Now in its 11th year, the 2014 Fleurieu Food Fiesta! Olive awards have both a new format and a new leader. Sensory analyst Briony Liebich has taken over the helm of chief judge from Zannie Flanagan, and judging will use the nationally-adopted 100-point system; categories have been simplified to reflect industry trends, and entry criteria has changed to allow entries grown, processed or with a cellar door in the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island. The awards have been integral in developing the reputation of the Fleurieu Peninsula as a premium Australian olive-producing region, and promotional opportunities include public tastings, sensory workshops and special menus in local restaurants. This year’s awards dinner will also be a special event, paying tribute to local industry members Vince Scarfo and Luigi Palombo, who were lost at sea in February. The Best of Show Oil award is now the Vince Scarfo Trophy and proceeds from the dinner will be donated to the Victor Harbor/Goolwa Sea Rescue Squadron. Entries close 10 October, with judging 14 October and the awards dinner on 7 November. Full info and entry forms here
