Linda Jays
$10,000 AOC Founder

Sydney-based Clinical Psychologist Linda Jays is an avid fan of regional and rural NSW, so the decision to experience an Australian Opal Centre Fossil Dig on the opal fields of Lightning Ridge in 2019 was one that not only saw her reconnect with the land she loves, but also become a patron of the new Australian Opal Centre. Here, Linda explains why becoming an AOC Founder means so much to her. 

“In August 2019 I attended my first Australian Opal Centre (AOC) Fossil Dig in Lightning Ridge. I loved it so much I’m returning this year. Before then, I’d never been to Lightning Ridge but had a love of country Australia from my time working in southern NSW in my early years as a psychologist. In living and working in both Wagga Wagga and Albury I became a useful part of each town and got to know the beauty of each physical location. A friend who’d visited Lightning Ridge twice before asked me to join her on the Fossil Dig. She spoke highly of the town. My great memories of the country and a sense of adventure surrounding the Dig meant I was alive to the opportunity. 

I found Lightning Ridge to be a place of action and beauty, and it was a wonderful experience to be a part of the Fossil Dig. It ticked all the boxes for me. To be doing something connected with the land that was active, and of lasting value and world wide significance was special. The program was very well run. I loved the sense of working in a group of like-minded people, contributing to the search for opalised bones in stunning countryside with a varied program, great fun and great food Also, opals make my heart sing. I absolutely understand the fever to find these beauties!

I found the people involved in the AOC to be truly amazing. They have talent, capacity and passion, and they provide quality outcomes. Their persistence with the project over time is a testament to this. The whole experience got under my skin. When Jenni Brammall outlined the plans for the new AOC building and showed the building plans, I knew I wanted to make more of a lasting connection with the area, and could do so by becoming an AOC Founder. 

I love the building and the fact it’s designed by Australian icon Glenn Murcutt and Wendy Lewin. It’s well conceived and of an international standard. Lightning Ridge is a special town, and I feel like I am contributing tangibly to its future. Being an AOC Founder gives an ongoing sense of connection with the area, and helps in putting the town and Australia on the map as well as open it up for others to experience and see. 

My travels in country areas outside Australia often involve visiting attractions that showcase local specialities. To date in this country, I don’t think we offer many of these such attractions, limiting tourist opportunities and really hiding our light under a bushel. Through the new AOC building and all it has to offer, Lightning Ridge will be better able to show its natural value to Australia and the world, and will have a positive impact on towns along the arteries leading to Lightning Ridge with more visitors travelling. I know many people in Sydney who’ve been to Lightning Ridge for one reason or another and they all sing its praises - this will provide another fantastic reason to visit.”

If you’d like to join Linda as an AOC Founder, click here for more information. For more information contact Richard Wylie by calling 0416 090 705 or emailing partnerships@australianopalcentre.com. We look forward to hearing from you!