Farm Manager - Fine Wool Merino Breeding, Crookwell Nsw

The Employer
Our clients own a commercial fine wool Merino breeding operation located near Binda, NSW, in the picturesque and productive southern tablelands close to Crookwell. This family-owned and operated pastoral business is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Manager to take control of this operation with a substantial focus on fine wool Merino sheep breeding and management. They aim to be an enduring market leader in the sustainable production of livestock, with a continuous growth and improvement approach. The business holds strong values in ethics and care of land and animals, ensuring the highest quality and best practice standards are adhered to.

The role:

We are excited to offer a rewarding opportunity for an experienced leader to join this progressive, family-owned company as the Farm Manager of Markdale Station. We are looking for a self-motivated individual who can take charge of the operation and guide it in the right direction, allowing the farm and livestock to thrive. The property covers 6,300 acres of productive grey and red granite soils and is home to 10,000 Merinos (non mulesed) and an Angus weaner operation. In addition, Markdale offers a separate Farmstay accommodation and event business managed separately from the farm and is home to one of the great rural gardens in Australia.

The successful candidate will manage all aspects of the farming operation, including property management and livestock. A strong understanding of current Merino genetics, livestock management, feeding regimes, and grazing techniques will be essential to ensure maximum production. Implementing breeding programs, focusing on specific traits, and recording data will be crucial parts of this role.

You will play a vital role in the growth of the enterprise and the achievement of optimum productivity.

After developing and agreeing on the plan with the owners, the farm manager will work independently to implement it. You will also supervise and mentor other staff members, manage all contractors and provide regular reports to the owners, who are based in Sydney. A key responsibility of the role will include using current technology to keep accurate up to date records of stock numbers and movement, manage pastures, and communicate concerns.

The successful candidate will have a focus on livestock and provide track record of adopting ethical, modern, and sustainable farming methods.
Candidates with an entrepreneurial spirit or who is forward thinking and have a problem-solving mindset will be highly favoured.

Key skills required for the role include:

• Previous experience in a large-scale pasture-based livestock system, with a strong background in intensive sheep/wool production systems, will be highly advantageous.
• Experience in all aspects of livestock production, including health, nutrition, supplementary feeding and sheep/cattle husbandry.
• Ability to set and implement production plans within the farm plan framework.
• Experience in general farming practices - fencing, fabrication, water reticulation systems, machinery operation, weed control and general repairs and maintenance.
• Occupy a positive and professional attitude with the ability to use initiative.
• Have a passion for the merino sheep industry.
• Aptitude for continuous improvement and learning
• An established team of working dogs are essential.
• Lifetime Ewe Management experience will be looked upon favourably.
• Be proficient in the use of IT applications, including Word, Excel, Google Sheets, etc., and be prepared to learn and adopt selected agricultural data applications (egg;
  AgriWebb)

The Offer:

The successful candidate will receive an appealing remuneration package, which includes a work vehicle, utilities, meat rations and dog care. A comfortable 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom family home with a renovated kitchen and bathrooms, is included, and located on well-maintained lawns and trees with a pleasant view. Additionally, access to a pool and tennis courts is included. As well as participation in paid industry events and ag industry-specific seminars and conferences
It is located 20 minutes from Binda and 40 minutes from Crookwell, which has an extensive range of required amenities, including schools and supplies. Canberra is a 1.5-hour drive.

Want this job?
If this position interests you, please apply with your current resume and the names and details of at least three references who can be contacted. Preference will be given to those who supply a cover letter indicating their suitability for the role.