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.


Alpacas Break Dancing

Bust N Moves AGun Style!

An alpaca, mid-dust bath, suddenly feels the rhythm in the dirt. With a quick shake, it's on its feet, busting out moves like a breakdancing pro. Spinning, twirling, and kicking up clouds of dust, it's the ultimate "Alpaca Style" dance-off. The others gather around, watching in awe as this alpaca moonwalks, windmills, and even attempts the robot—all while keeping that calm, cool alpaca expression. Who knew dust bathing could turn into a breakdancing battle? Just another day in the paddocks at Little Valley Farm.

Not to be out done by the alpacas… the donkeys got in on the action. Check out Maisie Mays back move to Honkie Hamlet.

Our paddocks

Welcome to our Little Valley Farm, nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Hunter Valley. You can now also follow us on our YouTube channel. I'm Daniela Riccio, and I'm so thrilled to have you here with us. Whether you're just discovering the wonders of alpacas or a seasoned animal lover, our journey together promises to be one filled with inspiration, learning, and a deep connection to the land and these majestic creatures.

At Little Valley Farm, every day is a celebration of life in the Wollombi Valley. We believe in the power of sustainable farming, the magic of nature, and the profound wisdom these gentle alpacas offer. Our channel is your gateway to learning about alpaca farming and embracing a lifestyle that harmonizes with the rhythms of nature.

Join us as we share our experiences, tips, and the heartwarming stories of our alpaca family. Whether you're near or far, come and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Hunter Valley, and let the tranquillity of the Wollombi Valley touch your soul.

This is more than just farming—it's a way of life. Let's explore it together!

At Little Valley Farm in the Hunter Valley, every day brings a new chapter in the story of sustainable farming and the special relationships we form with our animals. Today, I'd like to give you a glimpse of what it takes to ensure the well-being of our alpacas and donkeys, two species that bring a lot of joy and character to our farm.

One of the essential tasks we perform regularly is rotating the animals between paddocks. This practice isn’t just about giving them fresh pasture; it’s a crucial part of maintaining the health of the land and the animals themselves. By allowing the paddocks to rest between rotations, we give the grass time to recover, which ensures that when the alpacas and donkeys return, they have access to nutrient-rich forage. This simple yet effective practice helps to prevent overgrazing and supports the natural ecosystem of our farm.

However, farming isn’t always picture-perfect, and today was a reminder of that. As I walked through a paddock that had been resting, I realized I’d overlooked cleaning the water trough, and it had become quite dirty. It’s moments like these that remind me farming is as much about attention to detail as it is about the broader vision. The trough needed a thorough cleaning, which is just one of the many small but important tasks that keep our animals healthy and happy.

One thing you might not know is why we keep our alpacas and donkeys in separate paddocks. While they’re both gentle creatures, donkeys have a playful nature that can sometimes be a bit too rough for our alpacas, especially the smaller ones. To ensure their safety and comfort, we’ve found it best to let them enjoy their own space, where they can roam and play at their own pace without any risk of injury.

This careful management of our paddocks and animals is just one aspect of what makes Little Valley Farm a special place. It’s not just about farming; it’s about creating a balanced environment where animals thrive.

What a beautiful day in the Hunter Valley

Oh, what a day it is in the Hunter Valley! After what felt like an endless stretch of rain, the sun is finally shining its warm, golden rays over the hills, and the farm is absolutely buzzing with life. The alpacas are out and about, basking in the sunshine, and it's moments like these that remind us of how truly blessed we are to be here at Little Valley Farm.

Little Bowie, our darling Suri White alpaca, is in particularly high spirits today. He’s such a cheeky little character, always curious and full of personality. Watching him frolic in the paddock with that soft, lustrous fleece swaying in the breeze, you can’t help but fall in love with him. And, yes, he's going to make the perfect addition to someone's herd later this year when he goes up for sale. If you’re dreaming of adding a special alpaca to your life, Bowie just might be the one.

Speaking of alpacas, have you secured your spot for our upcoming monthly alpaca workshop? If you're new to the world of alpacas or considering starting your own herd, this is the workshop for you. We’ll cover everything from the basics of alpaca care to the finer points of fleece management. And, of course, you’ll get plenty of hands-on time with these gentle, intelligent creatures. There’s nothing quite like it—an experience that’s as educational as it is heartwarming.

So, come on out to Little Valley Farm, breathe in the fresh country air, soak up the sunshine, and spend some time learning about these majestic animals.

