Wet Winters and Winter Feed

Autumn / Winter 2024 its certainly a wet one for us right now. What do we need to do to maintain the health of our alpacas during this cold wet season.

Managing wet winters

Remember, things may not always be as they seem. Now is the time to monitor your pasture quality and alpaca condition, even if you're busy enjoying the sight of lush green feed this winter.

During wet and cold weather, pastures may look healthy and green but might struggle to meet the energy needs of your alpacas. You may still need to provide supplementary hay. In wet Autumn/winter, waterlogging can reduce pasture growth and nutrition, and if there's a shortage of dry feed and roughage, your animals can quickly lose their condition.

At this time of year, when winter feed is typically insufficient, it's vital to adhere to a grazing plan and make prompt decisions to safeguard your animals' health - regardless of the size of your alpaca herd. With cooler, shorter winter days, pasture growth slows, and all livestock, particularly young, pregnant, or lactating animals, can rapidly lose condition if their feed doesn't meet their energy needs.

Nothing beats walking around the paddock, checking the type of feed available, assessing how your livestock are coping.

Strive for rotational grazing, supplement feeding, and the provision of vitamins and minerals. Always body score your alpacas and maintain detailed records of their condition and any vital information. These records will be invaluable for future reference.

We will talk more about this at our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley.

We are 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. Book in via our website for our Introduction to Alpaca Workshop.

When in Wollombi Valley 

The Wollombi Valley offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and serenity, making it an ideal destination for travellers. Situated in the scenic Lower Hunter Region of New South Wales, Wollombi Valley is celebrated for its verdant surroundings, deep Aboriginal roots, and delightful colonial-era buildings.

This tiny town is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to disconnect, unwind, and immerse themselves in nature without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds.

Explore the concept of slow travel, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the destination and take the time to appreciate and understand all it has to offer.

Welcome to THE WILD HUNTER VALLEY 

Natural Attractions 

Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover Wollombi Valley, a paradise boasting rolling hills and a stunning bushland setting. Nearby, National Parks and State Forests offer hiking and biking trails, camping spots, and picnic areas. The area teems with various native species, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Birdwatching and wombat spotting are popular activities in the area. Wombats freely roam the region, and thanks to the dedicated efforts of the volunteer team at Cedar Creek Wombat Hospital, many wombats receive exceptional care, including rehabilitation and release back into their natural habitat. Its important to note that the wombat hospital is not open for visitors due to their rescue overload work.

Keep an eye out for the vibrant birdlife, the gentle roaming wombats, and the elusive wallaroos, while listening for the captivating songs of the gang-gang cockatoo, butcherbird, and lyrebird. 


Accommodation Options in Wollombi Valley 

The Wollombi Valley has a variety of places to stay that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you're into cozy bed-and-breakfasts, rustic cabins, or fancy lodges, there's something for everyone. Many of these accommodations boast breathtaking countryside and bushland views, providing the perfect setting to unwind and immerse oneself in the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Here are our top five places to stay in Wollombi Valley. 

Family-friendly 

Hollybrook Hunter Valley at Sweetmans Creek, a 100-acre historic dairy farm owned by local artist, Heather McMullen, who also runs Art N Sip classes.  

Pet friendly, 

The Woodcutters is a spacious country home suitable for large groups and just a short stroll from Wollombi Village. 

Glamping,

Little Valley Farm, with its iconic 1950s glamping train carriage by the alpaca paddocks, was nominated by Airbnb as the Best Unique Stay Host Finalist for 2023. 

Unique Stay,

The Shearer's Studio showcases a wood-fired Finnish Dry Sauna crafted by Euan Wilcox from recycled timber and a unique cabin experience on a working alpaca farm. 

Single night 

Grays Inn Wollombi, A Georgian sandstone building located in the heart of Wollombi Village, featuring a beautifully manicured garden, Noyce Brothers Cellar Door, and a relaxing café, all under one historically significant roof. 

Historical Significance

The Wollombi Valley holds significant historical importance, especially for the indigenous people who have lived here for thousands of years. During the colonial period, the valley was a major route for travellers heading to the Hunter Valley and beyond. The historic village of Wollombi, with its well-preserved sandstone buildings, the iconic Wollombi Tavern, and the Wollombi General Store, is a testament to the region's past.

Wollombi Valley Arts Council, Fireshed Gallery and Little Yengo Gallery. 

The award-winning gallery showcases Aboriginal paintings and artifacts that represent the meaning of Wollombi, which is “meeting place” or “meeting place of the waters. The artists, both local and from distant places, share traditions and strong connections with the land. Many of the artists reside in remote areas of Australia, so this non-profit gallery is operated and looked after by community volunteers. You are welcome to visit and appreciate the ever-changing collection, which shares the stories and traditions of the local corroborees through artworks and videos.



Activities and Experiences

Visitors to Wollombi Valley can enjoy various activities that showcase the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Local vineyards offer wine tasting, providing the opportunity to sample some of the Hunter Valley's wines. The Wollombi Village Markets, held a couple of times a year, feature local arts, crafts, and produce, giving visitors a taste of the local culture.

Drive up to Finchley Track, where Aboriginal rock carvings and ancient sites remain. Stop and enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt Yengo, which is significant. 

BYO Bike: Ride your gravel bike up the steep hills, challenge yourself along the Finchley Track, or take casual but long rides down Watagan Creek Road, Laguna. 

Vineyards 

Noyce Brothers Wine at Grays Inn Wollombi, Undercliff Winery, Wollombi Wines, and Stonehurst Cedar Creek. 

Wollombi Markets are held on the long weekends. 

The Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival runs from 14th to 29th September 2024. 


Dining and Local Cuisine

Wollombi Valley's dining scene features a mix of traditional Australian fare and contemporary cuisine, often highlighting locally sourced ingredients. The Wollombi Tavern is a popular spot for its casual vibe, live music and historic charm. Additionally, several cafes and restaurants in the village and surrounding areas provide delightful culinary experiences in picturesque settings.

Where to dine

Visiting the Trading Post Laguna feels like escaping to a rustic paradise, offering charming views across the Laguna Valley. Myrtle and Stone is a delightful country cafe serving delicious breakfast all day. Meanwhile, the Wollombi Tavern and Wollombi General Store evoke the old-world charm of yesteryear. Lastly, the Wollombi Kitchen Next Door Cafe brings a fresh and dynamic dining experience to the area, with casual and formal options available.

Staying in Wollombi Valley offers a unique escape where history, nature, and relaxation converge. Whether you're seeking adventure, a romantic retreat, or a family-friendly vacation, the valley provides a diverse range of experiences to create lasting memories. Its blend of scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality makes Wollombi Valley a destination worth exploring.

Experience this tiny town that prides itself on slow travel for those who cherish nature and love the Australian bush setting.

"Come not to be seen, but to immerse yourself." 

A remote valley just one hour from Sydney. Two rural villages surrounded by National Parks and State Forest. THE WILD HUNTER VALLEY. #staywollombivalley

Follow Instagram @wollombivalley


Book your farmstay at Little Valley Farm, Laguna, Wollombi Valley





Alpaca Fleece for Spinners

100% Australian alpaca fleece, harvested from our alpacas at Little Valley Farm in the Lower Hunter Valley, NSW.

SURI Fleece

Fawn Suri. Unwashed.

Huacaya Daph

White and pretty clean not much VM. Raw. Unwashed.

NEVE

White fleece Huacaya. Raw. Unwashed.

Pansey

Black but not a true black. Def has VM as shown in the photos. Suri. 1.5kg

100% Australian alpaca fleece, harvested from our alpacas at Little Valley Farm in the Lower Hunter Valley, NSW.

From our Shearing Day 2023, limited stock is now available. P&P applies to each saddle posted. Only posted within Australia.


Introduction to Alpaca Workshops

It was a splendid winter day in the Hunter Valley, ideal for our Introduction to Alpacas workshop last Sunday. We are always thrilled to see the alpacas bounding into the new paddock and going through their familiar routines. I finally had time to do a quick video at the start of our workshop with our guests watching our female alpacas and their crias running towards them. It's a great sight and a delight to all who watch.

Do you dream of owning alpacas?

At Little Valley Farm in Laguna, we offer monthly workshops for new and aspiring owners. Immerse yourself in the world of these amazing creatures and learn all about their care at our workshop.

Alpacas are truly fascinating animals, but they do require specialised care. Join us for our unique alpaca workshop, designed especially for individuals living on small farms or acreage. This workshop is an excellent way to explore whether alpacas are the right fit for your farm and serves as the perfect primer for potential alpaca owners.

Take the first step towards starting your alpaca herd.

We are located in the Wollombi Valley, Lower Hunter Valley, NSW, which is under two hours from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. If you're interested in staying in the valley, you can search for Grays Inn Wollombi (Noyce Brothers wine) for one-night stays. Be sure to book in advance to secure your dates, as they only have three rooms available. It's located right in the heart of Wollombi Village, near the Tavern.

Euan and I have been farming alpacas in Laguna since 2012, and we look forward to meeting you. Daniela

Along the Harvest Trails with Weekend Morning ABC702 AM

I'm back on the radio, chatting to Simon Marnie about all things Harvest Trails and Markets across the Sydney Basin. Here's a screenshot of where to shop, visit, and support our local farmers and growers. Thanks, Daniela


All about locally grown Winter veggies at the markets today. The very best of 

Asian Vegetables, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Leek, Spinach, Mandarins and Oranges 


Markets

Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 22nd June 2024 

A treasure trove of fresh produce and all undercover in Sydney from 8 am to 1 pm.  

https://www.facebook.com/CarriageworksFarmersMarket



Castle Hill Farmers and Fine Food Market 

Saturday 22nd June 2024 

Castle Hill Showground 8 am to 12 noon. 

https://www.facebook.com/HarvestTrailsAndMarkets


Organic Food Markets Saturday 22nd June. 

Leichhardt - Orange Grove Markets from 8 am to 1 pm. 

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au/Markets_Solo?market=LEICHHARDT&id=4


Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

https://www.facebook.com/camdenfreshproducemarketarket


Sunday Markets 

Central Coast and Surrounds the 

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

https://www.facebook.com/gosfordcityfarmersmarket


Inner West 

Organic Food Markets in Marrickville Sunday 9 am to 3 pm. 

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au/Markets_Solo?market=MARRICKVILLE&id=15


Northern Beach Mona Vale Sunday, 8:30 am to 1:00 pm

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


PICK YOUR OWN 

Glenbernie Family Farms

It's going to be a fantastic weekend at Glenbernie with their Pick Your Own event. You can PYO sunflowers. The kids can feed the cows, meet the mini goats, see alpaca mum, and her cria (baby). There will be a jumping castle the kids and a great picnic area for the whole family to enjoy. 

Bells Line Of Road Kurmond

No Bookings but there is a $10 adult entry fee and $5 per child. 

They have plenty of seasonal produce available for sale all grown on the farm. 

