Where to Buy Fresh Oysters in Forster: Graham Barclay Oysters at Wallis Lake (Updated 2025)

Deb Carr
May 27
2 min read

Updated: Jun 9

If you're seeking the freshest oysters in Forster, you can’t go past Graham Barclay Oysters, a third-generation family business nestled on the shores of Wallis Lake. Their Sydney Rock Oysters are some of the sweetest and most succulent in Australia—harvested straight from the pristine waters of the Mid North Coast and sold direct from their waterfront outlet in Forster.

The History of Oyster Farming on Wallis Lake

Oyster farming in Wallis Lake dates back to the early 1900s, after European settlement heavily depleted the region’s naturally occurring oyster beds. Today, this region is recognised as one of Australia's most important oyster-producing areas, thanks to its clean estuarine conditions and ideal tidal flows.

Graham Barclay Oysters has played a central role in that legacy, evolving with modern aquaculture techniques while maintaining a deep respect for traditional farming methods..

Graham Barclay Oysters are a third-generation business producing and suppling some of the finest-quality shellfish grown in Australia. These premium oysters are grown in the pristine waters of Wallis Lake, Forster.

How Forster’s Sydney Rock Oysters Are Grown

The farming process is meticulous. Oyster larvae settle on cemented frames fixed to turpentine stakes—these provide both structure and protection against marine pests. From there, it takes around 2.5 to 3 years for the oysters to mature to a point where they can be “knocked off” the frames and returned to the estuary for a final fattening phase, lasting between six to twelve months.

That means each oyster you enjoy has taken up to four years to reach your plate.

A True Taste of Forster

Oyster lovers know there's something special about enjoying a tray of fresh, locally farmed Sydney Rocks just metres from where they were harvested. Graham Barclay Oysters has become a must-visit stop on any Forster foodie itinerary, contributing more than $8 million annually to the local economy and building a strong reputation for quality across New South Wales.

Their shopfront offers opened, unopened, and bottled oysters—perfect for picnics, entertaining, or simply indulging. Personally, I find that all they need is a squeeze of lemon. When they’re this fresh, you don’t want to complicate perfection.