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Champion Apple Peeler Defies Pain for 22nd Title
6 Mar
Summary
- Kerrie Stratford, 65, has won 21 apple peeling titles, aiming for her 22nd.
- She battles rare Dercum's disease and a genetic mutation impacting pain relief.
- The Stanthorpe festival celebrates its 60th year, boosting the local economy.
At 65, Kerrie Stratford is poised to compete for her 22nd championship title at the Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival. This year marks the festival's 60th anniversary, a significant event for Queensland's granite belt, drawing an estimated 70,000 visitors and contributing $20 million to the local economy.
Stratford, a multiple award-winning apple peeler, faces immense personal challenges. She lives with the rare and painful Dercum's disease and a genetic mutation that renders pain medication ineffective, describing her health as precarious. Despite these struggles, she approaches the competition with a calm demeanor, showcasing remarkable strength.
The festival itself boasts a rich history, originating in the 1870s with the introduction of winemaking by Father Jerome Davadi. It has evolved into one of Australia's largest harvest celebrations, including events like a recent Italian long lunch for 600 people.
Historically, Stanthorpe's agricultural roots were deepened by Italian prisoners of war during World War II, whose descendants now heavily influence the region's vineyards. The festival today celebrates this heritage, creating a vibrant community event.
