Armstrong Oysters are back in operation for 2017 Christmas period

Three locations across the Camden Haven including Stingray Creek, Hanleys Point and Gogleys Lagoon were closed due to sewerage leak into the river after a pipe burst at Bay Street, Dunbogan. 

“On Sunday, December 17 following rigorous testing, in what is great outcome for local oyster growers, Gogleys Lagoon was reopened for harvesting,” Port Macquarie-Hastings Council acting director Andrew Doig said. 

“Council encourages the local community to continue to support the local oyster industry, and enjoy their oysters over the upcoming holiday break.”

Jason Armstrong from Armstrong Oysters said it was great news. 

“That is our direct harvest area so we pick up straight from there and send to market,” he said. 

“We’ve got over 7000 dozen ordered which we have to get to Sydney by Wednesday (December 20),” he said. 

“We’ll have plenty for the local market too.” 

Hanleys Point and Stingray Creek will remain closed for the mandatory 21 day period which was imposed by The NSW Food Authority.

Mr Doig said farmers should seek their own advice as to whether compensation may be available.

“Council will continue to work with local oyster farmers and apologise for the impact that this unexpected incident will have on the local oyster industry at this busy time of year,” he said. 

Mr Doig said the sewer pipe which burst on Wednesday, December 6 was replaced on Saturday, December 9.

“The burst pipe was located three metres underground and failed prematurely under normal operation of the sewer main,” he said.  

“Council decided to replace the failed section of pipe which included 172 metres of new sewer pipe from the Bay Street Pump Station to the intersection at the Boulevard and Tip Road.

“These types of rehabilitation works are budgeted for in the 2017/18 Operational Plan, with the cost of this replacement around $95,000.”

Mr Doig said the oyster industry is recognised as a significant contributor to the local economy and operates in a challenging environment. 

“In particular, having the leases so close to residential development means there is an increased risk from incidents such as this,” he said. 

Mr Doig said council is involved in and providing funding support to a pilot project being conducted by the South Australian Research and Development Institute. 

“This project focuses on bacteria testing in oyster meat,” he said. 

“The ultimate goal with the pilot is to encourage a National Quality Assurance program which provides greater surety around the length of closure that may be needed when possible contamination incidents occur, rather than the currently mandated 21 days.

“Our operational staff work to communicate and manage all issues with the growers and government authorities involved on an ongoing basis, and our laboratory staff conduct weekly testing of our water ways, or more regularly when needed.”