After several years of not being able to draw on the influx of international backpackers to help with the harvest, many fruit farmers are delighted to see young travellers returning in numbers.
The ABC reports that the number of working holiday visa holders has started to build since Australia reopened its international borders in December 2021, helping fill an estimated 172,000 worker shortfall in the food supply chain.
A total of 135,000 Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa holders arrived in Australia in 2022, according to the Department of Home Affairs. Since early December, 24,000 WHM visas have reportedly been granted, with many visa holders yet to arrive.
In previous years, grey nomads have been absolutely vital in helping farmers pick various fruits … and they still have a huge role to play.
Help is needed on raspberry farms. PIC: Any Lane / Pexels
Tasmanian raspberry farmer, Richard Clark, told the ABC that international travellers complemented the local workforce.
“Without that surge of backpackers in the peak, critical period, fruit goes on the ground,” he said. “It was incredibly difficult to find enough people who were efficient, productive and farm-fit to do the work that was required during Covid.”
The Derwent Valley farmer told the ABC that there was no shortage of farms needing help.
“It’s very competitive to find backpackers … Tasmania requires 9,000 seasonal workers in the month of January,” Mr Clark said. “There are cherry farms five kilometres down the road that need 2,000 workers, so we need to have good conditions, good accommodation, good pay rates etc.”
He said having a farm campground next to the Tyenna River, helped attract workers.
“There’s a camp kitchen, hot shower, and very simple cheap accommodation, but it’s a wonderful environment for young backpackers who want to mingle with people from around the world,” Mr Clark said.
Grey Nomad Members now have the opportunity to win six 750ml eco flat bottles of Pinot Grigio (total value of $96) from Banrock Station.
The new eco-flat wine bottle is made entirely from Australian-sourced 100% recycled PET plastic, which is 83% lighter than a glass bottle. The slimmer, flatter profile allows twice as many bottles to fit in a standard wine case.
It’s lighter to carry, takes up less space in your van, is easy to store in your fridge or esky, and is great for life on the road.
* GN Members … Click here to enter
* Haven’t joined yet? Click here to learn about GN member benefits, how to join … and how to win!
