In the Pipeline
Llamas in oil-land?
Whirlwind Olives already has lambs, so why not some Llamas? There is actually some method in the madness, according to Sue Mencshelyi.
“Llamas are great for protecting the sheep from predators such as foxes,” Sue says.
“We have seen traces of foxes, digging around the chook-pen and have even lost a few lambs, and we suspect it to be the work of these pests.
“Llamas are much bigger than the sheep, but somehow bond with them and become the guardian of the flock, so we are definitely considering the purchase of a pair.”
At upwards of $2,000 for a breeding pair, it may be a little time before the like of a woolly Llama is seen in the green pastures of Karridale, but stay tuned as the decision-making process unfolds.
Macadamia madness
The “Macca” grove looks a little lost and lonely up on a hill towards the back of the Whirlwind property, but given that the trees are only 12 months old, it is only a matter of time before they begin to fill out and stand their own ground next to the olives.
It will be another four years before the trees will bear fruit, at which time they will stand four metres tall. Fully grown, the trees can be expected to reach almost 10 metres, and will bear up to fifty kilograms of nuts.
Perhaps another product in the slowly expanding Whirlwind range?
Flavoured fantasies
No, it is not a new concept, but Proprietors Imre and Sue Mencshelyi are considering the idea of flavoured olive oils to add to their range.
“We’re not expecting this to become a mainstay of our range,” Sue says.
“However, we would like to provide people an option of flavoured olive oils different to the stock standard offering, and which might also be a little more affordable.”
And what sorts of flavours can we expect?
“Well, that would be giving it all away!” Sue says.
“We are experimenting with some different combinations, and will draw on Imre’s wealth of cooking experience to develop something that tastes great and appeals to a range of palates. It may wind up being a limited edition, and we are curious to see how much interest it generates.”
Keep an eye on the latest news to see what taste sensations finally emerge.
Newsletter notions
Always with an idea up their sleeves, Imre and Sue are toying with the concept of a newsletter to keep you up to date with the latest product developments, market days, specials and farm happenings.
If you would be interested in receiving this newsletter and being on the Whirlwind Olives mailing list, please email(link/form here) confirming your interest.
