Ballongilly is an ABN-verified farm work located in Katherine, Queensland, with a strong reliability score of 5/5. Katherine is known for producing mangoes, cattle stations, melons, making it a popular destination for backpackers completing their 88-day visa requirement. Mango: October to December. Cattle mustering: April to October. Hay: March to June.
Katherine, QLDPostcode 0850
Reliability Score
5/5
Based on ABN verification, contact information completeness, and business activity status. A score of 4-5 indicates a well-documented, active farm with full contact details available.
Farm Details
Business Name
Ballongilly
Type
Farm Work — 88 Day Visa Eligible
Location
Katherine, Queensland
ABN Status
Active & Verified
Expected Pay — Farm Work in Queensland
Hourly Rate
$25–38/hr
Weekly Earnings
$950–1,440
Pay Type
Hourly / Piece rate
Based on the Horticulture Award 2020. Minimum wage is $25.41/hour (casual: $31.76/hour with 25% loading). Piece rate workers must still earn at least minimum wage equivalent. Read our complete pay rates guide.
What Does Farm Work Work Involve?
This farm offers general agricultural work that may include a mix of activities across different seasons. Mixed farms often provide diverse experiences and longer employment opportunities.
Typical Tasks at Ballongilly
Planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops
Sorting, packing, and preparing produce for market
Operating farm machinery and irrigation systems
Fencing and general property maintenance
Assisting with livestock care if applicable
Cleaning and organising farm facilities
Skills and Experience
No prior experience needed — willingness to learn and physical fitness are the main requirements. Versatility is valued on mixed farms as tasks change with the season.
What to Bring
Sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, hat, sunscreen, and work gloves. Bring long sleeves for protection. Farms typically provide any specialised tools or safety equipment.
Pay Info
Pay rates follow the Horticulture Award 2020 minimum. Some tasks may be piece rate (paid per bin or kilogram), while others are hourly.
Farm Work in Katherine — What to Know
Katherine is a gateway to farm and station work in the Top End. Cattle stations, mango farms, and melon operations offer seasonal and year-round opportunities.
Known For
MangoesCattle stationsMelonsHay
Peak Season
Mango: October to December. Cattle mustering: April to October. Hay: March to June.
Nearby Towns
Darwin, Pine Creek, Mataranka
Travel tip: About 3 hours south of Darwin. A vehicle and some outback driving confidence is recommended.
Working in Queensland — Climate & Season Guide
Climate: Tropical to subtropical climate with warm winters and hot, humid summers.
Best season: May to October (dry season) is the most comfortable for outdoor work. Summer (Nov–Mar) is hot and wet but offers mango and banana picking.
Tips: Bring sun protection and plenty of water. Start work early to avoid peak heat. Expect high humidity in summer.
88-Day Visa Eligibility
Farm work in Katherine, Queensland is classified as eligible specified work for the Working Holiday Visa 88-day requirement. This means days worked at Ballongilly can count towards your 2nd or 3rd year visa extension.
Does Ballongilly count towards the 88 days visa requirement?
Farm work at Ballongilly is an eligible work type for the 88-day Working Holiday Visa requirement (subclass 417/462), provided the work is in a designated regional area. Katherine in Queensland is classified as regional. Always confirm directly with the employer and keep payslips as proof.
How much does farm work pay in Queensland?
Farm work pay in Queensland typically ranges from $25–38/hour (hourly / piece rate). Weekly earnings are approximately $950–1,440 based on a 38-hour week. All farm workers must be paid at least the minimum wage of $25.41/hour under the Horticulture Award 2020. Casual workers receive an additional 25% loading.
What experience do I need to work at Ballongilly?
Most farms hire workers with no prior experience. Training is typically provided on-site during your first few days. Physical fitness is important as farm work involves standing, bending, lifting, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
How do I verify that Ballongilly is a legitimate employer?
Ballongilly has been verified through the Australian Business Register (ABN). You can independently verify any farm by checking their ABN on abr.business.gov.au. Additionally, check that they provide payslips, a written employment contract, and pay at least minimum wage.
What documents should I keep when working at Ballongilly?
Keep all payslips, your employment contract, bank statements showing wage deposits, and ask your employer to complete Form 1263 (employer declaration). These documents are essential evidence if you apply for a 2nd or 3rd year Working Holiday Visa.