General News
1 December, 2023
Fresh cherries from farm to table
CHRISTMAS tables across the district will be filled with the sweetest, freshest cherries of the season thanks to a local grower.
Neville Guthridge and his team at the Koroit Cherry Farm are working hard to ensure they produce the freshest, most succulent fruit possible for their loyal customers.
“We take great pride in our work and ensure customers have access to fruit straight off the farm,” Neville said.
“We pick the cherries in the morning and by afternoon they’re on the shelf ready to buy; you can’t get any fresher than that.”
Adding to the quality, the fruit is grown in the rich volcanic soils of Tower Hill free from pesticides, herbicides and fungicides.
Every piece is hand picked and packaged to achieve premium quality, providing many health benefits.
“Our fruit is bursting with vitamins and antioxidants and we believe local produce tastes better and IS better,” Neville said.
The Koroit Cherry Farm originated some 17 or so years ago on a six acre property at 549 Koroit-Port Fairy Road.
Neville took over the business three years ago and is joined by Koroit local Jordan O’Keefe and a small band of workers.
“Jordan looks after the orchard and our team of pickers and packers,” he said.
“We have 1200 cherry trees in 16 different varieties and they all come in at various stages which keeps us busy.
“We’re picking daily now and that will continue right through Christmas depending on the weather. Cherries don’t like too much rain because they’ll split and spoil.”
Last weekend’s downpour saw minimal damage to the current crop but Neville assures customers the current season has, so far, been a good one – which is great news for cherry lovers.
“If we get a good early morning pick our doors are open from around 9am and we sell until about 6pm if we don’t sell out earlier.”
So if you’re looking for the freshest and tastiest cherries this season, head to the Koroit Cherry Farm.
For more information check their facebook page or phone Jordan on 0408 599 444.
