Are you trying to find a fulfilling and enjoyable way to make a bit of extra cash while spending time in nature? Then harvest work Victoria-wide might be the perfect opportunity that you’ve been looking for!
Fruit picking is a great way to experience the beauty of the Victorian countryside while also making money just a stone’s throw away from the great city of Melbourne. So in this blog, we’ll explore some of the best places for fruit picking near Melbourne.
The benefits of harvest work
Before we dive into the best places for fruit picking near Melbourne, let’s first talk about the benefits of harvest work.
You can turn your humble holiday into a productive, unique working holiday. By working on a farm while on vacation, you can experience the beauty of nature, discover rural gems and embrace the best of nature. While some farms provide an hourly income for your work, others might pay you based on how much fruit you pick. Do you research beforehand to find a payment method that works best for you.
Another great benefit is that you can take advantage of the outdoors. Fruit picking is an excellent workout and fresh air activity.
You can also make many new friends by getting to know people from all walks of life. And while making new friends, you can also pick up some new skills too.
The best places for fruit picking near Melbourne
- Bacchus Marsh: The strawberry fields at Bacchus Marsh, which is 50 kilometres west of Melbourne, are well-known. Strawberries are the main fruit that’s picked, and the season extends from November to April.
- Red Hill Cherry Farm: Red Hill Cherry Farm is located about 70 kilometres southeast of Melbourne and is known for its cherry orchards. The picking season runs from late November to mid-January.
- Rayners Orchard: About 60 kilometres east of Melbourne in the Yarra Valley sits Rayners Orchard. Peaches, plums and nectarines are among the many fruits that are available for harvesting there. November through May is the peak fruit-picking season.
- Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm: Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm is located about 80 kilometres southeast of Melbourne and is known for its strawberry fields. The picking season runs from November to April.
- Blue Hills Berries and Cherries: About 80 kilometres east of Melbourne, Blue Hills Berries and Cherries are well-known for their berry and cherry crop. November through April is the prime picking season.
Tips for fruit picking
Before you hop in a car and venture out on your fruit picking adventure, there are some tips and tricks you should know first to make the most of your trip.
You should wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. You’ll be standing for several hours, so having supportive footwear will make a huge difference. Dressing appropriately for the weather is also important, as you’ll be out in the elements all day. Make sure you pack a bottle of water to stay hydrated too.
Follow the instructions of the farm owner or manager. You’ll receive instructions on how to harvest the fruit, what to do with it when you’ve picked it, and where to place it. Lastly, be respectful of the farm and the fruit so you can have heaps of fun!
