Nine Months of Gold Panning for the Perfect Rings

Jhob Drinkwater knew he had struck gold when he met Sarah Ostini five years ago. When it came time to propose, he decided their wedding rings would be extra special, crafted from gold he would find himself – straight from the creeks of Hill End, an old mining town in New South Wales.

He set out to collect every gram for the rings, dedicating nine months to the task.

Wading through creeks, knee-deep in mud and water, he spent countless hours panning for gold in his secret spot, tucked away in the rugged hills. It was no easy feat, but for Jhob, it was worth every moment. “It was hard work, but I wanted to show everyone that I could find gold for myself.”

His father, Malcolm, who also pans in the area, admired his son's determination, saying, "Very few people would go to the lengths Jhob did. It wasn’t just about the gold – it was about showing his love for Sarah.”

After nine months of effort, Jhob finally collected the 20 grams of gold needed for the rings. But his journey didn’t end there. Staying true to tradition, Jhob chose to deliver the gold to his jeweller in Bathurst the old-fashioned way—on horseback. What could have been an hour’s drive became a three-day ride, as Jhob packed his gold and camping gear and made the trek.

Arriving in Bathurst on horseback, Jhob certainly made an impression. Local shopkeepers stepped outside to see him and his horse arrive in town. Angela Muldoon, the jeweller, crafted the rings with a rustic touch—Jhob’s ring, rugged and hammered, reflecting his outback lifestyle, and Sarah’s, polished and refined.

Two weeks ago, the couple exchanged their rings in Hill End, on the anniversary of the discovery of the world’s largest lump of gold there. For Sarah, the rings are now part of her heart, not just because of their history but because of Jhob’s dedication.

For Jhob, though, the gold was never the most important part. "It’s just a symbol," he said. "The real treasure is Sarah."

If you're looking to start your own gold hunting journey, whether for a special occasion or just for the thrill, we’ve got all the gold prospecting gear you’ll need to get started.