Nambucca River oyster leases upgraded

For the frst time since 1983, Nambucca River oyster growers can harvest and directly sell their shellfsh after the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) rezoned sections of the river.

NSW DPIRD Shellfsh Program manager, Anthony Zammit, said two out of three Nambucca River harvest zones now have direct harvest approval.

“This means locally grown shellfsh can be sold directly from the waterway,” Mr Zammit said.

“We’ve worked with industry to deliver this positive outcome, which gives Nambucca region oyster farmers the confdence to bring their shellfsh to market.

“Growers are now providing quality local seafood for the community to enjoy, as the NSW oyster industry continue to deliver valuable results to the economy, regional employment and tourism.”

The rezoning of leases along the Nambucca River was achieved thanks to a year-long project to improve water quality, led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

NSW EPA Executive Director of Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA had ramped up its work with Nambucca Valley Council over the past fve years to prevent sewage overfows impacting the river.

“Since 2019, we have placed seven pollution reduction programs on the local sewage plant’s Environment Protection Licence, requiring a range of upgrades to improve infrastructure, prevent overfows and enhance their response to pollution incidents,” Mr Gordon said.

“We held regular meetings with the council and the local oyster industry to hear and address their concerns and helped with the cost of monthly water monitoring within the catchment.

“This is a great example of collaboration across government, and we thank oyster growers, Nambucca Valley Council, DPIRD, the NSW Food Authority and the Department of Climate Change, Energy Environment and Water for working together to fnd a solution for a local problem.”

The NSW Food Authority operates the NSW Shellfsh Program in partnership with the NSW oyster industry to ensure the safety of shellfsh harvested from NSW waters.

The NSW EPA is continuing to work closely with local oyster growers and the council to monitor and improve water quality in the region.

In Memorian

Lance Skimmings

2-10-2023

The World changes from year to year, Our Lives from Day to Day, But the Love and Memory of you shall never pass away, You will all ways be in my Heart filled with memories, I miss you every day.

Your loving wife Judy

Funeral Notice

Passed away peacefully 24th September 2024, Late of Ballina.

Loving husband of Marie (Dec’d). Loving partner of Bridgit. Cherished father and father in law of Kim & Martin, David & Ann. Devoted “Poppy” of Etienne, Luc, Solene and India. Will be sadly missed by all his relatives and friends.

Aged 94 Years

“A man who never drinks, is always well” e relatives and friends of Jack are invited to attend his funeral service to be held at e Richmond Chapel of Parkview Funeral Home, 21 Kalinga St Ballina On Wednesday 9th October 2024, commencing at 10.00am. At the conclusion of the chapel ceremony,