Gosford Council will write to State Member for Hornsby Matt Kean to request support for the provision of financial relief to Hawkesbury River oyster farmers who have been affected by the Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS).
Many Hawkesbury River oyster farmers have been unable to generate income due to the proliferation of POMS but are still required to pay fees and lease payments. The waiving of lease associated fees would assist oyster growers to get back on their feet and Council is requesting the State Member for Hornsby apply to the NSW Minister for Primary Industries to introduce these financial relief measures.
Prior to the outbreak of POMS, there were 15 Hawkesbury River oyster businesses that produced almost $2.4 million worth of oysters annually. However, there are now only three oyster operators on the river, all of whom are struggling to meet costs.
Media release, Oct 27, 2015 Gosford Council media