The Tasmanian Oyster Research Council

The Tasmanian Oyster Research Council (TORC) was formed to facilitate research and development for oyster producers in Tasmania.

TORC's activities are funded by a levy on oyster seed sales, (currently $1.25/1000 oysters) and governed by an elected board of directors, representing hatcheries and growers.

TORC is the Tasmanian industry organisation which identifies research and development opportunities, coordinates, facilitates and ultimately feeds back to industry the results of research and development projects necessary for, and ultimately for the benefit of the Tasmanian oyster producers.

Current projects include the Pacific Oyster Health Program, a partnership between the Tasmanian Government and TORC to undertake surveillance and investigation of Tasmanian Pacific oysters for internationally notifiable diseases – currently Tasmania has maintained a disease free status.

Selective breeding was also identified as a high priority for research and development, and so in conjunction with South Australian Growers (SAORC & SAOGA), Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) and the Commonwealth, Science and Industry, Research Organisation (CSIRO), a selective breeding company Australian Seafood Industries is managing a large selective breeding program.