Lightning Ridge for the past six months), have you considered entering the glamorous Opal Queen competition? There is $10,000 in prizes up for grabs, plus the opportunity to act as the opal industry's ambassador at the Australian Opal Exhibition on the Gold Coast and the Black Opal Stakes in Canberra. For entry forms, contact Angela on 0407 455 413.

Home brewers - do you have your best brew ready for the annual home brew competition? The boys from Country Brewer, Bathurst will be on hand to sample and judge your best blend of malt hops and yeast. There is a fantastic prize pack courtesy of Country Brewer and the chance to talk to the experts about how to get the best out of your home brews.

Opal buyers - we certainly hope you are cashed up and ready to sweep up some of the best deals in Australia. There will be exhibitors with black, boulder, white opal, rough, rubs, polished and cuts stones. The Lightning Ridge Opal Show is one of the best in Australia and now brings together all types of opal.

Bargain hunters - The Opal and Gem Expo will deliver you with the same great range of products and services as last year. Items such as woollen quilts, cookware, clothing, candles, natural honey, leather goods, fresh juices, home brew products, gourmet foods, garden ornaments, timber craft, and other novelty goods will give you the chance to shop locally. You will get some great bargains at the event, so save up and do this year's Christmas shopping. To book a stall, contact Angela on 0407 455 413 as soon as possible.

Party People - The Opal Queen Masquerade Ball is on Saturday, July 30. You can wear a cocktail outfit, costume or jeans, but you will need a mask. Masks will be on sale at the door on the night. If you are looking for a unique mask, see Viv at Vivien's Boutique in the beer garden. She has a fantastic range of masks to ensure your identity is both fabulous and one of a kind. Tickets are $25pp and doors open from 7.15pm, be sure to get a group together so you can welcome in the 2005 Opal Queen.

There are loads of social activities including the Stallholder Wine and Cheese Night on Wednesday, OJDAA Presentation Night on Thursday, Bundy Rum Promotion on the Friday night and then back up again for the fabulous Opal Queen on Saturday.

For any further details on the program for the event, please call Angela on 0407 455 413.