Kind donation to Cherry Queens during lockdown

While the National Cherry Festival will be scaled back this year, the Cherry King/Queen crowning will still take place on the first weekend in December.

There are currently three ladies now vying for the coveted Cherry Queen crown this year.

First entrant Trudi Summerfield, who is raising funds for the Young PCYC, is now joined by Ashleen Bannister and Rachael Smyth in the quest.

Ashleen is raising funds for MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Research, while Rachael’s chosen cause is the Young Crisis Accommodation Centre.

Entrants are judged on their performance at a range of activities, including raising funds for these charities.

Their campaigns have been severely impacted by COVID-19 lockdown. The Batinich’s of Valley Fresh Cherries have donated cherries to the Festival’s organising committee for fundraising.

“With all the uncertainty that we are facing at the moment, and especially for our Cherry Queens wondering how they may raise charity money, we thought a money donation was the right thing to do for the Queens, and for the Hilltops Region to kick start their fundraising effort,” said Barisha and Kathy Batinich of Valley Fresh Cherries.

With Cherry Kings yet to enter, gentlemen over the age of 18 are very welcome to join the ladies. Other women can also join in the fun of the competition too.

Information packs at the Young Visitor Information Centre for those considering their involvement.

The competition guidelines can also be downloaded from the National Cherry Festival website: www.nationalcherryfestival.com.au.

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