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.

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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

Autumn at Little Valley Farm

One of our favourite seasons at Little Valley Farm is definitely Autumn, with its orange-red hues bursting across the paddocks where the alpacas and donkeys play.

Photos by JarrodDiMauro

Join us for one of our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley. We are 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast.

Alpaca sales can be viewed here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

“Inspections and visits are via appointment only.”

— Daniela

Where are you located? We are located in Wollombi Valley, in the sleepy hamlet of Laguna. We are lucky to be surrounded by national parks and state forests. It feels remote and is very different from Pokolbin, which has extensive vineyards. We are in the wilderness, appreciate nature, and love it like that.

Getting to Laguna, Wollombi Valley

We are located in a hidden valley, 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast.

[ 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.

There is NO mobile reception in our valley. You will not find us without our address and easy-to-follow instructions, which I will email you as our address as is not published on the net. So please save the info that I send you.

What does working alpaca farm mean?

Our farm is a bustling place where our livestock receive care every day of the week, morning and afternoon, rain, hail or shine.

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

Are there snakes there? TThe most frequently asked question is whether there are snakes in the area. The answer is yes, there are snakes, 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.

Do you offer farmstay? Yes, we do but only for four adults. All guests must be over 18 years old. We are not set up for children or infants.

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

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.

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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.

10 Of The Most Charming Farm Stays In NSW by Urban List

By Jessica Best and Sammy Preston
29th Aug 2022

https://www.theurbanlist.com/sydney/a-list/best-farm-stays-nsw

Bedroom in T4615, our 1950’s Red Rattler

Located about 90-minutes north of Sydney in Laguna, this charming farm brings together two great concepts: getting off the grid and alpacas. Little Valley Farm is all about getting in touch with your surroundings and minimising your environmental footprint. The owners are also registered alpaca breeders (so yes, you could potentially go home with one of these fluffy beings).

There are two rustic accommodation options to choose from and each gives you the freedom to be completely surrounded by bushland, paddocks (filled with the aforementioned fluffy ‘pacas), and fresh produce depending on the time of year. The T4615 Red Rattler is a converted 1950s train carriage. This guy packs a spacious bedroom with a queen bed, a camp-style kitchen, an outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, an outdoor bath with hot water, hammocks, and two yoga mats that you can roll out on the deck.

Regional Travel is ON in NSW from June 1

Richmond says it’s ok.

Regional NSW travel from June 1st.

Come back to the Hunter Valley soon and stay with us.

Read all about the Riparide experience by Charlotte Curd here.

Alpacas for Sale - Perfect for Your Hobby Farm! 

Looking to add alpacas to your hobby farm? Little Valley Farm in the beautiful Hunter Valley has a select number of alpacas now available! 🦙💚 Established in 2012 by Daniela, we’re passionate about raising friendly, well-handled alpacas. Our alpacas are perfect for hobby farms and new owners, with wethers and females currently for sale.

👉 Plus, we offer hands-on alpaca workshops to help new owners learn how to care for these amazing animals. Visit us in Wollombi Valley or contact us to learn more!

🌱 Little Valley Farm - Sustainable Farming Since 2012

10 Dreamy Places to Stay in NSW This Summer with Outdoor Baths

“We are so happy and excited that Little Valley Farm has been added to the list of Top 10 Dreamy Outdoor Baths in New South Wales! 

It’s an absolute honour for us, as we know all other places on the list and how wonderful they are.

We are also lucky enough to share our home with amazing guests. Thank you Urban List!”

— Daniela, Little Valley Farm. Laguna Hunter Valley

Read the full article on URBAN LIST click here 

Located about 90-minutes north of Sydney in Laguna, this charming farm brings together a trifecta of great concepts—getting off the grid, alpacas, and outdoor baths (of course naturally). There are two main types of accommodation here but if you’re keen to slip into an outdoor tub of bubbles and essential oils for total relaxation, you’ll want to knock on the door of the T4615 Red Rattler. This converted 1950s train carriage packs a spacious bedroom with a queen bed, a camp-style kitchen, an outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, hammocks, deck yoga, and a trusty outdoor bath that overlooks paddocks of cute ‘pacas. Book your stay here. 

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Book your next glamping experience for four adults on our eco-farmstay.

Read more here or jump on sign up to waitlist for availability.

New Little Valley Shearer’s Studio coming up Autumn 2022 so don’t miss out on this and get in now so you can enjoy our preview special rates.

Take it slow in 2022 in Laguna Hunter Valley

Welcome to 2022! Happy New Year to everybody.

What’s happening the year.

Get in early and book your Valentines Day midweek escape with us or Easter with your buddies on the Train and the new Shearers Studio. Enjoy our early bird discount when you book for four adults.

Farm Workshops

Alpaca workshops are back and better than ever. Our workshop will help new alpaca owners get started or provide the opportunity for people who already have their hearts set on owning a herd to learn more about these majestic animals.

It is a great way to introduce yourself to an entire herd of wool-bearing friends at your feet? So book in for our first workshop for the year on January 9th. Check dates with Daniela as we will add more for Summer and Autumn 2022.

