Alpaca birthing season

Hello, and welcome back to Little Valley Farm! I'm currently in the paddock with my pregnant alpacas. I've separated these girls from the other alpacas up on the hill to ensure they get enough feed and protein the next couple of months. I need to monitor their body condition and feed them daily. They have plenty of deep shade by the creek, access to lots of water troughs, and extra feed provided by me. The crias (baby alpacas) are expected to arrive in the next couple of weeks to months. The best times for birthing are autumn and spring in our region. Meanwhile, Honkey Hamlet, the donkey, is in a separate paddock with the female donkeys, patiently waiting for me to open the gate for him. Weaner Paisley is watching me from the laneway up the hill, and I can’t help but smile at her adorable heart-shaped nose. She’s absolutely precious! Don’t forget we’ll be hosting alpaca workshops in mid-January 2025. I hope you can join us! Jump on our website for dates and to book. Daniela

Our next workshop will be Sunday 12th January 2025 at 10:30am.

Alpaca Dolce-Luna

Meet our little ray of sunshine, Alpaca Dolce-Luna! 🌙✨ Her name means "Sweet Moon" in Italian, and she’s every bit as magical as it sounds. This adorable cria is bringing all the joy and sweetness to our days—how could we not share her with you? 💖

Meet Dulce Luna, our sweet little cria! 🌙💕 This adorable female is a fancy Huacaya alpaca, and she’s already stealing hearts with her charm and her fleece. 🦙✨ We love watching the bond she shares with her friends and her mum. Speaking of bonds, we will begin the weaning process at around six months of age, depending on good weather conditions. We will discuss weaning in more detail at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley. Isn't she jus the sweetest? #CriaLove #FancyHuacaya #LittleValleyFarm

Be the first. The 'summerhouse' is now on AirBnB

After 2 years of building we’re happy to say the ‘summerhouse’ is ready! Many past guests, visitors and workshop attendees have seen the building from afar - but we’d love to personally invite you to be one of our first guests. 

The ‘summerhouse’ at Little Valley Farm, the latest addition to our humble and well-loved farm in Laguna, Wollombi Valley. We are known for our award-nominated Red Train Carriage (2023 Best Unique Stays by Airbnb), and Alpaca Workshops, but this handcrafted gem—takes things to the next level. 

Why ‘summerhouse’?

*/ˈsʌmə haʊs/ noun.*  

1. A small roofed building offering shade, warmth, and rest.  

2. A cozy retreat nestled in a garden-like setting, perfect for relaxing.  

This small, architecturally designed two-bedroom house is the epitomises ‘comfortable sophistication’. Designed by architect Matt Elkan, and handcrafted by my talented husband, it was created to embrace the beautiful Hunter Valley weather across all seasons.  

Why we love it:

  • Dam-side Location: Situated by a sparkling body of water teeming with fish and wildlife, the house overlooks paddocks with alpacas, donkeys & wallaroos in the distance.
     

  • Comfort & Light: The North facing Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with natural light in Winter, while thoughtful design ensures Summer protection through enormous over hand eaves. Your emersed in the landscape, yet have full control over your comfort.
      

  • Indoor-Outdoor Living: Open-plan interiors and breezeway dining space create the ultimate summer-time ambience to relax. With full kitchen and BBQ cooking facilities bring friends to sip local wine, and eat away on lazy days. 

Entirely off-grid, the ‘summerhouse’ is not just a retreat—it’s a mindful escape that harmonises modern comfort with sustainable living.   

Airbnb offers 20% off for the first 3 guests to book via Airbnb - we’d love you to be one of those people. The people we’ve meet and the visitors who have stayed are a key reason we love doing this. 

Link for dates and to book; airbnb.com.au/h/summerhouselvf

Daniela and Euan 

N.b. Soft launch sleeps two adults; the second bedroom will become available next month. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you located? We are located in Wollombi Valley, near the quaint hamlet of Laguna. We are fortunate to be surrounded by national parks and state forests. There is only one café, bar, and restaurant here; the Trading Post Laguna and Wollombi Village is only ten minutes away. We are under 5 km from the Trading Post Laguna. This area feels remote and is very different from Pokolbin, which has extensive vineyards and is just a lovely 40-minute drive away. We embrace the wilderness, appreciate nature, and love it as it is.

Getting to Laguna

Little Valley Farm is in its own valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney and an hour from the Central Coast. However, if you're travelling on a Friday afternoon or during a long weekend, heavy traffic can extend the journey to over two hours, so please plan accordingly. Take the Tourist Drive 33 for a scenic drive.

[ Vehicle access ] The road to our farm is a dirt track with potholes surrounded by thick bushland. Although a short, steep section exists, any standard 2WD car can easily navigate it. Confident drivers have no issues. If you have modified your car or have a low sports car, then it's at your own risk. Sport cars and low-modified cars are not recommended. Drive 20 km to protect our wildlife, as wombats, roos, and lyrebirds live here.

Do you offer farmstay? Yes, we do, but only for adults. All guests must be over 18 years old. We are not set up for children or infants. For ‘summerhouse’ booking info, click here.

Things to do when in the valley? Check out my blog for top recommendations on where to eat, drink, shop, and experience the best of our region. From hidden gems to local favourites, you’ll find everything you need to plan a memorable visit!

[ No mobile ] Our valley has no mobile reception, and OPTUS service is random. To ensure you find us, you'll need the address and detailed instructions to avoid while on our neighbour’s property. I will email them to you, as our address is not published online. Please save this information for easy access during your journey.

