Sheer Perfection: When Our Alpacas Took Out a Hunter Photography Prize

and the winner is…. Euan Wilcox

Mother and Daughter: The Alpaca Photograph That Won a Hunter Photography Prize

And we are very stoked!

The photograph that recently won the Hunter Photography Prize, awarded through the Newcastle Herald, was one of those quieter moments.

Euan took it without any fuss. No staging. No planning. Just one of those pauses in the paddock that said more than a hundred carefully thought-out shots ever could. The image, titled Mother and Daughter, captures a simple connection between two alpacas at Little Valley Farm during breakfast, as they are completely themselves.

The judges clearly felt it too. The photograph was awarded the top honour in the photography prize for its composition and sense of calm. We were both pretty thrilled.

What makes the win even more special, at least for us, is where the photograph was taken: our farm.

For those who have already stayed with us from the deck at the Summerhouse, you can look down and see the same landscape that framed the winning image. The same mothers and cria and the laneway of trees that they love to rest in.

You might remember meeting Mother, Suki, and her daughter Oberon. Both white Huacaya alpacas. Both with that gentle, slightly aloof presence, alpacas seem to master so well.

Euan’s photography has always come from observation rather than interruption. When you live and work on the farm, the camera is never far away, but it’s never forced either. The animals come first. The image comes later - if it comes at all.

This moment happened in autumn, when the leaves shift into reds and soft orange hues. Even then, in the middle of everything, there was space for this small exchange between these two alpacas.

For us, the win feels like recognition of more than just a single image. It feels like a nod to a way of living. Slowing down. Noticing. Letting the land and the animals lead. Alpacas can be wonderfully aloof with people they don’t know, but they’re also full of quirks and quiet personality if you take the time to see it.

If you’re staying at Little Valley Summerhouse, you’re already part of that story. You’re sitting above the paddock where the photograph was taken. Watching the same alpacas go about their day. And sometimes, if the timing’s right, you might catch a moment like this.

You can read the full Newcastle Herald article about the win [here].

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A little more about Euan…

Euan’s photography has grown quietly alongside farm life at Little Valley, guided more by observation than intention. Earlier this year, he was awarded Emerging Artist Photographer at the Laguna Art Show 2025, making this his second major photography win in the Hunter, which feels like a very nice moment.

A small selection of Euan’s framed photographic works is available in Wollombi Village at the homewares store Twine/Waterhen Traders.

You can see more of his work on his website or follow him on Instagram, where farm life and photography often overlap naturally.

The Calm Science Behind an Alpaca’s Chew

By Daniela Riccio,  Little Valley Farm, Wollombi Valley

When you see that slow, rhythmic chewing, it’s not boredom, it’s business.

Alpacas are what’s known as pseudo-ruminants. Unlike true ruminants such as cows, which have four stomach compartments, alpacas have three. Their digestive system is remarkably efficient, designed to draw every last bit of goodness from the grasses, hay, and pasture plants they eat.

After grazing, they’ll often settle into a quiet spot, sit down, and begin to chew the cud,  regurgitating partially digested food to chew it again. It’s all part of how they process fibre and nutrients.

This slow, steady chewing has a calming rhythm to it. Spend a few minutes watching, and you’ll see their jaws move in gentle circles, their eyes half-closed, perfectly at peace. It’s one of those moments that remind you how unhurried farm life can be, where digestion doubles as meditation.

Our alpacas do this most mornings, especially when the valley is still waking up. The birds start their dawn chorus, and the soundscape is pure spring. You can watch (and listen) here:
🎥 Watch the video on Instagram

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Little Valley Farm Alpaca Farm ~ Summerhouse (@littlevalleyfarm)

What do alpacas prefer to eat?

