Harvester: Gazander Oysters, farming with purpose
Steven and Carly Thomson's journey with Gazander Oysters is a story of passion, sustainability, and deep-rooted commitment to their craft. Founded in 2002, Gazander Oysters has become a name synonymous with quality, care, and environmental stewardship, all driven by the Thomsons' unwavering dedication.
Carly's connection to oyster farming runs deep, with her father being one of the pioneers in Coffin Bay's oyster cultivation. This legacy, combined with Steven's diverse background in commercial banking, landscaping, and Rock Lobster fishing, forms the backbone of their approach to oyster farming. Together, they blend tradition with innovation, nurturing their oysters with the same meticulous care they would their own children.
At Gazander Oysters, every stage of production is a labor of love. From the tiny 4mm spat to the harvest-ready oysters nearly two years later, each oyster undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure it meets the Thomsons' high standards. This commitment to excellence extends to their sustainability efforts. They have integrated renewable energy, water recycling, and waste management into their operations, setting a new standard for sustainable oyster farming. Oysters, as natural filter feeders, play a crucial role in cleansing waterways, making the environmental impact of their farming practices inherently positive.
“Oysters, as natural filter feeders, play a crucial role in cleansing waterways, making the environmental impact of their farming practices inherently positive.”
Beyond the oysters, Steven and Carly are deeply invested in their local community. They employ locals who might otherwise struggle to find work, providing them with not just a job but a sense of purpose. This community-focused approach often sees these individuals traveling with the Thomsons to leading restaurants across the country, where they can experience firsthand the fruits of their labor.
Steven and Carly's story is a testament to the power of small-scale, independent farming. Their model of grassroots impact, grounded in sustainability and community, offers a blueprint that could be replicated and scaled to create positive change far beyond Coffin Bay. By supporting farmers like the Thomsons, who prioritize quality, care, and environmental stewardship, we can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system.
