Category: Agri Labour

Australia is a vast and diverse country, offering a treasure trove of experiences for those coming to work in Aussie ag. From busy cities to remote outback regions, there’s plenty to explore when you’re off the clock. If you’re planning to travel around while working in Australia, choosing the right route can make the difference between a good adventure and a great one. Here are some great routes when you’re wondering where to travel in Australia.

The coastal classic

Australia’s coastline is world-renowned, and driving along it is a rite of passage for travellers. The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is an unmissable stretch, famous for its rugged cliffs and the Twelve Apostles – seven limestone stacks rising from the sea. Further north, the Bruce Highway takes you from Brisbane to Cairns with stops at the Sunshine Coast, the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef – you’ll get your fill of beaches, rainforests and laid-back vibes on the way.

The red centre adventure

For those craving a taste of the outback, the Red Centre Way is the route to take. Starting in Alice Springs, this journey will lead you through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes including Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta. It’s a chance to experience the heart of the country with its rich Indigenous culture and fiery red earth. Be sure to pack plenty of water and plan your stops carefully – services can be sparse out here.

The rugged top

If you’re working in northern agriculture hubs, the Savannah Way is a dream for road-trippers and a no-brainer when you’re wondering where to travel in Australia. This epic route spans from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, traversing tropical rainforests, savannah plains and remote towns. It’s a rugged adventure that offers incredible views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife from kangaroos to crocodiles.

The vast outback

For the truly adventurous considering where to travel in Australia, driving across the Nullarbor Plain is a quintessential Australian experience. This straight, flat stretch of road between South Australia and Western Australia is remote but it’s a journey of stark beauty. You’ll encounter vast open spaces, the occasional road train and maybe even a camel or two.

So you know where to travel in Australia. Now how do you travel safely?

There’s no better way to balance the hard work of agriculture with the joy of discovery than by hitting the road and exploring all that Australia has to offer. But whichever route you choose, safety comes first. Always check road conditions, know Aussie road rules, carry plenty of water and let someone know your plans, especially in remote areas. Australia is big, so take your time, soak up the scenery and enjoy the ride.

Happy travels!

At Agri Labour Australia, we’re here to support you in every way during your time working in Aussie ag – and that includes introducing you to essentials of Australian culture, such as our “big things.”

It might seem strange, but Australia is home to a collection of giant roadside attractions that celebrate our unique culture, agriculture and sense of humor. Think of them as oversized tributes to what makes each region special. These landmarks are not just fun photo stops (though they make great Insta-content) – they’re also reminders of the industries that drive our rural communities. Without further ado, here are some of our favorites!

The Big Pineapple

First up, the Big Pineapple in Woombye, Queensland. This 16-meter-tall marvel is a shout-out to the state’s vibrant horticulture industry. More than just a quirky sculpture, it’s part of a bustling tourist area with markets, tours and even Australia Zoo. If you’re heading to the Sunshine Coast to work in agriculture, this is one landmark you’ll want to check out.

The Big Prawn

Down in Ballina, New South Wales, you’ll find another of Australia’s big things – the Big Prawn. At a whopping 9 meters tall, this crustacean is a proud nod to the area’s rich seafood heritage. Whether you’re considering a role in aquaculture or just passing through on your way to the coast, it’s a great reminder of the bounty of Australia’s waters.

The Big Banana

Not far from Ballina, the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour is another iconic stop. As Australia’s first “big thing,” it’s a tribute to the region’s thriving banana industry. The Big Banana isn’t just a landmark – it’s a full experience, featuring a fun park, tours and plenty of tasty banana treats. For those heading to the area for work in horticulture or fruit production, it’s a great symbol of the vibrant industry you’re stepping into.

The Big Murray Cod

In Tocumwal, Victoria, the Big Murray Cod makes quite a splash. This fishy giant is a tribute to the mighty rivers that sustain both agriculture and recreation in the region, and the Big Murray Cod is a fitting symbol of the local land.

