Farm Manager - Irrigation Aggregation - Burdekin QLD

Job Description

The Employer :Our client is a private landholder of Australian agricultural assets who currently operate 16 properties in eastern Australia since 2007, covering over 59,000 hectares. The portfolio is strategically located throughout several different climatic regions and production systems, producing a variety of commodities, including prime lambs, wool, cattle, broadacre cropping of cereals and oilseeds, and irrigated cotton and sugar. Their aim is to be an enduring market leader in the sustainable production of livestock and crops, with a continuous growth and improvement approach. The business holds strong values in ethics and care of land and animals, ensuring the highest quality and best practice standards are adhered to. The Role :We are pleased to present an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Farm Manager to oversee an irrigation aggregation in North Queensland’s Burdekin region. This position entails managing a sophisticated and fully irrigated sugar cane farm encompassing 750 hectares. The farm is equipped with modern irrigation pumps and systems, including a flume irrigation delivery system with all tail water captured and reticulated. This allows for an impressive annual yield of 75,000 tonnes of sugar cane, along with 160 hectares of seasonal summer crops such as soybean, mung beans, and occasionally corn. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with the area manager to develop and implement the overall farm plan, which will play a vital role in the future success of the agricultural enterprise. Key responsibilities will include hands-on involvement in the day-to-day operations, such as maintaining 25 operational irrigation pumps, machinery operation, record-keeping, and managing monthly reports. The role also encompasses overseeing accounts approval and payable, maintaining four onsite dwellings, coordinating three permanent staff members, facilitating toolbox meetings, and liaising with long-term external contractors. Sugar cane planting and harvesting are conducted by contractors, while all grain handling is carried out internally, supported by a 1,200-tonne grain storage complex onsite. The farm boasts exceptional infrastructure, featuring modern and well-maintained equipment, predominantly from John Deere, and utilises AgWorld for proficient farm management. While prior experience in sugar cane farming is not a prerequisite, candidates must possess substantial expertise in row cropping and irrigation. A strong emphasis on promoting a safety-conscious culture and work environment is paramount in this role. The Offer :An attractive salary package is available for negotiation with the successful candidate, including a work vehicle, a mobile phone or allowance, housing, electricity, and a software package. A comfortable, recently renovated 3-bedroom home with a 3-bay shed is available, situated along the Haughton River. There is also a 4-bedroom accommodation option available for larger families, although it is currently occupied. The school bus stop is 5 km away, with Giru Primary School located 10 km from the property and Ayr, which has both primary and high schools, situated 36 km away. This operation is a fantastic place to live, close to three saltwater boat ramps that offer excellent fishing opportunities, and only 65 km from Townsville, which provides all major necessities, including sporting facilities. The Ideal Candidate :The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience within a cropping enterprise and have a background in irrigation. A strong passion for and commitment to success in the agricultural industry is essential. The successful candidate will demonstrate self-motivation, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in implementing enterprise goals, plans, and budgets is required. Furthermore, effective and proactive leadership is crucial to ensure that workplace health and safety measures are properly maintained, contributing to the sustainability and profitability of the farm. Additionally, you should possess the following attributes: Up-to-Date First Aid and CPR Training Current driver's license – Truck license advantageous Chemical certificate or willingness to obtain it. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective leadership, and proficient staff management skills. Excellent record-keeping, organisational, and reporting skills. 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