From tradition to innovation, Wandin Valley Farms is setting the standard for Australia’s cherry industry – one perfect cherry at a time.
For them, growing cherries is more than a business – it’s a family legacy spanning over 130 years. Siblings Paris and Reuben are the youngest of the three generations of family members currently working on the farm, and also the fifth generation of the family to grow cherries. From the Sebire family’s first orchard in 1893 to today’s state-of-the-art operations, their passion for quality fruit is matched by a drive to embrace innovation.
“With our new orchard coming into production, we will harvest from over 1000 acres across the cherry season, which runs for about 100 days,” says Paris, who helps lead operations at Wandin Valley Farms. “Picking at the perfect moment – when the colour and sugars are just right – is critical, and the team has done a first-class job this season.”
That team effort is supported by world-class technology. “We’ve installed sensors on tree trunks that measure their expansion and contraction in minute microns,” Paris shares. “It helps us monitor moisture uptake and decide exactly when to water, ensuring the trees thrive.”
In their advanced packing facility, cherries are hand-picked and meticulously sorted. Reuben, who helps manage production, explains: “Our innovative system takes 30 high-definition photos of every cherry using colour, black-and-white and infrared cameras. Combined with AI, we can sort by size, colour and defects to ensure only the best cherries make it to Woolworths shelves.”
Speed is also key. “Cherries are delicate,” says Reuben. “We pick them today, cool them down to two degrees within seven minutes, and pack them the next day. They’re on trucks that night, so customers receive fruit at its freshest.”
The Sebire-Jones family are proud of their long-standing partnership with Woolworths. “For over 10 years, Woolies has supported us in delivering the best cherries to Australian families year after year,” says Paris.