Despite a rainy afternoon, nearly 70 supporters gathered at Surf City Brewing Co. on October 3 for Conserve The Point – Topsail’s 3rd Annual Oyster Roast for the Coast.
The weather only added to the cozy atmosphere as friends and neigbors came together to celebrate the conservation of The Point and reaffirm their commitment to its future.
A highlight of the afternoon was a moving message from Jonathan Lucas, State Coastal Conservation Manager for the Topsail Nature Preserve, who emphasized the importance of ongoing stewardship and the common ground we share in protecting special natural places. Drawing on President Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation legacy, Lucas reminded guests that caring for our natural heritage is a responsibility that unites us.
Lindsay Addison of Audubon North Carolina shared the importance of protecting coastal bird nesting, resting, and foraging habitats. She highlighted the importance of volunteer conservation efforts to create a protected bird nesting area within the new Topsail Nature Preserve and recognized a beautiful slideshow created by Conserve The Point Board member Gavin Shwahla, featuring piping plovers and scenic landscapes of the Preserve.
The afternoon also celebrated the vital role of oysters in our coastal environment, economy, and heritage. The NC Coastal Federation contributed educational information about oyster shell recycling and the event featured the Oyster Photo Exhibit, offering guests a glimpse into the people and traditions behind North Carolina’s oyster industry.
Special thanks go to our outstanding vendors and contributors — Surf City Brewing Co., N. Sea Oyster Co., Fusion Blue, and musician Doug McFarland — whose generosity and participation helped make the afternoon memorable. We also extend our appreciation to Cricket TenPas of Grasshopper Studio for her generous donation of a unique hand-painted surfboard for our silent auction.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with guests particularly praising the vendors, music, and opportunity to come together as a community in celebration.
More than a celebration, the Oyster Roast was a reminder that saving The Point was only the beginning.
Together, we are building a community committed to protecting and caring for this extraordinary coastal treasure for generations to come.
