Alpaca Yarn where to buy it in Australia?

Luxurious Alpaca Yarn from Little Valley Farm – Handspun with Love in the Hunter Valley

At Little Valley Farm, we take great pride in our herd of alpacas and their stunning fleece. One alpaca in particular, Reidy, stands out with her rich, dark brown fleece / wool that we’ve lovingly transformed into handspun yarn, which is available in our online shop.

Reidy’s fleece is a true treasure. Shorn each Spring, we harvest this luxuriously soft wool, and through a careful, sustainable process, it is handspun right here in the beautiful Hunter Valley. This isn’t just any yarn—it’s a connection to the land, to our alpacas, and to a slower, more intentional way of living.

Why Choose Alpaca Yarn?

Alpaca wool is renowned for being one of the softest and warmest natural fibres in the world. Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca yarn is hypoallergenic, meaning it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin. Reidy’s yarn, in particular, boasts a rich, natural brown hue, a perfect shade for creating timeless, elegant knits or crafts.

Alpaca Yarn buy in Australia

The Handspun Difference

Each skein of Reidy’s yarn is handspun and gives is that textured look and feel. 8PLY. 

The joy of Christmas is alive; Start your plantation with our Christmas tree seedlings

Limited time only and with perfect conditions for planting.

Christmas Tree seedlings are now sold out; ONLY tube stock is left.

Some of you may know we have been planting, growing, and selling Christmas trees for the past few years. We grow beautiful Radiata pine trees specifically bred for Christmas trees due to their high branching, fast growth, and shorter needles.

We have Radiata pine TUBE STOCK ready to plant, averaging 40cm tall. They are perfect for starting your own Christmas tree plantation. We are selling them in boxes of 20 until they are sold out. If you are interested in starting your plantation, please contact Daniela. Serious enquiries only. 

More Info

These Christmas tree cultivars, Radiata Pine, tend to remain more bushy. They also require less pruning and maintenance to achieve the desired shape.


What you need to do:

+Map out your planting location for your tube stock. Space per tree is 3-4 metres. Tip: ensure your vehicle can drive around the plantation perimeter and between the row of trees. 

+ Plant directly into the field or pot up upon arrival. 140mm pots are ideal for these seedlings to thrive for up to one year.

+ Plant directly in the paddock in cool conditions, or pot up and grow for a year to get your trees ahead of the weeds and give them time to adapt to your climate.

+ Avoid fertilising in the first few months after planting, as this can burn seedlings. 

+ Radiata pines are very vigorous growers and, once established, will need little watering or fertiliser. 

+ Keep weeds down around the tree for at least the first year and water in well after planting until established. 

+ Pines like gentle slopes or hilly terrain with good drainage, and I hate wet feet. Avoid boggy or very clayey soils in landscape depressions or drainage lines. 

+ They thrive on acidic soils and will tolerate lightly alkaline soil. Trees are frost tolerant down to -10’C and will tolerate hot conditions provided they do not dry out. 

+ Trees will need regular pruning to maintain a dense Christmas tree shape, as they grow very fast.

Photo of current seedlings available

Wife used as measurement. 5.1 and the tree's here are over 6ft. 

Big Shags escape into the Christmas tree paddock. Caught red handed and loved every moment on it.

Red-Bellied Black Snake by the Dam: A Relaxed Visitor at Little Valley Farm

At Little Valley Farm, we share our space with all kinds of wildlife, including the occasional visitor like the red-bellied black snake. Recently, we spotted one of these beautiful creatures relaxing by the dam, enjoying the water and foraging for food. While it may seem alarming to see a snake, this calm visitor is an important part of the natural ecosystem in the Hunter Valley.

The red-bellied black snake, known for its glossy black scales and striking red belly, is a native species commonly found in the area. Though they can be venomous, these snakes are generally shy and avoid confrontation. In this case, the snake seems content to pass through, possibly staying for a few days as it searches for frogs, fish, or small animals near the water.

At Little Valley Farm, we believe in respecting wildlife's natural habitats. Snakes like the red-bellied black are an essential part of the local biodiversity, helping to control populations of pests and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. As part of our land care practices, we allow wildlife to pass through without interference, ensuring that all creatures—from alpacas to snakes—can coexist harmoniously.

While it's important to remain cautious around snakes, we know this one is simply passing through and won't pose any threat to our farm. If you're exploring the farm or attending one of our alpaca workshops, it's always good to be aware of your surroundings, but rest assured that these snakes prefer to keep to themselves.

Look at the two distinctive marks on his back in the video.

