How oysters made human history

This story will chart the surprising history of humanity's relationship with oysters, from the dawn of time to now.

I will provide insights from archaeology, anthropology, sociology, and historical ecology to show that oysters are among humanity’s longest continually exploited resource.

However, our relationship with oysters looks set to evolve once again; from exploitation of a natural resource to natural resource restoration. For example, in South Australia we are restoring our lost oyster reefs to enhance marine life.

It seems that after thousands of years of exploitation, we are finally encouraging oysters to live like oysters.

Bio

I am a marine ecologist at the University of Adelaide, where I work to restore Australia's lost marine ecosystems. Working across Australia' s largest marine restorations, I have developed some unusual techniques, such as playing underwater music to attract animals to our restorations, to ensure these projects benefit nature and society.

Event

8:30pm @The Rising Sun Inn, 60 Bridge Street, Kensington

Also speaking at this location at 6:30pm is Nicholas Lee