The SA Olive Association AGMÂ was held at Willow Creek olive estate this year, on the 25th of February. The meeting was chaired by Nick Wilkinson, the current chairman of the board.
After formalities and presentations from the sponsors, Microchem and Pellenc, the various reports were presented. The financial report revealed that the association has some surpus funds which puts it in a stronger position to achieve its goals going forward. Nick Wilkinson gave a report on the outlook for the olive industry and pressed home the point that local producers must be careful not to undercharge for their products, especially considering the shortages overseas currently.
For the first time, Vittoria Jooste, in her role as full time executive manager of the Association, gave a report on the activities of the Association of the past year. Much of the efforts so far have gone into putting proper procedures and policies in place. An update was also provided on projects such as the countervailing duties and the ongoing generic marketing for the olive industry.
It was proposed and accepted that the board structure be changed from a regional representation structure to a smaller board structured around different aspects of the industry. These aspects include olive oil, table olives, oil importers, etc. New board members were nominated and after a tasty lunch at the Willow Creek bistro, the Association members voted.
The new board is as follows:
Nick Wilkinson – Chair
Robert Claasens – Vice-Chair
John Scrimgeour – Table Olive Forum
Andries Rabie – Olive Oil Forum
Barry Anderson – Olive Oil Forum
Steve Wilson – Importers Forum
Gerrie Duvenage
Pieter du Toit
Pieter Vorster
Kelly White
Reni Hildenbrand
Tiaan Ras
View more photos from the AGM here.
Read our report from last year’s AGM here.
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