[ Petrol ] If you're travelling from Sydney, the last petrol stop is Caltex Peats Ridge, Kulnura One Stop Jerry's Cafe, about 35 minutes from us. Keep in mind these places close early, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, you can refuel in Broke or Cessnock, approximately 40 minutes away. The Trading Post Laguna currently does not sell fuel.

[ Wildlife ] We love welcoming mindful guests to our farmstay—those who truly appreciate the beauty and rhythm of nature. At Little Valley Farm, every sound tells a story: the donkeys honking to greet the early morning, alpacas softly humming, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and, if you’re lucky, the enchanting singing of the lyrebird up in the bushland. 

During summer, nature puts on an extra show—every seven years, the cicadas fill the air with their chorus. Our farm is alive with insects, critters, and all the tiny beings that make this land thrive.

You might be lucky enough to spot our resident wallaroo family—Mo, his mum, and his little sister—often found sleeping on our driveway late at night. Keep an eye out for the wombats that wander across the paddocks, snakes and goannas quietly going by, and our native rakali scuttling by. And if you’re truly fortunate, you may even glimpse the elusive and magical platypus in its natural habitat. Nature’s wonders are all around you here at Little Valley Farm.

We aim to embrace natural living and reduce the use of chemicals, honouring nature and her delicate balance. So, if you cherish these wonders as much as we do, you’ll feel right at home here. But if nature’s company isn’t for you, we may not be the best fit.  Staying here reminds us of our place in this world—we’re not alone but part of a much greater ecosystem that humbles us. 

What does working alpaca farm mean? We live on-site, and our farm is a bustling place where our livestock receives care every day of the week, morning and afternoon, rain, hail or shine I am out there tending to our animals.

Can we bring our dog or cat to your farm? Due to our strict farm biosecurity, pets are not allowed.

Are there snakes there? The most frequently asked question is whether there are snakes in the area. The answer is yes, as we aim to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Since it is their natural habitat, snakes can be seen throughout the year, and we ensure not to disturb them. However, it is essential to wear closed-toe shoes when outside.

Our Bio-Security Policy and COVID-19 safety measures are in place. All visits must have an appointment; day visits are not permitted.

Do you sell alpacas? As registered breeders, we certainly do and are also part of the Australian Alpaca Association. You will need a PIC (property identification code) to purchase alpacas from us. We like to meet you, show you our herd, and answer your questions about caring for alpacas. Read more on our alpacas for sale blog.

“Livestock inspections and visits are via appointment only.”
— Daniela

Do you run alpaca workshops? We run alpaca workshops regularly workshops.

Do you sell alpaca fleece? We certainly do. Please visit our online shop here. Most of our fleece is available after our annual Spring shearing day.

NOTE: If you have been to Indonesia, including Bali, after June 2022, please tell us BEFORE you visit. Foot & Mouth Disease is a serious threat to all of Australia’s livestock.

Our Bio-Security Policy

By booking your visit to Little Valley Farm, you understand that it is a working farm, with the attending inherent risks, and hereby release and discharge the farm, its owners, employees, volunteers or agents from any and all liability arising from an incident, accident, injury, theft, or damages that may be sustained to you or to any property belonging to you, while visiting.  You further agree that action will not be taken against its owners, and you acknowledge our bio-security policy and boundaries that are in place. Bio-security is covered upon check-in after your confirmed appointment on the farm.

*Closed shoes are essential on the farm, and gumboots are always preferred, especially after the rainy season. Flip-flops are not permitted on the paddocks. Bring boots after the flood as lots of rain the last 18 months if you want to get up close and personal with the alpacas. Otherwise indoor and outdoor shoes you will need.



Source: frequentlyaskedquestions

What to do when staying in Laguna at Little Valley Farm

Hungry for adventure? I've got you covered when it comes to the best dining spots and things to do.

The Trading Post Laguna

Discover a hidden gem for your next coffee, lunch, tipples or a Friday night dinner. It is located only 4.5 km from Little Valey Farm and is nestled along Great North Road, just past the Laguna Public School. Take a seat on the verandah and soak up the natural beauty of Laguna Village.

This unique establishment is a fusion of a bar, cafe and restaurant. You can start your day right with breakfast from 8 am and enjoy a casual lunch any day of the week.

Friday night dinners are a must. The last seating for dinner is 8:30 pm, so make sure you make an online reservation. Menu here. 4998 8244. The Trading Post

Breakfast from 8 am, Lunch 7 Days and dinner on Friday nights only.

Laguna Village Providore (fruit and veg shop) at the Trading Post Laguna.

Explore the wonderful selection at Laguna Village Providore, where an array of fresh fruits and vegetables steal the spotlight. Indulge in a tantalising cheese platter, grazing platter, and freshly baked bread. Contact Michelle at (02) 4038 5004 to place your cheese platter pre-orders. Laguna Village Providore

Wollombi Village, a 10-minute drive

The serene Wollombi Village is only a ten-minute drive. It boasts a charming bushland backdrop, rich cultural sites, and a laid-back ambience, offering a perfect refuge for those searching for a peaceful getaway. The village may be small, with only a few daytime dining options, but its beauty and serenity are bound to leave a lasting impression. 

Myrtle & Stone is a gem of a country cafe that serves up mouthwatering breakfast and lunch dishes with warm and welcoming country hospitality. And the best part? It's only a quick ten-minute drive away! Open seven days a week, you can enjoy their delectable menu starting at 7 a.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends. Be sure to stop by before their last lunch serving at 2 p.m.

