The Brisbane Water Oyster Festival is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone for one of the longest-running community events on the Central Coast of Australia. The festival, which began in 2000 at the Woy Woy waterfront, has grown tremendously and continues to attract thousands of visitors, providing a vital boost to the local economy.
According to Matthew Wales, President of the Chamber of Commerce, the festival has evolved from its humble beginnings into a beloved annual event. “As a local business organisation, we are very proud to have provided this free iconic community event for 25 years,” he remarked. “Now it’s all systems go for another great year of oysters, food, wine and entertainment.”
Exciting Sponsorships and Community Impact
This year, the festival welcomes back its Naming Sponsor, Deepwater Plaza Woy Woy, which has served the Peninsula community for over 40 years. Wales highlighted the importance of this shopping centre, stating, “Deepwater Plaza is our iconic shopping centre on the Peninsula which provides valuable retail services and facilitates hundreds of jobs for local families.”
The event is not only a highlight for locals but also attracts tourists, significantly boosting the economy. “The Oyster Festival brings thousands of visitors, not only to the Peninsula but to the Central Coast for the weekend,” Wales added. “We value our sponsors who are an integral part of the Brisbane Water Oyster Festival. Without them, the festival just wouldn’t happen.”
In addition to Deepwater Plaza, several local businesses have stepped up to support the festival. Major sponsors include Bruce Kerr Pty Ltd., a local family property specialist, Atlantis Apartments, and Stephensons Real Estate, a long-established family business in Umina Beach. Other sponsors include Yellow Brick Road, Holiday Co. at Ettalong Beach, and Six Strings Brewery. Wales expressed gratitude for their contributions, stating that these family businesses form the backbone of local town centres.
Festival Activities and Entertainment
The festival promises an array of fun activities and entertainment for all ages. Wales announced a contest titled “How Many Oysters Can You Eat in 30 Seconds,” inviting participants to register on the day. Last year’s winner consumed an impressive 32 oysters.
The day’s festivities will kick off at 10:00 AM with a live performance by Jellybean Jam, followed by a variety of music genres in the afternoon, including 60s rock ‘n’ roll, boogie woogie, blues, and swing from the band Swift Kick. The event will be hosted by Jenifer Green of G’day Hollywood Productions, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
Attendees can explore more than 100 stalls featuring delicious food options, chilled wines, cocktails, and local brews from Six Strings Brewing Company. The festival will highlight fresh oysters from local farmers, adding to the culinary experience.
For those attending, ample parking is available at the rail station commuter carpark and the council carpark adjacent to the stadium. A shuttle bus will operate from Deepwater Plaza to the rail station, the wharf, and onto Lions Park, making access convenient for visitors.
For further information, the public can visit the festival’s official Facebook page or contact PWP Events to stay updated on this iconic event. The Brisbane Water Oyster Festival promises to be a memorable celebration of community spirit, local businesses, and, of course, the region’s renowned oysters.