Train Stay

Imagine a life without stress, where you can do nothing but relax on the train hang out deck overlooking the beautiful scenery of alpacas and mini donkeys. Imagine never having to answer any calls or check your phone!

Spend your evenings enjoying wood-fired pizza and the glow of bonfire and evening stars: nothing but great friends, good wine and excellent food.

So now is the perfect chance to experience our unique getaway with your loved ones. The four-person country escape in the vintage Train and new Shearer's Studio. Two adults in the train and two adults up in the Shearers Studio. Early bird bookings get 20% off - $1200 only $960

Dates for Easter 2022 are currently available from Thursday, April 14th for four adults.

Valentine’s Day from Monday 14th February for two adults currently available.

PROMO CODE: EARLYBIRD20% for 4 adult bookings only.

Photo Charlotte Curd for Riparide and Matt Hoospool

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Little Valley Farm is based in Laguna in the Wollombi Valley, Hunter Valley. We are only 90 minutes from Sydney but feels like a million miles away. To check availability contact Daniela via email.

Frequently Asked Questions here.

Little Valley Farm In the Media

Mansionair MORE

So where do you record a music video about the “frustration of always wanting MORE”? At the little valley farm which is all about having and wanting LESS!

We love being part of the new cult and the train being their new home.

Mansionair has great talent they were grounded and curious guys! We are big fans.

Covid19 farmstay safe

Back in March we were prepared for Covid19 and cancelled all of our bookings as well as self-isolating which is pretty much the norm when you live out here.

Daniela also quickly completed the Certificate in Acknowledgment in infection control training Covid19.

This week we downloaded the CovidSafe app and so should you. We really want to get back to normal and start to run our business once again. Our valley suffered through the horrendous Summer bush fires of 2019/2020, and really we have been shut down since November 2019. Its now time to support our business, our valley and the Hunter Valley community.

We hope to see you all after the ISO lockdown. In the meantime, stay safe and keep social distancing.

Visit our online shop for alpaca fleece, alpaca yarn, farmstay and alpaca workshop gift vouchers.

We have downloaded it. Have you?

Yoga with the Alpacas at Little Valley Farm

That’s right, we did it! I am not sure if we did impress our alpacas but we certainly had a great time trying, stretching and laughing.

It was absolutely relaxing doing yoga in the middle of the paddocks with the alpacas surrounding us. A huge thank you to Joy, (it was Pure Joy!) and our amazing three guests.

Let’s do it again!

Follow us for our next yoga-with-the-alpacas.

Book your four-person glamping weekend farm stay here.

Alpaca Shearing - October 19th

Want to help out on shearing day and learn more about alpacas? Join us on the weekend of 18th October, 2019 - rain, hail or shine. We shear on 19th.

Farm stay option available for two people in the rustic train and two people in the tiny shepherds hut.

Help out, get involved, learn, work and then enjoy our fantastic wood-fired pizza in the afternoon. It will be share facilities in the common areas such as the train’s kitchen, bathroom, BBQ and hang-out deck.

Book your train stay for $300, 2 pax, 2 nights - 18th and 19th October

Book your shepherds hut stay for $200, 2 pax, 2 nights - 18th and 19th October

Check out the train and hut stay on our website www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Book direct with Daniela for this unique alpaca farm stay experience on 18th and 19th October. Check in on Friday afternoon and checkout Sunday. No AirBnB booking fee’s plus we feed you a wonderful wood-fired pizza lunch and a farm breakfast the next day. A unique farm stay experience in the Hunter Valley.

Sleepy Laguna

On a very beautiful Winters morning in Laguna. You coming?

Book your two nights farm stay with us. 4 adults in our rustic red rattler train and tiny shepherds hut. See our website for full dets.

Autumn at Little Valley Farm

The spotlight shines on autumn, a season renowned for its cooler temperatures and fall foliage. 

Autumn leaf color is a phenomenon that affects the normal green leaves of many deciduous trees and shrubs by which they take on, during a few weeks in the autumn season, various shades of red, orange and brown. A perfect setting for photographers. Visit Little Valley Farm and stay in our red rattler 1950's train and shepherds hut for your unique farm stay in the Hunter Valley. 

Tree change occurs Autumn so make the most of this beautiful farm in the Hunter Valley.

Book airbnb
https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/16481553?s=51

Photoshoot at Little Valley Farm

Yesterday we had the most magical photo shoot at Little Valley Farm. Neve, the friendly Laguna Alpaca did not disappoint. Soon as she met the kids, she gently ate from their hands and then plonked herself right in between the kids and posed for the camera.

Neve, the friendly Laguna alpaca is amazing with her desire to be with people. She picks her people and will happily sit with them for hours in the paddock. The look of disappointment when we get up to leave is hysterical and yesterday she just wanted to sit with the kids under the huge liquid amber tree and just smile away. There are times and its always on her terms, that when she is done, she simply gets up and walks away but she really loves hanging out with people.

