The oyster industry attracts people from all backgrounds, from hobby farm retirees to multiple-generational farmers operating across the state. With this diversity, the knowledge, skills and professionalism of farmers varies considerably.
To provide a baseline level of knowledge across a broad range of topics, a training program has recently been custom-built for the NSW oyster industry. These materials have been created by OceanWatch Australia, in close partnership with NSW Farmers, NSW Food Authority, NSW Aquaculture Administration & Management, and NSW DPI Biosecurity.
Following the bushfires of 2019/2020, NSW Farmers secured funding to convert these materials for delivery via an online Learning Management System. This platform went live in early 2023, and is available to all NSW aquaculture permit holders, their staff, and those looking to enter the industry.
To encourage completion of the training, and to support industry recovery following the fires, the course was paired with a rebate program administered by NSW Farmers. Every Class-A aquaculture permit holder was eligible to apply for a $3,000 rebate on eligible items and activities, with almost $800,000 devolved through this process.
For questions, please contact:
Andy Myers
0488 656 366 |
[email protected]
Funding acknowledgment:
This Bushfire Local Economic Recovery project is jointly funded by the Australian and the NSW governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.