Get shucked – Brisbane Oyster Tours just launched a new in-water dining experience in Moreton Bay
Over the last 15 years, family-owned Sydney Oyster Farm Tours have carried visitors along the currents of the Hawkesbury River to get a behind-the-scenes taste of oyster farming. Now, following that success, the team has officially ventured north, offering a rare opportunity to enjoy freshly shucked oysters through an immersive in-water dining experience set in the picturesque Moreton Bay. Read on for more …
Founder and director of Sydney and Brisbane Oyster Tours, Sheridan Beaumont and her team didn’t have to ponder for long when deciding on a location for their next oyster tour. In fact, all they had to do was ask the simple question of where guests on their Sydney tours were visiting from, before realising that most had travelled from Queensland for the experience. A move up the east coast to Moreton Bay was the natural next step and Brisbane Oyster Tours was born.
The Moreton Bay region proved to be a suitable location for the experience, given its crystal-clear aqua waters and oceanic environment, which provides a “distinctive influence on the oysters compared to the estuarine regions we’re more familiar with,” Sheridan says.
However, for those who have never visited an active oyster lease before, there may be a few questions before embarking on an experience like this.
Let’s break it down.
Guests are picked up from Manly South before embarking on a scenic boat journey across Moreton Bay to the oyster leases located near Moreton Island. The real fun begins upon arrival as you slip into waders and are shown to your private tasting table, surrounded by open water and endless horizon. Local farmers lead the experience, sharing insight into low-impact, sustainable oyster farming and the vital role that oysters play in reducing global warming. From there, it’s a hands-on activity, with guests learning how to shuck 18 oysters harvested moments earlier, before enjoying them alongside fresh prawns and BYO drinks.
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As for the quality of the oysters, Sheridan says the exposure to open tides gives them a “strong, clean, briny wash, with far less of the vegetal flavours you often get from river algae,” while still retaining the mineral character of Sydney rock oysters. The result is an inviting flavour profile that sets Moreton Bay apart from other growing regions in Australia.
Looking ahead, Brisbane Oyster Tours believe the in-water attraction and education is what Brisbane has been missing, filling a genuine gap in the region’s tourism offering. The experience aims to help position Queensland as a leader in sustainable tourism and premium food, while also shining a spotlight on sustainable aquaculture and high-quality local produce.
“Our goal has always been to create unforgettable experiences that connect people to place, produce and the people behind it,” Sheridan explains.
Whether you’re planning a date, keen to explore Moreton Bay or chasing freshly shucked oysters, Brisbane Oyster Tours delivers an authentic Australian experience. Tours launch in March and are now open for bookings.