At Little Valley Farm, alpacas spend most of their time grazing on paddock grass, moving through rotational paddocks each week so they always have fresh feed, and the pasture has time to recover. Their food needs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Wethers, weaners, crias, pregnant females and lactating mums all have slightly different requirements depending on age, condition and season. Alongside grazing, we offer good-quality lucerne hay and, when needed, oaten chaff or lucerne chaff, adjusting with the seasons. We do keep alpaca pellets on hand, but they’re used mainly as a treat or for training, not as a daily feed. Pellets are higher in sugar and not something alpacas need regularly, even though they absolutely think they should have them every day.

Learn More

If you’ve ever wanted to understand alpaca behaviour up close, from their calm chewing to how they communicate, join one of our Introduction to Alpacas workshops here at Little Valley Farm.

We cover everything from body scoring and health checks to daily care and herd dynamics, designed especially for small farms and hobby acreage.

You can also subscribe to ourYouTube channel for more short videos from the paddocks and real farm moments, straight from Wollombi Valley.

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About Daniela Riccio

Daniela Riccio is the co-founder of Little Valley Farm, a boutique alpaca farm and farm-stay located in Wollombi Valley in the Hunter Valley, NSW. Established in 2012, the farm is home to a small herd of alpacas and donkeys and focuses on sustainable living, animal care and practical education for small-acreage and hobby farmers.

Daniela works hands-on with alpacas every day and shares real-world experience through workshops, mentoring and writing, based on life on the farm rather than theory. Little Valley Farm is located around 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from Newcastle, making it a well-known alpaca farm and country retreat in the Hunter Valley.

Are alpacas easy to keep?

Are Alpacas Right for You and Your Set-Up?

I often get asked, “Are alpacas easy to keep?” The short answer is yes, but only if you know what they need. Alpacas are gentle, intelligent, and endlessly fascinating to watch. They hum to each other, roll in the dust for fun, and will happily spend hours grazing. They’re not only wonderful companions and natural lawnmowers, but they can also be part of something bigger, from farm stays and trekking experiences to producing that luxurious fibre that we all love.

But here’s the thing: alpacas aren’t like having a dog or a cat. They’re livestock, they can be quite aloof, and they do have some particular needs. Let me walk you through the essentials.

Are alpacas herd animals?

Yes, they are herd animals at heart! Alpacas are never happy on their own. They need a group, three is the bare minimum, and the more the merrier. They live in a very structured social hierarchy, and watching that dynamic play out is part of the fun. A lonely alpaca is a stressed alpaca, and stress leads to health problems.

Mini alpacas: fact or fiction? Let me tell you the truth on this…. read more here

Boys with boys, girls with girls

Unless you’re breeding, males and females should never be kept together. Males can become aggressive and territorial toward females, leading to unhappy animals and frustrated owners. Same-sex groups are the way to go for harmony. It's better for the female and safer for the humans, but I will talk more in-depth about this at our next alpaca workshop.

Food, water, and shelter for alpacas

Clean water, good quality grass, hay, and a safe shelter are non-negotiable for me. Alpacas are hardy, but they don’t cope well with extremes such as hot sun, wild wind, and soaking rain, all of which take their toll. Shade in summer and protection in winter will keep them happy and healthy.

What they need and what do we recommend?

Shelter Info

Feeding Buckets we use

A little extra care

There are some routine jobs that come with the territory: toenail trimming, body scoring to check condition, keeping that wonderful fringe neat (especially on Suri's), and of course, yearly shearing. In the colder months, alpacas also need Vitamin D supplementation, something that surprises many new owners. And let’s not forget parasite control, which is essential to get right; an invaluable tool is FEC management (fecal egg count). It could be days that your alpaca is ill and you don’t know it, so running FEC tests and FAMCHA is a great thing to do.

Dung Piles (Yes, you need to collect it!).

At our workshop, we will demonstrate toenail clipping, vaccinations and vitamin injections.

Handling the alpaca way

Alpacas don’t respond like sheep or goats. They have their own handling techniques, which, once you learn, make life much easier for you and them. It’s about building calm, respectful interactions, thinking less wrestling and more guiding and also having the correct pen set-up.

