A good year for Aussie olives as consumer and investor interest grows
By Laura Thomas
Consumer and investor interest in Australian olives is continuing to grow, as the industry goes from strength to strength.
It’s been a good year for olive producers, according to Australian Olive Association (AOA) Chief Executive Officer Michael Southan.
He said an increase in olive oil prices had generated positive press and an upswell in public interest.
“I’s been an upbeat 12 months – prices are strong and production has increased,” Mr Southan said.
“There’s also a lot of interest in olives and olive oil, from both investors and consumers.
“When you’ve got strong interest coming from both ends like that, it’s a real indication of a strong industry.”
Mr Southan said increased interest in the Australian olive industry had revealed a “thirst for knowledge” among a growing number of new and established growers.
He said AOA membership was the best way to tap into the wealth of knowledge and industry expertise available from the peak industry body, via industry updates, advice and advocacy.
“AOA membership is a way to be in the fold and access information and importantly, people,” he said.
“Having access to an industry network is really useful, rather than having to navigate things on your own.”
Mr Southan said AOA members received priority access to industry advocacy and advice, and official AOA communications.
They also have the opportunity to become Australian Code of Practice (OliveCare®) certified, nominate for the AOA Board to help guide the industry and take part in field days and the annual industry conference and enter the Australian International Olive Awards at discounted prices.
“The olive industry is probably the most geographically diverse horticultural industry in Australia,” Mr Southan said.
“There are olive groves in every state from Tasmania to the Northern Territory – groves from north to south and east to west.
“Very few other industries are as diverse, but as the peak body for the Australian olive industry, the AOA helps bring everyone together.”
Help the AOA build a bright future for Aussie olives
The AOA is committed to building a sustainable and profitable future for Australian olive industry.
Financial membership enables the AOA to represent grower interests both at home and abroad, and manage biosecurity and other threats affecting the industry – essential activities which often fly under the radar.
Each and every membership dollar allows the AOA to continue this important work on behalf of Australian growers.
Enjoy exclusive member benefits
AOA membership also provides financial members with a wealth of direct benefits, including:
- Heavily discounted rates on Australian International Olive Awards entries and AOA event registrations
- The opportunity to participate in the OliveCare® Code of Best Practice program, which provides assistance with queries on grove management, production, storage and other quality parameters
- Access to member-excusive content on the AOA website and information on a broad range of industry-relevant topics, including a readable version of the Australian Standard 5264-2011
- New members based in Australia also receive a copy of Olive Growing (756 pages!) valued at $165.
Join us now!