Saturday 9 AM - 2:30 PM and Sunday 9 AM - 3 PM


TNT PRODUCE in right in the heart of Bilpin.
It's Oranges and Lemons… and some Pink Lady Apples to PYO. 

Saturday 22nd June.

Bookings via their website. 

Pink Lady Apples are half price at $2.50 p/k 

Oranges and Lemons are $5 p/k 

Follow their website for Sunday PYO details. 

https://tntproduce.com.au/


South of Sydney Thirlmere, Wollondilly 

Berrylicious Strawberries

PYO Strawberries 

grow in a unique system inside greenhouses and all pesticide-free

Last PYO weekend with bookings is essential, but today only. 

https://www.facebook.com/berryliciousstrawberries


Sneak Peak into next week on the Central Coast: Look out for:

https://www.facebook.com/pickyourownorangesdooralong

Meliora Farm PYO Oranges https://meliorafarm.com.au/whats-on/#booking

Wyuna Farm PYO Oranges https://www.facebook.com/events/408174911814356

Alpaca Halter Training and Workshops

Socialising your Alpacas

Socialising and training your alpacas is essential for their well-being. Training must involve desensitisation and patience. Start by handling them gently, then gradually introduce the halter. Walking training should be done in small, calm sessions, using a clicking sound as a cue. Reward them by relaxing the lead when they take a step. With practice, they will learn to walk on the lead comfortably.

Herd Bucket Training

This one is super simple: Feed at the same time every day and in the same place. Use shallow buckets so they can look out while eating and feel more comfortable.

Our herd knows when it's 4 p.m. They gather in the shed and watch me walk from the house down the hill into the shed. Then, I have 100 eyes on me, urging me to walk faster. Yes, they do recognize people!

Note: feed in buckets rather than the grass to reduce worm burden issues and to stop the hay from going mouldy.

Cria halter training

Alpacas are naturally averse to being touched, so training them to overcome this instinct is crucial. This involves desensitisation, which means repeating the same action until the animal becomes comfortable.

Training requires multiple short, calm sessions and a great deal of patience. Like all animals, some alpacas learn more quickly than others and are easier to train.

Assertive crias take longer to train. Different breeders have their techniques for training alpacas, and you can find instructional videos online.

We aim to build trust with our alpacas and have found the following methods effective on our farm.

We start handling the animals while they are with their dams. Initially, we sit in the paddocks with them without touching or grabbing them, allowing them to approach us as they are naturally curious. We close our eyes so as not to threaten them and remain still and silent. Being still shows the animals that we are never a threat.

Once they have seen us several times and realize who we are, we start touching and stroking their neck. After several sessions, running a hand down their back creates a level of trust, and the cria can be caught and gently held. Catching and holding are needed early on to inject vaccines and vitamins and record body score condition.

Touching and rubbing the head, lips, and ears can begin, and it's sometimes possible to discover that the cria has a particular spot they enjoy being rubbed. Being able to touch all parts of the head is essential, not only for halter fitting but also should you or a vet need to examine the eyes or the mouth.

Then, we start by simply allowing it to see and smell the halter, but in later sessions, we touch it against the nose and face without actually fitting it. Only when the halter is not avoided is it placed over the nose—raising it from beneath the cria's head rather than lowering it from above. If the cria remains calm when the halter nose band is placed on the upper nose, it can be buckled for a short period; otherwise, additional sessions will be necessary.

The halter must be the right size and properly fitted to avoid restricting the cria's nasal breathing. Otherwise, the cria will panic and become fearful of the halter.

Gradually extend the touching and rubbing of the cria's body down to the legs and feet. This will make it easier to examine the legs and trim the toenails in the future. By six to eight months, your cria should be comfortable with wearing a halter and standing still on a lead.

Walking Training

In order to train your alpaca, it's important to approach the process calmly and with patience. Short training sessions are better than long ones, and each session should end on a positive note to make the next one easier.

Start by training your alpaca in a small pen, ideally 3 x 3 meters, with other alpacas nearby. Once your cria is haltered and on a lead, stand to the animal's side with about half a meter of lead between you and the cria. Gently pull the lead, causing the cria to step sideways to maintain its balance. Accompany this process with a clicking sound, and reward the alpaca by immediately relaxing the tension on the lead when it moves. Repeat this process from both sides and at the end of each session, gently remove the halter but hold the cria for a few seconds before releasing it.

Most cria will initially resist moving and may kush or roll in protest. In these cases, it's important to get them to quietly stand again on the halter. Once this can be done easily, you can move on to teaching forward motion. For this, you can use a larger enclosure if available, or somewhere close to their herd. Once the cria is haltered and standing alongside you, face the direction you want the animal to go.

When leading a cria, start by making a clicking sound and gently pulling the lead. Some will naturally take a step, but most will resist, so starting with the off-balance moves as above may be needed. Relax the lead when a step is taken. Some crias will be obstinate, and gentle pressure on their rear quarters can provoke movement - occasionally, they may jump around. Wait 5-10 seconds before repeating. As the cria starts to understand what is wanted, gradually increase the number of steps before giving a longer lead.

Remember to keep the lead relaxed when the cria takes a step. This is the cria's reward for the desired behaviour rather than being petted or spoken to. Avoid pulling hard on the lead, as being haltered and expected to follow a lead can be overwhelming for a young alpaca. As mentioned earlier, short training sessions are better than long ones, and after a few sessions, the cria will start to understand what is expected. With more practice, they will become more comfortable with walking on the halter and lead. Once they learn, alpacas do not forget how to walk on a lead.

Where can I buy a halter? 

You can try Alpaca Dynamics or Zephyr Halter. Small, medium, and large sizes are available. Only use halters made for alpacas.

