Winning bid of A$165,000 came from Talal and Joanne Khanafer with support of Sydney Markets, Sydney Markets Credit Services and group of Sydney Markets businesses
A box of cherries from the Warby Ranges in north east Victoria has gone under the hammer for a record-breaking A$165,000 at the annual Sydney Markets Foundation Cherry Ball.
The box of cherries was from Smiths Fruit in Wangaratta, which has been in operation for almost 150 years, and was specially selected at an official tasting event ahead of the Cherry Auction.
The winning bid of A$60,000 was from Talal and Joanne Khanafer from Trims Fresh Merrylands, with additional pledges totalling A$105,000; including A$25,000 from Sydney Markets on behalf of its shareholders, A$20,000 from Sydney Markets Credit Services, and a further A$60,000 from a consortium of Sydney Markets businesses and individuals.
The cherry auction will see the full A$165,000 go to 2024 charity partner, Little Wings. The organisation provides free, safe and professional air and ground transport for seriously ill children across regional and rural towns in New South Wales, the Australian and Queensland.
The annual Cherry Auction has raised about A$2mn since its inception in 1980. Sydney Markets Foundation chief executive Meegan George said the Cherry Auction allows the Markets community to celebrate the stone fruit season in style alongside the wider fresh produce industry and corporate donors.
“We’re incredibly proud of the beautiful produce that comes through Sydney Markets and there are few Aussie traditions greater than the bowl of cherries on the Christmas table,” said George.
“The Cherry Ball is more than just a celebration of the start of the stonefruit season, it’s a chance for us to come together and change lives. By supporting Little Wings and their incredible work, we are ensuring children in rural and regional areas get the care they need, no matter the distance. Every bid at the auction brings us closer to making a real impact for these brave kids and their families.
“Congratulations to Talal & Joanne Khanafer from Trims Fresh Merrylands on winning the 43rd Cherry Auction and showing your support to a great cause.”
Chief executive of Little Wings Clare Pearson was delighted by the outcome and support shown from the Markets community.
“The funds raised by Sydney Markets Foundation will help support families in our regional communities to continue to access vital transport services so their kids can get to appointments, surgeries and treatments,” said Pearson.