*Wollombi Kitchen & NEXT DOOR Cafe. If you're in the mood for some delicious daytime coffee, sandwiches, or cakes to enjoy in or take out, this welcoming spot.

Noyce Brothers Wine: Head over to the cellar door to get some exquisite wine and do a tasting with Julie. While you're there, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking formal garden at the back and indulge in a fun game of giant chess. Closed Tue/Wed.

*Wollombi Tavern: The courtyard area is a popular spot for locals to enjoy drinks and live music. It's a good, relaxing, unpretentious place for an afternoon beer. The venue offers casual pub lunch and dinner but go early to beat the rush. Menu here. The last food is served by 7 pm mid-week and 8 pm on weekends. Seating is outdoors, so rug up on cool nights—phone 4998 3261.

“Make sure you plan and book in advance, as some businesses are not open daily and cafes and restaurants close early in Wollombi Valley. So be prepared.”
— Daniela

Restaurants in Pokolbin, Lovedale, Mt View and Broke. 40-minute drive.

Bistro Molines, - quintessentially Hunter Valley and an outstanding lunchtime experience with amazing vineyard views. Secure your booking via their website, or you will miss out. It’s a dining experience not to miss when in the Hunter and one of our FAVOURITE places. Casual chic dress code. Book this place early in advance.

Autumn Image thanks to Bistro Molines

Muse Restaurant, - outstanding and the finest place to dine for true food connoisseurs. Book late afternoon or early dinner and make it a memorable dining experience not to be missed for foodies. Smart casual attire as it’s a more formal dining experience.

Leaves & Fishes is a charming casual restaurant in Lovedale with great light snacks, friendly service, and a relaxing location. Go for a casual lunchtime sitting by the dam. Table service on the balcony can be booked early, or you can drop in to enjoy a light snack in the serene garden area.

Cessnock: If you pass by Cessnock, it's a service town so you will see all the supermarkets, chemists and petrol stations. If you are there and want something casual to eat, check out The Kiosk at the Cessnock Tennis Club for its daytime casual vibes and simple but excellent café food. The Kiosk at the Cessnock Tennis Club

Other restaurants to check out:

Margans, Muse Kitchen, Pigs Peaks, Amanda’s on the Edge and Lovedale Smokehouse.

From / To Sydney Saddles Mt White
If driving from Sydney along the M1, book an early lunch at Saddles Mt White. It is a must for foodies and people who appreciate elegant Australian homestead architecture. The design is inspiring, and the food and service are always outstanding. There is a coffee van, so you can sit by the lovely dam if you want something casual.

Tours 

*Grape Experience Tours. Looking for a delightful tour experience? Grape Experience Tours offers mini-bus tours with friendly, experienced guides Melissa and Mark. They even provide pick-up and drop-off services for your convenience. To book, get in touch with Melissa here or phone 0414457956.

Photo credit Tourist Drive 33

Get Active 

BYO Bicycles. The best and most relaxing rides are down Watagan Creek Road, which are road & gravel (20-40 km). Wollombi rides are for experienced riders only, especially on the weekends when there is a lot of traffic on the narrow road between Laguna and Wollombi.

Horse Riding in the Hunter

If coming from Sydney or the Central Coast, book a horse riding experience at Glenwoth Valley, just off the M1 on the Tourist Drive Route 33. If you are heading up to Pokolbin or Lovedale, book horse riding at Hunter Valley Horses, about 40 mins from our farm.

Bush lookout and hikes

Finchley Lookout. Looking out across the remote wilderness from Finchley lookout, you would never know you were just a few hours from Sydney or Newcastle—drive time approx 35 minutes.

*If there has been rain, expect some creek crossings, and you will definitely need a SUV/4WD.

The other lookout and hike is Flat Rock Lookout Correbare State Forest. Hikes and lookouts. Please Google and do your online research for this, as you could get very lost on a hike.

Wollombi Village Brook is an easy 1 km nature walk. Start at the village Museum and head down to the brook. Download the map here.

Wine Trail 

Start with a casual wine tasting with Julie at Noyce Brothers Wine in Wollombi, then drive 2kms to Undercliff Vineyard (phone first), in Yango Creek Road; a must-visit is Krinklewood in Broke (40 mins drive); there are heaps of places to stop and enjoy, so take your time. Next, check out the Mt View drive and head to Pokolbin, where all the big cellar doors are and lunchtime places. Drive back via the loop road Cessnock-Wollombi or vice versa. You can use google maps once you are in the mobile range in Wollombi.

Other places to enjoy around Pokolin and Lovedale, Broke.

Saddlers Wine Creek, 

VAMP by Lisa McGuigan. Have you tried the decadent and inspirational cellar door that takes you to another dimension? It's one of my favourites, so I highly recommend checking it out.

Audrey Wilkinson and Winemark Wines / Krinklewood Vineyard.


OTHER INFO

*Pokolbin vineyards, concerts, and hot air balloon rides are located 40 minutes away. the event company.

*Rain equals mud at concerts and on the farm, so bring boots.

*No mobile reception in Laguna, only at Wollombi Village.  

*No fuel here, so fill up in Sydney, Peats Ridge or Cessnock, as The Trading Post no longer has it.

*Businesses close early in the country, so pre-book and plan your dinning options. The Hunter is all about long lunches, so book a place and pick up a simple grazing platter for dinner to enjoy back at the cabin.

*Bring cash for small businesses as Wollombi Village has no ATM.