Training Alpacas

Building Trust

Mixing with other animals

A quick word of caution: alpacas don’t always mix well with other livestock species. Their parasite risks and behaviour can be very different, so you’ll need to understand the dos and don’ts before introducing them to other paddock mates. I will talk more about this at our workshops.

Choosing where to buy alpacas

This is such an important step. When you purchase alpacas, you should also be gaining knowledge and support. Sadly, more alpacas are being sold without proper information these days, and we’re seeing preventable illness and even heartbreaking losses. Please make sure you’re buying from someone willing to guide you and be there when you have questions.

There are lots of livestock scammers out there, so a trip to the breeding farm is essential and highly recommended; otherwise, get some references from other breeders. It’s a small network, and we all know each other.

Australian Alpaca Association

Breeding Coloured Alpacas here

Where to find support

The good news is there’s a strong alpaca community here in Australia:

• Your local regional alpaca group is a great place to start.

• The Australian Alpaca Association offers resources and connections nationwide.

• We have a lovely little alpaca network in the Hunter/Central Coast, so that we can refer you to some excellent breeders.

• And of course, we run workshops here at Little Valley Farm in the Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney. These are designed for new and potential owners. We cover everything from health checks and handling to simply enjoying the unique nature of these beautiful animals.

Alpacas can bring so much joy to your life and your property, but they do need the proper setup and care. Get that part right, and you’ll discover just how rewarding it is to share your world with them. Daniela

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Frequently Asked Questions on Little Valley Farm.

Weekend stay at Little Valley Farm

Interesting Facts about Alpacas

See our videos on YOUTUBE

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About Daniela Riccio & Little Valley Farm

This article is written by Daniela Riccio, co-founder of Little Valley Farm, a boutique alpaca farm based in Wollombi Valley in the Hunter Valley, NSW.

Daniela and her partner established Little Valley Farm in 2012 after years of working overseas, with the goal of living sustainably and sharing practical, real-world knowledge about alpacas and small-scale farming. Today, Little Valley Farm is home to a carefully managed herd of alpacas and donkeys and is known for its hands-on alpaca workshops for new and prospective owners.

Daniela works closely with alpacas every day, from breeding and cria care to nutrition, handling, shearing preparation and herd health. Her approach is practical rather than theoretical, shaped by experience on the land rather than textbook advice. She regularly mentors first-time alpaca owners and answers the same questions she once had herself.

Little Valley Farm is located just 90 minutes from Sydney and about one hour from Newcastle, making it a well-known alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley for workshops, education and farm-based experiences. The farm also offers farm-stay accommodation at the Little Valley summerhouse, allowing guests to experience life on an active alpaca farm while staying in a thoughtfully designed off-grid home overlooking the paddocks.

All advice shared on the Little Valley Farm blog is based on lived experience raising alpacas in the Hunter Valley climate and is intended to help people make informed, confident decisions about alpaca ownership.

Hunter Region Alpaca Youth Event 2025

Got a young alpaca fan in the family? Or maybe someone aged 7–26 who's keen to learn more about these curious livestock? NSW Alpaca Youth are running the very first youth event at the Quirindi Show this year, and it's all about having fun with alpacas.

There are two parts to the day: Stockmanship and Showmanship. Don't worry, nothing tricky or intimidating. It's a relaxed, hands-on chance to spend time with some adorable alpacas and pick up a few new skills and friends along the way.

View the event on Facebook here.

Little Valley Farm is proud to be one of the sponsors of this event. For more details or to get involved, reach out to Kylie Werren.

Photo credit Kylie Werren Alpaca Youth Events

Can I Get a Miniature Alpaca?

