A new chapter opens for Cherry Growers Australia (CGA): from May 12, 2025, Penny Measham will be the new Chief Executive Officer of the association. A well-known and appreciated name in the Australian and international horticultural world, Penny brings with her extraordinary experience in research, trade, biosecurity, and agricultural development.
Alison Jones, president of CGA, expressed great enthusiasm for the appointment: “Welcoming Penny Measham as the new CEO is a privilege. Her dedication to the sector of cherries and her passion for working with CGA are well known. I am certain that producers and stakeholders will support her in this new challenge, strengthening the association’s position both nationally and internationally.”
Originally from Tasmania, Penny began her career alongside cherry growers during her studies in applied sciences. Her passion led her to complete a PhD on crucial topics for the sector, such as the causes of fruit cracking, while also contributing as a lecturer and researcher in industry-dedicated projects.
Her resume includes senior roles at Hort Innovation and the Queensland Department of Agriculture, where she led programs on foreign trade, market development, fruit production, crop protection, and biosecurity. In addition, Penny has been a board member and is recognized for her expertise in governance, strategic planning, and managing high-performance teams.
Globally, she has collaborated with the International Society of Horticultural Science and has participated as a speaker at major conferences on horticultural trade and production. Despite her international scope, Penny maintains a firm focus on Australia, aiming to generate concrete value for local cherry producers.
CGA aims to strengthen its influence in national and international markets, at a time when competitiveness and challenges related to climate, logistics, and global demand require enlightened leadership. The appointment of Penny Measham therefore represents a fundamental step to support the growth of the sector, in line with European dynamics where product valorization and innovation are at the heart of market strategies.
Source: cherrygrowers.org
22 Sep 2025
Sun World and Pairwise announce a joint venture to develop the first pitless cherry. By combining advanced genetics with innovative breeding technology, the project aims to deliver premium fruit that is more sustainable, flavorful, and convenient for consumers worldwide.
31 May 2024
Traditionally, the cherry season in Uzbekistan ended in mid-June, but in 2024 it will start as soon as the last week of May. This could create problems for exports because even in Ukraine, local cherries are already being actively harvested and sold.
07 Aug 2026
A study evaluates 92 entomopathogenic nematode strains against Drosophila suzukii. Steinernema carpocapsae NC116 shows high efficacy against larvae, while sublethal effects on adults open new opportunities for integrated pest management in cherry production.
07 Aug 2026
The 2026 Northwest U.S. cherry season enters its final phase with over 16 million boxes shipped. Volumes remain below the May forecast and Rainier cherries are sharply down, while flavor, size and quality stay high as dark sweet cherries support the final push in August.
