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American River set to sizzle as Kangaroo Island hosts "Smoke on the Water" seafood feast

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Chef Kane Pollard, who will lead Smoke on the Water at KI Oysters, American River, Kangaroo Island, on Saturday 29 August.
Chef Kane Pollard, who will lead Smoke on the Water at KI Oysters, American River, Kangaroo Island, on Saturday 29 August.
Key Facts:
  • What: Smoke on the Water, a roaming seafood feast with Chef Kane Pollard
  • When: Saturday 29 August 2026, 1:00pm–4:00pm ACST
  • Where: KI Oysters, 45 Tangara Dr, American River SA 5221
  • Tickets: $110pp, limited availability, via events.humanitix.com/smoke-on-the-water
  • Accommodation: Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, 20% off stays for the weekend of 29 August (min. 2 nights), enter code MKI20 under "Special offer" in booking screen, subject to availability, book at www.kilodge.com.au

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

28 July 2026

American River set to sizzle as Kangaroo Island hosts "Smoke on the Water" seafood feast

On Saturday 29 August, Kangaroo Island's American River will host Smoke on the Water, a roaming seafood feast from KI Oysters and Place Dining, led by acclaimed South Australian chef Kane Pollard.

For $110 per person, guests feast on fresh, smoked and flame-grilled KI oysters, miso grilled squid, a hearty seafood chowder and a honey and saltbush s'more, paired with wine from Spring Seed Wine and False Cape. Oysters are harvested metres away and cooked live over open fire, with waterfront views from 1pm to 4pm. Tickets are limited and available now via Humanitix.

"American River has some of the best oysters in the country, and this event is about celebrating that, cooking them the way they deserve, right where they're grown, over an open fire," said Chef Kane Pollard.

Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is the natural base for the weekend. Guests booking a stay over the weekend (minimum two nights) can enter code MKI20 under "Special offer" in booking screen to redeem 20% off, subject to availability. Arrive Friday, enjoy Smoke on the Water on Saturday, and spend Sunday exploring the island, without the pressure of a same-day return crossing. Book at www.kilodge.com.au.

Kingscote and Penneshaw might be the island's usual first stops, but American River deserves a weekend of its own. Home to Kangaroo Island's oyster leases, calm waters and abundant birdlife, it's a quieter alternative. Smoke on the Water gives visitors a reason to base themselves here, rather than just pass through.

 

-ENDS-

About Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge

Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is set on the shores of American River, offering guests a relaxed base for exploring the island's wildlife, coastline and produce. Part of the Accor group, the hotel combines comfortable, well-appointed rooms with easy access to Kangaroo Island's national parks, beaches and local food and wine experiences. For bookings and more information, visit www.kilodge.com.au.

Media contact

Matt Garreffa

Vice President – Marketing

[email protected]

+61 409 001 454

1834hotels.com.au

Images

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KI Oysters at American River (Kangaroo Island)
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Chef Kane Pollard, who will lead Smoke on the Water at KI Oysters, American River, Kangaroo Island, on Saturday 29 August.
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