West Coast oyster aces launch first Shuck ’n’ Roll fundraiser at Smitty’s on Main

by Mike Usinger on February 9th, 2024 at 11:34 AM

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Like ice skating, playing guitar, or sex, it’s a skill that can take a while to master. And if you’ve ever tried to crack open an oyster for the first time, you know that some things are harder than they look.

So if you love oysters, don’t like the work that goes into getting them open, and really love the idea of doing something good for charity, Smitty’s Oyster House on Main Street is where you’ll want to be on February 29. The mollusk-fixated restaurant in Mount Pleasant is hosting an inaugural all-star event it’s calling Shuck ’n’ Roll.

Two-person squads will display their shucking skills in a fundraiser for the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, which helps raise money for research and for specialized care for British Columbians with medical challenges. Shuckers will come from Smitty’s Oyster House on Main and its sister restaurant in Gibsons; Harbour Oyster Bar; Rodney’s Oyster House; Chewie’s Oyster Bar; and Fanny Bay Oyster Bar.

Organizing Shuck ’n’ Roll are Smitty’s general manager Shane Laird along owner Matthew Thompson, who in September of 2022 received a liver transplant at Vancouver General Hospital.

Matthew Thompson.

“This is my way of trying to give back and express my gratitude for the care and attention that I received and help raise awareness of its vital and lifesaving programs that benefit patients around the province,” Thompson said in a release announcing the event.

In addition to oysters, oysters, and more oysters, Shuck ’n’ Roll will feature a live DJ, silent auction, and, in the event you need a quick mollusk break, free paella prepared by Smitty’s head chef Alan Older. Tickets can (and should) be purchased in advance.