Before we introduce Neve and the other alpacas whom are mostly pregnant and a couple of cheeky weathers. Our working stud is in another paddock watching over us. Our advise to people when meeting our alpacas for the first time is to walk slowly to the alpacas, no loud talking and try and whisper, don't try and pat them on their head but when they are ready gently stroke their necks. Moving slowly and quietly the alpacas feel calm and relaxed and will come up to you. One thing for sure is that we keep the working stud (entire male) away from the alpaca herd and especially when we have guests over.

Alpacas are inquisitive and gentle creatures but will occasional spit when food is present. They really don’t have the the desire to spit at you but you could always be standing in the line of fire! Maybe our Little Valley Farm alpacas are just well behaved, beautifully treated and know that they are very much loved.

Little Valley Farm is a member of the Australian Alpaca Association and sells registers and unregistered alpacas. We sell wethers as guards, alpacas as pets and or breeding females. Our alpacas are shorn every October and are regularly groomed - nails trimmed, teeth check, fleece check, vaccinated and wormed.

If you are a small farm owner and are looking for alpacas, simply let us know what you are looking for and how your farm is set up ie., shelters, fencing, water and small pens so we can give you the best advise for housing alpacas.

Spinning 2018 fleece collection

At Little Valley farm we are getting ready for Alpaca shearing day so looking at what colours we should spin together. Should I keep our yarn knitting balls one colour or add colours to our fawn yarn ball. Here is a sample we spun which is 100% Alpaca fleece in fawn with black. Do you like? Hmmm should I do both or stick to one colour?

#littlevalleyfarm #alpaca #alpacas #australianalpacas #instaalpaca #knitting #alpacafleece #lagunaNSW #visitwollombi #touristdrive33 #myopenkitchen #myopenkitchenstories

Shearing day is 13th October, 2018 at Little Valley Farm, we will be shearing 14 alpaca's in white, fawn and one chocolate brown alpaca. We can't wait.  If you would like to help out and get some hands-on alpaca experience please contact us. 

We also have the train and shepherd's hut accommodation available for that week. 

Alpaca cuddle anyone?

Say hello to Majestic and Suki Oberon. They are the sweetest alpacas you will meet and they will come up to you to eat out of your hand. Their fleece is outstanding with lovely crimp and we look forward to shearing them in October and then spinning their fleece.  Its glorious!  

Both girls are pregnant and due early 2019 so we will have three different blood lines at Little Valley Farm. 

Book your farm stay with us at Little Valley Farm.  Couple farm stay for 4 adults so book online before Spring 2018 books out. Alpaca cuddles are free.  

www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Photo taken by Daniela 31st July 2018. You can see how dry the grass is here. We are so looking forward to some rain.  We have only received 2 mls for July. 

Drought2018

Its just on six months since we did the ABC Newcastle drought interview.  It was a stinking-hot summer and I looked like I had enough.  I had never felt so un-glamourous in my life! 

But now looking back to February 2018 after my interview, we luckily did receive some rain but definitely not enough and definitely not constant rain.  We are lucky, as we are a small farm but we all have livestock and produce to grow so it all affects us - whether you live on a farm or in the city, the produce quality will decline and our grocery costs will slowly increase, I won't even mentioned the hay costs for us! 

So I think its time to do another interview as after our ABC interview it rained two weeks later and we received some good rain with 104mls for that month but sadly not enough. March onwards it reduced down to 69mls and April was 26mls, May 15mls, June 72mls and July only 3mls.  So maybe if I do another un-glam interview I will make it rain! 

We finally managed to sell our mini-cattle only two weeks ago and buying hay was getting harder and also feeding the 15+ alpaca's who are all pregnant so that will expand quickly up to 25+ alpacas, which means a lot of lucern hay for my babies next season. 

Hope you have all seen the images of the Upper Hunter drought and how worse it is across NSW and QLD.  The good team at Buy a Hay Bale have been working non-stop delivering goods to large farmers who need help.  You can make a small donation to them here. 

Photo taken June 2018 its all very crunchy under foot. The alpaca having brekkie on lucern hay and they love it. 

Click here to read the February 2018 ABC Interview. 

No Monday Blue's here....

Its such a glorious Monday at the farm. So its time to kick off my oh-so glam boots and get relaxing in that outdoor bath on the famous red rattler train deck. 

The alpacas have been moved to other new paddock so we can now rest the creek paddock for a couple of weeks before they return there.  From the bath, I can see the boys neck wresting the day away. Boys will be boys!  

Check out my glam red boots by Merry People - they are made by an Australian company who produce fabulous, comfy and warm - yes, finally a pair of boots that are warm!  Thank you Merry People Rainwear. We love them. 

T4615 RED RATTLER

Rustic farm stay glamping style: Satisfying your craving for the outdoors and your penchant for a good meal, nice glass of wine, and a comfortable bed. Its nothing like a hotel, your room does open up to a beautiful landscape instead of a lobby.

Our off-grid farm has a 1950's Sydney Train carriage, the famous Red Rattler plus our petite Shepherd's Hut.

A unique 'glamping' farm stay experience for 4 adults plus its the perfect place for star gazing and so much more.

Read more about our farm stay here 

Photo by Daniela at Little Valley Farm