The Role Our client operates a family-owned commercial sheep operation specialising in Merino and Dorset/Merino cross-breeding. The operation spans a total of 4,600 acres, including 3,500 acres of their home property and 1,100 acres of leased land. The operation is supported by good infrastructure, with ongoing plans for the renewal of fencing and yard upgrades in the future. The shearing shed is equipped with five Heiniger Evo machines and a new Macbro wool press. The flock comprises 4,000 Merino ewes joined to Merinos and 1,700 Merino ewes joined to Poll Dorset rams, with a strategic objective to increase ewe numbers through the cultivation of grazing crops and improved perennial pastures. Grazing crops are utilised for winter feed to enhance the growth of Merino wether lambs. After the grazing crops are utilised, improved perennial pastures are established, all managed by contractors. The business typically markets Dorset cross lambs as stores in November, with the possibility of finishing some during the summer months. The Merino breeding program aims to produce large-framed ewes that yield approximately 7 kilograms of wool with micron counts between 18.5 and 19. Special attention is given to the wool's capacity to withstand an average annual rainfall of 750 millimetres, alongside a strong emphasis on conformation and fertility. Contractors carry out shearing, crutching, and lamb marking activities, while crossbred lambs are marked in-house. Additionally, the operation includes a small herd of 18 cows and calves, with plans to expand the herd to between 60 and 80 cows. As a station hand, responsibilities will include mustering sheep using quads and buggies, processing sheep in the yards—encompassing drafting, drenching, vaccinating, lamb marking, and preg-scanning—supported by a team of capable working dogs, and supplementary feeding of sheep and occasionally cattle, property maintenance, weed control, vermin management, and the construction and upkeep of fencing. The Offer The successful candidate will be offered a competitive remuneration package including accommodation and a work vehicle, which will be negotiated based on their skillset and experience. The accommodation is a comfortable private three-bedroom house with a basic garden, garage, and chicken yard, suitable for either a single person or a family. The property is located just 20 minutes from Yass, a town with a population of over 6,000. Yass offers primary schools and a high school, as well as various sporting clubs, including Rugby Union, Rugby League, AFL, soccer, netball, and cricket. It is also just 30 minutes from Burrinjuck Dam, which provides opportunities for fishing and water skiing, and three hours from the snow. Canberra is only one hour away and offers many services, including health professionals and an airport, while Sydney's CBD is a three-hour drive. The Ideal Candidate Ideally, candidates should have at least 1 to 2 years of experience within the sheep industry and a passion for growing and improving their skillset. A capable working dog team is essential, as is the willingness to work alongside another employee and the employer. Additionally, candidates should possess the following attributes: Good animal welfare practices and the ability to count sheep accurately Previous experience in shearing and crutching is advantageous Skills in welding, fencing, and mechanical aptitude A Chemcert and an MR truck license, or the willingness to obtain them The capacity to work long hours during shearing, crutching, lamb marking, and weaning A can-do attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn Physical fitness and the capability to complete the required tasks 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 haley@droverag.com.au
