Our History
Whittens Oysters was founded in 1984, when Royden Whitten came home from work one night to inform his family he’d turned his passion into a reality and bought an oyster farm!
Since that time the company has grown and evolved considerably, but has always kept its strong family values at its core. Over the last 36 years, Royden’s wife, Denise, and all three of their sons have been involved in the oyster farm and turned it into what it is today. In fact, they’re now into their third generation!
Royden has always been a pioneer in the industry.
He was responsible for inventing the floating bags system, which allows the oysters to access more nutrients and grow better, meaning high quality oysters can be grown consistently.
He was also among the first to use the single seed farming approach and helped the industry change from the old methods to the current environmentally friendly method, which ensures oysters grow in a uniform shape. Both of these methods are now widely used throughout Australia and internationally.
Over the years Whittens Oysters have been responsible for supplying many of the largest distributors in Australia, with their oysters being enjoyed in some of the best restaurants, including the Sydney Opera House.
