THE much-loved Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival is set to make its grand return from 9am on Saturday, 18 October, at Lionel Morten Oval.
This vibrant community celebration of local culture, seafood, and timber sports has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated annual events.
What began in the 1990s as the humble Myall River Boat Race has evolved into a dynamic festival showcasing Karuah’s unique heritage.
After moving to the Karuah River under the stewardship of the Port Stephens Regatta Club, the festival took a major turn when local legend Daryl Johnson introduced woodchopping competitions.
With his nephew, renowned axeman Brad le Losa, leading exhilarating demonstration events, the festival’s identity began to shift.
Following environmental concerns about the impact of boat races on local marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and even the rare Karuah penguins, racing was phased out.
What remained was the sound of axes ringing through the air and the unmistakable buttery taste of freshly shucked oysters.
As local oyster farmers joined in with educational displays and fresh seafood offerings, the festival embraced its dual identity, becoming the Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival we know today.
This year marks the official move to Lionel Morten Oval, after a successful last-minute relocation in 2024 due to rain.
The new venue offers better space, accessibility, and the perfect amphitheatre seating to enjoy the woodchopping championships, which attract elite competitors from around the country.
In addition to the timber sports and oyster showcases, this year’s festival will feature more market stalls than ever before, plus classic kids’ activities including sack races, egg and spoon races, and face painting.
The pearler of the day is always the oyster eating competition, a fun and deliciously messy spectacle for participants and onlookers alike.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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