LAKELAND OLIVES
In 1988, after moving to Australia from Germany, Knut & Mia Kammann purchased a parcel of land as a 'bush retreat', west of the famous World Heritage listed Blue Mountains on New South Wales' Central Ranges, south of the wine growing area of Mudgee, near picturesque Rylstone and busy Kandos . This 100ha property, 700 metres above sea level, with a typical Australian bush cottage and a beautiful man-made lake is surrounded by rugged sandstone cliffs.

Originally built in the 1930's as a large water reservoir for the Great Western Cement Company, it never had to serve its industrial purpose as the company went bankrupt before production commenced.

The reservoir rather turned into a beautiful nature reserve with an abundance of native fauna and flora. Black swans, Ibis, Pelicans, Platypus, Cormorants, Musk duck, Yabbies, Trout, Wedge Tail Eagles, Kookaburras, Parrots, Cockatoos, Kangaroos, Wombats, Echidnas and many other animals enjoy the peace, freedom and the abundance of food.

In 1995, we were able to procure 100 adjoining hectares and secure irrigation rights for a 10ha block of land next to the lake.

Unaware of the 'new Australian olive industry', we decided to plant olive trees to enhance the quality of the land. Holidaying in Spain and Italy for many years, we loved the trees, taste and health benefits of olive products. In keeping with the names of surrounding properties, the 'Lake' turned into 'Lakelands'.

Lakelands Olives was born and after thorough land preparation the first 1200 trees were planted in November 1996, pioneering high altitude - cool climate growing of olives west of the Blue Mountains. The grove was further committed to sustainable and environmentally conscience agriculture through biodynamic organic certification.

In 2004, Lakelands Olives received the top National award for our biodynamic organic Extra Virgin olive oils from the Australian Olive Association. Lakelands Olives continues to proudly produce premium quality, high altitude - cool climate biodynamic organic Extra Virgin olive oils and now, table olive products. With a committed, passionate and innovative local team quality, flavour and a unique olive experience are assured.

For more information about Lakelands Olives, please visit our website:
www.lakelands-olives.com.au