Gday...

I have done a fair bit of harvest work around the country over the past six years ... VIC, NSW and QLD.

Try this site for some ideas and it can be helpful getting work.

http://jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail/

Once you know the 'harvest times' and the areas you want to be in, then head to that area. Once there, the management of the caravan parks often know who is who and which contractors are employing. Often the caravan park management are the contractors for the area.

It is always best and easiest to get the work if you are already "on site" in the area needing the workers. They usually employ for immediate start rather than let you know of work and wait for you to turn up.

It is good physical work. Not much thinking involved and can be tiring, especially in hot or wet weather. 

The work is usually on 'contract' rate - eg $X per bin/bucket/bag etc .. so the more you pick the more you make. You will be slow to begin with but experience lets you make more per hour as you get proficient. Other experienced pickers will always give you advice on how to make it easier.

Some crops are easier than others - experience will inform you .. and by asking any harvesters you meet.

I have picked grapes, watermelon, peaches, mandarins, oranges, apples and strawberries. Each gave their good points and each uses different muscles

I prefer picking grapes ... and because I am now well known on a property I work each harvest I now am utilised on the tractor picking up the fruit after it is picked rather than picking the grapes.

I really enjoy the outdoor work ... although the first few days each season takes some adjusting to

[edit: OOPS ... I forgot ... welcome to the forum ]

Cheers - John

Sheba wrote:

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Having a problem getting the link.   If you just Google "Workabout Australia", you'll find where you can get jobs all over Australia.  Lots of Seasonal work.  There is a web-page, and you can also buy a Book which has maps as well. 

I didn't know about them, 'till I found my first book in an Op. shop, so keep your eyes open there too. 

Don't know if the Cover has changed since this one.

Cheers,

Sheba.

 

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 You can, for a fee, join Workabout Australia, but I have not found any benefit for us.  We have, however, worked the grain harvest in SA and WA.  We applied for Qld this year, but due to the drought, they were not putting on casuals.  Grain harvest is easier work than "fruit picking", pays better, but does involves long hours in hot conditions.