2026 NSW Oyster Conference Facilitation
Capacity building - LEP23_016_LLC_OWA
The issue
The NSW oyster industry spans more than 30 estuaries and over 230 farming businesses, yet opportunities for growers, researchers, suppliers, government agencies and industry leaders to connect in person remain limited. Geographic separation can restrict knowledge sharing, collaboration and the adoption of new practices needed to strengthen industry resilience, productivity and regional economic outcomes.
The solution
OceanWatch Australia, supported through the NSW Landcare Program and industry partners, delivered the 2026 NSW Oyster Conference in Merimbula. The 3 day event brought together growers, researchers, government representatives, tourism operators and suppliers through field trips, workshops, networking events, industry discussions and awards, creating a platform for learning, collaboration and innovation.
The impact
The conference strengthened connections across the NSW oyster sector, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, emerging research and practical farming innovations. It also highlighted the growing role of oyster aquaculture in regional tourism and agritourism, helping build stronger partnerships between industry, community and government while supporting the long-term sustainability and prosperity of coastal communities.
The conference was delivered through a collaborative model comprising a 0.6 FTE Landcare position, a 0.4 FTE Aquaculture Trust position and a dedicated volunteer conference committee. This approach enabled the event to be offered at an accessible ticket price of just $150, ensuring oyster farming businesses could support staff attendance and participation.
The event's financial success was underpinned by significant leveraged investment, including $31,000 raised through the conference auction, $47,000 secured through sponsorships and trade stall participation, and $24,000 generated through ticket sales. Surplus funds are proposed to be reinvested into environmental initiatives and retained as seed funding to support delivery of the 2028 NSW Oyster Conference.
For conference program visit
https://www.nswoysters.com.au/uploads/5/7/9/9/57997149/2026_conference_program_-_compressed.pdf
Key facts
- 220 people attended, 30 trade booths, 35 presentations, farm tours, 6 field trips, 4 social events including a Women in Seafood Industry breakfast. Formal dinner with award presentations and an auction, NSW Farmers AGM, Seagrass monitoring inspection, shoreline survey work with the NSW Food Authority, 100 dozen Sydney rock oysters consumed at the shed night.
- NSW has more than 230 oyster farming businesses operating across 30 coastal estuaries.
- Showcased opportunities for agritourism and visitor experiences linked to oyster farming. Destination NSW was a major sponsor and draws in regional economic activity.
- Delivered through collaboration between industry, government, Landcare and regional stakeholders