A 5kg box of cherries from Smiths Fruit in the Warby Ranges has been auctioned off for a record breaking $260,000 at the annual Sydney Markets Foundation Cherry Ball held on Saturday, 29 November, with the proceeds going to this year’s charity partner, Little Wings.

For the first time in its 44 year history, the cherry auction saw two businesses named cherry royalty, with both Parisi and Trims Fresh Merrylands taking the crown of Cherry King and Queen.

Both businesses placed winning bids of $80,000 each, with Trims Fresh Merrylands’ bid supported by a secondary donation.

Additional pledges totaled $20,000 from Sydney Markets Credit Services and $80,000 from a consortium of Sydney Markets businesses.

“The Cherry Ball is a highlight of our summer produce calendar, bringing together growers, retailers, and community supporters to celebrate our incredible Australian produce and make a real difference," said Meegan George, Sydney Markets Foundation CEO.

"The highly coveted box of cherries hand selected to go under the hammer was from Smiths Fruit in Wangaratta, for the second consecutive year.

"Its Royal Hazel Premium Cherry was chosen by the judging panel as the prize varietal from nine different entrants.”

For the second year running, all proceeds from the cherry auction will go to charity partner, Little Wings.

They provide free, safe, and professional air and ground transport for seriously ill children across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Queensland, and additional support services to families in the Northern Territory, Tasmania, Victoria, and South Australia.

Since its inception, the cherry auction has raised more than $2 million and continues to bring the community together year after year.