Logistics in the COVID-19 era

Samples and judging equipment – along with reams of country-specific paperwork - were packaged and sent by courier to the judging panels across the globe.

The restrictions and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic meant that running the AIOA - or Australian International, as it is becoming known - in 2020 would be a technical and logistical feat of incredible proportions. CEO Greg Seymour said that the AOA was always determined that it would go ahead, however, given the important outcomes it provides for so many growers.

“Particularly in such an overall difficult year, there are peer, personal and commercial imperatives that are really important here,” he said.

“In this COVID-disrupted world we wanted to put a mark in the sand which people could rally around, an anchor point that people could get their recovery going from - and what better way than winning a medal or trophy in an international competition.”

Luckily, the AIOA is co-ordinated by a remarkable woman, Competition Convenor and Chief Steward Trudie Michels, who was equally as determined to make it happen, and is the logistics equivalent of a rocket scientist (Ed). She pulled rabbits out of hats, worked miracles and dealt with countless brick walls, using a combination of practicality, diplomacy and sheer doggedness to create an event which met - and arguably surpassed – the quality and integrity standards of previous competitions.

“On behalf of the AOA board, I want to congratulate Trudie and her team for putting it all together. What a challenge to run a global competition from Australia, particularly this year,” Seymour said.

“We had judges from every continent except Africa, on judging panels from all around the world, all of whom really wanted to take part. To be able to make that work and have such an enthusiastic response from these global industry experts is remarkable – and truly puts the Australian International on the map.”

AIOA Chief Steward Trudie Michels, ably supported by her right-hand-team of Michelle Freeman and Kent Hallett, pulled off a technical and logistical feat of incredible proportions to make this year’s competition happen during the COVID-19 restrictions.

“Trudie has put in an enormous personal effort, way beyond anything anyone could imagine, with significant support from Head Judge Shane Cummins, Kent Hallett and Liz Bouzoudis. Judging by some of the feedback from entrants – and particularly the winners – many of them also appreciate all the blood, sweat and sleepless nights the 2020 AIOA team put into the competition.”

By growers, for growers

And Seymour said that extra effort is what sets the Australian International apart from other international olive competitions.

“What separates the AIOA is that it’s a competition run by the industry - by growers for growers. It’s about growers and their products, not profit. That’s very important,” he said.

“We’re truly about finding great oils people can share with their customers, while also benchmarking and helping improve their quality even further. There’s no commercial bias or imperative, it’s just about the oils and olives.

“And for the winners, the promotional opportunities are a game-changing marketing bonus.”