Let’s clear this one up about miniature alpacas

We get asked this a lot….. “Do you have miniature alpacas?” And while it’s a fun idea, the short answer is… no, not really. Miniature alpacas aren't a recognised breed. However, the rise in popularity of miniature livestock, such as tiny goats, pint-sized cows, and teacup pigs, has sparked some confusion. So let’s break it down.

Where did this idea come from?

The miniature livestock craze is partly a mix of practicality and clever marketing. Smaller animals are often promoted as easier to manage, ideal for hobby farms or backyards, and, let’s be honest, they are all adorable. So it’s no surprise people assume alpacas come in mini versions too.

Are they confusing alpacas with llamas?
Probably. Llamas and alpacas are cousins, but they’re not the same but from the camelid family. Llamas are taller, heavier, and generally more robust. Alpacas are smaller in comparison, so sometimes what’s called a "mini alpaca" is just a young or petite adult, or someone mistaking an alpaca for a small llama. And no, alpaca owners do not love being asked if their alpacas are llamas. It's like calling a labradoodle a rottweiler.. (Friendly warning here.)

Different types of alpacas, not sizes
There are two types of alpacas: Huacaya, the fluffy teddy bear type most people recognise, and the rarer Suri, which has silky lock-style fleece. They look different and feel different, but both are alpacas. No mini version, just different fibre styles and body shapes.

But I saw one on the internet...
Yep, some alpacas are just smaller. That could be due to age, breeding, or health. But unless it's a deliberate and ethically managed breeding program focused on maintaining fleece quality and animal wellbeing, calling them "miniatures" is mostly a gimmick.

So, no mini alpacas but plenty of majestic, fleece-covered charmers in all shapes, colours, and personalities. And trust us, once you've met one, you'll be glad they come full-sized.

This is a miniature Alpaca?

No. This alpaca is a cria and is only approx 3-4 months old in this photo. He is a Huacaya Alpaca. Crias stay with their mum typically up to 6 months (based on weather conditions), and the crias ’ developing condition also.

Adult Huacaya Adult

Adult sized alpaca. Can be up to approx 60-80 kg. More delicate facial and body features compared to a llama.

Around 1.5 m tall.

We call the huacaya alpaca the teddy bear fleece.

Adult Suri Alpaca

Are approx. 70 kg. Fawn Suri Adults.

Suris have a different body shape from huacaya, besides the fleece being draped differently.

They tend to have longer legs. As the fleece draped in the middle of their spine they can look ‘slimmer’, compared to the Huacaya alpaca. I find the suri’s to be more athletic, energetic and very expressive personalities.

I have a couple here at Little Valley Farm, and they are more aware of the surroundings and call the herd together if there is a potential threat such as an eagle or a fox.

Llama

I had to use a stock image as we don’t have llamas here. They are very different.

Note the banana ear shape and the longer face. They are quite large compared to alpacas and can weigh approximately 150-200 kg. Height approx 1.8 m tall at the head.

LLamas have coarser outer fleece and softer undercoat, and are generally used more for their strength than their fibre.

Traditionally, pack animals are alpacas, which are more fibre animals.

Llamas are wonderful, but due to their size and mine (I am petite), it's too much for me to handle.

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I live in the city. Can I have an alpaca as a pet?

The answer is a definite NO! Alpacas are considered livestock and are herd animals, which means they thrive when kept with other same-sex alpacas in paddocks with ample grazing grass and space. The bigger the paddocks the better it is for them.

If you do not have a Property Identification Code (PIC#) for your farm or acreage, you are not permitted to keep them. A reputable alpaca livestock farm will require you to provide your PIC# before completing the purchase transaction.

Should I get an alpaca or a llama?

If you're still unsure about the differences between alpacas and llamas and would like to attend one of our monthly alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley, join us! We are conveniently located just 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. You can view our alpaca workshop dates and book your spot in advance online here.

Thanks, Daniela

Little Valley Farm - Alpaca Farm Hunter Valley, Wollombi Valley

Daniela of Little Valley Farm with one of the brown crias (baby alpaca under 6 months old). alpaca.