Notes

Large grocery shops are best done before getting here. The closest large grocery shop is Aldi (Syd) Berowra or Cessnock, to the North is 40 km from us. If coming from the Central Coast, pick something up there. Basic grocery essentials are available at the Trading Post and Laguna Village Providore.

If travelling down the M1, expect Friday night traffic delays. Plan at least 2.5 hours. If there is rain, expect a more extended trip and follow LIVE TRAFFIC for travel times. 

Kindly be advised that the prices above are merely recommendations and are subject to change by the service providers. It would be best to contact them directly for accurate & updated information. We sincerely thank you for supporting the local businesses in the valley.

Laguna and Wollombi surrounded by National Parks and State Forest.

Lieutenant the alpaca stud at Little Valley Farm

Kobler Lieutenant has been an outstanding stud male in our herd, significantly improving fibre quality, and density, and introducing striking colour variations. He’s easy to handle and well-trained to wear a head collar, making him a pleasure to work with. Although he prefers pen mating, his calm nature makes him suitable for short-term paddock mating.

His crias are exceptional, consistently inheriting finer micron counts, gentle temperaments, and superb fleece quality. Kobler Lieutenant has produced both solid and fancy colour combinations, making his offspring stand out.

We are offering him for sale as part of our breeding program's progression, as he is now too closely related to our females. A proud medium grey stud with deep brown hues, Kobler Lieutenant is not only easy to manage but has been an amazing asset to our herd.

Crias and those little Autumn jackets

What Does Cria Mean?

"cria" originates from the Spanish cría, meaning "offpring/baby." In the world of alpacas, a cria refers to a newborn alpaca. These adorable little creatures require special attention, particularly when it comes to keeping warm.

Cria sometimes wears dog coats to help regulate their body temperature, particularly in colder weather. Unlike adult alpacas, crias don’t yet have a fully developed fleece, making them more vulnerable to cold, damp conditions and temperature fluctuations.

First and foremost, we provide safe, sheltered spaces to protect the mother and her cria from wind, rain, and cold. Inside the shelter, we create a cozy environment with a straw-covered floor, a generous supply of high-quality lucerne hay for the dam, and oaten chaff for extra nourishment. We place a small battery-operated light outside the shed to ensure the cria can see its mother and continue to nurse through the night.

To keep the cria warm, we use dog jackets in various sizes, tailored to fit snugly. These jackets help maintain the cria's body temperature, and we make sure they don’t interfere with the important bonding process between mother and baby. The jackets are typically removed in the morning and put back on later in the afternoon, depending on the weather, for the next few days. This extra care helps the cria thrive in those crucial early stages of life.

Tip: Dogs' coats are not waterproof, so ensure they stay dry and undercover in a good size pen. If it's raining and you have difficulty keeping the cria undercover, grab some bubble wrap as a last resort and wrap it around the cria middle section.  

We ensure that the tail and top of the cria’s head are left uncovered so the mother can smell her baby. This is important for bonding, as alpaca mothers use scent to recognise and nurture their cria.

We are located in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales. Autumn is the best time for cria births, while winter can be quite cold. Summers can either be wet or uncomfortably hot. To prepare for this, we always ensure that our maternity pens are ready. You may not need jackets if you are in a humid or warm location but we always recommend that you have pens and shelters available for the alpacas.

More about this will be discussed at our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Learn all about alpacas with us at Little Valley Farm

Well that was certainly a sweet moment, watching these two adorable cria’s.

Welcome to our alpaca farm in Australia!

We're so excited to share with you the beauty and joy of raising alpacas. In this video, we'll take a closer look at two crias (baby alpacas) interacting on the farm. We'll also talk more about cria care at our upcoming alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Why choose our alpaca workshop?

  • We're passionate about alpacas and committed to providing people with the best possible education.

  • Our workshops are taught by experienced alpaca farmers and breeders.

  • We offer a variety of workshops to suit all levels of experience.

  • Our workshops are held in a beautiful location in the Hunter Valley.

We hope you'll join us at our next alpaca workshop!

In the meantime, please feel free to browse our website to learn more about our farm and our workshops. We look forward to seeing you soon! Daniela

Alpacas hearing dog barking

We’re currently by the creek paddocks with the alpacas, and we’ve just heard a dog barking. This video captures the alpacas on alert, all looking in the direction of the barking. They stay close together, attentive, waiting to see what will happen next.

You can observe how erect their ears are and the intensity etched on their faces. Once the threat passes—since the dog isn't going to cross the creek—they relax, and you can notice a change in their demeanour.

We don’t have dogs, nor do we allow dogs on our property, as part of our strict bio-security policy. It’s great to see that the potential threat is gone, and they are already back to relaxing.

If you have dogs and alpacas, you can introduce them slowly, and hopefully, they will become great companions. Many of our clients have successfully facilitated this friendship.

We have also addressed the relationship between dogs and alpacas, including the issues posed by wild and roaming domestic dogs, on our blog and in our videos.

Yes, you can keep your (trained) pet dogs with the alpacas or separate them using appropriate fencing and paddocks. However, I’m always concerned about dog attacks on livestock in our valley, especially in the Hunter Valley. These attacks can involve goats, sheep, and other alpacas, primarily due to wild dogs or stray domestic dogs. This is a significant issue for me, and I would like to stress that a pack of dogs is no match for alpacas, and the alpacas will be severely injured or, worse, killed. I am the alpacas guard. More about this at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley.

