I wrote a brief article about my experience getting started with donkeys for the Donkey Society of Queensland in the May 2026 edition of the Donkey Express.
Getting Started with Donkeys
Little Valley Farm
by Daniela Riccio
We’re originally from Sydney and bought a hobby farm in 2012 after about 15 years living overseas. We knew we didn’t want to go back to city life, so we landed in the lower Hunter Valley, in Laguna, Wollombi Valley, about 90 minutes out of Sydney.
We moved to the farm that same year. I’d always wanted to start an alpaca farm, so we began with four alpacas and slowly built from there. The plan was never to go big, always boutique, hands-on, and manageable.
At the time, I was very keen on donkeys, although I’ll admit I didn’t know much about them.
Over the years, we grew our alpaca numbers to around 45. Then reality kicked in a bit, particularly with weather challenges, which played a big role in us reducing numbers back to something more sustainable.
So how did the donkeys come into it again?
I started looking into cross-grazing* alpacas with other livestock. We had miniature Galloways and Lowline Angus cattle, but they were quite heavy on the paddocks, especially as we were trying to improve pasture.
It just wasn’t the right fit long-term.
That’s when I went down the donkey rabbit hole. I started researching, reading, and trying to understand how they might work on the farm. I came across the work and the book by Christine Berry from Donkey Welfare With Heart, which was a bit of a turning point.
One of the biggest learning curves has been their diet. Donkeys actually do far better on rougher feed and native bush than they do on lush green pasture. Too much rich grass can be a real problem for them, so I’ve had to learn how to manage that very carefully. Our bush paddocks suit them perfectly, but it’s something I stay very aware of. Their diet is more important than my diet!
We ended up buying two donkeys near the Queensland border, and not long after, I found another
through an alpaca breeder I already knew. I was incredibly lucky. All three were beautifully halter trained, well socialised, and had impeccable manners.
That, honestly, made all the difference. Having donkeys that were already handled properly gave me the confidence to get in close and really work with them. Christine & Caitlyn still mentors me today. Caitlyn is our farrier and the donkeys feel comfortable with her also. I love donkeys. I really do, they remind me a lot of dogs. They’re loyal, and the more time you give them, the more they give back. There’s a real connection there if you’re willing to put in the effort.
One thing that surprised me is how proud they are. When you put a halter on them and take them for a walk around the farm, they have this little strut... almost like they’re saying, “look at me.” It’s hard not to smile when you see it.
They’re also incredibly gentle with children, which is something I really value.
Looking back, I think I was very lucky to start with such well-behaved donkeys. If I hadn’t, I’m not sure I would’ve had the same confidence early on, and that would’ve changed the whole experience.
Our donkeys are never in the same paddock as alpacas, as they can play rough.
https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au/
Featured in Donkey Express, see more on Queensland Donkey Society.
Where can I buy the donkey book to get started? Purchase it online from the Donkey Welfare with Heart here
What are the three donkeys’ names? Honkie Hamlet, Maisie May and Loxie Love.
Do you sell donkeys? No, we don’t at this stage, we are mostly an alpaca farm, so we sell our alpacas in small herds 2-3 times a year.
Are you open for day visits? No, we are not open for day visits, but we do run monthly alpaca workshops for new owners. We also have the Little Valley Summerhouse accommodation that sleeps four adults.
What do donkeys eat on a hobby farm in Australia? Donkeys thrive on rougher feed and native bush rather than lush pasture; too much rich grass can cause health problems.
Can donkeys and alpacas be kept together? We keep ours separate; donkeys can play rough and aren't suited to sharing a paddock with alpacas.
Where can I learn more about donkey care in Australia? Christine Berry's book from Donkey Welfare with Heart is a great starting point.
Are donkeys good with children? Yes, ours are gentle and well-socialised, which makes them fantastic for our family.