About 175 items will be on display at the Kempsey Showground from tomorrow.

Rock enthusiast and club president Dallas Kemp has been travelling the country and unearthing natural treasures for the past 20 years. His collection is broad and consists of things like mineral specimens, crystals, rocks and fossils. 

“I’m so passionate about it. I love it - just the digging side of it. You never know when you’re going to find something extra special,” he said. 

“I think what I like about it the most is the interesting places you get to go to and the amazing things you find. I’ve been to places like the Northern Territory, Northern Queensland and Western Australia. My favourite location I’ve been to is Camfield Station in the Northern Territory. 

“You walk around up there and there are big pieces of crystal on the ground.”

Mr Kemp encouraged residents to attend the auction as “you never know what you might find”. 

“It’s definitely worthwhile to come along. Even if you don’t have the intention of buying anything - just to have a look at some of the gems,” he said. 

“And for those looking to buy, they are sure to find a bargain.”  

Viewing at the auction will begin at 10am on Saturday, with the items under the hammer from noon. An afternoon tea will be provided at the end of the show. 

The club has been around since 1968 and currently has around 25 members who meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 5.30pm at 2/22 Carrington St, West Kempsey