The first box of cherries from Australia's 2025 season will be auctioned on Saturday, 29 November, at the annual Cherry Ball organised by the Sydney Markets Foundation. Proceeds from the event will once again go to Little Wings, a charity that supports regional families with seriously ill children.
The Cherry Auction, now in its 44th year, marks the start of the Australian cherry season and has become a longstanding tradition in the produce industry. Since its beginning in 1981, it has raised more than US$2 million for Australian charities. Last year's auction reached a record bid of US$165,000.
© Sydney Markets Foundation
Sydney Markets CEO Anthony Boyd said the event has grown from a small market-floor auction into a key fixture for growers, traders, and buyers. "The Cherry Auction began more than 40 years ago on the back of a fire truck, with wholesalers and buyers cheering and waving cash in the air for the season's first box of cherries," he said. "It has since become one of Sydney Markets' most cherished annual events, bringing the community together each year to celebrate the start of cherry season."
Long-time market participant Chris Antico from Antico International recalled attending the first auction as a child. "My dad and all these other men took out their wallets or dug into their big leather aprons, which were swimming in cash, and started bidding. It was all a bit of fun for a good cause, and it's amazing to see this tradition continue for almost half a century," he said.
Funds raised last year helped Little Wings expand its medical transport services across several Australian states and territories. The not-for-profit organisation provides free air and ground transport for children in regional and remote areas who need access to hospital treatment. In 2025, Little Wings assisted 5,110 children and completed 2,385 missions, supported by nearly 100 volunteers.
© Sydney Markets Foundation
Sydney Markets Foundation CEO Meegan George said the auction continues to bring the industry together for a common cause. "The Cherry Auction remains a highlight of the Sydney Markets calendar, a celebration where the excitement of the season's first cherries comes together with the generosity of our community," she said.
The auction also marks the beginning of the broader stonefruit season, drawing participation from growers, wholesalers, retailers, and sponsors. Last year's winning box of cherries came from Victoria's Warby Ranges and was purchased by Talal and Joanne Khanafer of Trims Fresh Merrylands in New South Wales.
© Sydney Markets FoundationFor more information:
Sydney Markets Foundation
Tel: +61 (0) 2 9764 3244
Email: [email protected]
www.sydneymarketsfoundation.com.au