Visiting an Alpaca Farm in the Hunter Valley – Little Valley Farm

Looking for an alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley? Visit Little Valley Farm in Wollombi Valley for an unforgettable alpaca experience, workshops, and off-grid adults-only stays.

Visiting an Alpaca Farm in the Hunter Valley: What to Expect at Little Valley Farm

If you’re searching for an alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley, you’ve come to the right place. Nestled in the peaceful Wollombi Valley, Little Valley Farm is a boutique alpaca farm offering a hands-on, heartwarming experience. Whether you’re here for a quick visit, planning a getaway weekend, or dreaming of starting your own alpaca herd. We’ve got you covered.

We’ve been farming alpacas since 2012, and every member of our herd has a name, a story, and (usually) an opinion. From our white alpaca who looks like she’s smiling to the babies (crias) learning how to pronk, there’s always something worth meeting.

What You’ll Find at Our Alpaca Farm 

Alpaca Owner Workshops

Interested in raising alpacas yourself? We run practical workshops for new and potential alpaca owners. You’ll learn everything from feeding to shearing set-up, fencing, shelters, body scoring, FAMACHA checks, and more. View dates here.

Fleece workshops

In 2025, we will be hosting an alpaca Dryer Ball Workshop that you can take home and use on your laundry. More info will follow shortly, so sign up to our VIP mailing list and watch this page.

Farm Products

We sell our alpaca yarn and wool, made right here on the farm. It’s soft, sustainable, and full of character. Just like the alpacas who grow it. Buy here

Also new in 2025 is our range of made in Peru knitwear and living. Coming soon!

Off-Grid Farm Stay

Make a weekend of it with a stay in our handcrafted adults-only summerhouse by the pond. It’s peaceful, private, and completely off-grid, built with passive solar principles and surrounded by alpacas and donkeys.

Meet the Alpacas (once a year, annual open day)

Visitors can get up close with our alpacas, learn about their personalities and how we raise them, and, if they’re feeling social, give them a gentle pat on the neck and a feed. They’re curious, calm, and very photogenic. Make sure to sign up for our annual open days and be on the VIP list.

Why Visit an Alpaca Farm in the Hunter Valley? 

People visit for all sorts of reasons. Some for the animals, some for the education, and some just to slow down for a bit and reconnect with nature. The Hunter Valley is known for wine and scenery, but we like to think alpacas are a pretty great reason too.

We’re only a short drive from Pokolbin (40 minutes) and then ten minutes from Wollombi village, making adding a farm visit to your weekend away easy. We are definitely off the beaten track, so please ensure you have the right vehicle for our bush track road. 

Due to our bio-security policy in place, we are available by appointment only and booked in advance. One last thing, closed shoes out on the paddocks.

Plan Your Visit 

We welcome visitors by appointment only to ensure the animals' (and your) relaxation and enjoyment. You will definitely need to book well in advance, as we don’t accept walk-ins and hope that people respect our bio-security policy.

To book an alpaca visit, a workshop, or our summerhouse accommodation, visit our website.

Whether you’re curious about alpacas, dreaming of your small farm, or just looking for a unique day out in the Hunter Valley. Little Valley Farm is a great place to start, but via appointment only as we are usually booked out in advance.

We’d love to welcome you to the paddock. Daniela

Daniela and here alpacas at Little Valley Farm

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Other alpaca places to book

Starline offers alpaca feeding and is set up for excellent family accommodation.

Iris Lodge on the Central Coast offers alpaca feeding sessions. Jump on their website to book.

If you are outside the Hunter Valley, NSW then jump on the Australian Alpaca Assocation to find a breeder near you or send me an email.

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Jump on the website for Little Valley Farm to book your alpaca workshop

ALPACA Lovers for hobby farmers now and in the future

For the Love of Alpacas: A Hobby Farmer’s Dream

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the gentle hum of alpacas or watching them quietly graze against a backdrop of rolling hills, you’re not alone - and you’re definitely in the right place.

