Fundraising event raised A$82,000 for charity partners Redkite and The Lady Musgrave Trust, while generating significant media exposure for Queensland’s fresh produce industry
Elijah Etri from Skippy’s group was crowned the 2026 Mango Monarch after securing the symbolic first tray of Australian mangoes with a A$70,000 bid – the second-highest in the auction’s history. The event raised more than A$82,000 for charity partners Redkite and The Lady Musgrave Trust.
For Skippy’s Mount Gravatt, a proud A better choice! independent retailer, the win provided valuable exposure beyond the auction floor, highlighting its business, connection to the Brisbane Markets and commitment to supporting the local community.
The Mango Auction was also a marketing triumph for the markets generating 807 earned media clips, a potential audience reach of 3.6mn and an advertising value equivalency exceeding A$420,000, according to Brisbane Markets. Coverage spanned television, radio, print, online and social media, including Sunrise, Today, ABC TV Breakfast, Brisbane Times and The Courier-Mail.
The exposure helped bring the Mango Monarch story to audiences well beyond the markets, highlighting independent retailers and the role of the Brisbane Markets in connecting quality fresh produce with retailers and communities across Queensland. It also promoted Australian Mangoes to consumers far and wide.
Brisbane markets Managing Director and CEO Andrew Young said the auction provided an opportunity to showcase the industry while supporting important causes.
“The Mango Auction is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the strength of Queensland’s fresh produce industry,” he said. “The media attention helps shine a spotlight on the people and businesses behind our supply chain, along with the Australian Mangoes industry while bringing our sector together to support important causes.”
The result would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors, donors, bidders and volunteers. Their contributions helped deliver a memorable celebration of mango season while raising vital funds for two Queensland charities.
