There is no doubt that our region is capable of sustaining a viable olive
industry, and judging by the response of our Members this will indeed occur
over the ensuing years.
The growth of our local wine industry augers well for the olive industry.
It is generally acknowledged that where grapes flourish so do olives and
the recent success of Scotchman's Hill wines is an indicator of the unique
growing conditions this region provides. There is a distinct climatic band
that sweeps across Southern Victoria that provides ideal growing conditions
for both grapes and olives and this is defined by hot summers followed by
a cool period in winter which allows the groves to go through a period of
dormancy and recovery for the future harvest.
The Geelong and Bellarine region is ideally positioned to take full advantage
of this. The potential for increased tourism will be enhanced by visits
to the regional olive groves as well as 'grove door' sales of our superlative
oils. |
