We hope you’ve got 26-27 October marked down in your diary – and if not, get that marker pen out and do it now! That’s when the olive industry heads to Canberra, ACT for the annual info-fest on olive growing and production, and running a viable olive business.
Being held at the University of Canberra’s Ann Harding Conference Centre, the event brings together industry members, horticultural and business professionals, and service providers for two days of invaluable knowledge sharing and networking.
Varied program
The 2023 program is divided into morning plenary sessions and afternoon activities, ensuring a vibrant and stimulating environment throughout the event.
The plenary presentations will cover a wide range of industry topics, many responding directly to topics raised at last year’s Conference or suggestions from growers at other AOA events throughout the year. The comprehensive program repeats last year’s popular ‘mix-it-up’ format, covering all aspects of running a successful olive business from grove to office to sales.
Highlights include:
- Regenerative Farming and Olives: Sustainability, Carbon and Improved Grove Practices (by Australia’s first certified Regenerative Agriculture olive producer Cameron Mercer);
- Protecting Your Brand IP – Trademarks
- Table Olive Market Update – Imports, Exports, Food Service and Trends
- High Polyphenol EVOO: Why Do I Want It and How to Get It?
- Pathway Opportunities to Sales Growth
- Panel Sessions on Recovery from Adverse Climatic Events and Preparing for Climate Change.
The afternoon sessions will be more hands-on: Thursday will take delegates to a field event hosted by local producer Fedra Grove, providing the opportunity for peer discussion and problem-solving of grove management issues; Friday will feature an interactive EVOO Cooking Class by taste.com Food Director Michelle Southan and Food Lovers Guide to Australia presenter Joanna Savill, followed by an Olive Oil Tasting Workshop led by new AIOA Head Judge Helen Taylor.
Evenings will keep the momentum and networking going, with the Conference Dinner on the Thursday and the Australian International Olive Awards (AIOA) Presentation Dinner wrapping up the vent on the Friday. *Please note this is a separate optional event and requires the purchase of an additional ticket*.
Trade Exhibition
Featuring a range of leading olive industry suppliers and service providers, the Exhibition is an opportune time to review your business needs and learn all about the latest product innovations. The attendance of the exhibitors allows you to speak face-to-face with industry experts and gain personalized advice on the best equipment and services for your operation. A list of conference exhibitors is available here – be sure to make time to visit the booths. If you’re armed with your questions, you’ll go home with answers!
Register now
Don’t miss the opportunity to gain new knowledge, build your networks and meet the experts. View the full Conference program here and register here.