Along the Harvest Trails and Markets on the ABC Radio

Hello everyone! I had the pleasure of chatting with Simon once again during my monthly segment on harvests and farmer’s markets. Here’s a SREENSHOT of our conversation from this morning, so you can explore the wonderful farmers markets, pick-your-own events, and farm visits happening throughout the Sydney Basin. Enjoy!

Markets 
Northside Product Markets North Sydney 

Saturday 2nd November 2024

8 am to 12 noon 

Peaches - Australian Anzac Peaches 

For fans of the Australian Anzac peach, farmer Yuri will have them at his Produce From Orange stall. 

Released in 1915 and named in honour of the Anzacs, this early-season, old-style freestone peach is white-fleshed, juicy, sweet, and aromatic. The skin has a deep pink blush over a cream background.

Sounds like peach perfection!

Also, look out for the new season.

Garlic - Spring garlic, also called green garlic 

Spring garlic is grown without chemicals and sprays. Grown in Braidwood and the surrounds thanks to their frosty winter mornings and hot summer days, brings out the best in garlic flavours.


Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 2nd November 2024

8 am to 1 pm 

60+ stallholders are ready and rearing to go with wonderful Aussie-grown spring fruit and veg from across the state and brunch options to get your weekend off the perfect start. Check out the full list of stallholders: https://carriageworks.click/stallholders

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

https://www.camdenproducemarket.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/camdenfreshproducemarketarket

Central Coast

Mangrove Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market  

Sunday, 3rd November 2024, is run the first Sunday of every month. 

9 am to 2 pm

Local fresh produce from the Central Coast surrounds. 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555652790681

Gosford City Farmers Market

is on Sunday 7 am to 1 pm 

The Night Market scheduled for last night has been rescheduled to Friday, 6th December 2024, at the Newcastle Showground.

https://www.facebook.com/gosfordcityfarmersmarket

Organic Food Markets

Hosted right across Sydney - Organic Food Markets that are held on Saturdays or Sundays. 

From the Innerwest to the Northern Beaches. 


When you buy your weekly fresh food at the markets, you can buy just as much, or as little, as you need…which means you always get fresh produce and there's no food (or money) wasted!


Leichardt, Saturay, 8 am to 1 pm. 

Marrickville, Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm. 

Seaforth Sunday 8 am 1 pm. 

Mona Vale Sunday 8:30 am to 3 pm. 

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au/

November is Urban Agricultural Month. 

A celebration of urban agriculture across Australia. 

Happening right now across backyards, community gardens, laneways, schools and markets across Australia’s towns & cities – connect with the people and places that nourish your community.

A great way to connect with local people to share, learn and celebrate through food.

Head over to the event map to find the urban farm, workshop or experience for you

https://urbanagriculturemonth.org.au

PYO EVENTS

TNT Produce Pick Your Own

Sweet and juicy Cherry Season has begun! 

Keep an eye on their website for cherry updates as its early in the season with limited PYO. 

Entry to farm $20 per person you can eat while you pick!

Children 3 to 12 years $15

Children under 3 free

Cherries $25 kilo 

Strawberries $20 kilo 

153 Kurts Road Bilpin

https://tntproduce.com.au/

Bilpin Fruit Bowl 

There are lots to pick from this weekend

Strawberries, yellow flesh peaches, apricots and white mulberries.

PYO Open 

Saturday 2nd November from 10 am-2 pm and

Sunday 3rd November from 10 am-2 pm

Plus, they have the biggest PYO strawberry farm in Sydney.  We have over 2 acres and over 70,00 strawberry plants grown above ground in 2 separate hothouses.  

Available for picking this weekend:

Strawberries $20.00/kg

Apricots $12/kg

Peaches $6/kg

Mulberries $30/kg

Bookings are not necessary; you can just turn up and get in.  If you want to book: 

https://bilpinfruitbowl.com.au/pro.../pick-your-own-booking/

Eat all you want while in the farm

Entry fee: Adults $20.00 per person

Children $10.00 per person

Glenbernie Family Farm 

PYO Sunflowers 

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd November 2024 

No Bookings Required!

Glenbernie Family Farms, 610 Bells Line Of Road, Kurmond

 Entrance Fee:

- Adults: $10

- Children (4-12): $5

- Kids 3 and under: FREE

Flower Prices:

- Sunflowers & PYO Flowers: $6 each

- Iceland Poppy: $3 a stem

Snapdragon: $6

https://glenberniefamilyfarms.com.au/

Photo credit ABC Weekend Mornings

A huge shoutout to Simon Marnie from ABC 702 AM radio! Don’t miss out—download the app now to catch all the exciting moments from the show.

Where do alpacas sleep? Answers from an alpaca farmer

Good Morning from Little Valley Farm! 🌅 It’s Daniela here, and today I’m answering a question I get asked all the time: Where do your alpacas like to sleep? 🦙💤

Well, our alpacas have their preferences! Their top two choices are grass and dirt. They absolutely love to roll in the dirt or lie down on a soft dirt patch. Our alpaca shelters have dirt floors, which makes them super cozy when they head inside for a rest. 🌾 If you take a look at the video, you’ll often see them lounging around on the grass enjoying a peaceful nap or enjoying a dirt patch in the sun. 

If there isn’t a dirt patch available in the paddock, don’t worry—they’ll create one themselves by rolling around until they’ve got the perfect spot. On hot days, you might notice them laying on the dirt to cool off, but they definitely won’t sleep on a bed or anything fancy like that. 😉

During the colder, rainy winter months, we make sure to spread hay or straw on the shed floors to keep them extra comfortable. 🐾 However, our shelters are already pretty cozy, so it’s not much of a problem. They don’t care for concrete floors because they can be quite chilly, but a layer of straw does the trick to keep them warm and happy.

