Keep our oysters safe from disease

This summer take a few simple steps to help protect our oyster industry. Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS) may seem nothing to do with you, but by doing the right thing recreational fishers and boat operators and owners can reduce the risk of aquatic diseases spreading.

With POMS detected in Adelaide’s Port River feral oyster population back in 2018, there is a ban on the removal of all bivalve organisms (oysters, mussels, cockles, razorfish) from the Port River.

In addition to the Port River ban, Pacific Oysters can’t be used for bait or berley, and you should never discard or store live oysters you are carrying in any SA waters. It is an offence to release or deposit exotic and/or aquaculture farmed species (such as Pacific Oysters) into the waters of South Australia, and fines may apply. Learn more about how you can help our oyster farming areas remain disease-free.

If you’re a boat operator or owner you can help stop aquatic pests and diseases hitching a lift by following cleaning guidelines and managing ballast water at all times, and especially if you’re leaving the Port River. Learn more and watch the video.

There are no POMS detections in commercial oysters in SA, and South Aussie oysters are safe and delicious to eat, so as well as getting out for a fish, support our local growers and seafood retailers and enjoy some locally-grown oysters this summer!