American singer and songwriter, Jimmy Buffett, once said "
Give me oysters and beer, for dinner every day of the year, and I'll be fine". I'd agree with that ...
The Straddie Oyster Festival is an annual event which provides local farmers, fishermen, and restaurateurs the opportunity to promote their produce in a relaxed party atmosphere. I can taste those prawns and crabs just thinking about them - can't you?
Oysters : delicious
North Stradbroke Island, affectionately known as Straddie, is a sub-tropical island located 30 km southeast of Brisbane and is the world's second largest sand island. Take my word that the 30 minute trip by water taxi or 60 minute journey by barge from the mainland across to the island is a delightful respite from the big smoke in itself.
From the ferry terminal at Cleveland towards North Stradbroke Island
But back to the Oyster Festival, held at the Ron Stark Oval in Dunwich, with its beautiful views across the bay. There will be prawn and oyster eating competitions as well as live mud crab races. Market stalls and live music will keep Mums and Dads content, whilst the jumping castle and face painting will keep the kiddies occupied.
From Dunwich looking back over Moreton Bay
And remember, with the festival happening on Saturday, 23rd of November, from 10am till 6pm, it will be warm enough for the children to paddle and play in the sand, so pack their swimming gear (always wears them out as it ensures a good night's sleep which I favour).
Minjerribah, as North Stradbroke is known by the traditional landowners, will also have Indigenous Art displays including framed ceramic tiles, fibreglass turtle shells, and artworks.
The Straddie Oyster Festival promises to be a lot of fun. You can make it a day trip or a weekend excursion. For more information about accomodation and travel on Brisbane's best kept secret, go
here
Do you like your oysters with or without lemon?