Our alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley

Join our alpaca workshop to learn how to handle and catch alpacas in small pens and get more comfortable with them. Our workshops take place monthly in Wollombi Valley, Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. Visit our website for the full program details.

Alpaca Books

Learning material can be purchased online via our website for farming alpacas.

Hope to see you soon, thanks Daniela 

Interesting facts about alpacas?

We enjoy discussing all things alpacas. Here are some fascinating facts about these lovely creatures.

  • There are no wild alpacas – the alpaca is the domesticated version of the vicuña.

  • Alpacas live at high altitudes in the South American Andes.

  • Like cows and sheep, alpacas are ruminants.

  • Alpacas have soft pads on their feet, which do not churn up the ground like the hard hooves of cows or horses.

  • Alpacas are related to llamas, which are domesticated versions of the guanaco.

  • Llamas are commonly utilized as pack animals, while alpacas are primarily raised for their wool.

  • Vicuñas are descended from camel-like animals that evolved in North America then moved south roughly 3 million years ago.

  • Around 6,000 years ago, the Andean people started to domesticate alpacas.

  • There are two kinds of alpaca: the Huacaya and the Suri.

  • Suri has very long-fibered fleeces, and Huacaya has a shorter crimped fleece. 

  • Alpacas are the smallest members of the camel family.

  • Alpacas, native to the Andes, are happy living at altitudes up to 4,800 meters.

  • Alpacas all over the world thrive on ordinary farmland.

  • 99% of the world’s alpacas still live in South America.

  • Alpacas are highly sociable, gentle, and curious creatures. 

  • Alpacas make really wonderful pets and can be trained fairly easily. 

  • Alpacas are herd animals and don’t like to be alone. When their own kind aren’t around, they like to live with llamas, goats, and sheep but always want/need the company of their own kind. 

  • Llamas and alpacas can breed, and their babies are called huarizo.

  • Alpaca wool (fleece) is incredibly soft and does not retain water. In fact, it’s the second strongest animal fibre after mohair.

  • If an alpaca is feeling distressed or threatened, it may spit at its fellow animal. 

  • Alpacas are generally gentle animals and do not spit at or bite humans unless they are provoked or mistreated.

  • What is sour face?" When an alpaca spits, it results in a condition called "sour mouth". Sour mouth is identified by a loose lower lip and a wide open mouth. This occurs due to the stomach acids and unpleasant taste of the contents as they are expelled from the mouth. More importantly, it helps to settle disputes within the herd rather quickly. 

  • Alpacas make a gentle mmmmmm humming noise when happy or when they are rearing their cria. 

  • They emit a high-pitched sound when there is danger and stand on guard.

  • The members of an alpaca herd will all use the same communal dung pile, rather than defecating randomly. This helps to prevent the spread of diseases.

  • It's amusing to see female alpacas waiting in line for the communal dung pile as they prefer to defecate together.

  • Sun worshippers. Alpacas enjoy sunbathing by lying down on their sides and stretching out in the sun. It can be alarming to see them this way if you don't know what they're doing, as they may appear to have dropped dead.

  • When sun-worshipping, they are getting their natural Vitamin D intake.

  • Alpacas breed once a year naturally and give birth to just one baby.

  • The gestation period for alpacas is 11.5 months but may vary from 11 to 12 months.

  • A baby alpaca is called a cria.

  • Crias weigh about 6-9 kg when born.

  • In the high desert regions of South America, temperatures can get very cold during the night. To ensure the safety and well-being of their babies, mothers tend to give birth in the morning. This allows the newborns to have the entire day to dry off, start moving around, and nurse from their mother before the temperatures start to drop again.

  • Females can reproduce when they are fully grown, usually around 2 years old.

  • Males mature a bit more slowly, ready to mate at around two to three years old.

  • Alpacas can live as long as 20 years.

  • Thankfully, alpacas are not an endangered species.

  • Alpacas come in 22 colours, from a deep blue-black through browns and tans to white.

  • Some Andean people eat alpaca meat (We don't!).

  • In Peru, alpaca meat is a luxury food.

  • Alpacas don’t have teeth in the top-front of their mouths, so they sometimes can look a bit goofy.

  • Alpacas must be shorn once a year in spring before the hot summer weather begins.

  • You would require a PIC number to purchase alpacas for your farmland or acreage in Australia.

Join our alpaca workshop for a unique introduction to alpaca management. Perfect for small farm owners, get a starter guide to help you determine if alpacas are a good fit for your farm.

Daniela Riccio, owner, Little Valley Farm.

Established in 2012 in the Hunter Valley.

Rescue Alpaca and alpaca workshops

We have come along way with building trust with this female.

We rarely rescue alpacas, but we take them in to help out whenever we can. We aim to restore their health, address trust issues, and teach them to interact with other alpacas and humans again.

I dedicate much time to building trust with and desensitizing the alpacas. This is crucial for us to handle them calmly, trim their nails, shear them, and administer vaccinations and vitamins. This level of care helps them thrive once again in the paddocks.

All alpacas are handled in a 3 x 3 m pen that is safe for both animals and humans. 

This particular female alpaca picture below was quite feisty and had not been handled or had her nails trimmed properly. We had to work on gaining her trust and improving her behaviour. Today, we reached a milestone as she allowed us to kiss and cuddle her, and even smiled. There was no kicking, screaming, or running around the pen. 

She's a gorgeous girl, and I've received many more cuddles from her since then. Her nails are now looking much better and she is thriving once again.

