Farm work in Mareeba & the Tablelands
Atherton Tablelands, QLD 4880
Up on the Tablelands behind Cairns, Mareeba grows mangoes, avocados, bananas and coffee, with the big mango rush at the end of the year.
What’s grown here
When the work is
Peak season is usually October to January. Seasons move with the weather, so call ahead and aim to arrive a week or two before the rush.
| Mangoes | Roughly October–January |
| Avocados | Roughly March–August |
Does it count for my second year?
Yes. Farm work in postcode 4880 counts as specified work for both the 417 and 462 visas. The job also has to be eligible work, paid at award rates, with payslips.
Log every job in the 88-day tracker so you know exactly where you stand.
Getting there
- About an hour’s drive inland from Cairns.
- Fly into Cairns, then bus or drive up the range.
Skyscanner
Compare domestic flights — often cheaper than the bus on long legs.
JUCY
Campervan hire for the road-trip-sleep-anywhere life.
Where to stay
Working hostels in Mareeba & the Tablelands often line up farm work and drive you there. Read recent reviews and ask how long guests wait for work before you pay. Caravan parks and share houses are cheaper for longer stays.
Hostelworld
The biggest range of hostels in every Aussie city and beach town.
Booking.com
Private rooms, motels and longer stays when you need a break from dorms.
Local tips
- It’s in Northern Australia, so hospitality jobs in the area can count too — check the postcode.
- Mango sap burns skin — wear long sleeves and gloves.
- Never pay a fee to get a job, and walk away from cash-in-hand work with no payslips.
Pack for the paddock
Nearby farm towns
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