So, whether it’s dirt, grass, or a comfy spot in their shed, our alpacas always find a way to rest in style here at Little Valley Farm! More about this will be discussed at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley. 

Our alpaca workshops are held monthly in the Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. Visit our website at littlevalleyfarm.com.au to check the available dates and book your spot online. We also offer a wonderful alpaca manual that you can purchase online or buy during your visit to our farm for the workshop.

We look forward to seeing you at Little Valley Farm to share our passion for alpacas!

Alpaca Etiquette Tips from Little Valley Farm | Hunter Valley Alpaca Farm

Good Morning from Little Valley Farm! ☀️ It’s Daniela here, and today I’m sharing some helpful tips on how to get to know our alpacas, along with a few etiquette guidelines to make sure you and our alpacas have a wonderful experience together.

Alpaca Etiquette: The Do's

- Approach Slowly and Gently: Our alpacas don’t know you yet, so it’s important to move calmly. They’ll appreciate your gentle energy.

- Speak Softly: A calm, soothing voice goes a long way in helping alpacas feel comfortable around you.

- Use Flat Hands: When touching an alpaca, always keep your hand flat and gently pat with the back of your hand. Grabbing their fibre might make them feel threatened, as it mimics a predator’s grip.

- Pat in the Right Spots: Stick to safe areas like their back, shoulders, and the sides of their neck. These are the places they enjoy being touched.

- Ask About Their Personality: Every alpaca has its own quirks and preferences. Ask the owner what each alpaca likes or dislikes so you can bond more easily.

Alpaca Etiquette: The Don’ts

- Don’t Feed Without Asking: Always check with the owner before offering any treats. Their diet is carefully managed.

- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Alpacas don’t like being touched on their head, hindquarters, tail, or toes, so it’s best to avoid these spots.

- No Grabbing or Hugging: While tempting, alpacas may feel frightened or confined by hugs. Remember, they’re still getting to know you!

- Don’t Stand Behind Them: Alpacas can kick if startled, like many animals. For your safety, always stay where they can see you.

- Avoid Sudden Movements: Alpacas are sensitive to quick motions. A calm and steady presence will help them feel secure.

Enjoy your time with alpacas! Watching them roam the paddocks is such a peaceful experience, and don’t forget to snap some photos—you might just fall in love with them like I have. 🦙💚

Join us for our next alpaca worship in the Hunter Valley.

Little Valley Farm located in Laguna only 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast.

Alpaca as guards animals

Meet Vinkie: Little Valley Farm’s Top Alpaca Alarm caller.

At Little Valley Farm, we take the safety of our herd seriously, and Vinkie, one of our trusted alpacas, leads the charge as our top alarm caller but not a guard. Why an alarm caller and not a guard? What is the difference?

Vinkie can sense when something is not right, hiding out in the bush, whether a dog, fox, snake, eagle, wombat or even a tiny echidna passing through the paddocks. Her sharp instincts are followed by the distinctive alpaca alarm call, and the herd knows to gather and stay safe. It's also an alert for us to get out on the paddock and double-check that everything is as it should be. At the end of the day, we are their guards! 

Not all alpacas make great guards, but some are great at alerting and making that particular alpaca alarm sound. I do not like alpacas being guards to sheep, especially if wild dogs are in the area. Dog and wild dogs severely injure or, even worse, kill the alpacas, as dogs are no match for alpacas. 

Other livestock make better guards than alpacas depending on what you are guarding, the size of the land and the number of animals you have. You must also make the judgment call: do you want the alpacas as pets or guards? Entire male alpacas do not make good guards, and they must be castrated at the appropriate age to avoid injury to small livestock such as goats and sheep. 

The best protection for your livestock is secure pens, excellent fencing and people nearby. This is my opinion, and other breeders may say something else. Wether alpacas (castrated males) may be helpful around your chickens from foxes, but it's just their sheer presence that may deter the fox or eagle. I have never seen an alpaca kill a fox here, and we have plenty of foxes; they keep an eye on each other by smartly avoiding one another.

What about your pet dog? 

To maintain the safety of our herd, Little Valley Farm has a strict biosecurity policy—no dogs allowed on the property. For those considering adding alpacas to a home where pet dogs are present, we’ll cover the best strategies for introducing your dogs to alpacas safely and in a controlled manner. Around 90% of our clients have successfully integrated their dogs and alpacas, whether by supervised interaction or by separating them with appropriate fencing. The other 10% are like us and don’t have dogs. 

We will also discuss the correct fencing and pens to set up on your farm for extra protection.

We hope this helps! If you have any questions, please email us. Join us for our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley, where we will explore this topic further.

“While alpacas are great at deterring smaller predators, wild dogs/domestic dogs pose a much bigger threat. Sadly, alpacas are not a match for wild dogs, and encounters can lead to serious injuries or even death.”
— Daniela

Alpaca workshops are run monthly in the Hunter Valley and you can book in your dates for 2024 and 2025 via our Little Valley Farm website.


Eels in the wild

I know it's not alpaca-related but it is part of living in the bush, and the video is too good not to share.

Just another day at the Summer House! 

Euan and I were enjoying a peaceful moment on the deck when we spotted this magnificent creature gliding through the dam—an enormous, so relaxed and graceful eel. Watching it casually feed on the grasses beneath the water’s surface was mesmerising, moving so effortlessly. 🐍

Nature always surprises us, and this was one of those magical moments we love about living here in Wollombi Valley. We feel so lucky to share these special encounters with the wildlife that calls our farm home. 💚🌿

He is at least one metre long and not the only eel in the dam right now. This one is an Australian Long Fin Eel.