A little video of Bowie and Charlie playing around last week when the weather was not so nice. How sweet are these two little alpacas? Mum Pansey watches sternly in the back ground.

Little Valley Farm, established in 2012, has been a cherished part of the Hunter Valley community, sharing our love for alpacas with new and potential owners. For over a decade now, we've been offering hands-on workshops, providing an in-depth introduction to alpaca ownership and care. It's been our passion to help others experience the joy and fulfillment that comes with raising these gentle, curious animals.

Our monthly workshops have become a popular event here in the valley, where people from all walks of life come to learn, connect with nature, and, of course, meet our beautiful alpacas up close.

Shearing 2024 Book in your shearer now

We have confirmed our shearing date for the end of September 2024. To find a shearer near you, here is a list of shearers we recommend. Remember not to leave it to the last minute before it gets too hot; shear in the spring for our area. Make sure you keep your alpacas clean and dry for shearing day. Have a pen set up and the alpacas ready for the shearer. Also, ensure the shearers are working under or in a shed to help keep them cool. Depending on who you use, you will need to ask if they need to use your generator or if you have power in your shed then - perfecto!

Me with Suri girl, Bina having a quick cuddle.

List of NSW Shearers

Chris Power

0438 653 782   powza01@bigpond.com

Based: Bathurst & Central Coast.

Covers: Most of NSW. (in SA in October). Prefers to shear only alpacas & llamas. Toenails. Vaccinations if vaccines are provided. He will have an animal handler with him

Tom Cullen

Email: trcullen61@hotmail.com or get him on his Facebook page works on the Hunter area.

Mobile shearing, fencing & health services for alpacas, sheep and goats.

Shaun McFadyen

0405 535 758         shaun.shearer58@gmail.com 

Contact: refer to Text or email, but happy to talk to someone. Facebook page: Shorn by Shaun.

Based: Mudgee  Services: Hunter Valley/ Newcastle, Central Coast, Sydney, Central West, Canberra. Will travel anywhere in NSW for large numbers. Will do small numbers. Will shear llamas. Does toenails. Has roustabout if numbers over 10.

Drew Shearman

0427 924 493    enquiries@shearmanlivestock.com.au

Text to mobile preferred. Shearman livestock contracting website.

Based in Glen Oak (25 km north of Newcastle), it regularly services Newcastle, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, and Mid North Coast, as well as Mudgee occasionally. He also has an annual run to Toowoomba.

I prefer to do smaller lots (less than 100). I will do one animal. I shear sheep, goats, and llamas.

Does toenails, vaccinations. Will worm drench if required. Shears on a table. Doesn’t have a roustabout.

Preferred method of contact: Carrie’s own plant consisting of both battery and electric gear and all the equipment to shear, drench, vaccinate, crutch and trim hooves.  I will travel for any number of animals and don’t mind sharing single animals or small mobs.

Cath Lukin 0400 076 432

Based: Braidwood   Covers: Braidwood, NSW South coast, Monaro

Alpacas only, a minimum of 1.

Prices vary depending on a number of factors; please enquire. It does toenails, vaccinations, drench, and AD&E (if required). It also provides year-round service for 5-in-1, toenails, etc.

Sean Timmony  

0417 272 937       DunbarsRunAlpacas@gmail.com

Contact by TEXT message to the mobile.

Based in Hawkesbury, it covers Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, Penrith, Mulgoa/Camden/Picton/Werombi area, Hills District, and other areas on application. The minimum number of Shears on the floor is two. He has a roustabout. Does toenails and vaccinations.

Ken Wray

0407 050 252     ken-wray@bigpond.com

Website:        www.alpacacarensw.com

Based: Marulan. Services: Southern Tablelands, Southern Highlands, Western Sydney, South Coast (Northern end).

Minimum number: 1   Maximum number: 30. Will shear llamas. Toenails and vaccinations included. Drenching if required. Specialises in small numbers, particularly pets and guards. Does husbandry work outside the shearing period? Happy to give advice to owners unfamiliar with alpacas.

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If you are outside NSW, I will send you the link for more.

Enjoy your shearing day, harvest and use your alpaca fleece into something wonderful, and take care of your shearer on the day. Daniela

Alpaca Morning Chores

Alpacas roam the paddocks while we use our Greystone paddock vac to keep the paddocks super clean. By cleaning up their dung piles, we can help reduce the worm burden in our livestock and ensure that our alpacas are happy and healthy all year round.

Read more on alpaca communal dung piles here.

