Farm sitting in Australia - A beginners guide

Ever wondered what it would be like to run your own farm? Whether you're a solo traveller looking for a new adventure, or a family wanting to explore rural Australia, farm-sitting is a unique way to experience country life and find out first-hand what it’s like to live on and maintain a farm.

Many Aussie farmers offer sitting opportunities to manage livestock, maintain gardens, or keep an eye on the property during their absence. This can range from short stays of a few days to longer ones lasting several months or more. Here’s a general overview of what to expect and how to get started as a farm sitter:

Types of Farms & Locations

• Types: Farm-sitting roles vary widely, from small hobby farms to larger cattle, sheep, or dairy farms. You might also find opportunities on vineyards, orchards, vegetable farms, or even horse properties.
• Locations: Farms can be located anywhere in Australia, from the outback and remote areas in Tasmania and Western Australia to more populated regional areas in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria.

Responsibilities

• Typical responsibilities may include feeding and watering animals, checking fences, managing gates, changing paddocks, watering plants and minor running repairs.
• Some farm-sitting roles require experience with specific animals such as horses or cattle, while others may be lighter duties like pet sitting dogs, chickens or simple garden maintenance.
• Clear communication with farm owners is crucial to understanding expectations and any specific tasks. Some owners may also request regular updates to reassure them everything is going smoothly in their absence.
• Documenting behaviour or health changes - If you notice any changes in the animals’ behaviour, diet, or health, report it to the owner immediately.

Skills & Experience

• Some prior experience with animals and basic farm maintenance is generally an advantage. Having said that, a willingness to learn and a can-do attitude are always highly regarded.
• Good communication skills, flexibility, and a genuine love for animals are some necessary qualities.

Finding Opportunities

• Aussie House Sitters has a dedicated area on the site listing farm-sitting opportunities around the country. To do your own search for farm sits - Go to the Refine Search area of the site and under House Type click Farm House. You can then browse all the available listings found in rural and farm settings. You can also narrow the search to different areas or specific dates using the Location and Dates search options.

Preparing for the Job

• Meet the Animals and the Owners: Ideally, it’s always best to spend some time with the animals while the owner is present to understand their different personalities and any special needs.
• Understand the Routine: Animals thrive on consistency. Ask for a detailed schedule, including feeding times, cleaning, exercise, and whether any health checks or medications are needed.
• Collect Emergency Contacts: Get the vet's contact information, and ask for a list of any neighbours or farm workers who can assist in case of emergencies.

Benefits

Farm sitting offers a wonderful variety of benefits, both for the sitter and for the farm owner.

• Hands-on Experience with Farming: Farm sitting allows you to gain real-world agricultural experience, which can be valuable if you’re interested in farming, gardening, or animal care. It’s a great way to learn new skills without committing to a full-time farming role. It’s also a great asset to your house sitter profile.
• Connection with Nature: Spending time on a farm can be incredibly peaceful, providing an opportunity to enjoy fresh air, scenic landscapes, and a slower, more grounded lifestyle.
• Physical Activity: Many farm tasks involve manual labour, so farm sitting can be a good way to stay physically active. Activities like feeding animals, gardening, or maintaining facilities offer a workout while being outdoors
• Sense of Responsibility and Purpose: Taking care of living beings and valuable resources can bring a strong sense of responsibility and fulfilment.
• Free accommodation: Farm sits provide free accommodation in often beautiful, private locations, making it a budget-friendly way to live in a rural area for a while.
• Personal Growth and Problem-Solving Skills: Handling various aspects of farm maintenance can develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and resilience, as no two days on a farm are alike.

Final Tips

• Stay Calm and Patient: Animals can sense stress, so approach them with calmness and care.
• Enjoy the Experience: Farm sitting can be incredibly rewarding, giving you the chance to live like a local in some fantastic locations. It also provides the chance to bond with a wide variety of animals you may have never otherwise encountered.