In a significant theft, approximately 400,000 juvenile Sydney rock oysters were stolen from an oyster farm on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, with the estimated value of the loss reaching $350,000.
The incident occurred earlier this year at Latitude 31 Oyster Co, located on the Manning River adjacent to Scotts Creek. NSW police reported the theft on Tuesday, urging anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to assist in the investigation.
Latitude 31 Oyster Co described the theft as a “massive” loss, emphasizing that such incidents impact not only individual farmers but also the wider reputation of the NSW oyster industry. The company called on the community to be vigilant for anyone attempting to sell large quantities of cocktail or bistro-sized oysters.
According to the farm, the stolen oysters were not ready for immediate sale and would require an additional four to six months of growth before they could be harvested.
Gary Rodley, an oyster farmer from Tathra Oysters, noted that fully grown oysters could fetch between $1.50 and $2 each, suggesting the thief may be someone familiar with the industry. “This isn’t just a casual theft; it’s concerning to think it could be someone from our own ranks,” he commented.
Another anonymous farmer from the Manning River highlighted a recent shortage of Sydney rock oysters due to major flooding in 2021 and 2022, which devastated local stocks. The farming cycle for these oysters spans three years, meaning it could take additional time for farmers to recover financially.
“The worst-case scenario is that someone within the industry, facing their own shortfall, has taken advantage of the situation,” the farmer explained. “They might believe they can get away with it until the next harvest.”
The Manning River area has a history of oyster thefts, often perpetrated by locals who have had time to observe the farms. One farmer took proactive measures by purchasing a tracker for his oysters, which led to a successful court case against a thief in 2022.
As demand for Sydney rock oysters continues to rise, many farmers, including Rodley, have invested in surveillance equipment to deter theft. “These oysters are unique to the New South Wales coastline and are highly valued for their flavor,” he stated.
A crime scene has been established, and police investigations are ongoing as they work to apprehend those responsible for this significant theft.