You know summer is coming when you get that first fragrant hit of sweet and juicy new-season mangoes. And here in Oz, we take our summer fruit very seriously. This year, the symbolic first mango tray of the season was auctioned off at Brisbane Markets last week for a whopping $66,000. 

The mango auction is a charity event that’s been held every year for more than two decades. Funds raised at this year’s auction have been donated to two charities – Redkite, which provides support to families with a child facing cancer; and The Lady Musgrave Trust, which provides safe and supportive housing to vulnerable young Queensland women. In its 23-year history, the auction has raised more than $1 million for charity.

Related story: The price of these perfect Japanese mangoes will make your eyes water

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Standard Market Company (@thestandardmarketco)

Following what was described as “highly spirited bidding”, the winning bid went to Chris Frame of fresh produce business The Standard Market Company. As is the tradition at the event, Frame was then crowned as ‘Mango Monarch’ for 2025. 

For the rest of us mango-loving mere mortals, there’s good news for the coming summer. According to Brisbane Market’s deputy chair, Peter Tighe, there is a strong outlook for this year’s mango season, with a high yield of good-quality fruit expected. 

Related story: 40 cheeky recipes to make this mango season