Farming for more than 60 years.
Our story.
Our team.
At the end of a narrow dirt road at Lemon Tree Passage, a row of tin oyster-farm sheds sits on the banks of picturesque Port Stephens. These waters are home to XL Oysters, one of Australia’s larger producers of Sydney Rock Oysters.
The XL Oysters story began in 1956 as Dutch immigrant, Adrian Salm began to farm oysters to support his family. It’s a story of entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic and respect for the Worimi people - the traditional custodians of Lemon Tree Passage. Adrian established a head, hearts, and hands approach to oyster farming, and those principles are carried on by his son and grandchildren today.
The business produces oysters from 32-hectares of leases located at Port Stephens, supplying customers all year round with their premium Sydney Rock oysters.
Mark Salm
Mark grew up on the oyster farm and is one of the regions most experienced farmers. Mark’s dad, Adrian, immigrated to Australia from the Netherlands in the early 1950’s and established what is now known as XL Oysters.
Mark’s knowledge of oyster farming is extensive and the result of more than 40 years of farming. His intuitive understanding of the growing environment, seasonal changes and oysters generally continues to allow the business to thrive.
Known as “the great gentleman of the industry”, Mark mentors other local farmers and is one of eight farmers that sit on the NSW Farmers Oyster Committee. Mark is also the Chairman of the Port Stephens Branch of NSW Farmers.
Matthew Burgoyne
Matt has been passionately farming the waters of Port Stephens for more than 15 years. Oysters were part of his life from a very early age and it was a natural shift to begin working on the farm.
About five years ago, Matt took the farming baton from his dad, Don. Full of energy and vision for the future, Matt has contributed significantly to the growth and innovation of the business. Always thinking of how things can be done more efficiently, Matt is passionate about the XL team and about mastering the challenges of oyster farming.
Winning the Excellence in Environmental Practice category at the Sydney Fish Market Seafood Excellence Awards in 2016 was a proud moment for Matt and the team.
Don Burgoyne
Don has been an integral part of the XL Oysters business for 35 years. Starting a science career in Sydney, Don signed up for a sea-change, moving with his wife and kids to Lemon Tree Passage. He joined the family business and hasn’t looked back. Don’s progressive approach to farming and dedication to industry oversight has meant that he has served on many panels and advisory boards, representing farmers and lobbying for change.
Now semi-retired, Don works two days a week, with Matt taking on his role in the business. Don’s a big fan of barbershop (singing not hair cutting) and you’ll often find him singing while he works. He recently won a national award with his barbershop quartet for the best traditional song.