THE annual SA New Season Baby Potatoes Auction will be held at an industry dinner on Friday, October 31.
The auction is organised by Potatoes South Australia Inc, the peak representative body for the potato industry value chain, and will have a competitive bid for a box of premium baby potatoes - the first for the season.
The baby 'Kestrel' potatoes will be donated by SAPotatoCo.
Last year's auction raised $8500 for the Little Heroes Foundation, a charity that supports children living with cancer and serious illness, and their families.
The foundation is the charity of choice this year too.
Potatoes South Australia CEO Robbie Davis says SA is the nation's largest producer with farmgate production worth $206 million.
"It is only fitting that we celebrate spring's potato harvest. Potatoes also represent the largest horticulture contribution to the state's gross food revenue," she said.
"The auction will bring out the best amongst South Australia's philanthropic primary producers, service providers, researchers and other stakeholders in the value chain who are keen to secure the best potatoes of the season and make a positive contribution to charity."
The dinner, at the National Wine Centre of Australia, will celebrate the industry's many achievements and its unity, bringing about 150 stakeholders together.
Guest speaker is Minister for Investment and Trade Hon Martin Hamilton-Smith MP.
Ms Davis urges all potential bidders to "dig deep" on the night.
"Not only is the auction a chance to attain the finest potatoes in the country (if not the world), but it's also an opportunity to support a worthwhile cause," she said.
Elders Livestock Auctioneer, Tony Wetherall, will take charge of the gavel once again.
