Areas of Shallow Wash

Retreat Creek - the area known as Sapphire. Situated about six miles north of Anakie, was one of the first fields to receive attention. The shallow wash is near the old town site and varies in depth to about three feet. It has been extensively worked but short-term prospectors often find good value in virgin patches among the old workings Rubyvale - the stones found here include good blues, greens and yellows. This field has been extensively worked, particularly in the shallow areas, but many good gems are still being won. The ground is mostly deep and not suitable for the casual prospector. The prospects remain good in the deeper ground for the more adventurous.

Tomahawk Creek - is an old field, and having difficult access has received little attention. The road at creek crossings is not passable after rain. In the dry season, when the road is in good repair, the field is accessible by car and many visitors make the trip. The main wash area extends from Tomahawk Creek to Hut Creek, as distance of about three kilometers, with the best stones occurring at Hut Creek and Costic Creek. Many virgin areas are available for prospecting.

The Willows - this field is approximately forty kilometers by road from Anakie, and was notable for the occurrence of large sapphires. The area enjoyed a period of activity and the shallow ground, up to three feet in depth, was extensively turned over. This field offers more amenities for the visitor than most other fields with the well managed caravan park attracting many tourists.

Glenalva - this field is the latest to receive attention and recent finds include a 3oz, unvalued green, a 15dwt green valued at $1,500 and a 12dwt yellow valued at $5,000. The wash is generally shallow and most suitable for prospecting, but unfortunately water is scarce and visitors should bring their own water supplies.