The Role This is a comprehensive, hands-on management position where you will be fully responsible for the day-to-day operations and strategic management of the core breeding stock. This encompasses the full reproductive cycle and general animal husbandry for the 900-head self-replacing Angus cow herd and the 3,000-head self-replacing Merino ewe flock. Key livestock tasks will include monitoring animal health and welfare, overseeing calving and lambing, managing joining programs, finishing and implementing feeding strategies. Rockalen Pastoral & Co is a highly progressive, family-run mixed farming enterprise located in Willalooka, approximately 30km from the township of Keith in South Australia's Upper South East region. The 3,000-hectare operation maintains a commercial focus on value-adding and finishing beef cattle. The livestock component is anchored by a 900-head self-replacing Angus cow herd and a high-throughput 2,000-head-per-year capacity feedlot. The operation is well-diversified with a substantial cropping program, which includes 140Ha of irrigated Lucerne seed, 200Ha of hay/silage crops, 80Ha of cereal crops, and pasture renovation. Crucially, you will be an integral part of a small, four-person staff team (Owner, Owner's son, another farm hand, and this role) and are expected to be versatile. You will actively assist with all general seasonal and day-to-day farming activities across the diverse 3,000-hectare mixed enterprise. This involves the skilled operation and maintenance of modern machinery, including John Deere GPS/Steer tractors, for tasks such as seeding, harvest, hay/silage making, spraying, and feed mixing to support the 2,000 head per year feedlot operation. A proactive approach to all facets of the mixed farm is essential. Rockalen Pastoral & Co is committed to modern, efficient farming practices, demonstrated by its exclusive use of modern John Deere machinery with advanced GPS steering technology. The business prides itself on a supportive team environment and a commitment to best-practice farming. The Offer A generous and competitive salary package is on offer, with the final amount determined by the successful candidate's experience and proven skill set. High-quality accommodation is provided, consisting of a comfortable, powered three-bedroom house that includes a garden and modern laundry/bathroom facilities. For efficient work across the property, a work ute and a side-by-side vehicle will also be supplied for farm use. The property location offers excellent regional connectivity, being situated just 30km from Keith, 43km from Bordertown, and 78km from Naracoorte. For families, a school bus pickup point is conveniently located a 5km drive from the property. The Ideal Candidate Rockalen Pastoral & Co seeks a loyal, enthusiastic, and highly self-motivated individual, the successful candidate must demonstrate the capacity for high-level autonomous work while also being an excellent communicator and collaborator within the small, four-person team structure. Extensive, hands-on, demonstrated experience in the day-to-day management of both beef cattle and sheep breeding stock. Proven ability to competently operate, maintain, and perform basic repairs on a range of modern farm machinery, with specific experience in operating John Deere GPS/Steer systems. Demonstrated ability for quality record keeping, high-level communication skills, and data management. A proactive, safety-conscious, and team-oriented approach to all general farm work, seasonal tasks (seeding/harvest), and the high-volume feedlot operations. 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 Bec on 0455 215 976 or email bec@droverag.com.au