Join us for our monthly Sunday workshop on handling and farming alpacas. They are beautiful animals. Can't make it to our workshop? Then, we have the alpaca farming manual available for purchase online.

Our next Sunday alpaca workshop will be Sunday 16th June 2024 at 10:30am. Book online to reserve your place as numbers are limited.

Remember: Alpacas are not suitable as house pets. They are livestock and should not be treated like dogs or cats. Improperly raised alpacas can become dangerous and may need to be euthanised if they have not been properly socialised. Please look up Berserk Male Syndrome.

If you want to buy alpacas, make sure you have a PIC# from your Local Land Services and purchase livestock from a reputable breeder who will also mentor you.

We are members of the AAA

Little Valley Farm June updates

Hello everyone, welcome to June! Can you believe how fast the year is flying by?

Here's what's happening in June:

Alpaca Workshop

Join us for our Introduction to Alpaca Workshop on Sunday, June 16th, 2024, at 10:30 am in Laguna. Limited spots are available, so book online to secure your spot!

Alpacas as Pets

If you already have alpacas, remember to keep their vitamins up due to the fluctuating weather. Run your FECS before drenching and make sure you know which worms you are drenching for to avoid creating worm-drench resistance, using unnecessary chemicals and spending money needlessly. With the recent rain, persistent and heavy rains can leach nutrients from the soil, leading to nutrient-deficient plants. Make sure you have enough hay stocks and provide supplementary feed to the alpacas.

Want to Buy Alpacas for Your Hobby Farm?

In July, we have some delightful and laid-back alpacas that would be perfect additions to your hobby farm. Super chilled females to join your farm family.

Yarn

With the cool weather finally here, it's time to start knitting with our 100% handspun alpaca yarn. Check out our website to see what we have, and we'll be adding more to the shop cart shortly.

Handspun in the Hunter

Wear alpaca close to your heart.

Okay, I'm heading outside to feed the alpacas, donkeys, and chickens - including Whitey the silkie hen and her 9 chicks. It's a lot of fun watching these little things scurry about my feet. Adorable!

Talk soon, Daniela

Never to old for an alpaca cuddle wtih Taratini.

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.

Alpaca Husbandry Hands-on Day workshop

Thinking about getting alpacas?

Are you considering getting alpacas? Have you recently acquired alpacas and want to learn how to take better care of them? Our workshop is the best investment to start your own alpaca adventure. If you don't have alpacas yet, you will learn the essentials of alpaca management and determine if they are the right animal for you and your property. If you already have alpacas, you will learn all the essentials to care for them so they can be happy, healthy, and thrive on your farm.

Join Euan and Daniela of Little Valley Farm Alpaca Farm, established in 2012 in the Hunter Valley, Wollombi Valley.

The next introduction workshop will be on 16th June and 21st July 2024. You can book via our website.

Shearing 2024

September 2024 will be our shearing weekend. Dates for this event are yet to be confirmed.

Husbandry Day - Get involved

The Hands-on Husbandry Day is designed for those who have previously participated in our Introduction to Alpaca workshop. Attendees of our previous workshop are welcome to join the morning session, which will cover drenching, vaccination, body scoring, and nail trimming for each alpaca. There is no charge for this husbandry day, and you are welcome to bring your children so they can watch and learn, too.

The next date for this is Sunday, June 9th, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. Places are limited, so book in advance with Daniela. We will be conducting body scoring, nail trimming, oral vitamins, and note-taking on every alpaca here.

We love what we do and want to share it with you.

Alpaca workshops for new and potential owners by Little Valley Farm in the Hunter Valley.

8 Amazing stays with Saunas across Australia

We built our own Sauna into the Shearers Studio to add that extra winter comfort. It’s a little extravagant given the beautiful wood stove at the end of the King Bed - but we build because we love the process and the challenge.

Our Sauna is an authentic Wood-fire Finnish Dry Sauna, with an imported wood stove and beautiful Red Cedar paneling. The Red Cedar windows and benches were milled by us from a discarded pergola in Hunters Hill. They were large & exceptional pieces (after quite a few hours work!).

We wanted the Studio to be an amazing, yet humble, sleeping and stay experience, and the relaxation you get from a Sauna elevates this to another level. We are so glad Saunas are having a revival at the moment, they certainly deserve to.

More about our sauna below by travel journalist CELESTE MITCHELL in the Australian Traveller magazine April 2024:-

———

Shearers Studio at Little Valley Farm, NSW

Hovering above a machinery shed on a working farm in the Wollombi Valley, the sauna experience at Little Valley Farm is as down-to-earth and authentic as it is secluded.

Crafted by hand by co-owner Euan Wilcox, using mostly reclaimed timber, the Finnish wood-fired sauna and adjacent rainwater-fed shower is beloved by guests who report the deepest sleep they’ve had in years – especially snuggled in the king size bed beneath a handmade doona filled with alpaca wool from their farm.

The Shearers Studio is set 100 metres from their other quirky accommodation offering – a 1950s Sydney Train carriage.


Full article at here…

Alpaca Workshops: Learn about Liver Fluke in Alpacas

Little Valley Farm conducts monthly alpaca workshops for those new to alpaca farming or considering owning alpacas. The workshop is an excellent opportunity to learn about alpacas and to determine if they are the right livestock for your hobby farm or acreage.

During the workshop, we will share our journey of starting an alpaca farm in the Hunter Valley in 2012. We will discuss what we did right and what we did wrong. We will also cover all aspects of alpaca farming, including animal welfare and health issues, and the best shed set-up for different weather conditions, including shearing day. Additionally, we will provide essential information on maintaining the daily health of your livestock and understanding the various parasites that affect them at different times of the year.