The Big Mango

Up north in Bowen, Queensland, you’ll find Big Mango – a 10-meter-tall juicy tribute celebrating the region’s reputation as the mango capital of Australia. Bowen is renowned for producing some of the country’s best mangoes, and this giant fruit stands as a testament to the region’s agricultural success. If your work takes you to Bowen, the Big Mango is a sweet reminder of the area’s fruitful contributions.

The Big Lobster

When it comes to Australia’s big things, let’s not forget Larry the Big Lobster in Kingston, South Australia. Standing tall at 17 meters, Larry is a true icon of the local fishing industry. If you’re heading to the Limestone Coast, make sure to snap a selfie with this giant crustacean.

The Big Merino

In Goulburn, New South Wales, the Big Merino stands proudly as a symbol of Australia’s wool industry. Affectionately known as “Rambo,” this 15-meter-tall ram is a tribute to the hardworking sheep farmers who have made Australian wool famous worldwide. Visitors can explore the interior of the Big Merino to learn about the history of wool production, making it a meaningful stop for anyone connected to the livestock industry.

What’s the meaning of Australia’s big things?

Australia’s big things are great, but they’re not just fun – they’re a celebration of Australia’s agricultural heart and soul. They reflect the pride, resilience and community spirit that make rural Australia such a special place to work and live. Wherever your ag career in Australia takes you, make sure you keep an eye out for these larger-than-life icons.

After all, working in agriculture isn’t just about the job – it’s about being part of something bigger than that. As big as our very unique big things, in fact!

As 2024 draws to a close, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude to all of our clients and candidates for another great year in Australian agriculture.

It’s been incredibly rewarding for us to see so many dedicated candidates placed in roles across the industry in the last 12 months. We couldn’t be more grateful for their dedication, hard work and enthusiasm – the value they add to the ag sector is immeasurable.

We also want to say thank you to our agribusiness clients for your partnership and trust in our team. It’s an honour to work with some of the biggest and brightest names in Australian agriculture, and it’s been great to see your businesses continue to grow and thrive in 2024. We’re excited to continue these partnerships into the new year – providing our clients with reliable, compliant workforces that help them meet and exceed their strategic objectives.

At the end of another successful year, we want to wish our entire #agrifamily a happy and healthy festive season. This year has been one of growth, teamwork and shared successes, and we look forward to seeing you all in 2025.

One of the best parts of working in rural Australia is the incredible scenery – rugged mountains, rainforests, pristine beaches and creeks. When it comes to National Parks and camping spots, we’re truly spoiled for choice. So how do you know where to go to make the most of your leisure time in Australia? We’ve got you covered, with a list of our top picks for scenic camping.

The best Australian National Parks for camping

Australia is abundant with natural beauty, so when you’re visiting on a working holiday it can be hard to determine what are the best spots to visit for sightseeing and scenic camping. We’ve compiled a list of some beautiful National Parks that allow camping – just be sure to check out their availability before you arrive, as these spots can be very popular!

Noosa National Park, Queensland

Noosa is a tourist hotspot for a reason – this small town is buzzing year round thanks to its glorious beaches, landscapes and of course its National Park. The perfect place to immerse yourself in Australian nature, camping at Noosa National Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Beautiful ocean views and well-maintained walking tracks make for the ideal camping location for locals and tourists alike. You might even spot some dolphins on your hike!

Springbrook National Park, Queensland

World Heritage-listed Springbrook National Park is well known for its dense rainforests, waterfalls and picturesque lookouts. Camping at Springbrook means you can take advantage of the scenic trails that are dotted with incredible waterfall views and swimming holes. Glow-worms can even be found in some of the caves in this National Park.

Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales

The National Park nestled amongst the Blue Mountains offers a number of camping sites for travellers to enjoy. Featuring dramatic cliff formations, waterfalls and lush forests, the Blue Mountains offer a truly breathtaking camping experience. Hiking trails around this National Park offer glimpses of the iconic Three Sisters rock formations.

Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales

Needless to say, Australia’s highest peak – Mount Kosciuszko – is a bucket-list location for those looking for scenic camping spots. From alpine forests to gorgeous lakes, this National Park boasts a range of incredible scenery to enjoy. In winter this location becomes a skiing destination, so planning to camp during spring or summer, when you will be welcomed by an incredible array of wildflowers, is advisable.

Grampians National Park, Victoria

Immerse yourself in rich Indigenous history at Grampians National Park, a favourite amongst prolific campers. You’ll have the chance to explore a range of bushwalking opportunities, rock climbing spots and incredible views from a variety of lookout points. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some kangaroos or even emus roaming freely around this iconic camping location.

Great Otway National Park, Victoria

Great Otway National Park features stunning forests and waterfalls, all with the backdrop of pristine coastline. Camping at this National Park offers a variety of experiences, from exploring the beach to trekking through the rainforest. Abundant with native wildlife, campers have sighted koalas and a range of native bird species amongst the Great Otway forests.

At Agri Labour Australia, we love sharing the beauty of our land with our candidate community. Enjoy these incredible National Parks on your next scenic camping trip!

Working in Australian agriculture is a brilliant way to experience the beautiful sights of the outback, while gaining real-world experience in a thriving sector of our economy. Despite the excitement of working in another country, it’s normal to experience homesickness when you’re a long way from your family and friends. Staying connected with your loved ones whenever possible is a great way to deal with these feelings, and these days it’s fortunately easier than ever to keep in touch with everyone back home while you’re in Australia.

How to stay connected with family and friends overseas

In our modern society, there are many ways to stay connected with your family and friends in your hometown while you’re working in Australia.

Video calls
A number of online platforms offer video calling options – Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp and FaceTime are all great ways to connect with your loved ones. Video calling can feel more personal than simply sending a text message, and you might even like to give your family or friends a virtual tour of your home, to give them insight into where you’re staying.

Social media
With most of us now active on social media to some extent, apps such as Facebook or Instagram can be a great way to keep everyone at home updated on what you’ve been up to in Australia. Seeing your friends and family post on social media can also be a great way to feel connected and up-to-date on what’s happening in your hometown.

Send postcards or letters
Although “snail mail” might seem like an old-fashioned way to communicate, there’s something special about receiving mail – and it’s a great opportunity to make use of those postcards you might’ve collected while sightseeing. This option may be particularly attractive if you have older family members who aren’t tech-savvy.

Start a countdown to the next time you see them
If you’re missing your family and friends, having a shared countdown that marks the number of days until you’re reunited can be a fun way to get excited about being together again.

Tips for keeping in touch while you’re in Australia

Staying connected is simple these days, but there are some essentials to consider to ensure that you don’t have any issues when trying to communicate with your family and friends back home.

Internet connection
Although the internet is everywhere these days, the connection can get a bit patchy in remote areas of Australia. You might like to check if the place you’re staying has a reliable WiFi connection – and if not, your best bet is to purchase a local SIM card with international calling capabilities. Local cafes, libraries and shops often also have WiFi available if you get stuck.

Schedule regular down-time
There’s so much to do and see while you’re in Australia, it can be easy to forget to set aside time to rest and reconnect with family. Being well rested can also help ease feelings of homesickness, as the change to routine can feel particularly dramatic if you’re busy with work and travel each day. Having some quiet time to wind down in the evenings also offers the perfect opportunity to call or message everyone back home.

Working for Agri Labour Australia is an exciting opportunity – but even with all the amazing experiences on offer in Australia, it’s natural to miss your family and friends. Staying connected can help to ward off feelings of isolation or homesickness, and it’s easier now than ever before.

