about

Dear Olive is a small business located in Castlemaine, Central Victoria where the summers are hot and dry, and the winters cool - perfect conditions for olive growing. My soaps, balms and blended oils use locally produced, olive oils - nurturing both our skin and the region’s growers at the same time.

Dear Olive soaps, salts, balms & oils are made in small batches with time and care. There is a seasonal element to my making with some products being available at certain times of year. Where possible, I source Dear Olive ingredients from small-scale, local businesses and my preference is for organic products. With my background in naturopathy, the source and quality of my ingredients is of great importance to me. I grow and dry some of the botanicals for my products myself, here in Castlemaine. I infuse my own oils, incorporating my herbal knowledge into founder Julie Gittus’ lovely, original recipes. All ingredients are ethically sourced, and products are palm-oil free.

For me, Dear Olive is about quality and simplicity. My aim is that the experience of using my products is a nourishing one and enhances wellbeing ... for humans and for the planet. I minimise packaging and focus on bringing nutrient density to topical products. My hope is that all users will feel the care and intent given to every item. 

Currently, the full Dear Olive range is available in the Castlemade section of the Vintage Bazaar at The Mill in Castlemaine. The gorgeous Boom in Clunes stocks Dear Olive soaps, while Maldon Getaways sells balms, salts and petite soaps through their lovely new shopfront. The Dear Olive online shop opens for a fortnight in autumn and spring each year - you're welcome to sign up to my newsletter for the earliest notifications of these openings.

NOTE:  Dear Olive online is currently open until 9 pm, Sunday 5th May, 2024 (while limited stocks last). Happy shopping!

Thank you for your curiosity about Dear Olive.

Kate McGann 

Dear Olive is sited on Dja Dja Wurrung land. We respectfully acknowledge the Jaara Jaara as the traditional owners, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.