The Ambassador, who attended the inaugural event in 2014, has been invited back to attend the event in recognition of the pioneering role played by one of his countrymen in founding Young’s cherry industry over a century ago.

Mrs. Tuckerman said that she was honoured to host Dr Kušen and pleased that the significant contribution of Croatian immigrant, Nicolas Jasprizza was being remembered.

”Nicholas Jasprizza was a key figure in the development of Young’s cherry industry and the town’s economy generally. While he came to the area to mine for gold in the 1860’s it was through his tireless experimentation using existing cherry stock that he developed a large and successful commercial cherry holding,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

To demonstrate his accomplishment, it’s reported that by 1893 he had 100 acres under cherries with 7000 full grown, 3000 young and 5000 nursery stage cherry trees as well as a 60-acre vineyard.

“His descendants have also played a major role in the industry over many years right up to recent times,” she said.

Reflecting on the significant contribution of Nicholas Jasprizza to the Hilltops Region, Mrs Tuckerman said Australia had in turn provided opportunity and wealth to countless people who have settled from countries across the world.

Ambassador Kušen’s attendance is expected to be one of the highlights of the Cherry Blossom ‘Long Lazy Lunch’ which will not only honour the town’s cherry industry founder but will also showcase the Hilltops Region’s food and wine.

The occasion is the official fundraising event for the Cherry Queen entrants in the 67th National Cherry Festival and the proceeds from the day will be split between the three entrants’ chosen charities and the National Cherry Festival committee.