The Wimmera's olive producers are busy picking, crushing and bottling, as the 2021 harvest season unfolds across the region.
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This year's season promises to be bountiful, with Laharum producer Grampians Olive Co releasing their fresh off the press 2021 Olio Nuovo first harvest olive oil.
Following a difficult 2020 the olive producer has launched itself back into the swing of things, operating a shop and cafe at their Laharum farm.
Grampians Olive Co part owner Greg Matthews runs the grove alongside his family and said they were enjoying a successful harvest.
"At the moment we are in the middle of harvest so it is a very busy time for us. We have a good crop this year, so I'm very thankful, turn around from last year," he said.
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Grampians Olive Co's traditional 10x10m olive grove layout is a landmark of the region, which can be seen off into the distance from the town.
Originally established in 1943, the "Toscana" olive plantation was rebranded in 2015 by the Matthews family to reflect the unique region in which the olives are grown.
Mr Matthews encouraged people to come by and see the range of gourmet products the farm had to offer - whether with a quick stop by the grove's artisanal shop, or a platter lunch at the grove's cafe.
Grampians Olive Co also operates a boutique coffee roastery specialising in small-batch Australian coffee.
Mr Matthews said the "Mediterranean" climate of north-west Grampians was conducive to quality olives and wine.
"We do often get comments, people saying they had no idea that this was on the other side," he said.
"People drive past, see the signs and are amazed by the gem they have just discovered.
"I guess that is part of the charm, people can come and feel like they have discovered something - it is not just a run-of-the-mill tourist spot."
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