Following the Maker’s Trail Central Coast
Nestled along the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, are the hardworking oyster farmers, growing some of our finest oysters that Australia has to offer. Hidden for over a decade amongst this local industry famous for its delicious rock oysters, is another type of aquaculture that most are surprised to learn exists in NSW. A small team of Pearl Farmers work out of an original Oyster Shed (now a pearling shed) with a twist and have affectionately named it their ‘Shellar Door’. Like no-other oyster shed, this one is open for visitors! Come and meet the team who are producing some of the finest quality pearls in the world.
For many years this has been one of the best kept secrets of the Central Coast, which seems impossible given that it is just up the road from Sydney and a 2-min detour off the M1. But when you come to visit, you will see how easily it has been hidden. Surrounded by stretches of National Parks and Nature Reserves, you could almost mistake yourself for being in WA’s Kimberley where Broken Bay Pearl’s sister farm is located. You are struck with breathtaking views and an experience full of surprise and intrigue.
At a time when there is so much uncertainty, it is comforting to know there are still places to visit and enjoy the great outdoors without the need to travel too far from home. Apart from the open wilderness with plenty of fresh air, the dedicated team at Broken Bay Pearl Farm are working their hardest to care for their oysters growing pearls, and to keep their visitors safe. With extra precautions around sanitising and social distancing, they are also offering private touring experiences for those that prefer.
When you visit Broken Bay Pearl Farm, you meet real people working at a real Australian-owned farm. The passion and enthusiasm from the small team of staff is evident when you visit the Shellar Door, and participate in one of their experiences where you can cruise out to the farm on the mighty Hawkesbury River and witness a pearl being harvested straight from the shell. Through their own stories, the diverse team gives you a real feel for what it is like to work in this aquaculture industry, and you will leave with a new sense of appreciation and wonder about the magic that is one of Mother Nature’s finest gems, and one of the Coast’s hidden treasures.
