When backpackers went home, these Australians gave farm jobs a go. Here’s how they went

As soon as it became clear COVID-19 was going to wreak havoc, most backpackers hastily left the Australia and made their way back home.

Fearing the nation’s fresh produce would be left to rot, the Federal Government and agriculture bodies lobbied young Australians to take up farming jobs instead.

Some farmers flaunted attractive wage figures, saying it was possible to make $3,000 per week, while Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack told teens regional work might make for interesting Instagram content, and even lead to finding “the love of your life”.

These Australians gave it a go.

Here’s how they went.

Work ‘enjoyable’ but hard

Nineteen-year-old Matthew Rolston…