Job Info
Location: INNISFAIL, QLD
Salary: Not Specified
Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position
Job Description
Our client, H Randhawa & P Randhawa trading as Far North Bananas, a leading banana farming enterprise based in Innisfail, QLD, is seeking a full-time Production Horticulturist to oversee and optimise banana production across their two Lower Cowley farms (105 acres at Gangemi Rd and 125 acres at Hill End Rd); this role involves managing all aspects of crop production including land preparation, planting, irrigation, fertilisation, pest and disease control, and harvesting operations, while supervising staff, operating and maintaining farm machinery, ensuring efficient use of inputs, maintaining crop health and yield, and working closely with farm management and agronomy teams to meet production targets, quality standards, and workplace health and safety requirements.
Duties:
* Ensure all land preparation activities (including clearing, ripping, mounding, and drainage setup) are carried out according to banana farm standards and procedures.
* Train and monitor workers and machinery operators to ensure all tasks are performed safely and in line with standard operating procedures.
* Plan and prepare daily, weekly, and monthly work schedules to support banana production activities.
* Assess quality of fieldwork (planting, maintenance, harvesting) and implement corrective actions where required.
* Ensure adequate supply and availability of inputs such as fertilisers, chemicals, irrigation materials, and packaging supplies.
* Oversee maintenance and upkeep of tractors, farm machinery, and implements used in banana production.
* Liaise with Farm Operations Manager, Agronomist, and Maintenance Manager to ensure efficient farm performance.
* Operate tractors and farm equipment for land preparation, spraying, fertilising, and crop maintenance.
* Monitor banana crops for signs of pests and diseases (e.g., Panama disease, leaf spot) and report or act promptly.
* Operate and maintain irrigation systems to ensure optimal water supply for banana crops.
* Prepare and apply fertilisers and crop protection chemicals in accordance with safety and regulatory requirements.
* Coordinate and support banana harvesting activities including cutting, carrying, and transport to packing facilities.
* Manage soil health practices including fumigation (if required) and nutrient management.
* Install and maintain drainage systems to prevent waterlogging and protect crop health.
* Monitor and manage banana nurseries, including sucker selection and propagation.
* Operate spreading, spraying, and planting equipment to support efficient farm operations.
Qualification:
* AQF CERT IV of higher
* 2- 3 years of experience in related field.
Salary:
* $70,000 - $85,000 plus superannuation