The run down farm was bought in the late 90's and immediately cleared and olive grove started. Most of the planting was done by Shirley, assisted by her Son Cornel and grandsons Renier and Christopher - although still very young at the time, they had great fun jumping in and out of the newly dug holes. A great feat for some own who had never ever farmed before let alone dig holes, plant trees and then discovered to her horror that she needed to lay down reticulation! This was done and what a learning curve! The family also built a real African Lapa and many nights will find them around the fire with a good red. (The Lapa can be hired out for private functions on request.)

The trees established, Cornel then said one day "well mum what are you going to do with the olives" the reply Oh well I guess I will sell them to the restaurants in the Valley - mmmmm Cornel had other ideas and suggested an Olive Shop. There was no stopping Shirley and before long the first Boutique Olive Shop in the Swan Valley was built and opened. To our knowledge this was also the first boutique olive shop in WA. The very first Olive Oil Appreciation course was held at Merrich Estate in 2000 with invited guests including food writers and the who's who in the newly formed Olive Industry.