More than 200 Australian extra virgin olive oil entries were put to the test by more than 20 judges in Sydney last week during the National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Awards – the industry’s largest olive oil show.

In the show’s 12th year, the judging was chaired by research scientist at the Australian Wine Research Institute, Richard Gawel, last Friday and Saturday.

“As always, it’s a great privilege to assist the capable judges in their task of searching out and rewarding the best extra virgin olive oils Australia has to offer,” Mr Gawel said.

“This year is particularly exciting for the olive industry as there is a growing recognition of the high quality of Australian extra virgin olive oil.

“This is reflected through the Australian Olive Association’s recent launch of the industry code of practice and Australian Extra Virgin brand.

“Australian consumers are lucky in that our local industry provides extra virgin olive oils with a variety of flavours, freshness and great health benefits.

“It will be interesting through this year’s national awards to discover the outcomes of the 2008 harvest.”

The most sought after award of the competition is the Carol L’Heureux Award for best oil in show, which last year was won by Carol O’Neil, from Cradle Coast Olives in Tasmania.

The best in class awards will cater to classes with volumes of 50 litres to multi-estate grown oils with volumes greater than 5000L.

This year’s awards also include one for flavoured oils (citrus and other flavoured oils), because of their popularity with consumers.

Winners will be announced at an awards dinner at the Australian Olive Expo on Tuesday, October 28, at the Rydges Lakeside, Canberra.

Apart from honouring the best growers in the industry, the vening will bring together olive growers and industry experts from across the country.

* Visit www.australianoliveexpo.com or contact Australian Olive Expo, (02) 4353 9714.