Join us for our next alpaca INTRODUCTION TO ALPACA WORKSHOP in the Hunter Valley.

Alpaca Terminology

Every industry has a unique language that brings people together. The alpaca industry is no different, and here are some terms used within it.

Cria - newborn alpaca to six months of age. Pronounced kree-ah.

Weaners - a weaned alpaca less than one year old.  Most alpacas are weaned at 4 to 6 months of age.

Tui - 12 month to sexual maturity. Prounced too-ee.

Dam or Hembra - breeding female, alpacas mother.

Entire Maile - or machos are sire - breeding male.

Wether - castrated male alpaca.

Birth weight - average birth weight of alpacas is six to 9 kg. (depends on seasons and paddock feed and quality available.

Female fertility - average female fertility of alpaca is 12+ to 18 years.

Gestation period - average gestation period of alpacas is 335 to 342 days. 11.5 to 12 months.

Huacaya - The most common alpaca type in Australia. The dense fibre grows straight out from the body, similar to merino. Pronounced wua-ky-ya.

Suri - Only a small number of the national Australian herd are Suri. The suri is covered in long pencil fine locks, that hang straight down from the body. Prounounced soo-ree.

Lifespan - average 15 to 20 years.

Shearing - the annual harvesting of alpaca fibers occurs in mid-spring to keep the alpacas cool through the summer and allow their coats to regrow before winter.

Available to purchase via our Little Valley Farm website

Alpaca Communal Dung Piles

Alpacas use communal dung piles to control their internal parasites. Typically, males create fewer dung piles and are tidier than females, who tend to stand in a line, and all go at once. As shown in our video below, when one female approaches the dung pile and begins to urinate and/or defecate, the rest of the herd often follows suit.

Our paddock cleaning routine includes a daily quick scoop with a pooper scooper and the use of our Greystone paddock vacuum 1-2 times per week. We also rotate livestock regularly and rest certain paddocks. Additionally, we cross-graze* paddocks with our donkeys so they follow the alpacas after they have been in a paddock, but they are never in the same paddocks as the alpacas.

To manage our seasonal dung beetle, we allow them to remove water from the dung, which helps control fly populations and reduce the worm burden. We are mindful not to overstock our land with alpacas, especially during vulnerable wet seasons.

Our goal is to maintain clean paddocks where the alpacas graze to minimize their ingestion of eggs, worms, and parasites. This approach also reduces the need for drenching, benefiting both the alpacas and us. We conduct regular FEC (fecal egg counts*) on our herd. Additionally, we body score and FAMACHA each alpaca monthly, and all information is recorded in our alpaca registry.

Drenching* is carried out based on seasonal and FEC and FAMCHA* results for each animal.

Lastly, the collected dung is used on our garden beds and around our fruit trees, where the alpacas do not roam. We will discuss this further at our monthly alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley. Hope to see you soon, Daniela

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*cross grazing with donkeys. Remember, donkeys are desert animals. Therefore, we still need to control the amount of lush green paddock feed given to donkeys to avoid hoof diseases, which is a significant topic on its own. Donkeys are not allowed to roam with alpacas because donkeys tend to play rough especially if hay is close by.

*Drenching refers to giving your alpacas the appropriate worming depending on their FEC count.

*FEC, Fecal Egg count can be done by your local vet or sent to the specialist lab.

*Blog post coming soon on our FAMCHA monthly check.

Buy the alpaca book online

We are members of the Australian Alpaca Association

We are just 90 minutes from Sydney and a mere hour from the Central Coast. If you want to turn your visit into a weekend getaway, take a look at our new accommodation or let us point you to some fantastic places to stay in the Wollombi Valley.

Why is my alpaca dead? When your heart stops beating!

That moment when you look down at the paddocks, and they are lying still! The first time you see it, you rush down to the paddocks, only to realise they are enjoying the beautiful sunshine. PHEW!

Now, this is a great sign that your alpacas are relaxed and happy with their herd—they can take a paddock nap—lucky them!

Tip: Their bellies are usually facing the sunshine, and they get their Vitamin D fix via their bellies (where there is less fleece), as well as via their faces and ears.

Always check on your alpacas and keep an close eye on them, they are funny animals are have some quirky habbits that for first time owners can be a bit daunting. We will talk about getting to know your alpacas and reading their body language at our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Jump on our website to book your INTRODUCTION TO ALPACA WORKSHOP with us.

Workshops are held monthly in the Lower Hunter Valley, Wollombi Valley.

We are members of the Australian Alpaca Association