The Australian Olive Association has recognised the important contribution that research and development (R&D) has made to the olive industry, awarding Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) research manager Max Bourke AM with the Modern Olives Service to the Olive Industry Award.

The award was presented by Australian Olive Association (AOA) President Paul Miller in Canberra this evening. The National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Awards dinner—Australia's largest and most prestigious olive oil competition—is a highlight of the Australian Olive Expo at Canberra’s Exhibition Park from 26-28 October.

Presenting the award, Mr Miller said that RIRDC’s support and encouragement for the industry has played a significant role in developing the olive industry to its current position. In 2006 Australia’s 2500 growers will produce at around 8,000 tonnes of olive oil, Mr Miller said.

RIRDC has a long history of supporting the Australian olive industry through its R&D program, which was managed by Mr Bourke until his retirement earlier this year.

Instrumental in setting up the AOA, RIRDC has been working closely with this peak industry body to meet the industry’s R&D needs.

Current R&D investments for the olive industry aim to improve technical knowledge about quality, efficiency and regular production; and improve the skill levels of all producers. One example is a project to translate from Spanish a key olive production manual, to make it accessible to Australian producers.

The program is also looking at developing more efficient mechanical harvesting, and value-adding to olive waste from the oil-extraction process.

RIRDC Managing Director Dr Peter O’Brien congratulated Mr Bourke on the award: “This award recognises the contribution that Max has made to the olive industry through our research and development program”.

“The success of our R&D reflects our strong partnership with the olive industry, through their peak body, the Australian Olive Association,” Dr O’Brien said.

“The Australian olive industry adds value to the rural sector by contributing to rural diversity, and helps to give our regions a unique flavour, enhancing communities and complementing traditional industries”.

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Media enquiries:  Martin Field, RIRDC Public Affairs Manager - 02 6272 4735

Print-quality photos are available for download at:  http://extranet.rirdc.gov.au/public