The Career Pathways
Horticulture relies heavily on machinery to grow, prepare, process, package, and transport produce. It is vital all machinery is running smoothly and is well maintained. A horticultural mechanic is responsible for regularly tuning machinery and actively responding to breakdowns. They have a broad skill set to be able to work with highly customised horticulture machinery and vehicles. In addition, horticulture mechanics must be open and quickly able to learn about new machinery. It is important they work to a deadline to get machinery up and running as quickly as possible.
Maintenance Supervisor, Zerella Fresh, South Australia
Antonio Fragnito
Q&A with Antonio Fragnito
What does your job entail? Can you describe a typical day?
My job involves a combination of maintenance and upkeep of existing packing machines on the farm, as well as fabricating new machines. If there’s a major project or expansion, I focus on new production builds. During quieter periods, I handle regular upkeep, breakdowns, and maintenance of all the farm’s packing sheds. There’s also a significant technology and automation aspect to the role, including programming and working with automated systems.
How important is technology in modern farming?
Technology plays a crucial role. Automation is the future of farming, allowing for better yields and efficiency. A lot of the physical, mechanical work that people associate with farming is now done by machines. For example, our potato wash lines are highly automated, requiring only a few operators. The packing process is also fully automated, with machines handling weighing and bagging. Maintenance of these machines is essential to ensure smooth operation.
What led you to a career in horticulture?
I always enjoyed building things as a kid, but I wasn’t the best student, so university was never my plan. I got my start through a family friend who owned a business building machinery for Zarella Fresh. I worked there during high school, loved it, and started an engineering career focused on machinery for horticulture. When that business closed, I transitioned directly to working for Zarella Fresh as part of their maintenance team.
Can you walk us through your career progression?
I started in Adelaide in 2018 as an apprentice Boilermaker Fabricator. After completing my apprenticeship, I had a meeting about my future and was offered the opportunity to move to Parilla to work on-site at the farm. I took the chance in 2021, and it’s been an exciting journey of growth ever since.
What do you find most rewarding about working in horticulture?
Working in horticulture gives you a strong sense of purpose. Being far from the city, you rely on the people around you, and it fosters a close-knit, family-like work environment. You’re not just a number; you’re part of a team where everyone helps each other. That sense of connection and community is something many workplaces lack today.
Can you share a memorable project from your career?
The most significant project I’ve worked on was the construction of our new potato packing shed. It was the reason I moved from Adelaide to Parilla. Initially, I was just installing machinery, but as the project progressed, I took on more responsibility, working with contractors and eventually leading a small team. It was a challenging but rewarding experience that accelerated my personal and professional growth.
Do you manage a team in your current role?
Yes, I have people working under me. Managing people can be challenging because you have to balance being approachable with maintaining authority. I believe in earning people’s respect through trust rather than fear. It’s important to build good relationships, but also to set clear expectations to keep operations running smoothly.
Would you recommend horticulture to young people?
Absolutely. I grew up in the city, but moving to the countryside and working on a farm changed my life for the better. It’s the happiest I’ve ever been. Sometimes, taking a chance on something new leads you to where you truly belong.
How does life in the countryside compare to city life?
Life in the city felt hectic, like I always had to be somewhere. In contrast, the countryside offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Instead of traffic jams, I drive through beautiful landscapes every day, and the sunrises never get old. It’s a completely different and much more fulfilling lifestyle.
What advice would you give to young people considering a trade or career in horticulture?
Schools often push university as the only option, but trades are just as valuable, if not more so. I was never great in a classroom, but working with my hands and problem-solving in real-world scenarios suited me perfectly. Plus, while many university students graduate with debt, I got paid while learning my trade. If you enjoy practical, hands-on work and want a meaningful career, horticulture is an excellent choice.
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