Pambula Lake & River:
Initially a large public oyster reserve, Pambula Lake & river was opened up for leasing during the 1880s. In August 1885, nine leases were applied for at Broadwater, Saltwater Creek & Pambula (or Panbula as it was then known) by residents such as R. Maldon, J. Severs (Senior & Junior), H. Groll & W. Thompson. By the 1890s, other names synonymous with the local industry began to appear on applications – Baddeley, Hardaker, Martin, George, Spears, Burton, Warne & Brassington to mention just a few.
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In 1900 it was noted that “Oyster culture is booming on the Pambula River. Nearly the whole of the foreshore, about seven miles, have been applied for under lease...” while in 1907, additional leases were made available. The fisheries report that year noted that of the 6,500 yards of the Pambula River under lease, all was well stocked with mature oysters and in March, a Mr. Barkley of the Sydney oyster trade visited to secure regular shipments.
By the end of 1909 the leased area covered 12,491 yards, with an output of 118 bags. Four years later, this had grown to 300 bags, valued at £1,000. At the time, Pambula oysters were selling at more than £3 a bag, the highest price then being realised on the Melbourne market.
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Today Pambula’s oyster farmers grow two native species: Sydney rock & flat (or mud) oysters.
