The Role
Our client is a family-owned business that is gradually expanding and is now seeking an enthusiastic farm hand to assist with operations. The farm focuses on sheep, crop, and hay production across 1,000 hectares, while also engaging in share farming and running a hay baling contracting business. This role will involve approximately 70% cropping and 30% sheep work. The farm is well-equipped with good infrastructure, including a hay shed, machinery shed, workshop, laneways, three sets of yards (one undercover and one new outdoor set), and shearing shed yards.
The operation involves cultivating oats, clover, and rye grass for hay and seed production and canola and barley for sheep feed on approximately 500 to 600 hectares of farmland. There is also some share farming outside of this area. A contractor is currently used for harvesting crops, but there may be plans to acquire their own header.
They maintain a modern fleet that includes Fendt and Case tractors, a Gold Acres spray trailer, Massey Ferguson hay balers, and a single prime mover. You will be required to perform pre-start checks, machinery services, and general upkeep on this equipment.
During the hay season, the business utilises three baling setups and employs seasonal help. Starting in the Mallee, the crew works their way back home over the course of a couple of months, depending on the weather. This contracting role requires you to live away from home for a week or two at a time, but it only lasts for the two months of the hay season.
On the remaining 400 hectares dedicated to sheep production, there are 1,200 lambing ewes, which include both Merinos and Crossbreds. These sheep are bred primarily for fat lamb production, along with some Merinos for self-replacing ewes. You will be involved in all aspects of sheep husbandry. While the main tasks, such as shearing, crutching, and lamb marking, are contracted out, you will be assisting with these activities. You are welcome to bring your own dogs, but it is not essential.
As a farmhand, you will be expected to collaborate across all areas of the enterprise to ensure optimal efficiency and promote continual progression.
The Offer
The successful candidate will be offered a competitive remuneration package that includes accommodation and a work vehicle. The accommodation consists of a comfortable three-bedroom home with a renovated bathroom located in the local town of Edenhope.
Edenhope is a small community that offers various facilities, including schools, a medical clinic, sporting facilities, a pub, and general stores. For major amenities, you can travel to Naracoorte, which is 50 kilometres away, or to Horsham, which is about an hour's drive.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic and has a passion for agriculture, along with a vision for growth and longevity in a small family business. The ideal candidate should possess the following attributes:
* Previous experience or a willingness to learn
* Mechanical aptitude
* A positive, “can-do” attitude and a strong work ethic
* Reliability, trustworthiness, and honesty
* The ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
* An HC truck license or a willingness to obtain one
* A chemical certificate or a willingness to obtain one
Register your interest
If you feel that you’re the right fit for this position, please submit an up-to-date resume along with the contact details of 3 references. Preference will be given to those who supply a cover letter addressing their suitability - that is, tell us what you love about the role and how you think you’re the right fit.
For further information, please call Haley on 0476 669 453 or email #J-18808-Ljbffr