Cradle Coast Olives

A quiet achiever with global recognition

World-class olive oil, grown on Tasmania’s North West Coast

Cradle Coast Olives is Tasmania’s boutique olive oil success story, based in Abbotsham on our North West Coast. The business began more than 25 years ago, when founders Tony and Carol O’Neil planted their first olive trees on their 15-hectare property in 1996. What started as a small family venture has grown into one of the most highly awarded olive oil producers in the country, all while remaining proudly family-run.

From the beginning, the focus has been on quality over scale, and on producing olive oil that reflects both the land it comes from and the care that goes into every stage of production.

Tasmanian conditions, global quality

Tasmania’s mild climate plays a defining role in the character of Cradle Coast Olives’ oils. Brisk autumns and early frosts slow the ripening process, concentrating flavour and aroma in the fruit. These conditions mirror those found in renowned olive-growing regions of Spain and Italy, giving Tasmanian olives a natural advantage.

The grove specialises in traditional European varietals such as Verdale, Manzanillo, and Paragon, producing robust oils with complexity, depth, and the distinctive peppery finish that signals high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols.

Award-winning excellence

That dedication to craft has earned Cradle Coast Olives national and international recognition. At the 2025 Australian International Olive Oil Competition, the business was awarded ‘Champion Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasmania’ for Essence of the Cradle, as well as ‘Champion Highest Phenolic Content’ for their Manzanillo oil.

Over the years, their oils have repeatedly dominated Australia’s top competitions. Most notably, the SA Verdale Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been awarded ‘Best Oil of Show’ across all classes at the Australian Olive Oil Association Awards multiple times, including 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2018. In 2018, Cradle Coast Olives was also named ‘Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Southern Hemisphere’ at the Australian International Olive Awards.

Supporting a wider industry

Beyond their own grove, Cradle Coast Olives plays a vital role in supporting Tasmania’s broader olive-growing community. The business offers pressing services to dozens of smaller growers across the state, helping build capability, knowledge, and resilience across the local industry.

This collaborative approach reflects the values of the Central Coast – where shared expertise and strong relationships help regional industries thrive.

A true paddock-to-plate experience

Cradle Coast Olives welcomes visitors to experience their oils firsthand, with cellar door tastings and direct sales available from Sunday to Friday. Guests can sample award-winning oils, learn about the production process, and connect with the story behind the bottle – a genuine farm-gate experience rooted in place and passion.

Groups are welcome – phone ahead to ensure attendance.

Today, Cradle Coast Olives stands as a shining example of what’s possible on Tasmania’s Central Coast: world-class produce, shaped by local conditions, driven by family values, and recognised on the global stage.

It’s proof that with patience, expertise, and respect for the land, small regional producers can achieve extraordinary things.