Today is about the parasite, LIVER FLUKE

Click on the image above to read more about Liver Fluke in Alpacas by Jane Vaughan, BVSc, Ph.D., MACVSc, CRIA Genesis.

Liver fluke are typically found in areas of southeastern Australia where the annual average rainfall is 600 mm or greater or on irrigated country where the average rainfall is 400 mm, in and around swampy areas, springs and seepages, irrigation channels and shallow, slow moving creeks where the intermediate host snail of this parasite breeds.

Liver fluke is the common name of the trematode, Fasciola hepatica. The parasite is found worldwide and is the only liver fluke found in Australia. Infection can lead to reduced productivity and death and costs millions of dollars each year in lost production (meat, wool, milk, liver condemnation, secondary infection, replacement stock requirements), stock deaths and costs of treatment and prevention. The fluke mainly affects cattle and sheep, but can also affect alpacas, goats, horses, pigs, kangaroos, wombats, rabbits and deer. Humans may also be infected, for example after eating watercress collected from fluke-infested creeks or following use of contaminated water on vegetable gardens. The adult fluke is a pale brown or grayish-brown flat worm about 1.5-4 cm long that lives in the bile ducts of the liver. Refer to the file by CRIA Genesis for actual images.



Things to Note

Treatment: Once a diagnosis has been made, a zero-tolerance approach is recommended when treating and controlling liver fluke because even light burdens can cause significant damage and production losses. The treatment recommended will depend on the nature of infection – are immature or adult fluke causing disease? Not all flukicides (anthelmintics effective against liver fluke) are effective against immature fluke so are not recommended in acute fluke outbreaks (Table 1 in the attachment of CRIA Genesis). They are also less efficient for strategic control of flukes. Even the best flukacides do not kill every fluke and an effective flukacide is described as being 90 % or more effective (compared with roundworm anthelmintics where effective drenches kill more than 95 % of target roundworms). Remember to test/treat introduced stock to reduce contaminating fluke-free areas.

Not sure on your parasites

If you are uncertain about the parasites you may have, you can conduct a fecal egg count (FEC) with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or your local veterinarian. However, you must specify the parasites you are looking for when testing.

Need advice or a drench

If you require any assistance or advice, please contact your local veterinarian. Alternatively, feel free to drop us an email if you are in Australia. We also have some supplies available if you need a particular drench for your small herd.

Little Valley Farm workshops

Click the link to learn more about our monthly Sunday workshops in the Hunter Valley.

Hope to see you soon, thanks, Daniela Riccio

Life cycle of the Liver Fluke: Fasciola hepatic by David Barlow. This video of the life cycle of the globally significant parasite of sheep and cattle; the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica was produced in collaboration with parasitologist Dr Clive Bennett (University of Southampton, retired)

Attachments:

Live Fluke in Alpacas - a very good read on this PDF document by Jane Vaughan BVSc PhD MACVSc CRIA Genesis.

Visit Wollombi Valley and what to do on your stay in the Hunter Valley

If you're planning a trip to Laguna, Wollombi Valley NSW, get ready for a nature stay surrounded by National Parks and State Forests. Feel hidden away on your getaway and explore this tiny hamlet and what it offers. 

Laguna and Wollombi are small towns in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. They are only 90 minutes from Sydney and Newcastle and under one hour from the Central Coast along Tourist Drive 33.


Daniela Riccio of Little Valley Farm Alpaca farm in Laguna, will give you the insider scoop on what's happening and what to do when visiting this charming hamlet. 

Firstly, book your accommodation directly with your host and avoid overseas booking platforms. Think of it as keeping it all local, helping the circular economy and grabbing a better deal for yourself.

Here's a basic itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning/Afternoon: Arrival

    • Arrive in Laguna and enjoy brunch or a tipple at the Trading Post Laguna. This charming pub, cafe and restaurant should always be your first stop in Laguna, plus a little retail splurge thanks to the Laguna Luxe lifestyle.


Afternoon: Explore Local Attractions

Explore the historic town of Wollombi Village, known for its heritage buildings and art galleries. Grab an ice cream from the Wollombi General Store and enjoy walking around the tiny hamlet.

Take a casual nature walk around the Wollombi Brook, and enter Negro Road just past the Tennis Club House. 

Wine Tasting at Noyce Brothers Wine and a quick coffee top-up at Wollombi Kitchen Next Door cafe or lunch at Myrle and Stone or Wollombi Tavern.


Evening: Dinner

    • Have dinner at a local restaurant or pub. Wollombi Tavern is a popular choice on beautiful evenings with its casual outdoor courtyard or go for something special up the road at Wollombi Kitchen and be spoilt for culinary delights thanks to Chef Rhomney. 

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning: Breakfast and Wineries

    • Start your day with breakfast at the local cafe, Myrtle and Stone, perched up on the hill in Wollombi Village. 

    • Visit nearby wineries like Stonehurst Cedar Creek or Undercliff Winery for wine tasting.

      Afternoon: Outdoor Activities

    • Head to Yengo National Park for hiking or bushwalking. The Finchley Cultural Walk is a great option. Make sure you have the right type of vehicle for this track of creek crossings and dirt roads. 

    • Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park.

    • Book a game of tennis at the Wollomb Tennis Club. 

The Trading Post Laguna Wollombi Valley

Photo credit: The Trading Post Laguna, Wollombi Valley. 2023


Evening: Relaxation

    • After your outdoor activities, relax at your accommodation or enjoy a quiet evening in the serene surroundings. 

