Leading agriculture network Viterra has revealed plans to recruit 1500 seasonal workers across South Australia and western Victoria as the region’s local growers gear up for a robust harvest season.
Viterra, a world-leading and fully integrated agriculture network, specializes in connecting Australian growers with domestic and international consumers by supplying sustainable, traceable, and quality-controlled agricultural products.
The upcoming harvest season offers a fantastic chance for job seekers, as Viterra is now seeking dedicated individuals to fill various roles. One of the significant advantages of these harvest jobs is that they pay above industry standards and do not require any previous work experience. Viterra ensures that all hired workers receive comprehensive training for the different tasks involved, from general grain handling to classification, setting them up for success.
Alyson Gilbey, Viterra’s General Manager of Human Resources, expressed her excitement for the upcoming season and emphasized the inclusive nature of these roles. She encouraged individuals of all age groups and backgrounds to apply, stating: “If the opportunity to make great money in the summer holidays and explore southern Australia’s beautiful regions in your spare time appeals to you, we encourage you to apply. We’ll give you all the training and support that you need to succeed.”
“Harvest work is ideal for school students and university students looking for summer work outside of their studies, school leavers, retirees, backpackers, and anyone looking to gain work experience and new skills,” added Gilbey. “Our harvest workers tell us that they enjoy the variety that the roles offer and being part of a fun, supportive, and safe working environment as they assist local growers during the busy harvest period. This is evidenced by the large number of people who we welcome back to join us season after season with over 500 return harvest workers last year.”
Gavin Cavanagh, Viterra’s General Manager of Operations, shared his optimism about the 2023/24 season. “The recent rainfall events have provided a great boost to crops, and they are looking great,” Cavanagh said. “We appear to be on track for an above-average season, with the final result determined by spring conditions from mid-August to early October.”
Cavanagh emphasized the importance of the harvest recruitment drive, stating, “Our harvest workers are critical to our success in helping us to receive, store, and move local growers’ grain to international markets.”
Rob Longhurst, a former motor mechanic, shared his positive experience as a harvest worker with Viterra. “I was semi-retired and looking to work outside of the mechanical trade. I saw the roles advertised and it was something I had never tried before, so I thought I’d give it a go,” Rob said. “One of the best things about harvest work is the variety; there are different tasks to do throughout the day, and no two days are the same.” Rob continued, “I’ve enjoyed working with a great bunch of people with plenty of knowledge. As someone new to the industry, I really appreciated the support and guidance, and the on-the-job training was excellent.”
After working the harvest at Viterra’s Karoonda site, Rob has continued with the company, transitioning into a permanent part-time role at Tailem Bend. He offered advice to potential applicants, saying, “My advice to anyone considering applying for one of these roles is, go for it! It’s a great opportunity to earn some money over the holidays, and if you enjoy the work, you could stay on and grow your career.”
For those interested in the harvest job opportunities with Viterra, further information and application details can be found on the company’s website.