At Little Valley Farm, we believe alpacas are more than just cute faces (although they really are that cute). They’re intelligent, low-maintenance (compared to a horse!), and make the perfect addition to small properties, hobby farms, or anyone looking to live a little more gently with nature.

Little Valley Paisley

Whether you're new to the idea of keeping livestock or already planning your future farm, alpacas are the ideal starting point. They're soft-footed (so no paddock damage), highly sociable, and bring an incredible sense of calm to the land. They also give back - producing beautiful fleece, rich fertiliser for your garden, and in many cases, lifelong companionship.

We regularly welcome guests, new alpaca owners, and curious hobby farmers to our workshops and open farm days, where you can learn the basics of alpaca care, body scoring, FAMACHA testing, and how to truly understand these gentle animals. It's hands-on, informative, and always ends with a few laughs (and usually a few alpaca selfies too).

If you're ready to dip your boots into the world of hobby farming or simply want to spend a few days immersed in the alpaca lifestyle, come and visit us. Stay in our off-grid summerhouse, meet the herd (including Oberon, Pansey, Reign of Chinchilla, Vinkie, and baby Van just to name a few), and get a real taste of life with alpacas in the heart of the Wollombi Valley.

This is a space for dreamers, doers, and animal lovers—whether you're starting your journey or just starting to think about it.

Your alpaca adventure starts here.

Little cria Van

Breeding For Rare Fleece Colors Lynn Edens and Darcy Phillips

Whether you're just starting out or already have a few quirky-coloured alpacas in your paddock, this article is a brilliant resource for understanding what’s going on beneath the fleece.

Darcy Phillips of Rare Gem Alpacas also shares her journey, offering insights into how she’s bred nearly 90 harlequin and appaloosa alpacas over the years by focusing on both pattern and fleece quality.

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Here at Little Valley Farm, we often get asked about our colourful alpacas, especially the spotty ones. Why do some alpacas look like they’ve been dipped in paint? Can you breed for those colours? And what's the deal with harlequins and leopard spots?

Well, we came across a fantastic article by Lynn Edens and Darcy Phillips that digs into the science and strategy behind breeding for rare fleece patterns. We’ve summarised the key points below for fellow breeders (and curious fibre fans) who want to learn more about how these rare colours happen, and what it takes to breed them.

Breeding for Rare Fleece Colours

Rare fleece colours like harlequin, appaloosa, and leopard-spotted have become highly sought after in recent years. But breeding for these unique patterns isn’t simple. It’s a mix of genetics, patience, and clever planning.

The authors break down the genetics into three main types:

1. Single dominant gene patterns – Easier to breed for. If an alpaca has even one copy of the gene, it will usually show the pattern and pass it on.
   

2. Single recessive gene patterns – Trickier. These only show when an alpaca has two copies of the gene, and carriers aren’t obvious unless you do pedigree or production tracking.
   

3. Patterns requiring two genes – These are the most complex. Both parents need to carry specific combinations, and even then, only a small number of offspring will show the pattern consistently.
   

Two patterns are explored in detail:

• Harlequins: These alpacas are born light (often fawn) but change colour as they age, becoming smoky, taupe, or grey. They often have unique combinations of black alleles and dilution genes, possibly linked to roan or other coat colour mutations found in other species like horses and cats.
  

• Appaloosas - The Spotted ones: These alpacas have true dark spots that aren't the same as white-patterned appaloosas in horses. The spot distribution varies, some are “classic” (spots in the blanket) and others “leopard” (spots all over). These traits are also tied to specific gene combinations, especially the presence of black alleles.
  

The article also touches on the business side of rare colour breeding. Because some genes are hard to track without testing, you need good records, thoughtful breeding pairs, and a plan to balance fleece quality with colour goals.

