BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – A second shift is working the lines at the JBS Dinmore beef processing plant following a recruitment drive that began in 2023 and is ongoing. More than 300 new workers have joined the company.

The new operational timeline has a four-day roster. Employees will be scheduled across a day shift and an afternoon shift, allowing for a seamless continuation of operations and the assurance of a consistent supply of beef to help meet growing customer demand for high-quality red meat products, the company said.

The second shift is expected to eventually double Dinmore’s daily processing capacity. The company anticipates a gradual production ramp-up over the next four to five months, dependent on labor availability and cattle supply. This phased approach will ensure optimal efficiency and quality control across Dinmore’s operations.

Recruitment focused on bolstering the local workforce, with 80% of Dinmore’s newly recruited staff being local Queensland residents.

“We are thrilled to add over 300 new roles to Dinmore and have been encouraged by the diversity of our applicants from school-leavers to career switchers, and those seeking additional earning opportunities, and of course our valued PALM [Pacific Australia Labour Mobility] workers,” said Brent Eastwood, chief executive officer of JBS Australia. “Our investments in the Dinmore Meat Processing Plant underscore our commitment not only to produce superior quality beef products but also to generate meaningful employment opportunities and contribute to the fabric of the local economy.”

JBS contributes to the local economies of Ipswich and the surrounding greater Brisbane area. The Dinmore facility promotes its diverse culture of over 47 nationalities working at the facility, and is excited to also welcome more PALM and international workers this year.

“We have many new faces joining Dinmore, with each recruit bringing unique skills and capabilities to our growing team,” said Murray Wilson, Dinmore plant manager. “We have onboarded electricians, maintenance supervisors, butchers, slicers and all roles in between to create a team that boosts our production capacity safely and efficiently.

“We look forward to training and supporting our new team members as they start their new role, while making them feel welcomed to our JBS family,” Wilson added.