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REFERENCE – Sam Osborne: Operations and Workshop Manager, Gavins Agriculture Sam, Operations and Workshop Manager at Gavin’s Agricultural Contractors, confirmed that Adam and Olivia began working for the company around September/October 2025 and have completed the grass silage season. They are currently working in the workshop due to weather delays and are expected to remain through the maize harvest before leaving. Sam supervises them daily during the workshop phase and also oversaw their operational work throughout the season. Adam Sam stated that Adam has carried out a wide range of tractor and machinery work, including cultivation (ploughing, power harrowing, rotary hoeing), swathing, tedding and solid trailer/bin work. Adam operated several John Deere tractors, particularly the JD 195R and other 190–220hp models. Sam described him as a strong operator, rating him 8–9 out of 10, and noted that Adam worked independently, caused no problems, and received no negative feedback from his harvester or stack drivers. Adam demonstrated strong workshop ability and mechanical aptitude, assisting with cleaning, repairs and routine maintenance. Sam noted both his foreman and himself have been impressed with Adam’s initiative and work rate. Sam confirmed Adam’s reliability, punctuality and strong work ethic. Adam and Olivia worked standard 06:00–22:00 shifts without issue and showed initiative by seeking clarification when unsure, including calling during a chisel-ploughing job to ensure the work quality was correct. Olivia Olivia’s main duties included silaging (her primary job), tedding, and a significant period of power harrowing using a 3m power harrow. She also completed other tractor-based tasks as required. Sam confirmed she is reliable, capable and works independently. Olivia has successfully worked both as part of a crew and alone. Sam stated there were no concerns about her ability to manage tasks independently or about the dynamics of working as a couple — both have worked together and separately without one relying on the other. She is physically fit, a non-smoker, and well integrated socially. Olivia and Adam shares accommodation with several staff, including returning workers, and Sam reported no issues — the house is clean and functioning well. General Comments (Both Candidates) Sam said both Adam and Olivia are “solid people,” highly reliable, and show initiative without supervision, especially in the workshop where they “just get stuck in.” They are comfortable using the contractor’s app-based mapping/job card system to navigate to jobs independently and corrected any minor navigation errors quickly. Their work has included very tight paddocks with steep gateways; Sam noted they handled these conditions competently. Both candidates are non-smokers, physically capable, punctual and well-regarded by team members. Sam confirmed he has no negative feedback at all regarding their conduct, performance or attitude. Air Seeder Suitability Sam stated he plans to put Adam on a drill (6m JD 750A) if he has the availability. He also said he would be comfortable giving Olivia a go on a drill, depending on machinery availability and staffing needs. Rehire & Final Comments Sam confirmed he would be happy to have them back and described them as good people who work hard, integrate well and require minimal supervision. He noted both would be suitable for Australian broadacre work.