We are undertaking a search for a station manager at Beltana station, Flinders Ranges, SA

Beltana Station covers more than 1,540 square kilometres of rangeland between Lake Torrens to the west and the Flinders Ranges to the east, approximately 45 kms south of Leigh Creek.

Beltana is a large sheep and cattle station seeking a highly experienced and motivated Station Manager to join a long-established family operation. Ideally suited to a working couple.

Please only apply for this position if you have managed a pastoral sheep and cattle station with at least 5 years’ experience in a managerial role.

The successful applicant will be a proven, hands-on leader with substantial pastoral experience, working closely with and reporting to the Yadlamalka Pastoral Station General Manager and owners to drive productivity, team performance and the continued development of the property.

The Station Manager will have responsibility for the day-to-day management and development of the property, including the development of the Dorper flock, improvement of water infrastructure and remote monitoring/telemetry, and ongoing development of yards and fencing, with the aim of achieving benchmark standards and improved operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee cattle and sheep mustering, processing, animal health, nutrition and welfare.
• Manage and develop the Dorper flock and contribute to long-term livestock production strategies.
• Maintain and improve water infrastructure, including solar bore systems, telemetry and remote monitoring.
• Oversee fencing, yards, roads and other station infrastructure.
• Lead, recruit, develop and motivate a small team in line with agreed performance expectations.
• Coordinate contractors and ensure operational requirements are delivered safely and efficiently.
• Maintain accurate station records and reporting.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Reporting to the Yadlamalka Pastoral Station General Manager and owners on agreed annual objectives, budgets and operational priorities.
• Provide regular reports to the owners on progress against agreed performance objectives and financial and operational outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with WHS requirements and maintain a strong safety culture across the station.

Essential Experience and Attributes

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a managerial role.
• 5+ years’ experience in sheep and cattle production, including significant Dorper experience on pastoral properties.
• Proven experience managing large-scale sheep and cattle operations.
• Evidence of increasing levels of responsibility throughout your career.
• Good length of tenure with previous employers.
• Proven ability to recruit, develop, lead and motivate staff.
• Strong livestock husbandry, animal health and welfare knowledge.
• Practical experience with motorbikes, 4WDs, machinery, fencing and general station maintenance.
• Strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Good computer literacy and the ability to confidently use technology in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with remote monitoring and telemetry systems.
• Ability to use analytical information to support farm and pastoral management decisions.
• A genuine interest in pastoral country rehabilitation and sustainable land management.
• Good understanding of WHS legislation and safe work practices.
• Ability to work independently, make sound decisions and take responsibility for outcomes.
• Prepared to make a long-term commitment to the role and Yadlamalka Pastoral team.

Qualifications and Additional Skills

The following additional qualifications and skills would be highly regarded:

• Significant Dorper experience.
• Diesel mechanic or mechanical experience.
• Pilot licence.
• Heavy vehicle licence.
• Dozer, excavator/digger and grader tickets.
• Experience with solar-powered water systems.
• Experience with telemetry, remote monitoring and agricultural technology.
• Strong computer and data-analysis skills.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced pastoral station manager seeking a long-term senior management position with a progressive pastoral enterprise.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the development of Beltana Station. Working couples are encouraged to apply.

Accommodation is provided in a large, comfortable family home with a swimming pool.

An attractive package will be negotiated based on experience, qualifications and skills.

If you are an experienced pastoral manager looking for a long-term opportunity where your experience, leadership and ideas will be valued, we would love to hear from you.