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
27 Jun 2023
The plants were set up according to the chosen form of cultivation, in comparison with the traditional spindle, starting from one-year old rods. From the analysis of the data collected, some interesting indications for vegetative and productive aspects emerged.
30 Sep 2024
The VPD measures the difference between the vapor pressure of the air and that on the surface of the fruit, indicating the air's ability to absorb moisture. A high VPD indicates that the air can absorb more moisture, which could lead to further dehydration.
17 Nov 2025
Hort Innovation launches a new project to enhance biosecurity for Australia’s cherry and summerfruit industries. A dedicated officer will support growers, manage pest incursions, and promote best practices to strengthen international market access and on-farm resilience.
17 Nov 2025
Gräb Nursery visits top cherry growers in the UK to evaluate late Kir® varieties. Focus on fruit quality, storage and cracking resistance. In partnership with Frank P Matthews Trees, the aim is to develop stronger, tastier and climate-adapted cherry cultivars.
