May& Ken Farm Work Provider for Backpackers

Contact Information: Mayla Bailey Director of Labour Supply & Accommodation Phone: 0459 244 374 Email: mayla@elite-harvesting.com Web: www.elite-harvesting.com ++ Information for backpackers in the Lockyer Valley ++ Gatton The city is located in Southern Queensland, 90 km west of Brisbane and 40 km east of Toowoomba. Gatton is a fast growing region that has maintained its natural beauty and charm. The Gatton Historical Village is keeping local history alive, preserving heritage buildings and memorabilia on the southern border of Lake Apex Park. Harvest Time Gatton, Part of The valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in Queensland. Industries include small crops, dairying, pork, beef, fruit and sawmilling. Take place between February to September when there are opportunities for workers. Climate, market prices, crop size and the number of people looking for work can impact on the amount of work available. Crop calendar in the Lockyer Valley March – April Sweet Potatoes March-June Beans May-September Snow Peas May-October Celery,Chinese Cabbage May- November Cabbage, cauliflower,lettuce,broccoli May- December Potaoes,beetroot July- November Carrots August- December Onions September – November Garlic November- December Beans November – May Pumpkins, sweet corn, tomatoes, capsicums December – February Melons, Zucchinis Rates of Pay Rates of pay can be an hourly rate or on a piece of rate basis which called by the “bin” or “buckets”. Growers may pay weekly or fortnightly. It is recommended that you have 3 weeks funds with you on arrival in case you are unable to obtain work immediately. Requirements You will need: - A work visa - Passport - Tax file number - Australian Bank Account - Good Level of Fitness - Enough Money to live on for 2-3 weeks - Protective Clothes that suited for both Weather seasons e.g Hat, sleeved shirt for summer, and Long Sleeved, boots for winter. Sunscreen also important to protect your skin, - Large containers for drinking water Accommodation Share house accommodations are available in Gatton area whether is in town area or outside town. The house is a common “share rooms” therefore lodger will be sharing between 2-5 people. House rate start from $90 - $100 a week and $100 bond in advance. The bond will be refundable during your leave (notice the landlord 7 days before move out.). More information about the share house is available. Transport Several interstate coaches like Greyhound Bus pass through Gatton. There is no public transport in Gatton area therefore backpackers need to organise the transport with the contractors during work. Transportation will be arrange in your share house accommodation with an agreed fee of $7/day within 15 minutes’ drive and upon availability and based on car pooling Several Public transports are available for bus and train to go outside Gatton area (check Translink.com.au) Greyhound Australia. Phone: 1300 473 946 Translink Bus stop at William st or Railway St (www.translink.com.au) Tourist Information Gatton Visitor Information Centre Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre, Lake Apex Dr Gatton Qld 4343 Ph: 07 5462 3430 Mail: tourism@lvrc.qld.gov.au Web: www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au