The Mylestom Mollusc
Applicant: Toni Swain auspiced by Urunga Business & Community
Fund: Community Event Sponsorship Fund 2025/26 - Round 1
Funding: $2,000
The inaugural Mylestom Mollusc Festival was held on 8 November 2025 in the coastal village of Mylestom. The festival celebrated the region’s oysters, fresh local produce, arts, crafts and community groups, with market stalls lining the river walk and hall grounds. Visitors enjoyed live music from local bands, cooking demonstrations, weaving and floral workshops, circus activities, fly-fishing demonstrations, community displays and a range of interactive activities for all ages. Local oyster growers from the Kalang and Nambucca Rivers were a major attraction, serving more than 10,000 oysters throughout the day.
The festival attracted an estimated 2,500 to 2,800 attendees, far exceeding expectations. Feedback from the community was overwhelmingly positive, with strong support for making the event an annual fixture. Workshops were well attended, live music created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day, and the quality of the local produce, arts and craft stalls was widely praised. The event successfully showcased the unique character of Mylestom and the broader region, while highlighting local makers, growers, artists and businesses.
The festival delivered strong Community Wellbeing outcomes by bringing people together through a shared appreciation of the region and all it has to offer. Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy outstanding local produce, particularly fresh oysters from local rivers, alongside high-quality arts, crafts and market stalls. Live music, workshops and interactive activities created a memorable and inclusive experience for people of all ages. The festival also celebrated the natural beauty of Mylestom and the Bellinger River, acknowledged Gumbaynggirr culture through cultural activities, and provided a day focused on community connection, participation and enjoyment.
"Due to the support of Bellingen Shire Council, the Mylestom Mollusc came to fruition. Local community and the general public were able to be involved in an event that not only highlighted the region’s excellent produce, arts, crafts, and beautiful environment, but provided a fun, family friendly day full of engaging activities. Thank you for your support! " Festival Organiser, The Mylesotm Mollusc Festival
