The West Australian Olive Council (OlivesWA) is inviting olive producers, large and small to submit their table olives into the 2009 OlivesWA Table Olive Competition.
Competition administrator and olivegrower, Helen Grant said “the competition is an excellent opportunity for producers to benchmark their product and provides a medium to highlight the outstanding quality and freshness of locally grown and produced olives.”
Mike Baker of Dwarda Ridge Estate and winner of the 2008 Best WA Table Olive praised the entry requirements for microbiological testing of the olives, saying “this encourages producers of table olives, both large and small, to include such testing as part of their production process.”
The judging panel, led by one of Australia’s leading table olive specialists Professor Stan Kailis will assess entries in seven different classes which are based on methods of processing and product type. In each class, judges will evaluate the attributes of the olives, including flavour (bitterness, saltiness and acidity) as well as the aroma, appearance and texture.
Professor Kailis was enthusiastic regarding the quality of entrants last year saying, “that 80% of entries were awarded medals indicates improved quality”.
Award winners will be announced at a promotion event in August 2009. An information pack has been released with details on how and when olives can be submitted. Growers can request the pack by contacting OlivesWA on 0411 293 398 or email: admin@oliveswa.com.au.
The 2009 OlivesWA Table Olive Competition is sponsored by Supa Stik Labels and Bulk Handling Australia and supported by Matters of Taste and The Herdsman.
