8 May 2026

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Today's top story

Agriculture sector sees 'silver lining' in global disruptions as interest in farming surges

Australia's agricultural peak body believes the recent surge in media attention, driven by global trade disruptions and cost pressures, is putting farming firmly back on the national agenda. 

Australia

International Day of Plant Health - Plant biosecurity for food security

By Laura Thomas

A global spotlight will be on food security protection during International Day of Plant Health next week.

The UN's worldwide observance will be held on 12 May, putting focus on plant health and its role in ending hunger, reducing poverty, protecting biodiversity and boosting economic development.

A healthy tree is the foundation of a thriving Australian olive industry. Read on to find out why strong national biosecurity is such an important part of the picture.

Inaugural National Biosecurity Strategy Annual Report released

Substantial progress has been reported in the delivery of the National Biosecurity Strategy Action Plan 2024 with 86% of activities either in progress or completed by December 2025.

Read more in the new report, released late last week.

Paddock-to-plate revival as farmers grapple with surging food freight costs

Global attention on the vulnerability of food supply chains has inspired a paddock-to-plate revival for farmers and shoppers.

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) - South Perth outbreak

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) has been detected in the South Perth area, with response activities progressing to support eradication.

Read the DPIRD industry update or visit the website for more information.

Smarter decisions, stronger farms: the new era of Australian agriculture

From solar-powered virtual fencing to in-paddock sensors, innovation is giving Australian farmers clearer on-farm visibility and control.

SA growers urged to report locust sightings amid mouse activity

Grain Producers SA is urging farmers across South Australia to report locust activity, following increasing numbers across several cropping regions during the early stages of seeding.

Farmers welcome $10 billion fuel security package

The Albanese Government announced today (Wednesday) that the Federal Budget next week will include an Australian Fuel Security and Resilience package to ensure energy sovereignty and protect the nation’s energy interests.

International

Olive, grape and almond by-products open new market for high-value ingredients

By-products from olive, grape and almond processing are moving from the margins of the agri-food industry into a fast-emerging market for high-value ingredients. 

It is the flowering of the olive tree that updates the prices of oil

Analysis of historical series shows that the extra virgin olive oil market reacts more quickly to agronomic signals than to actual availability.

AOA Classifieds

Got something to sell? Want to buy?

If you’ve got something industry-related to sell, you can reach your target market directly with our grower-to-grower service - AOA Classifieds.

Our online classifieds are an easy and inexpensive solution to advertising your unwanted equipment. And if there’s something you’re looking for, it’s the ideal way to get the message out loud and clear to your peers and industry associates!

Classifieds start from as little as $44 for AOA members ($110 for non-members) and are online now at www.australianolives.com.au/classifieds

For details, rates, or to create a classified, hit the button below.

A neurosurgeon explains how olive oil protects your brain, starting in your gut

Board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. John Gorecki has spent 35 years inside the human brain. His prescription for protecting yours might already be sitting in your kitchen cabinet.

Olives the powerhouse fruit fueling female fitness and health

Beyond their savory taste, olives are a Mediterranean diet staple packed with crucial nutrients. For women aiming to optimize fitness and health, these small fruits offer a surprising array of benefits.

How winter storm Uri nearly destroyed Texas’s olive oil Industry

Texas was on track to become America’s second-largest olive oil producer—then Uri hit. Five years later, farmers are still counting their losses.

Turkish producer brings native cultivars to US market

The family-run producer says transparency, careful milling and native Turkish varieties are central to its strategy abroad.

UK food prices on track to rise by 50% since start of cost of living crisis

Beef and olive oil costs increase the most as climate and energy shocks drive inflation, research suggests.

Calendar 2026

25 May

Tastebook® EVOO Sensory Training

Registration and more information

1 June

Entries open, 2026 Australian International Olive Awards

10 August

Entries open, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

21 August

Entries open, 2026 Australian International Olive Awards

3 September

Entries close, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

8 October

Awards ceremony, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

Email Laura to have your event included.

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For Friday Olive Extracts editorial and advertising enquiries, email Laura at comms@australianolives.com.au