As Australians, we're no strangers to the wonders that our beautiful coastlines can reveal. From the majestic humpback whales breaching in the distance to the intricate patterns left by the receding tides, the beach is a treasure trove of natural marvels. But sometimes, the surprises come in smaller, yet equally fascinating forms, as one beachgoer in northern NSW discovered during a leisurely stroll along the subtropical sands.

The local woman was taken aback when she stumbled upon an unusual fan-shaped growth sprouting from a piece of driftwood. Accustomed to the usual seashells and seaweed, this sight was something entirely new to her. The curiosity was so strong that she couldn't help but capture the moment in photographs, which she later shared online, admitting she had 'never seen' anything like it before.



The images she posted revealed a cluster of white fungi emerging from the side of an old, weathered trunk. This peculiar find piqued the interest of many, including a leading scientist from the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, who was able to shed light on the mysterious growth.


Professor Brett Summerell, the chief scientist at the Botanic Gardens, explained to Yahoo News Australia that the fungi had likely taken root on a tree that was washed out of the Richmond River during one of the recent floods. These floods, which have been both devastating and deadly, affected southeast Queensland and NSW's northeast coast, and it's possible that this piece of driftwood had been adrift since the 2022 flood.



The woman, who had shared her find with a Facebook group dedicated to identifying fungi in Australia, mentioned that the fungi looked somewhat familiar, almost like something she had seen 'in the supermarket.' And indeed, her intuition was correct.

The growth was identified as 'pleurotus djamor var djamor,' commonly known as pink oyster mushrooms. These mushrooms can vary in color, appearing in shades of pink, cream, or white. A fellow group member humorously commented, 'Just oysters going back to where they belong,' highlighting the unexpected nature of finding supermarket-like produce in such a wild setting.

Professor Summerell further elaborated on the resilience of fungi, noting that there are numerous native species that thrive on dead wood. The mycelium, or fungal threads, can survive inside the wood for an extended period, protected from the elements and even submersion in water. The fungus will continue to grow on and within the tree for 'a number of years until the wood is broken down and fully decayed by the fungus.'



However, despite the familiar appearance of these oyster mushrooms, Professor Summerell cautioned beachgoers against foraging for a seaside snack. He warned that while some oyster mushrooms are safe to eat, others can be poisonous. Therefore, it's best not to take the risk of consuming them without proper identification and knowledge.

This beachside discovery serves as a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that exists in Australia and the unexpected places nature can thrive. It also underscores the importance of respecting our natural environment and the organisms that inhabit it, even when they resemble something as innocuous as a grocery item.


Have you ever encountered something unusual or unexpected on your beach walks? Or perhaps you've found something that looked like it belonged in a supermarket rather than the sand? Share your stories with us, and let's marvel at the oddities and wonders that Mother Nature has to offer. And remember, if you're ever unsure about a wild mushroom or any other foraged food, it's always better to err on the side of caution. Safety first, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club!