A DUCK race and two state woodchopping titles gave visitors plenty to watch at Saturday’s Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival, while local oyster farmers shared the challenges behind their catch.
For farmer Ryan Freeman, community support matters after repeated floods and oyster losses.
“We’ve had quite a few challenges in the last three years,” Mr Freeman told News Of The Area.
Mr Freeman has farmed oysters for about six years and said most of his employees were locals.
Asked what it meant to have the community supporting the festival, he replied, “A lot, actually.”
The free event on 17 October celebrated two industries closely tied to Karuah’s history, with market stalls and woodchopping among the attractions.
Don Brown, from the North Coast Axemen Association, said the competition included two state title events.
“Woodchopping’s a sport and it’s been going on for years,” Mr Brown said.
Behind the festival was a small volunteer committee organising everything from sponsors and stallholders to arrangements for the woodchopping.
Committee member Eleanor Boerst said organisers hoped between 2,500 and 3,000 people would visit throughout the day.
“It’s not only to support the oyster farmers, but it’s also to support our local community and bring people here,” Ms Boerst said.
She said the festival helped draw attention to a town motorists could easily pass on the highway.
“We’re trying to put it back on the map,” she said.
Money from duck sales and donations could help pay for a bigger festival next year or a smaller music event.
If there was not enough for another event, proceeds would be put back into the community.
For Ms Boerst, watching people enjoy the day was the reward.
“It’s been a lot of work, but it’s so rewarding to see it,” she said.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, who sponsors the festival each year, praised the local volunteers.
“The vibe here is awesome,” Ms Washington said.
“It brings people together. It is a really great event, and kudos to the organisers, who all are volunteers who make this happen.”
Ms Washington said celebrating the timber and oyster industries recognised Karuah’s beginnings, while the woodchopping gave people a chance to see the sport close to home.
“I just think it is a very, very special event,” she said.
By Althea GUINSBERG
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