It’s that hairy time of year again – the month when people across the country choose to grow a mo, move for mental health or host a mo-ment that raises awareness and funds for men’s health. Tackling mental health, suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer, Movember is a chance to unite for the dads, brothers, sons and mates in our lives, and the Agri Labour Australia team has come together to fundraise throughout the month.

With many team members choosing to grow their very own mo, others in the group will also be fundraising and raising awareness  – so head over to our Movember page to find out more, check out who can successfully grow a mo and quickly throw your weight behind this very worthy cause.

Hi #MyAgriFamily! Are you a candidate working in the 2024 blueberry harvest? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to share your experience for the chance to win $500 AUD with our Instagram video competition! All you need to do is create a reel that captures your unforgettable experience in this year’s blueberry harvest, and share it with our #myagrifamily community.

Capture your blueberry harvest experience

To enter, it’s as easy as creating a short video or reel that showcases your unforgettable experiences with Agri Labour Australia and the amazing agventure you’ve had working in the blueberry harvest.

Share your best blueberry moments for the chance to win!

Sunrises, delicious blueberries, outback travel and the friendships you’ve made are just some ideas that could inspire your entry. Get creative and give us an insider’s look at what makes working in an Australian blueberry harvest such an unforgettable experience. Whether that’s being surrounded by nature, building lifelong friendships with fellow candidates, or enjoying the fruits (pun intended!) of your hard work.

How to enter

To apply, all you need to do is:

1. Follow Agri Labour Australia on Instagram here
2. Upload your blueberry harvest reel to your Instagram account and tag us in it via @agrilabourau
3. Tag #myagrifamily

Competition terms and conditions

• Entries will close when the last blueberry has been picked and the season our candidates have participated in has officially ended.
• To be eligible for the prize, you must be in Australia to receive it.
• You must have worked with Agri Labour Australia in the 2024 blueberry harvest.
• Safety first! Please refrain from any dangerous filming or activities. Any submissions containing unsafe activities will be disqualified.
• Ensure compliance with any site-based mobile phone or footage-based rules. You must have the proper permission and do not film at times or in places where you do not have clearance.
• By sharing your video with us, you’ll be giving Agri Labour Australia authority to share it on our Instagram page and our website when we announce the competition winner. So if you don’t want anyone to see it, this competition isn’t for you.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to share your #myagrifamily moments and have a chance to win $500 AUD. We can’t wait to see your incredible reels showcasing your blueberry agventure.

Australia has some of the world’s most stunning beaches, attracting millions of visitors each year. While these sandy shores offer breathtaking views and exciting activities, they also pose certain risks. For those unfamiliar with the local environment, staying safe is paramount when planning a trip to the beach in Australia.

Whether you’re planning a day of sunbathing, swimming or surfing, prioritising safety is crucial for a fun experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Slip, slop, slap

The Australian sun can be extremely harsh, with high UV levels causing sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer, and the Aussie slogan “Slip, slop, slap” is your best defence against the harsh sun. So what does that mean? Slip on a light, long-sleeved shirt. Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming. And Slap on a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck and seek shade, especially during peak UV periods (10am to 4pm).

Swim between the flags

When you’re at the beach, always swim between the red and yellow flags. These flags indicate areas patrolled by lifeguards, who monitor for dangerous conditions and can assist in emergencies. Swimming outside these flags increases your risk of encountering strong currents, marine life (including sharks) and other hazards without immediate help.

Understand rip currents

Rips are powerful currents in the water that can pull swimmers out to sea. It’s important to learn how to identify rip currents, which often appear as darker, choppier water, as getting caught in a rip is one of the leading causes of beach rescues. If you get caught in a rip current:

• stay calm and conserve energy
• signal for help by raising one arm
• don’t swim against the current; instead, swim parallel to the shore until you escape the current’s pull, then head back to the beach.

Swim with a buddy

Whenever possible, swim with a friend or family member when visiting a beach in Australia, and keep an eye on each other while in the water. In case of an emergency, having someone nearby can make a big difference.

