2025 Conference Presentations Day 1
Paul Miller, EVOO quality in the USA and Australia – our story’
The quality and authenticity story of the Australian olive industry began when the AOA was formed. The story became international in 2003 and since then we have acted to create a level playing field for genuine EVOO. This presentation tells the story of this work - its people and its technology - with a particular focus on the USA, looking ahead for this most important and influential market for EVOO, while reflecting on the lessons learned in Australia.
Andrew Burgess, Consumer Market Update
A summary of market and consumer trends in the supermarket cooking oil category and the important role extra virgin olive oil plays in this segment.
Dane Thomas, Forecasting Drought
An update on the latest sources for forecasts of seasonal drought and trends and projections for long-term drying or aridity shows that olive growers can access plenty of information.
Tom Hatcher, Irrigation systems for olives
Covering the utilisation of data for irrigation management of olives.
Navneet Kaur, Agromillora sponsor presentation
David King, Pellenc sponsor presentation
Arnon Dag, Irrigation of olives with reclaimed wastewater
This presentation presents findings of an eight-year term field experiment where Professor Dag’s research team evaluated irrigation and nutrient management of olives with reclaimed wastewater versus fresh water, and with standard or reduced fertilization.
Ben Pike, The NOVA site – history and current plans
Ben outlines the history and current plans of the National Olive Variety Assessment (NOVA).
Mike Thomsett / Brian Hearne, Drones in the olive grove –
efficiency, insights, and innovation
This presentation examines how drones are transforming modern orchard management. Drawing on practical experience in both farming and drone operations, the session highlights real-world applications in olive orchards and the wider benefits for sustainable agriculture.
Michael Southan, Benchmarking – why it is important
The benefits and importance of benchmarking is demonstrated using case studies.
Claudia Guillaume, EVOO quality: The whole picture
Claudia explores the full spectrum of quality assessment; discusses sensory analysis and looks ahead to regulatory developments and how prepared the Australian olive oil industry is to meet evolving standards and consumer expectations.