Day 3: Art and Culture

Morning: Breakfast and Gallery Visit

    • Have breakfast and explore local cafes.

    • Visit local art galleries, such as the Wollombi Cultural Centre or forage for a while at The Forge, curious finds and antiques and a casual stroll down to Roadside Gallery by the old world of 1881 Wollombi School and 1849 Wollombi Cemetary. 


      Afternoon: Local Markets

    • If your visit coincides with local markets, like the Wollombi Market Day, explore the unique offerings from local artisans and producers. They are usually held on long weekends; otherwise, you can head up to Pokolbin for their markets. It is a 40-minute casual drive, and do check out the Wine Loop trail when heading up there.  


      Evening: Farewell Dinner

    • Have a farewell dinner at a different local restaurant or pub. Wollombi Kitchen, The Trading Post, Wollombi Tavern. 

Day 4: Departure

Morning: Leisure and Packing

    • Take a leisurely morning to enjoy the surroundings or do any last-minute exploring.

    • Check out of your accommodation and start your journey back home, and if you are heading back to Sydney, take a detour via Mt White and stop in at Saddles for lunch or coffee to ease getting back into the Sydney rush. 

Remember to check for any local events or festivals during your visit, as they can add a special touch to your trip. Additionally, always consider the current travel guidelines and conditions and plan accordingly.


Lets chat all things harvest trails with ABC702AM

Hello there! I'm excited to return to ABC ‘Weekend Mornings’ 702AM with Simon Marnie. However, Simon is away this week, so I'll be conversing with the amazing Dom Knight about the harvest trails in Sydney.

In case you missed our chat, I have included some links below to the places we discussed. You can visit these places to support the farmers' markets this Christmas and show your support to the growers and producers of Australia. Enjoy! Thanks, Daniela

Markets 

Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Market  

Saturday 9th December, 2023 

8 am to 12 noon @ Castle Hill Showground

It's the second-last market for the year, so don't miss out.  Also, get your pre-Christmas orders in with the vendors for collection at the Christmas Twilight market on the 20th. 

4 pm to 8 pm, which will be the final market for 2023. https://www.harvesttrailsandmarkets.com.au

Carriageworks Farmers Market 

The smell of Christmas is alive, thanks to Dural Christmas Tree Farm.

Trees available: Saturday 9th and Saturday 16th December, 2023. 8 am to 1 pm. 

Heads up: Parking in the precinct will be limited; however, there will be a pickup area for quickly collecting trees after payment.

https://www.facebook.com/CarriageworksFarmersMarket

https://carriageworks.com.au/events/carriageworks-farmers-market


Organic Food Markets

Glebe 

Saturday (11.00 am to 4:00 pm) Glebe Public School 

Leichhardt 

Saturday (9.00 am to 1:00 pm) Orange Grove Public School, Leichhardt

St Ives

Saturday (9.00 am to 2:00 pm) St Ives Showground Market, 450 Mona Vale Rd, St Ives

Marrickville

Sunday (10.00 am to 3 pm) 142 Addison Road, Addison Road Centre, Marrickville

Mona Vale 

Sunday (9.00 am to 1:00 pm) Mona Vale Pittwater RSL, 82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale

Seaforth

Sunday (9.00 am to 12:30 pm)

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au

Photo credit ABC 702AM

PICK YOUR OWN 

Pine Crest Orchard, Bilpin

PYO Peaches 

Saturday 9th December, 10 am  - 3 pm or until picked/sold out. 

Not open on Sunday.

Peaches $6/kg

No booking required

Entry fee $2/person 3 years and older

Bring your own bags or buy ours for $2

Cash or EFTPOS available

Dogs welcome on a lead for a family day out. 

https://pinecrestorchard.com.au/

Photo credit: Pine Crest Orchard


TNT Produce Pick Your Own Bilpin 

PYO delicious Strawberries

Open Sunday, 10th December 2023

10 am to 4 pm 

Walk-ins only - bookings not required

Entry   $10 per adult and $5 for children 3 to12

$20 kilo for what you pick

No EFTPOS so bring cash. 

Dogs on a leash are welcome

Address 153 Kurts Road, Bilpin

https://tntproduce.com.au/pick-your-own/pick-your-own-message/




Cedar Creek Orchard 

PYO Peaches + a new variety - the White Peach 

Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th December 2023 

$8 per person includes a fun tractor ride out to the paddocks. 

Make sure you jump on their website and make a booking in case they sell out. 

https://cedarcreekorchard.rezdy.com/



Glenbernie Family Farms

The farm closed today due to extreme heat but they will be OPEN 

Sunday 10th December from 9 AM - 3 PM

With So So many gorgeous sunflowers in bloom on Sunday you can get 2 free sunflowers with every adult entry.

Entry fee

Adults $15 / Kids $8 (4-16) / Kids 3 and under free

Flowers PYO

Sunflower $5

BYO secateurs (otherwise hire them for $6) 

610 Bells Line of Rd, Kurmond NSW 2757,

https://glenberniefamilyfarms.com.au/contact-us/



Coming up 

The Bloom Barn Farm

PYO Sunflowers will be available for picking in December at Peats Ridge. 

8 am to 12 pm on the 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, and 30th of December. 

Book via their website https://thebloombarn.com.au/

You are welcome to bring your own rug and drinks to enjoy the day on the farm. 



Hunter Lavender Farm

Broke, Hunter Valley 


The newest lavender farm in Broke Is on BLOOM watch this week.  

Soft open day today, 9th December 2023.

Admission is free of charge from the 9th to the 14th of December, and no booking is required. 

