The Story behind Robinvale Estate
History – Robinvale Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Robinvale Estate - Today
Robinvale Region


History – Robinvale Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The township of Robinvale was named after Robin Cuttle. Robin, son of Herbert E. Cuttle did not return home from war, Herbert E. Cuttle named the area Robinvale meaning farewell Robin.

Herbett E. Cuttle, together with Royston Siddons, bought out a Soldier settlement board property at Robinvale in north-western Victoria in the 1940’s. The property is situated on the banks of the Murray River. The first tree was believed to be planted in 1946. 600 acres of olive trees were planted at “Oliveholme” which, unlike other groves, was irrigated. An olive press was purchased, but lack of technology and a slump in olive prices caused the property to fold in the 1970’s. It is believed that the press was later operated by the Meadowlea margarine company and the investment was funded by a large conglomerate of Australian Companies. Most of the grove fell to the bulldozer because certain varieties were unsuitable for table olive production, Robinvale Estate are now reviving the grove.

“OliveGrove Trading Co. Pty. Ltd.” purchased the property from Meadowlea in 1983.
Ownership consists of, Ralph Gallace, Mick Gallace, Joe Antico and brothers Rocky, Tony and Mick. Ralph Gallace the Managing Director arrived in Australia in 1956, grew up in the inner suburbs of Melbourne, moved to the Mornington Peninsula where the family established “The Strawberry Farm”.

When OliveGrove Trading was purchased it consisted of 641 acres of olives and citrus and was known as Australia’s largest irrigated olive grove and its biggest producer of table olives. The purchase included factories, laboratory, machinery, equipment and 5 residences.

The factory is encircled by olive trees planted in the early days, some of the oldest trees on the property line the driveway leading to the factory.