Bidhiinja: restoring our oyster reefs opens at Solitary Islands Aquarium

Bidhiinja: restoring our oyster reefs tells the forgotten history of oyster reefs in New South Wales and the work underway to restore these important ecosystems.

The touring exhibition is on now until July 20 at the Solitary Islands Aquarium, part of Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre at Coffs Harbour.

Audiences can learn about the past, present and future of oyster reefs in Australia and the benefits they provide to communities and the environment.

Augmented reality (AR) brings an oyster reef to life: see what can be found in a midden; turn the wheel to see what a healthy ecosystem looks like; or open the door to explore the art and design of oyster shell.

The future of healthy Australian coasts showcased in this exhibition combines First Nations knowledge, western science, and design including illustrations by exhibition artist and Yaegl woman Frances Belle Parker, a Southern Cross University alumna.

“This exhibit is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the vital role oyster reefs play in ecosystem health,” says Stephan Soule, Manager of Outreach and Education and curator of Southern Cross University’s Solitary Islands Aquarium. 

“Not only do oyster reefs provide habitat for hundreds of marine animals and help control erosion, but one oyster can filter up to 5-litres per hour, leading to water clarity and nutrient cycling.”

Bidhiinja is presented by the Australian National Maritime Museum in collaboration with NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) NSW Oyster Reef Restoration Project. It is touring NSW regional venues from 2024-2025.  

This collaboration is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Marine Estate Management Strategy, which aims to deliver a healthy coast and sea, managed for the greatest wellbeing of the community, now and into the future.

Exhibition details

Bidhiinja: restoring our oyster reefs

On now at Southern Cross University’s Solitary Islands Aquarium in Coffs Harbour until 20 July 2025. Entry to the exhibition included in the normal Aquarium entry fees.

Venue: Solitary Islands Aquarium, National Marine Science Centre, 2 Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour

For opening hours, visit the Solitary Islands Aquarium website.

Public lecture

‘Exploring the rich history of natural shellfish reefs - the NSW Oyster Reef Restoration & Research project’

Thursday, 5 June, starting at 6 pm.

Venue: Solitary Islands Aquarium, National Marine Science Centre, 2 Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour

No bookings required. Free.

As part of its Marine Discovery Series lecture, the National Marine Science Centre is hosting a public lecture, ‘Exploring the rich history of natural shellfish reefs - the NSW Oyster Reef Restoration & Research project’.

NSW DPI Senior Fisheries Manager, Charlotte Jenkins will discuss the historical loss of oyster reefs across NSW since European arrival, the importance of oyster reefs for water quality and fish habitat, and the effort underway to revive these incredible ecosystems.

Southern Cross University PhD candidate, Chris Klaas, will discuss his research on the feasibility of using the native leaf oyster, Isognomon ephippium, in shellfish reef restoration. 

“The native leaf oyster, found here on the Coffs Coast near Woolgoolga, is a fascinating mollusc. The species has potential for use in shellfish reef restoration, helping to rebuild lost habitats and provide important ecosystem services, such as improving water quality,” said Chris.

Visit the Solitary Islands Aquarium's Events page for more information.