OLIVES SA president and retired pharmacist Michael Johnston has seen many changes through the olive industry during his years as a grower, and through his position on the board as president. He is the first horticulture industry leader to participate in Smartfarmer’s Q&A feature.
How did you become involved with Olives SA: I became involved with olive growing in about 2000. We had a little land south of Adelaide at Willunga. Because it was very hilly, unsuitable for vines, a friend suggested planting olives. I made some enquiries about varieties and ground preparation, then did a course at Charles Sturt University based on olive culture. I then planted 300 trees for olive oil. I produce single variety oil – Correggiola and Koroneiki.
How many olive growers are there in SA: At present there are about 100 members.
What is the industry’s contribution to on the state: The industry generates $5.9 million at the farmgate based on the 2017 harvest.
What changes have you seen within the olive industry during your time as a grower/president: Since joining OSA in 2004 there have been significant changes. A number of members left the industry – some growers being absorbed by others, some groves being abandoned and others sold. But I am pleased to say there seems to be a whole wave of new participants who have taken on existing groves from retiring owners. New enthusiasm, together with effective marketing, is being seen across the board.
Olives SA is acutely aware of promoting SA extra virgin olive oil against the imported product. For this reason, consumer awareness and education is a high priority.
In conjunction with WEA, public classes are held on how to taste olive oil and table olive production.
OSA also conducts classes every morning at the Royal Adelaide Show. It also takes a stand that is let out to producers who expand the virtues and health benefits of their olive oil.
What projects have you been involved in with Olives SA: A field day, which was open to all, was held at Nangkita Olive Grove last year under the banner of Tasting Australia. It involved harvesting demonstrations, oil appreciation classes and a presentation of the use of olive oil in cooking. Local producers were encouraged to expose their product.
Where do you see the olive industry progressing to in 10 years’ time: There is a very positive vibe in SA about where the industry is heading. Continuing consumer awareness and promotion must be ongoing and the health benefits emphasised.
What is your proudest achievement with Olives SA: The OSA board comprises growers and industry people which gives an excellent cross-section of thinking and activity. I am proud of the board as we work well as a cohesive team.
Besides olive growing and working with Olives SA, what are your other interests: Apart from managing my grove, I run Red Angus cows and calves. Also until recently I participated in Fringe Theatre. In my spare time I play golf – life is busy.
What is your favourite place to visit in SA: We have good friends who live on a property just outside Robe, and we enjoy visiting them. This friendship evolved from our time in Alice Springs, NT. It’s a great place to catch up – the seaside atmosphere and friendly locals.
If you sit down and chat with anyone in the world, who would it be and why: I would choose Barack Obama – an absolute statesman who tried very hard to make a better life for a vast number of people. It’s a pity he’s so much taller than me.
