Get shuck into local oysters this festive season

 
NSW Farmers is encouraging Aussies to show their support for our local oyster industry by adding oysters to their festive meals.

It follows the industry coming out of one of the hardest years on record, with last summer’s bushfires and COVID-19 resulting in a dramatic decrease in sales.
 
NSW Farmers’ Oyster Committee Chair Todd Graham says the industry is keen to look to 2021 for a fresh start and is calling on oyster lovers to support local estuaries. 
 
“It’s been a tough 12 months for oyster growers up and down the NSW coast,” Mr Graham said. 
 
“Early in the year the bushfires closed many oyster farms down. Then COVID-19 hit, halting face-to face hospitality which ordinarily accounts for the majority of oyster sales.
 
“The good news is demand for our state’s beautiful oysters is now bouncing back with some restaurants now open and Australians appreciating local fresh produce more than ever before."

"However, due to recent heavy rainfall on the north coast, travelers will need to be mindful that some oyster harvest areas are under a precautionary closure."
 
NSW is home to the famous Sydney Rock oyster and the Pacific oyster.
 
“Our advice when picking oysters is always buy off a reputable retailer and avoid black market oysters- this will ensure the oysters you buy are certified safe through our stringent quality assurance programs,” Mr Graham said.
Date: Wednesday, 23 December 2020
Media Contact:  Michael Burt  | 0428 228 988 | [email protected]