The farm shop, gelato bar, and lavender field walk experience are open. The lavender field has flowers, but they are not fully bloomed yet as they rely on a lot of sunshine.

https://hunterlavenderfarm.com.au

Photo credit : Hunter Lavender Farm

If you know of any great farmer's markets, pick-your-own fruit farms, farm events, or flower picking opportunities, please let me know. I would love to explore new ways to support our local farmers and growers.

Weddings in Wollombi Valley

Whether you're looking for a rustic country wedding or want to tie the knot in total style, Wollombi Valley has now got it all. A range of new and stunning venues, with or without accommodation options, is now available right across this beautiful valley. 

Weddings Wollombi Valley

Here are our favourite speciality Wedding venues in the valley (not in any order as we love them all):

  1. Redleaf Wollombi

  2. Woodhouse at Redwood Park Wollombi

  3. Stonehurst Cedar Creek

  4. Mystwood Weddings Laguna

  5. Grays Inn Garden Wollombi Village

  6. Hollybrook Sweetman’s Creek Wollombi

  7. Laguna Hall Laguna


Redleaf Wollombi 

On the drive to Redleaf, the rich green pastures of the region's farms give away to serene bushland before you get to the 10-acre property, nestled in its own valley a few minutes from the nearby town of Wollombi—approximately 17 km from our farm.

Redleaf boasts six king-sized bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a swimming pool, wood fireplace, billiards room, library and a lovely large pond to say 'I do'. With its French-inspired building and lavender garden, it is simply stunning and ultra-elegant.


Woodhouse at Redwood Park Wollombi 

The Woodhouse is an impressive, architecturally designed space that will make your big day unforgettable.

The exterior of this timber building is designed to feel rustic with an elegance that only the most refined European designs could achieve. The whole space has been thoughtfully planned out, from its lofty 7m ceilings and 4-metre windows all way down into every detail like a freestanding fireplace, a huge dancefloor and lounge area covered in fairy lights for that little magical touch.  Approximately 17 km from our farm.


Stonehurst Cedar Creek 

Create a magical celebration among the vines, poplar grove and rich history of the vineyard. Stonehurst Cedar Creek offers you a one-of-a-kind location on this 550-acre property for your wedding day. Stonehurst sleeps up to thirty people.  Around 22 km drive from our farm.

Mystwood

This stunning property is set on 140 acres of rolling hills, open pasture and native bushland and is styled with a country and bush elegance. The marquee seats 110 people. Adjacent to this gorgeous space, you will find the rustic bar amenities DJ booth with an outdoor dance floor all residing under a huge 5-meter high arbour lit by 600 metres of fairy lights. It is under a 10 km drive from Little Valley Farm. Speak to Sue of Mystwood Weddings for more.


Hollybrook Hunter Valley 

What better way to celebrate love than with a beautiful country wedding on a historic 100-acre dairy farm? Relax in the peace and quiet of the 1900 homestead buildings, mindfully renovated so they retain their heritage while providing modern amenities. Hollybrook sleeps ten adults and is perfect for those intimate weddings. Approximately 18 km from our farm.


Noyce Brothers Wine / Grays Inn Wollombi 

With a pergola covered in seasonal purple wisteria, this hidden gem will take you by surprise. Full of character and historical charm lies behind the cellar door, an luscious green garden waiting to be transformed with creativity oozing out from every corner! Make it your own space that celebrates under open skies. Grays Inn sleeps seven, and there is a cafe and intimate restaurant to book in also. It is 11 km from our farm.

Laguna Hall

Laguna Hall has lovely country rustic vibes. If you're on a budget and want an intimate wedding under the radar, this is your place. You can bring your caterers and style the hall your way.

At Little Valley Farm, we do not host weddings, but we can accommodate intimate events for small groups. Please email Daniela for more information.

PIC number - do you have one?

When buying any livestock, please ensure you have a PIC # for your property. What is a PIC #?

A Property Identification Code (PIC) is required for all farms, including hobby farms.

A PIC is an eight-character code allocated by the state department of agriculture (or an equivalent authority in each state or territory) to identify a livestock-producing property. The PIC forms the basis of Australia’s food safety and traceability programs and is used in cases of disease outbreaks, bushfires and animal emergencies.

Individuals must, under law, have a PIC if they own or keep one or more cows, sheep, goats, pigs,  deer, alpacas, llamas, horses, ponies, donkeys, or more than 100 poultry (i.e. domesticated fowl, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, guinea fowl, pigeons, quail or pheasants) or ten emus or ostriches.

In NSW, all livestock owners and occupiers of land carrying livestock must have a PIC, regardless of whether the livestock is moved. This is a requirement under the Biosecurity (NLIS) Regulation 2017 and Biosecurity Act 2015. 

When purchasing livestock, dealing with a reputable breeder who is transparent in their information is crucial. A top-notch breeder will ask for your PIC # before the livestock sale transaction and provide theirs. By engaging with a trustworthy breeder, you can avoid livestock scams and confidently make informed purchase decisions.

Contact your Local Land Service to obtain your PIC today.   Click here on how to apply.

Watch the Local Land Service video on PIC’s here.


When purchasing an alpaca from Little Valley Farm please ensure you have your PIC code ready and can be easily obtained from your Local Land Services. Refer to the link above to obtain yours. We will now include your PIC number on our invoice for tr…

When purchasing an alpaca from Little Valley Farm, please ensure your PIC code is ready and can be easily obtained from your Local Land Services. Refer to the link above to obtain yours. We will include your PIC number on our invoice for traceability.

The image above is courtesy of Cheryl Warning. Autumn 2017 at Little Valley Farm.