HRM Contracting and consulting – Hervey Bay QLD
Trees & Bees Farms is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Operations Manager to lead our unique mixed-operation enterprise across two highly innovative plantation sites on the Fraser Coast. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in premium Manuka honey production, large-scale plantation management, and the development of commercial horticultural operations set to launch in ****.
If you're a hands-on leader who thrives in nature, enjoys variety, and is passionate about sustainable farming, this role offers an exceptional and rewarding environment.
About the Role
As our Farm Operations Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of both tree plantations and apiculture activities, working closely with Directors, Beekeepers, contractors, and farm staff. You will manage over 70,000 Leptospermum trees, finger lime cultivation across 58 acres, and coordinate honey production and farm maintenance activities.
Strategic & Commercial Leadership
Lead farm operations towards a **** commercial launch
Develop and implement comprehensive Farm Management Plans
Manage budgets, control costs, and drive profitability with accounts support
Deliver quality performance reporting to Directors
Identify market opportunities and prepare for commercial distribution
Plantation & Crop Management
Oversee established and developing plantation sites
Support Manuka honey production through optimal plantation management
Implement seasonal programs across irrigation, pest management, and crop care
Maintain detailed records on production, treatments, and performance
Manage soil health, irrigation systems, and environmental conditions
Apiary Management
Coordinate beekeeping activities with internal and external Beekeepers
Support honey production targets and quality standards
Align apiary work with plantation schedules to ensure bee safety
Manage hive placement, honey extraction logistics, storage, and inventory
Business & Commercial Operations
Drive budgets, planning, and operational improvements
Market premium honey and produce to domestic and international markets
Ensure compliance with quality, traceability, and certification standards
Infrastructure & Maintenance
Oversee farm equipment, heavy vehicles, and general repairs
Maintain irrigation infrastructure across both sites
Ensure workplace health and safety compliance
Team Leadership
Lead, support, and develop a high-performing farm team
Foster a positive, safe, and collaborative workplace culture
Coordinate contractors and uphold Trees & Bees' commitment to working in harmony with nature
About You
Essential
Minimum 5 years' experience in commercial plantation, horticultural, or broadacre farm management
Proven track record developing commercial horticultural operations including formalising business practices through building frameworks.
Experience creating and implementing Farm Management Plans
Sound financial management skills including budgeting and reporting
Demonstrated experience managing teams of 5+ employees
Knowledge of WHS compliance and safety management
Experience with farming technology and reporting systems
ChemCert certification
Strong knowledge of irrigation and horticultural equipment
High attention to detail with the ability to work autonomously
Excellent communication and leadership skills
Current driver's licence and ability to operate farm machinery
Authority to work in Australia
Desirable
Qualifications in Agriculture, Horticulture, or similar
Experience with beekeeping or Manuka honey production
Familiarity with Precision Agriculture technologies
You will thrive in this role if you are proactive, adaptable, and passionate about sustainable farming practices. A love of the outdoors and physical farm work is essential.
What We Offer
A long-term, stable role with a growing agricultural enterprise
Opportunity to contribute to innovative honey and horticulture production
A supportive team culture that values balance, development, and working with nature
Varied, hands-on work across two beautiful Fraser Coast properties
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