If there were ever a shellfish that tasted like the Great Southern coast, it would be the Albany Rock Oyster. Grown by Leeuwin Coast in the nutrient-rich, estuarine waters of Oyster Harbour, and harvested only when in peak condition,  these oysters are a real taste of Western Australia—and they’re as local and delicious as it gets. 

Home-Grown in the Great Southern

In a place known as Kinjarling, meaning “place of plenty” to the Menang people, Leeuwin Coast cultivates something truly special. Their Albany Rock Oysters are proudly home-grown in the nutrient waters of Oyster Harbour, where the King and Kalgan Rivers meet the colder waters of the Southern Ocean. Here, the oysters grow slowly and naturally for around three years, shaped by the harbour’s unique tidal rhythms and nutrient-rich seasonal rains. 

With their distinctive deep cup and plump, creamy body, they boast an excellentmeat-to-shell ratio—making for a satisfying slurpy morsel. It’s this shape, along with the care taken during regular handling and grading, that gives them their signature texture and sweetness. 

And the flavour? Unmistakably West Australian. These oysters carry a clean, ocean-fresh brine with subtle grassy notes—think cucumber skin, watermelon rind, and a hint of sea spray. The result is a refined, refreshing oyster that speaks of place, provenance, and purity. 

Sustainable by Nature, Nurtured to Perfection

Oysters are inherently sustainable — they require no feeding, help improve water quality by filtering up to 150 litres of water per day, and even sequester carbon in their shells as they grow. This makes them a natural ally in the fight against climate change.

Throughout their lifecycle, each oyster is carefully tended by Leeuwin Coast’s rigorous and passionate team — flipped, graded, and repositioned multiple times to ensure optimal growth and uniform quality. This hands-on, approach ensures consistency in shape and size, strengthens the adductor muscle, and results in a firm, plump oyster with a clean, satisfying bite. Their distinctive deep shell isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s a symbol of the care that’s gone into every step of the process.  

From Ocean to Plate

So how should you enjoy these briny beauties? As pure and unadulterated as possible. 

Their delicate flavour shines when served simply—freshly shucked with a squeeze of lemon or a splash of mignonette. For something a little extra, try a light Asian-style dressing with soy, lime, coriander, and a touch of chili, or serve them on ice with a crisp local Riesling, a citrusy Vermentino, or mineral-rich Chardonnay that complement their coastal character. 

Albany Rock Oysters are the perfect entrée to a Great Southern feast—refreshing, clean, and undeniably elegant. Whether you’re enjoying them at Tides of Taste, Taste Great Southern’s signature events, or at one of the region’s participating venues, these oysters are a must-try this season. 

For more information on Leeuwin Coast and their award-winning Albany Rock Oysters, visit leeuwincoast.com.