The rugged coastline of Albany is home to an oyster farm that is taking the food industry by storm.
The southern coast of Western Australia is renowned for its pristine coastal waters, which are ideal conditions for cultivating some of the finest oysters in the world. The region’s unique geography, coupled with tides and temperature – including the cool sea waters of the Southern Ocean – creates such a habitat for cultivating top-quality molluscs.
In Albany, where the freshwaters of the King and Kalgan Rivers meet, Oyster Harbour is thriving. The Manang Noongar people have long fished here with fish traps built by the Indigenous community dating back an estimated 7000 years. Today, these nutrient-rich waters are home to a bustling oyster farm that prides itself on quality and sustainability.
What sets Albany Rock Oysters apart
Albany benefits from its remote location, stunning coastline and clean air. The cool waters surrounding the region remain primarily untouched and help maintain ideal conditions for oysters to filter-feed. The result? A clean and crisp taste with a delicate balance of sweetness and brine that are characteristic of Albany Rock Oysters. It’s earned them a reputation as a premium Western Australian product sought after by professional chefs and home cooks alike, and it’s all down to the geography of Western Australia’s southern coast.
Harvested in the warmer months – between November and April – when Albany Rock Oysters flourish and are in peak condition, production is overseen by experienced oyster farmers committed to high-quality and sustainable aquaculture practices. They use their in-depth knowledge of the local microclimate, marine habitat, and oyster biology, working with the ever-changing conditions of the harbour to produce the finest rock oysters from sea to plate.
Harvested between November and March when Albany Rock Oysters are in peak condition
Sustainability is at the core
Albany boasts a rich maritime history, and oyster farmers continue to work with the sea and its rugged geography. They carefully monitor water quality, minimising environmental impact while practising responsible harvesting techniques to ensure the integrity of this unique coastal ecosystem.
Here, oysters start their life in the local hatchery and then transition to purpose-built state-of-the-art nursery facilities before heading out into the harbour for the rest of their growing cycle. Being carefully managed and graded from spat ensures that only the finest are selected. Overseeing the farming from start to finish ensures quality, consistency and size. The result is a unique shell colouration, varying from white to dark purple with hues of olive green, and a deep cup with a clean, protruding, and easy-to-open hinge. The shape of the baskets guides the young oysters into a shape that’s consistent for optimum quality.
The shape of the oyster baskets creates optimum size and quality
Best way to enjoy Albany Rock Oysters
Known for their exceptional taste and texture, professional chefs love Albany Rock Oysters. The oyster’s flavour profile is characterised by its clean, crisp finish and creamy texture on the palate.
Chefs prize their versatility and consistency, whether served raw on the half shell, grilled, or incorporated into elegant seafood dishes. Their robust flavour allows them to stand alone as a delicacy or complement other ingredients in more complex creations.
Yet the best way to savour their flavour is often the simplest: raw on the half shell. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or a drizzle of mignonette sauce to enhance their natural taste. The oyster’s unique flavour profile is a delicate balance attributed to the region. Think light touches of sea spray brine with grassy undertones, a hint of fresh fruit-forward watermelon rind, and cucumber, making them the perfect summer oyster. It’s why they are so popular with Australia’s celebrated chefs, including Bib & Tucker’s Scott Bridger.
“Every oyster in the world tastes a little bit different. We love serving these oysters in summer because they are clean, creamy and briny. They really lend themselves to an array of different garnishes.”
Our tip is to just add chopped shallots and red wine vinegar to taste. It’s that simple, and let the oysters speak for themselves. Paired with a local West Australian crisp white wine for the ultimate culinary union. Emma Farrelly, Director of Wine & Beverages at Perth’s State Buildings, suggests these two as a perfect match:
Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Riesling 2022 Frankland
This is one of Australia’s best Rieslings and an ideal match for Albany Rock Oysters. Its intense minerality and chalky character complement the oyster’s salty tang. A squeeze of lemon would be the perfect accompaniment, intensifying the wine’s complex citrus notes.
Idée Fixe Premier Brut Blanc de Blancs 2021 Margaret River
This is a unique and distinctive style of sparkling Chardonnay from the calcareous soils in Karridale. This wine is incredibly fresh, with piercing acidity and a brisk, chalky feel across the palate. It is a very appropriate match for a salty oyster – the combination can best be described as a similar feeling to diving headfirst into the ocean.
Where to buy Albany Rock Oysters
- The Good Grocer
- Seafresh Innaloo, Myaree and Claremont
- IGA North Road Albany
- Great Southern Seafoods
All images © Shot by Thom
Read more: The WAGFG Guide to Albany