My curious mind had me googling Eels, so here are five interesting facts about Australian eels: 

1. Migration Journey: Australian longfin eels (Anguilla reinhardtii) are famous for their incredible migration. They travel thousands of kilometres from freshwater rivers and lakes to warm tropical waters to spawn.

2. Lifespan: These eels have a long lifespan, often living up to 50 years. Some eels may stay in freshwater environments for decades before migrating to the ocean to reproduce.

3. Feeding Habits: Longfin eels are opportunistic carnivores, feeding on a variety of prey including fish, insects, crustaceans, and even small mammals or birds that come too close to the water.

4. Habitat: They are found along the east coast of Australia, particularly in rivers, lakes, and streams from Queensland to Tasmania. They can tolerate a range of habitats, from freshwater to estuaries.

5. Cultural Significance: Longfin eels hold significant cultural importance for Indigenous Australian communities, particularly as a food source and in stories related to their migration and life cycle. 

These eels are fascinating creatures due to their long life cycle, adaptability, and epic migrations, now I need to see if we have any more Silver Perch fish left in our dam. 


#littlevalleyfarm #SummerHouseMoments #wollombivalley #NatureMagic #EelSighting #FarmLife #OffGridCabin #WildlifeEncounters #PeacefulLiving #slowliving #slowtravel

Alpaca Yarn where to buy it in Australia?

Luxurious Alpaca Yarn from Little Valley Farm – Handspun with Love in the Hunter Valley

At Little Valley Farm, we take great pride in our herd of alpacas and their stunning fleece. One alpaca in particular, Reidy, stands out with her rich, dark brown fleece / wool that we’ve lovingly transformed into handspun yarn, which is available in our online shop.

Reidy’s fleece is a true treasure. Shorn each Spring, we harvest this luxuriously soft wool, and through a careful, sustainable process, it is handspun right here in the beautiful Hunter Valley. This isn’t just any yarn—it’s a connection to the land, to our alpacas, and to a slower, more intentional way of living.

Why Choose Alpaca Yarn?

Alpaca wool is renowned for being one of the softest and warmest natural fibres in the world. Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca yarn is hypoallergenic, meaning it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin. Reidy’s yarn, in particular, boasts a rich, natural brown hue, a perfect shade for creating timeless, elegant knits or crafts.

Alpaca Yarn buy in Australia

The Handspun Difference

Each skein of Reidy’s yarn is handspun and gives is that textured look and feel. 8PLY. 

The joy of Christmas is alive; Start your plantation with our Christmas tree seedlings

Limited time only and with perfect conditions for planting.

Christmas Tree seedlings are now sold out; ONLY tube stock is left.

Some of you may know we have been planting, growing, and selling Christmas trees for the past few years. We grow beautiful Radiata pine trees specifically bred for Christmas trees due to their high branching, fast growth, and shorter needles.

We have Radiata pine TUBE STOCK ready to plant, averaging 40cm tall. They are perfect for starting your own Christmas tree plantation. We are selling them in boxes of 20 until they are sold out. If you are interested in starting your plantation, please contact Daniela. Serious enquiries only. 

More Info

These Christmas tree cultivars, Radiata Pine, tend to remain more bushy. They also require less pruning and maintenance to achieve the desired shape.


What you need to do:

+Map out your planting location for your tube stock. Space per tree is 3-4 metres. Tip: ensure your vehicle can drive around the plantation perimeter and between the row of trees. 

+ Plant directly into the field or pot up upon arrival. 140mm pots are ideal for these seedlings to thrive for up to one year.

+ Plant directly in the paddock in cool conditions, or pot up and grow for a year to get your trees ahead of the weeds and give them time to adapt to your climate.

+ Avoid fertilising in the first few months after planting, as this can burn seedlings. 

+ Radiata pines are very vigorous growers and, once established, will need little watering or fertiliser. 

+ Keep weeds down around the tree for at least the first year and water in well after planting until established. 

+ Pines like gentle slopes or hilly terrain with good drainage, and I hate wet feet. Avoid boggy or very clayey soils in landscape depressions or drainage lines. 

+ They thrive on acidic soils and will tolerate lightly alkaline soil. Trees are frost tolerant down to -10’C and will tolerate hot conditions provided they do not dry out. 

+ Trees will need regular pruning to maintain a dense Christmas tree shape, as they grow very fast.

Photo of current seedlings available

Wife used as measurement. 5.1 and the tree's here are over 6ft. 

Big Shags escape into the Christmas tree paddock. Caught red handed and loved every moment on it.

Red-Bellied Black Snake by the Dam: A Relaxed Visitor at Little Valley Farm

At Little Valley Farm, we share our space with all kinds of wildlife, including the occasional visitor like the red-bellied black snake. Recently, we spotted one of these beautiful creatures relaxing by the dam, enjoying the water and foraging for food. While it may seem alarming to see a snake, this calm visitor is an important part of the natural ecosystem in the Hunter Valley.

The red-bellied black snake, known for its glossy black scales and striking red belly, is a native species commonly found in the area. Though they can be venomous, these snakes are generally shy and avoid confrontation. In this case, the snake seems content to pass through, possibly staying for a few days as it searches for frogs, fish, or small animals near the water.