Alpaca Shearing 2024

We concluded Shearing Day last Friday, and it was a fantastic day! The alpacas look amazing and are all set to stay cool for the upcoming summer heat. ☀️ Take a look at these photos—aren't they adorable in their fresh new looks? Some of these lovely alpacas will be available for sale soon, and you'll meet others at our Introduction to Alpaca Workshop for new owners. Stay tuned!


#AlpacaShearing #LittleValleyFarm #AlpacasForSale #AlpacaWorkshop #HunterValley

Harvest Trails by Daniela on the ABC Radio with Simon Marnie

I'm back on ABC radio, talking to Simon Marnie about what's happening along the Harvest Trail this weekend. Below is a snapshot of what we talked about and some links to get you out there exploring the farms across the Sydney Basin. Enjoy your weekend, Daniela

~~~

It's the final weekend of the Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival. The last day is Sunday (tomorrow), so make sure to take a trip to Wollombi to enjoy it, as it's only 90 minutes from Sydney.

Markets 

Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Market 

Castle Hill showground. 8 am to 12 noon.

It's Happy Birthday to the markets. They are 22 yo. 

They really want to express their gratitude for everyone's support. The growers, producers and shoppers continue to come rain, hail, or shine, and that keeps the market thriving. Thank you!

Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 28th September 2024 

8 am to 1 pm 

A treasure trove of fresh produce and all undercover in Sydney

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

Central Coast

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

Organic Food Markets

Hosted right across Sydney - Organic Food Markets that are held on Saturdays or Sunday. 

From the Innerwest to the Northern Beaches. 

Leichhardt Saturday (8.00 am to 1:00 pm).

Marrickville, Sunday. 9 am to 3 pm. 

Seaforth. Sunday 8 am to 12:30 pm. 

Mona Vale, Sunday 8:30am to 1 pm. 

Where to visit farms this weekend

Bilpin Fruit Bowl

PYO Strawberries 

Strawberries are grown in hot houses, so rain, hail or shine you will be able to walk around the hot houses and PYO.  

Saturday 28th September from 10am-2pm

Sunday 29th September from 10am-2pm

Strawberries $20.00/kg

Bookings are not necessary, you can just turn up and get in.

Adults $20 per person

Children $10 per person

Under 3yrs of age free to enter

Andersons Farm 

Sackville North 

PYO Oranges and Lemons 

Some of the trees are more than 80 years old.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th September 2024 

Bookings via their website. 

Entry fee is $5 pp and its cash only. 


Meliora Farm Peats Ridge

PYO Orange, Lemons and Limes 

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2024

Cost of $30 for a Meliora farm bag that you can fill up with their delicious citrus.  Approximately 10kg of fruit per bag.

Book via their website. 

The Giving Farm, Jilliby 

Sunday 29th September, 2024 

For the kids - Farm Animal Cuddle, Pat & Feed experience

This one is for animal lovers where kids have the chance to learn and feed their farm animals on a certified organic farm. 

Meet the cuddle crew, goats and kids, and learn about sheep's wool from their babydoll sheep and little lamb. There are lots of farm activities for children and a hunt for blue eggs. Book online $27.50 pp. 

Photo thanks to ABC 702AM. Download the Radio APP to listen to the Weekend Mornings Show.

Alpaca Yarn for our alpaca owners

Exciting News for Our Alpaca Owners! 🦙✨

For those of you who have purchased alpacas from us at Little Valley Farm, we’re thrilled to introduce a brand-new service starting in 2025!

During the upcoming shearing season, make sure to save your fleece, as we will soon offer hand-spinning services to help you transform your fleece into beautiful, usable yarn.
In the next eight weeks, we’ll provide all the details on how this service will work. In the meantime, as you prepare for shearing, be sure to store your fleece properly and skirt it carefully to get the best.

More info coming soon. Daniela.

While genetics play a major role, management practices also have a significant impact on fleece quality. By controlling fibre growth and timing shearing properly, you can ensure optimal results. Here are a few key tips:

  • Timing: Shear before pasture plants set seed to minimise contamination from vegetable matter and shear in Spring before it get to hot.

  • Clean paddocks: Keeping paddocks free of debris is crucial for maintaining fleece purity.

  • Nutrition and environment: Dust, poor nutrition, and environmental factors can affect the fleece's luster, tensile strength, and colour. Maintaining good animal health and nutrition is essential to prevent "tender fleece" that breaks easily.

  • Water sources: Keep alpacas away from creeks and dams to avoid fleece damage.

When to Shear

The timing of shearing is important, especially as spring approaches.

What we need 

Saddle only. Skirt and remove any short legs and neckpieces. You may lose up to 30% during the process and remove any dirt and vegetation matter. 

What you will receive 

70-80 g per yarn ball. Anywhere from 8 to 20 yarn balls (adult-size fleece).

Price

Will get quoted once we inspect the fleece. Price will include GST and P&P charges.

This yarn processing service is exclusively available to those who have purchased alpacas from us.


Baby alpacas, crias and their mums

Good morning from the paddocks of Little Valley Farm!

It’s a special moment here as we watch one of our mama alpacas bonding with her newborn cria. Since it’s an autumn birth, you’ll see the little one wrapped in a cozy dog jacket to stay warm (as they can’t regulate their body temperature for the first week).

Join us at the farm as we share the joys of raising alpacas, especially during those precious first 30 days of life - and how quickly they grow in the first 30 days. It's amazingly fast. We will also be discussing cria care, cria kits and what you need, plus much more, at our upcoming alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley. Daniela

Alpacas Break Dancing

Bust N Moves AGun Style!

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

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

Our paddocks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What a beautiful day in the Hunter Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shearing 2024 Book in your shearer now

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

Me with Suri girl, Bina having a quick cuddle.

List of NSW Shearers

Chris Power

0438 653 782   powza01@bigpond.com

Based: Bathurst & Central Coast.

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

Tom Cullen

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

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

Shaun McFadyen

0405 535 758         shaun.shearer58@gmail.com 

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

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

Drew Shearman

0427 924 493    enquiries@shearmanlivestock.com.au

Text to mobile preferred. Shearman livestock contracting website.

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

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

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

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

Cath Lukin 0400 076 432

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

Alpacas only, a minimum of 1.

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

Sean Timmony  

0417 272 937       DunbarsRunAlpacas@gmail.com

Contact by TEXT message to the mobile.

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

Ken Wray

0407 050 252     ken-wray@bigpond.com

Website:        www.alpacacarensw.com

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

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