Darcy Phillips of Rare Gem Alpacas also shares her journey, offering insights into how she’s bred nearly 90 harlequin and appaloosa alpacas over the years by focusing on both pattern and fleece quality.

Whether you're just starting out or already have a few quirky-coloured alpacas in your paddock, this article is a brilliant resource for understanding what’s going on beneath the fleece.

Read the full article here: Breeding For Rare Fleece Colors Lynn Edens and Darcy Phillips

Happy breeding from all of us (humans and alpacas) at Little Valley Farm! 🦙

Building Trust with Alpacas: The Power of Stillness

Building Trust with Alpacas: The Power of Stillness

There’s something truly special about earning the trust of an alpaca. It doesn’t happen overnight—it takes time, patience, and a deep understanding of their nature. Unlike dogs or cats, alpacas won’t instantly warm up to you. They need to feel safe, and the best way to show them you are no threat is through stillness and quiet presence.

Every day, twice a day, I sit with my alpacas. I don’t speak, I don’t make any sudden movements, and I certainly don’t rush toward them. I simply exist in their space. For weeks, I do this, allowing them to become familiar with my presence. Slowly, they begin to accept me as part of their environment.

At first, they keep their distance, watching with curiosity. Then, one or two might step a little closer, testing the waters. When they finally approach, I remain completely still, letting them take the lead. Sometimes, an alpaca will gently place its nose against mine. In that moment, I close my eyes and even try to hold my breath—because the sound of human breathing can startle them.

It’s a beautiful exchange of trust. No words, no expectations—just quiet understanding. Over time, they learn that I am safe, that I respect their space, and that they can be themselves around me.

Building a bond with alpacas isn’t about forcing interaction; it’s about patience and letting them come to you on their terms. And when that trust is finally established, it’s one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.

Have you had a special moment with an alpaca? I’d love to hear about your experiences! Let’s chat in the comments. Daniela

Video: Watching ten day old cria, Van, Dam is Vinky in the background as he gets use to my presence.

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The video above is of Paisley and me in the paddock. She is now 16 months old and never liked to be handled. She has come a long way and made our husbandry tasks much easier and more enjoyable. If you would like to read more about Paisley, click on the YouTube video above.

Join Us for Our Next Monthly Alpaca Workshop!

Curious about alpacas? Want to learn how to care for them and understand their unique behaviours? Our Introduction to Alpacas workshop runs monthly in the Hunter Valley and is perfect for new and potential alpaca owners.

During this hands-on session, you'll learn:
✅ How to handle and care for alpacas
✅ Body Scoring (BSC) and FAMACHA methods
✅ Feeding, health, and general husbandry
✅ Understanding their behaviuor and building trust

This is a great opportunity to get up close with these incredible animals in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Spaces are limited, so book now!

📍 Location: Little Valley Farm, Laguna, Wollombi Valley. Hunter Valley (90 mins from Sydney).
📅 When: Monthly—check our website for upcoming dates
🎟 Bookings & Info: view here

We can't wait to share our love of alpacas with you!

Grey Alpaca Yarn by Charlie

Charlie’s Fleece – Handspun Yarn from Our Young Alpaca

There’s something truly special about working with handspun yarn, especially when it comes from a much-loved alpaca like our young Charlie. This beautiful dark grey yarn with subtle brown flecks has been carefully handspun right here in the Wollombi Valley, where we live and farm sustainably.

Charlie was just under 12 months old when we sheared his first fleece, making this yarn incredibly soft and full of youthful alpaca charm. Each skein is approximately 75 grams and spun to an 8 PLY weight, making it ideal for knitting or crocheting cozy, unique creations.

This exclusive yarn is available for a limited time only on our shop cart.

Handspun alpaca yarn by Charlie the grey alpaca

Charlie with his Mum Chinny.