At Little Valley Farm, we believe in respecting wildlife's natural habitats. Snakes like the red-bellied black are an essential part of the local biodiversity, helping to control populations of pests and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. As part of our land care practices, we allow wildlife to pass through without interference, ensuring that all creatures—from alpacas to snakes—can coexist harmoniously.

While it's important to remain cautious around snakes, we know this one is simply passing through and won't pose any threat to our farm. If you're exploring the farm or attending one of our alpaca workshops, it's always good to be aware of your surroundings, but rest assured that these snakes prefer to keep to themselves.

Look at the two distinctive marks on his back in the video.

Alpaca Shearing 2024

We concluded Shearing Day last Friday, and it was a fantastic day! The alpacas look amazing and are all set to stay cool for the upcoming summer heat. ☀️ Take a look at these photos—aren't they adorable in their fresh new looks? Some of these lovely alpacas will be available for sale soon, and you'll meet others at our Introduction to Alpaca Workshop for new owners. Stay tuned!


#AlpacaShearing #LittleValleyFarm #AlpacasForSale #AlpacaWorkshop #HunterValley

Harvest Trails by Daniela on the ABC Radio with Simon Marnie

I'm back on ABC radio, talking to Simon Marnie about what's happening along the Harvest Trail this weekend. Below is a snapshot of what we talked about and some links to get you out there exploring the farms across the Sydney Basin. Enjoy your weekend, Daniela

~~~

It's the final weekend of the Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival. The last day is Sunday (tomorrow), so make sure to take a trip to Wollombi to enjoy it, as it's only 90 minutes from Sydney.

Markets 

Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Market 

Castle Hill showground. 8 am to 12 noon.

It's Happy Birthday to the markets. They are 22 yo. 

They really want to express their gratitude for everyone's support. The growers, producers and shoppers continue to come rain, hail, or shine, and that keeps the market thriving. Thank you!

Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 28th September 2024 

8 am to 1 pm 

A treasure trove of fresh produce and all undercover in Sydney

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

Central Coast

Gosford City Farmers Market is on Sunday 7 am to 1 pm 

Organic Food Markets

Hosted right across Sydney - Organic Food Markets that are held on Saturdays or Sunday. 

From the Innerwest to the Northern Beaches. 

Leichhardt Saturday (8.00 am to 1:00 pm).

Marrickville, Sunday. 9 am to 3 pm. 

Seaforth. Sunday 8 am to 12:30 pm. 

Mona Vale, Sunday 8:30am to 1 pm. 

Where to visit farms this weekend

Bilpin Fruit Bowl

PYO Strawberries 

Strawberries are grown in hot houses, so rain, hail or shine you will be able to walk around the hot houses and PYO.  

Saturday 28th September from 10am-2pm

Sunday 29th September from 10am-2pm

Strawberries $20.00/kg

Bookings are not necessary, you can just turn up and get in.

Adults $20 per person

Children $10 per person

Under 3yrs of age free to enter

Andersons Farm 

Sackville North 

PYO Oranges and Lemons 

Some of the trees are more than 80 years old.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th September 2024 

Bookings via their website. 

Entry fee is $5 pp and its cash only. 


Meliora Farm Peats Ridge

PYO Orange, Lemons and Limes 

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2024

Cost of $30 for a Meliora farm bag that you can fill up with their delicious citrus.  Approximately 10kg of fruit per bag.

Book via their website. 

The Giving Farm, Jilliby 

Sunday 29th September, 2024 

For the kids - Farm Animal Cuddle, Pat & Feed experience

This one is for animal lovers where kids have the chance to learn and feed their farm animals on a certified organic farm. 

Meet the cuddle crew, goats and kids, and learn about sheep's wool from their babydoll sheep and little lamb. There are lots of farm activities for children and a hunt for blue eggs. Book online $27.50 pp. 

Photo thanks to ABC 702AM. Download the Radio APP to listen to the Weekend Mornings Show.

Alpaca Yarn for our alpaca owners

Exciting News for Our Alpaca Owners! 🦙✨

For those of you who have purchased alpacas from us at Little Valley Farm, we’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new service starting in 2025!

During the upcoming shearing season, make sure to save your fleece, as we will soon offer hand-spinning services to help you transform your fleece into beautiful, usable yarn.
In the next eight weeks, we’ll provide all the details on how this service will work. In the meantime, as you prepare for shearing, be sure to store your fleece properly and skirt it carefully to get the best.

More info coming soon. Daniela.

While genetics play a major role, management practices also have a significant impact on fleece quality. By controlling fibre growth and timing shearing properly, you can ensure optimal results. Here are a few key tips:

  • Timing: Shear before pasture plants set seed to minimise contamination from vegetable matter and shear in Spring before it get to hot.

  • Clean paddocks: Keeping paddocks free of debris is crucial for maintaining fleece purity.

  • Nutrition and environment: Dust, poor nutrition, and environmental factors can affect the fleece's luster, tensile strength, and colour. Maintaining good animal health and nutrition is essential to prevent "tender fleece" that breaks easily.

  • Water sources: Keep alpacas away from creeks and dams to avoid fleece damage.

When to Shear

The timing of shearing is important, especially as spring approaches.

What we need 

Saddle only. Skirt and remove any short legs and neckpieces. You may lose up to 30% during the process and remove any dirt and vegetation matter. 

What you will receive 

70-80 g per yarn ball. Anywhere from 8 to 20 yarn balls (adult-size fleece).

Price

Will get quoted once we inspect the fleece. Price will include GST and P&P charges.

This yarn processing service is exclusively available to those who have purchased alpacas from us.