Respect marine life

Be mindful of marine creatures such as jellyfish, sharks and bluebottles (a type of marine stinger) that may be present in the water. Wear a stinger suit if swimming in areas known for stingers, and follow any local signage about potential risks.

Learn basic first-aid

Familiarise yourself with basic first-aid procedures, including CPR and treating minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes and jellyfish stings. Knowing how to respond in an emergency can help save lives.

Stay hydrated

The combination of sun, saltwater and physical activity can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can contribute to dehydration and impair judgement.

Know the emergency number

In the event of an emergency while at a beach in Australia, it’s crucial to know what the emergency contact number is – in Australia, dialling 000 connects you to the emergency services (police, fire and ambulance). Make sure your phone is charged, and you have access to it at all times.

Australia’s beaches offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. By staying informed, following safety guidelines and being prepared for the unexpected, your beach experience will be both memorable and safe.

Moving to a new country for work can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its challenges – particularly when it comes to navigating differences. Australia, with its diverse population and unique cultural landscape, presents its own set of communication norms and cultural practices that may differ from those in Europe and Asian countries. Understanding these differences can help candidates from Europe and Asia adjust more smoothly to life and work in Australia. With that in mind, here’s a handy guide to some key cultural communication differences between Australia, Europe and Asian countries.

Directness vs. indirectness

• Australia
  Australians tend to value direct communication and appreciate honesty and openness in conversations. They may ask direct questions and expect straightforward answers.

• Europe
  Communication styles in Europe can vary depending on the country, but many European cultures value diplomacy and indirect communication, particularly when discussing sensitive topics.

• Asia
  In many Asian cultures, indirect communication is common, and people may use subtle cues or nonverbal gestures to convey their message. Face-saving and maintaining harmony are often prioritised over direct confrontation.

Australia hierarchy and formality

• Australia
  Australian workplaces often have a relatively flat hierarchy, with an emphasis on informal communication and egalitarian values. Addressing each other on a first-name basis is common, even with supervisors and managers.

• Europe
  European workplaces may have more formal hierarchies, with clear distinctions between superiors and subordinates. Titles and formalities are often used to show respect and deference.

• Asia
  Many Asian cultures place a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority. Formal titles and deferential language are used when addressing seniors or individuals of higher status.

Communication styles

• Australia
  Australians are known for their laid-back and informal communication style, often using humour and sarcasm to lighten the mood. They value a relaxed and casual approach to interactions.

• Europe
  Communication in Europe may be more reserved and measured, with an emphasis on politeness and propriety. Small talk is less common, and conversations may focus more on professional topics.

• Asia
  Communication in Asia may be more indirect and nuanced, with an emphasis on maintaining harmony and avoiding confrontation. Nonverbal cues and context are often as important as the words spoken.

Sharing and connecting

• Australia
  Australians value diversity and multiculturalism, so candidates from Europe and Asia should feel welcome to share their cultural perspectives and experiences.

• Europe
  European expatriates may find similarities with Australian culture in terms of multiculturalism and openness to diversity, although specific cultural norms and practices may differ.

• Asia
  Candidates from Asian countries may encounter some cultural differences in Australia, but the country’s multicultural environment means there are opportunities to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Tips for adapting to Australian communication styles

• Be open-minded
  Approach cultural communication differences with curiosity and a willingness to learn.

• Observe and learn
  Pay attention to how locals communicate and adapt your style accordingly.

• Ask for clarification
  If unsure about cultural norms or communication practices, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or guidance.

• Build relationships
  Cultivate relationships with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds to gain insights and perspectives.

• Embrace diversity
  Appreciate the richness of diversity in Australia and celebrate the opportunity to learn from people with varied cultural backgrounds.

By understanding and adapting to cultural communication differences, you’ll be able to navigate the nuances of Australian culture more effectively – helping you to build positive relationships and thrive in your workplace. With an open mind and a willingness to learn, the transition to living and working in Australia can be a rewarding and enriching experience.