The original group first met in 1999 at the home of what was then Marlborough Olives (now Modern Olives) at Lara near Geelong. There was a diverse group of people, some who had already planted their groves and others who were interested in the concept. The Association now consists of around 30 Members and is steadily growing. Members' groves range from several thousand trees to small holdings of less than 200 but the accumulating wealth of knowledge is happily shared between all.
As our Members' groves are now starting to come into production there is a growing sense of excitement as all the talk over the last few years can now be focussed on the reality of premium quality extra virgin olive oil being produced in our own region. Since its inception the GDOA has held meetings on the 3rd Wednesday of every 2nd month and the Executive Committee meets each alternative month. We generally have a Guest Speaker and topics have ranged through marketing, pruning, label design, the chemistry of trace elements, and other relevant areas.

Objectives
1 To establish a network to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, ideas, experience and expertise in the olive industry, both locally and with other olive associations and regions
2 To foster communication and cooperation between growers, processors and researchers
3 To provide access to information, materials, research and expert advice to the local olive industry
4 To promote and develop the local olive industry for both growers and processors
5 To promote and support the development of quality standards within the olive industry, and in particular in the local region
6 To assist growers and processors in planning, developing and marketing olive products

Activities
The following activities are arranged with the aim of achieving the objectives set out above:
1 To organise field days, seminars, guest/expert speakers, demonstrations and field trips
2 Bimonthly general meetings of the Association
3 Establish a library/information resource and make it available to members

President: James McLeish
Secretary: Yvonne White
Treasurer: Roger Benallack
Committee Members: Andrew Andanopoulos, Andrew Burgess, Rowan Cairney, Barry Cooper, Trevor Pickles

You can contact the Liaison Officer Trevor Pickles at:
4 Jetti Lane, Torquay 3228
Ph: 03 5261 9411
Mob: 0432 206336
Email: trevorpickles@iprimus.com.au