Farm work in Young
Hilltops, NSW 2594
Australia’s cherry capital. The season is short and frantic, with thousands of pickers arriving for a few weeks around Christmas.
What’s grown here
When the work is
Peak season is usually November to December. Seasons move with the weather, so call ahead and aim to arrive a week or two before the rush.
| Cherries | Roughly late October–December |
| Prunes and plums | Roughly January–March |
Does it count for my second year?
Yes. Farm work in postcode 2594 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 4 hours south-west of Sydney, 2 hours from Canberra.
- NSW TrainLink coaches run from Sydney and Canberra.
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 Young 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
- Line up work before November — the cherry season doesn’t wait.
- Many farms offer camping on site during the season.
- 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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