Capalaba residents will see a wider local connection to a shellfish reef restoration project using recycled shells and oyster baskets at selected sites across the bay.
Moreton Bay Sites Set For Reef Restoration
Shellfish reefs in Moreton Bay are set to be restored through a $1.5 million project that will use recycled shell material to support new oyster habitat. The project will support OzFish in creating and deploying 10,000 Robust Oyster Baskets over two years at three confirmed locations: the Port of Brisbane, Peel Island and Fisher’s Lease.
The work is aimed at restoring shellfish reefs that have been lost through historical harvesting, coastal development, disease and declining water quality.
Recycled Shells Given A New Purpose
The oyster baskets will be made using recycled shell material collected from seafood businesses and restaurants across Brisbane. The shells will be cleaned and cured to meet biosecurity requirements before volunteers help turn them into Robust Oyster Baskets.
A single basket can provide shelter for more than 10,000 baby oysters. Once deployed, the baskets are intended to help rebuild shellfish reef habitat and support marine life.
The project also gives recycled shells a practical role in the bay’s restoration. Material collected from the seafood sector will be used as part of a process designed to help rebuild reef habitat rather than relying only on new materials.
Oyster Reefs And Water Quality In Moreton Bay
Shellfish reefs provide important habitat for fish and crustaceans. Their restoration is expected to support biodiversity by creating reef structures that can be used by marine life across selected parts of Moreton Bay.
Oysters also help filter water by trapping microscopic algae and other particles. One oyster can filter more than 100 litres of water a day, making shellfish reefs an important part of Moreton Bay’s marine environment.
The work is expected to support marine habitat, water quality, biodiversity, cultural values and community engagement as the oyster baskets are deployed.
Published 27-Apr-2026
Photo Credit: OzFish Unlimited/Facebook
