Join Carle Watson for a hands-on workshop on olive harvesting and curing, where you'll dive into the ancient art of producing the perfect dry-cured olive from the groves along Common Ground Project's driveway! You will get a comprehensive understanding of the olive harvest and curing process, empowering you to create your own high-quality olive products from home.

About the Workshop:

The Art of Olive Harvesting and Curing Workshop is a unique opportunity to discover the secrets behind the production of premium olives and delve into the rich history and traditions associated with this timeless fruit. Led by Food Studies graduate Carle, a keen olive grower and home-artisan, this workshop will take you on a journey through the entire olive harvesting and curing process, from field to table.

Areas that will be covered in the Workshop:

1. Harvesting Techniques: Learn the art of hand-picking olives, exploring the optimal timing for harvest, and understanding the various factors that affect olive quality.

2. Olive Processing: Explore the method of dry curing ripe olives, including traditional techniques gathered from Carl’s mediterranean heritage. Discover the significance of factors such as salinity, fermentation, and flavouring agents in the curing process.

3. Demonstration: Join the hands-on demonstration, where you'll get to participate in the harvest and start the first stage of dry curing your own olives to take home.

4. Tasting and Pairing: Engage your senses in a unique tasting experience, where you'll have the opportunity to sample some different olive flavourings and products. Explore the art of pairing olives with complementary foods and beverages.

5. Q&A Sessions & post workshop support: Engage in an informative Q&A with Carle, enabling you to clarify doubts and seek personalised advice on olive cultivation, harvesting, and curing.

Whether you're a food enthusiast, or simply curious about what you can do with the olives growing on your tree at home, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to deepen your knowledge, refine your skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for olives.

This is a chance to immerse yourself in community food projects and the realm of olive harvesting and curing. Book your spot today and embark on a journey that will enhance your food skills and broaden your understanding of this ancient and cherished fruit.

What's Included

A half day workshop led by Carle Watson
All materials for demonstrations included
Tea/Coffee and other drinks
Farm Harvest Lunch (one option; please bring your own if you have dietaries)
Snacks and fruit
Any olives that you collect off the groves during the workshop

What to Wear & Bring

Come dressed for any weather – rain, hail or shine! We suggest wearing waterproof and sun-smart clothing, including; a rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, closed-toe shoes, pants and comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Please note: to protect yourself on the farm, you must wear closed-toed shoes. Flat boots or gumboots are suitable, especially when it rains.
Please bring a water bottle and your own materials for note taking.
If you are attached to your own gardening gloves, bring those!

Carle Watson

Carle is a recent Food Studies graduate who has a passion for working in and improving the food system. He’s had a lot of experience working for the small business sector in food, including Obelix & Co, The Fermentary and Schulz Organic Dairy. He’s also a founding member of the Just Food Collective, a not-for-profit organisation that’s focused on food justice for youth. Inspired by his mediterranean heritage, his passion for conviviality and making food from scratch to share with friends and relatives is something he plans on doing for a lifetime. He’s known on the grapevine for his homemade salami, bread and cured olives, that have all proven great to enjoy with friends and family.

Please note this workshop is weather-dependent. If the event can’t go ahead, we’ll seek an alternative date and offer refunds.

Youth under 25 years of age are offered 20% off the workshop price, in partnership with VicHealth's Jumpstart program. Please add the code 'youngpeoplefarming' to the checkout.

If you can’t afford the full ticket price, please get in touch with us at programs@commongroundproject.com.au to discuss an accessible option for you.