Oyster producers from all over NSW have descended on Merimbula this week for the biennial NSW Oyster Conference held at the Pambula Merimbula Golf Club.
Over 200 oyster farmers, trade suppliers and associated organisations attended providing a unique opportunity for producers to share, learn and connect with other farmers and industry stakeholders.
The conference had plenty to offer attendees with trade displays, a networking BBQ, a variety of field trips and workshops, conference sessions and also a formal dinner.
The conference covered a broad range of topics including oyster health, innovation and technology, biosecurity, future industry direction, selective breeding, oyster tourism and marketing partnerships and industry promotion. While discussion around these topics was very worthwhile, a feature of the event was the time given for informal networking – with field trips, an opening night BBQ and conference dinner providing fantastic opportunities for people to build relationships and networks. A particular topic of interest was the looming national oyster shortage and how this could play out in NSW.
“What a cracker of a conference. So many young people, so many woman and real interest in research, new techniques and approaches. It’s a quantum change in the industry.” Said one conference attendee.
The event ran from August 22-24 and would’nt have been possible without the following sponsors:
Blue Harvest
NSW Farmers Association
Hunter Local Land Services
Intertrade Insurance Solution
NSW DPI Fisheries & NSW Food Authority
Bega Valley Shire Council
Ultralon Foam
DJ Cool Freight
Tooltech Plastics
The Yield AgTech Solutions
MGA Insurance Brokers
Signature Oysters
Sapphire Coast Wilderness Oysters
Merimbula Gourmet Oysters
Longstocking Brewery