Charlie takes after this dad, sire Lieutenant

Introduction to Alpaca workshop 2025

Sunday, 9th March 2025

Are you thinking about owning alpacas or simply want to learn more about these fascinating animals? Join us on Sunday, 9th March 2025, at Little Valley Farm in the Hunter Valley, for our Introduction to Alpaca Workshop.

This hands-on workshop covers everything you need to know about alpaca care, including husbandry, feeding, handling, shelters, health checks, body condition scoring (BSC), and the FAMACHA system. Whether you’re a new or potential alpaca owner, this is the perfect opportunity to gain practical knowledge and ask all your questions.

Set in the beautiful Lower Hunter Valley, our farm provides a relaxed learning environment where you’ll meet our friendly herd of alpacas and of course, a couple of donkeys also.

Workshop Details:

📅 Date: Sunday, 9th March 2025

📍 Location: Little Valley Farm, Laguna, Wollombi Valley, Hunter Valley (90 mins from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast).

🎟️ Limited spots available – book now!

Don’t miss out! Secure your place today and start your alpaca journey with confidence.

🔗 Visit our website to book

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If you would like to camp (BYO tent or van) and use our communal toilet and shower area. These facilities are around 100 m walk from where you will set up camp.

• Camping area has no electrical or water hook-up, so you need to be self-sufficient.

• 100 m walk to the toilet and shower area with solar lighting.

• Please note that our camping is for adults (no children, infants, or pets).

• Bonfires or fire pits are not permitted.

• Camping is only offered to people who book the Introduction to Alpaca workshop only.

• Suitable for vans, 4WD, and camper trailers but not large/high caravans due to our dirt track road and low line trees.

• Email Daniela for rates for this one-night camp stay.

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Our summerhouse can be booked for up to four adults who are attending our alpaca workshop. The stay would only be for the Sunday night (1 night). See rates and more here.

Little Valley Farm Hunter Valley, Wollombi Valley

Alpaca workshop NSW, Hunter Valley alpacas, how to care for alpacas, alpaca training, alpaca farming Australia, alpaca ownership, sustainable farming, Wollombi Valley farm experiences.

Breeding Grey Alpacas what you need to know first

Breeding grey alpacas can be surprisingly complicated and sometimes, risky, if you don’t understand the genetics behind those gorgeous coats. This guide is essential reading for anyone considering breeding greys. It breaks down the difference between classic and modern greys, explains why certain pairings can lead to embryo loss or blue-eyed whites, and offers smart, science-backed strategies to improve your chances of producing healthy, true greys. 

The more you know, the more you can spot what’s happening in the paddock and that’s the key to having happy, thriving alpacas on your farm.

Written by Elizabeth Paul March 2019 

Breeding Grey alpacas

Meet Oberon – The Sweetest Alpaca and the softest wool

Meet Oberon – The Sweetest Alpaca at Little Valley Farm!

Good morning from Little Valley Farm! Today, I’m introducing Oberon, our adorable white alpaca, who is as sweet as can be. Seeing her this morning reminded me that we’ve just finished processing her luxurious alpaca fleece, handspinning it into the softest 100% pure alpaca yarn. We now have plenty of white alpaca yarn balls for sale, perfect for knitting, crochet, or weaving your next cozy project!

Why Choose Alpaca Wool?

Our hand-spun alpaca yarn is:
✔ Soft and hypoallergenic – Ideal for sensitive skin
✔ Sustainable and eco-friendly – Ethically sourced from our farm
✔ Breathable and temperature-regulating – Keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer
✔ Water-resistant and durable – Long-lasting, high-quality fibre

If you love natural, sustainable fibres, why not wear a little piece of Oberon close to your heart? Shop our collection of Australian alpaca yarn now at Little Valley Farm!

🔗 Visit our Little Valley farm website to explore our range.

#LittleValleyFarm #AlpacaYarnForSale #SustainableWool #HandspunAlpaca #AustralianAlpacaFarm #EthicalYarn

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.

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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

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.

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!