OYSTER & CO

Bluff Oyster & A Taste of Southland Festival Bluff Oyster Festival In light of the resolution passed at the public meeting held in Bluff last night (NB: Wed 12 Dec) the Venture Southland Directorate has resolved not to continue with the proposed Bluff Oyster and A Taste of Southland Festival. Over recent years Venture Southland has attempted to maintain and develop the Bluff Oyster and Southland Seafood Festival, held in Bluff, as a successful destinational event. However, escalating costs, a diminishing pool of funders, falling numbers and infrastructural costs has led to significant losses with further losses projected if the current event structure was not re-evaluated. Venture Southland's proposal was to develop a broad Taste of Southland event while maintaining the iconic Bluff Oyster focus and also showcasing Southland fashion, talent, cuisine and products. This proposal attracted a wider range of funders and sponsors. It was always intended to retain involvement with the Bluff community and leverage more direct benefit to Bluff through a community open day. It is disappointing that this concept cannot proceed at this stage. Venture Southland's approach is to work with communities and we wish the Bluff community success with its endeavours. For any inquirie...