Oyster festival to be held again

The 13th annual Brisbane Water Oyster Festival will be held at Ettalong Beach on Sunday, November 10.

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales said the Chamber had renewed its partnership with Gosford Council and the Ettalong Beach Club to run the festival this year.

Mr Wales said the festival brought thousands of visitors to the Peninsula, as well as other parts of the Central Coast and provided a "huge boost" for the local economy.

"It has also become a destination event which brings big tourist dollars to our area, supports local accommodation outlets and boosts local restaurants and cafes," Mr Wales said.

"Without our financial partnerships with Gosford Council and the Ettalong Beach Club, the festival just wouldn't be happening.

"Sponsors are critical to the longevity and success of the event."

The Oyster Festival has been held annually at the Ettalong Beach waterfront on the second Sunday in November, at a time when local oysters are at their seasonal best.

"Entertainment will commence at 9:30am on the Sunday with the award winning band Jive Bombers," Mr Wales said.

"At 1pm, Ace Music Award winners Akinga will perform live on stage throughout the afternoon.

"Due to public demand, the famous 'How Many Oysters Can You Eat in 30 Seconds' competition will have two sessions, with each winner receiving a lunch for two cruising the Sydney Harbour.

"The festival will have over 100 stalls in the streets."

Mr Wales said there would also be a variety of food stalls on the day.

"Well known wine companies will present chilled wines from the Hunter Valley and cold ales will be available from the Ettalong Beach Club Beer Stall," Mr Wales said.

"Our Chamber puts in a lot of effort to present a first class food and wine festival to promote our local area and to showcase our beautiful waterways."

Media release, 13 Aug 2013,

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce