A COMBINED effort between Sydney Markets wholesalers and growers has seen the symbolic first tray of mangoes sell for $26,000 at the 2014 Sydney Mango Auction.
Held at Sydney Markets Flemington earlier this month, the money raised went to the Save our Sons, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Sydney Markets Foundation.
Brad Latham, CEO, Sydney Markets said it was a positive event.
“Sydney Markets would like to thank all the businesses and celebrities who donated their time to make the event such a success,” Mr Latham said.
“The generosity of the Markets community allows Sydney Markets Foundation to provide much needed financial assistance for Australians in need.”
The contributing wholesalers and growers were Aussie Roma, Vegie World, J&J Fruit Supply, Rustom Fresh, Harvest Fresh / EFP Suppliers and Zaidan Fresh.
Moustapha Obeid placed the winning bid on behalf of the group.
“Thanks to all of the Sydney Markets wholesalers and growers who donated their hard earned money to support these charities,” Mr Obeid said.
“Many of us have been touched by the stories from families affected by these terrible diseases which is why we came together to support the auction today.”
Another contributing wholesaler, Steven Tesoriero said it was one way Sydney Markets wholesalers can support Australian families who are doing it tough.
“This day is really about those families and we hope that our donation can make a difference to their lives,” he said.
Nick Martelli, chairman of the Mango Auction Committee said the Sydney Markets Mango Auction brings in an exciting time for suppliers and buyers, as everyone loves the start of the summer fruit season for the year.
Chief executive officer of the Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA), Robert Gray said the Sydney auction builds excitement for the season.
“Mango season is almost here and people are starting to get excited. The people who came to the auction this morning certainly looked like they were excited about getting their hands on a mango, and the children who took part in the mango eating contest enjoyed their opportunity to get stuck into one,” he said.
The mangoes that were auctioned were donated by WePack and Red Ridge Mangoes, based near Darwin.
