BLACKALL
STATION HAND
QLD
Alice Downs consists of 5 adjoining properties run as a single aggregation over 93,000 acres. The country type is predominantly black soil Mitchell Grass (interspersed with Buffell grass on the ridges) and sandy Buffell grass country. The average rainfall is 20 inches. The properties are currently running 3,500 head of cattle and 300 sheep.
The station currently has three permanent staff (including the Manager and his wife). Family members also help out when required. Mustering is done with two-wheeled motorbikes. A helicopter is used for the four large timbered paddocks.
There are two sets of cattle yards, laneways and two shearing sheds. Machinery includes a truck, tipper, grader, tractor, front end loader, two station vehicles and 2 and 4-wheel motorbikes. Water is provided by a mixture of open dams and poly pipe.
There are two commercial breeder herds producing yearling steers and surplus heifers. Steers and heifers are sold via the Blackall saleyards and AuctionsPlus, depending on the season and the market.
The Forest Park Santa Gertrudis Stud sells approximately 70 bulls annually through the Barcoo Breeders Sale in October and paddock sales all year round. Bulls are sold to western, southern inland and northwest Queensland and also transferred across to the commercial herd.
Job Type:
Full-Time
Remuneration:
Based on skills and experience
Start:
Early 2025 - TBC
Expires:
Until Position Filled
Job Description:
We are seeking an honest and energetic Station Hand.
This unique opportunity is based at Alice Downs Station, located 20km north of Blackall in Queensland’s central west.
Key Tasks, Duties & Responsibilities:
The duties listed below are desirable, however please note we are willing to provide training for an applicant who is willing to learn new skills.
Work with cattle and sheep (sheep experience not required)
Implementation of work programs as directed by Manager
Maintain stock waters and fences
Muster and draft cattle
Best practice animal welfare of cattle and sheep
Strong workplace health and safety
Work on key improvement projects including further development of water infrastructure, fencing, grids and laneways.
Job Requirements:
Essential Criteria
Cattle handing experience
Motorbike mustering experience
Understanding of the highest standards of animal welfare and low-stress stock handling techniques
The ability to maintain and service machinery including water infrastructure
A genuine interest and passion for working within the cattle industry and with stud cattle
Must be able to work as a part of a small, tight team
Being honest and reliable with excellent communication skills is essential
Current drivers licence.
Other criteria
Having a truck licence would be an advantage, but not necessary
The ability to operate large machinery i.e. grader, front end loader an advantage, but not necessary.
It is an expectation that our employees are neat and tidy and treat all aspects of the properties, including other people, animals, plant and equipment with the utmost respect.
Job Benefits:
Attractive remuneration package based on experience.
Accommodation includes a partly three-bedroom air-conditioned house (meat and electricity supplied).
There is a small flock of sheep bred for meat.
Animals
Working horses are allowed.
Working dogs are allowed and are primarily used for handling weaners in the yards and working bulls. Due to issues with wild dogs/dingoes, working dogs are not usually used for mustering breeder paddocks.
The township of Blackall
Blackall has primary/secondary schools, doctors’ surgery, hospital, numerous sporting clubs (rugby league, golf, bowls, shooting, fishing), bus service to Brisbane/Mt Isa and three return flights a week to Brisbane with QantasLink. Other social activities include local races, campdrafts and rodeos: https://www.outbackqueensland.com.au/town/blackall/
To apply for this role
For more information, or to apply, please forward a detailed resume including two references to Liz Allen at etgallen@bigpond.com
PLEASE NOTE :
This is a permanent position and not available to Working Holiday Visa Holders (Backpackers).
Applications without required skills and experience listed in the ad will not be considered.
Alice Downs Liz Allen | 20250103