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A new olive oil lobby group is urgently preparing a position paper to protect its members from threatended subsidy cuts by the European Commission. At its meeting in Barcelona on last Tuesday, the Forum of European Olive Regions agreed to complete the so-called white paper before the end of June in order to “defend itself in Brussels” as negotiations heat up over the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) structure and budget for 2014-2020. Among changes proposed by the EC is paying all olive farmers a flat rate per hectare rather than paying some according to production history – a change which would see France and Spain lose the most.
The AGOA (Australian Golden Olive Awards), run by the Olive Producers (NE Vic), will be held for the 13th time this year. The Invitation to Participate must be returned by Friday, 21 July. Standard bottles and/or jars, code labels and entry forms will then be returned by the Steward and must be returned with payment by 9 August. The celebration dinner and award presentation will be held on 15 September, 2012. Organisers say this is a prestigeous award and the best value for money, with testing results provided free. Download the Invitation to Participate here
Changes in varieties grown in Australian and New Zealand olive groves mark one of the most interesting movements within the industry over the past 12 months. Statistics gathered for the 2012 Australian and New Zealand Olive Industry Directory show significant decreases in four of the major varietals grown in Australia, and an upward swing in popularity for the Kalamata variety among New Zealand growers. The latter no doubt reflects the strong growth in table olive production experienced over the previous five years, a trend which the figures show has steadied in among New Zealand producers over the past year.
You’ll find this and all the industry information you need to know in the newly-released 2012 edition of the Olive Industry Directory. This vital annual reference book for the olive industry also includes: updated olivegrower and processor listings, supplier listings, Buyers’ Guide – one-stop supply shop, organisations, calendar of 2012 events, 2011 statistics and 2011 industry overview. To order call +618 8369 9555, email [email protected] or visit www.olivegrower.com.au.
Olives NZ has commenced compiling data collected through its recent Grove Census, based on more than 115 responses representing over 155 groves. Responses are still welcomed – particularly from the Auckland, Waiheke Island and Marlborough regions, which are currently under-represented – so if you haven’t done so, please complete and forward your form at the earliest convenience. All grower participation is most appreciated, contributing to this very important industry project. Send your completed form to, or request a form from, EO Gayle Sheridan at: [email protected].
A recent study under the title Greece 10 years ahead aspires to set the foundations for the economic recovery of the teetering country. The study, produced by McKinsey management consulting firm in Athens, proposes a ‘National Growth Model’ that prioritizes what has to be done and in which sectors of the economy. Tourism and energy are considered key sectors. Equally, agriculture is not a small cog in a large wheel but rather a big player that will yield substantial income and create job positions. When the term ‘agriculture’ is used in Greece, one thing certainly comes in mind: olives and olive oil.
An Olive Field Day is being held on Friday, 4 May at Murrindindi Olive Grove, Yea. Presented by the Italian Chamber of Commerce, Murrindindi Olive Grove and Kingsford Machinery Sales & Service, the event is supported by AOA Victoria and will feature exhibitors and guest speakers on a range of relevant topics. The Murrindindi Olive Grove processing facility will be in full operation and accessible for viewing throughout the day. For more information contact Umberto Frattali on 0418 333 586 or [email protected], or Tom Tigani on 0429 377 886.
The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Adelaide is organising an Olive Study Tour of Italy and Spain for late 2012. Departing on November 4, the tour will encompass marketing, table olives, bottling and buyers. For more information call the Chamber on (08) 8232 4022 or email [email protected].
The Italian Chamber of Commerce is also promoting local participation at Cibus 2012, an annual international Food Exhibition in Parma, Italy. Cibus is the key event of the Italian agri-food sector, providing a platform to enable companies committed to ‘Made in Italy’ foods to meet major distributors, importers and professionals in domestic and foreign markets. Fiere di Parma is offering packages for Australian operators to participate at Cibus, with three options available. For further information, contact Antonio Rosato at [email protected] or 08 8232 4022 by 4 April 2012.
In the social entrepreneurial spirit, Australia’s award-winning, Yellingbo Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil has partnered with several of the most effective women and girls’ development organisations to create a groundbreaking online platform called, 2+U=Change. The company’s owner, Jeremy Meltzer, is an ambassador for women’s rights.
The new Constitution for Olives New Zealand was adopted unanimously at the Extraordinary General Meeting held on Saturday, 24 March in Auckland. Some 76 people attended the meeting, including seven non-member observers. The Executive will now work on implementing the new Constitution.