Farm Hand - Commercial Production

• An attractive salary package with a large house is on offer.
• Family-owned and operated 50/50 cropping and sheep enterprise.
• A diverse role offering the successful candidate room for growth and opportunity

A farmhand with sheep and cropping experience is invited to join a dynamic and unique family operation producing commercially attractive rams alongside a no-tillage cropping program. Working directly with the owners, you will be involved in all aspects, including seeding, harvesting, spraying, lamb marking, drenching, and vaccinating.

Ideally, you will have some experience with both sheep and cropping; however, your prospective employers are willing to train and tailor the role to your skillset. Encompassing 2,400 hectares, the commercial cropping element includes Canola, Barley, Wheat, Oats, and Lupins covering 1,800ha, in addition to 400ha of standing fodder for lambs and 200ha of annual pasture improvement. All aspects of the cropping cycle are carried out in-house with a modern fleet of mixed machinery. Mechanical aptitude and fabrication skills will be considered favourably as all staff are involved in the maintenance and repair of farm equipment and machinery.

Although the business is a 50/50 mix of cropping and livestock, the commercial ram enterprise would be the crowning jewel. From an annual mating of 9000 Merino ewes, 2500 are joined to Merino rams producing 1300 Rams, with 500 sold through an established buyer network in a fixed-priced system. The remaining ewes are mated to Poll Dorset and White Suffolk rams for prime lamb production. The operation prides itself on its measurement-based breeding system and its annual field day, showcasing advancements in agriculture and livestock breeding. As such, data collection is a crucial element of the role, requiring candidates to have an eye for detail and quality record-keeping skills.

Wool also remains a clear focus for the flock, with approximately 18,000 shorn each year and lambs provided to the market directly from the ewes. All animal husbandry elements are conducted from quad bikes and utes with the assistance of quality working dogs; it would be advantageous for applicants to have their own quality team or willingness to acquire. Modern yards and infrastructure will ensure safe and enjoyable working conditions in a team that values hard work, dedication, modern practices, sustainability, and community.

The Employer:

A small and proud family-operated business, the next generation is continuing the drive to implement current and evolving farming methods. Candidates will be genuinely supported in their personal and professional goals and aspirations.

They are happy to train employees in all aspects of the business and provide autonomy within the role. The business covers several blocks that are up to 30 kilometres apart, requiring a large amount of trust and good communication systems.

The Offer:

The successful candidate will be comfortably accommodated in a three-bedroom home with large, welcoming living areas surrounded by gardens, which would be the ideal project for a green thumb. In addition to other benefits, a quality remuneration package commensurate with current skills will be negotiated.

The main farm complex is located just 5 kilometres outside of Darkan, with the accommodation offered based on the property just 25 kilometres outside the small community of Kojonup. Offering all the basic amenities, including healthcare, schooling, and various suppliers, ‘Koji’ is a welcoming and tight-knit town. Additionally, Lake Towerrinning is just ten kilometres away and a popular water sports spot.

The Ideal Candidate:

This role will utilise your existing farming and livestock experience along with the following attributes:

• Basic understanding of the cropping cycle.
• Team of quality working dogs (or willingness to obtain).
• Machinery operation skills with knowledge of GPS systems.
• Mechanical aptitude and fabrication skills (advantageous).
• Experience or willingness to learn AgriWebb.
• Attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn.
• Strong communication skills.
• Passion for agriculture.

If you feel 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, telling us what you love about the role and how you think you’re the right fit.

For further information, please call Sophie on 0476 669 *** or email ******@droverag.com.au