Festival attracts 15,000, raises $44,000

The Brisbane Water Oyster Festival and Blessing of the Fleet attracted more than 15,000 people and the Queen of the Festival quest raised more than $42,000, according to organisers.

The festival was "a great success", according to chairperson Ms Debra Wales.

"The day commenced with entertainment from the Wayne Cornell Swing Band on the beachfront and in the afternoon the Latin Kings had everyone up 'dancing in the street' in the afternoon," Ms Wales said.

"The food, wine and craft stalls reported a great day out with many improving their trade.

"The Brisbane Water Oyster Farmers provided 2500 dozens oysters an increase of 500 dozen on last year.

"The Palm Beach and Central Coast ferry services reported they had an increase in passenger numbers from their usual Sunday trade.

"The Ettalong Beach Club and local businesses reported a successful day with 30 per cent to 50 per cent turnover in trade."

Ms Wales said entrants in the Queen of the Oyster Festival raised $42,372 in just six weeks for the Cancer Council's Breast Cancer Challenge.

"The total amount raised from the festival for Breast Cancer Research is just over $44,000 which is a tremendous effort and we feel very pleased to be able to support Cancer Council during our festival."

Kim Smith, sponsored by the Ettalong Beach Club, was crowned Queen of the Festival and Mary Rose Bontigao, sponsored by the Central Coast Express Advocate, who raised $15,000, was crowned Miss Charity Queen at the Festival Ball.

The Queens won a holiday for two to Surfer Paradise, a beauty package, hair packages, a makeover and gifts totalling over $500.

The Te Ika Nui 'Big Fish" Outrigger Canoe Club attended the Blessing along the Surf Life Saving Clubs.

"Head coach Dave Brooks said it was a great day for the Outriggers as they took approximately 40 people for a paddle and had a great interest in their club," Ms Wales said.

The Blessing of the Fleet was conducted by the Rev Bruce Edgell of the Uniting Church and Greg Saunders of the Salvation Army who blessed the surf boats, outrigger canoes and visiting boats on the beach at Ettalong.

"The mayor Laurie Maher opened the festival and said he was very proud that Gosford Council was a part of a great community event," Ms Wales said.

Press release, December 1 Debra Wales, Brisbane Water Oyster Festival