~~~~

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

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

Alpaca Morning Chores

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

Read more on alpaca communal dung piles here.

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

Alpaca Terminology

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

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

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

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

Dam or Hembra - breeding female, alpacas mother.

Entire Maile - or machos are sire - breeding male.

Wether - castrated male alpaca.

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

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

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

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

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

Lifespan - average 15 to 20 years.

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

Available to purchase via our Little Valley Farm website

Alpaca Communal Dung Piles

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

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

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

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

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

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

~~~

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

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

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

*Blog post coming soon on our FAMCHA monthly check.

Buy the alpaca book online

We are members of the Australian Alpaca Association

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are members of the Australian Alpaca Association

Alpacas for Sale - Australian Alpacas in the Hunter Valley

As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring, we look forward to the time when the ground warms up, the grass starts growing, and our alpacas are ready to be relocated to their new forever homes.

Beginning in Spring 2024, we will have a selection of wonderful and sociable alpacas available for sale. Some of these alpacas are females accompanied by cria, while others are pregnant. We offer them for sale in pairs or as the perfect starter herd for your small farm.

We are proud members of the Australian Alpacas Association, and most of our livestock are registered. It's important to note that alpacas are herd animals and need to be paired with at least one companion. For individuals looking for alpacas as pets, it's essential to begin with a pair. Additionally, crias should stay with their mother until they are around six months old. For males, castration should be performed at the appropriate age unless you are interested in purchasing wethers. We will have some wethers available in mid-spring.

You can view what we currently have available for sale and drop me a note on what you are looking for. Our next alpacas workshop for new owners will be mid August 2024 and you can view the dates here.

Daniela chatting things to do along the Harvest Trails

I was back on ABC 702AM radio, chatting with Simon Marnie about all the things to do along the Harvest Trails this weekend. Here's a quick update and links so you can plan out your weekend.

~~~

It’s all happening on the Central Coast this weekend. 


Pick your Own Oranges, Dooralong 

Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July 2024 

PYO Navel Oranges 

Open 10 am to 4 pm. 

No booking and no entry fee. 

Wear old shoes or boots, as the paddocks are still muddy. There are picnic tables to relax at, a coffee van, pony rides, and sheep, cows, and chickens to feed, so bring along some fruit, veggies, or bread for the animals. https://www.facebook.com/pickyourownorangesdooralong

Tannerwood Flower Farm Dooralong

They are known for their local seasonal flowers and are doing something new and wonderful on Sunday, 21st July 2024 

Forest Bathing Experience 

1 hour beautiful and tranquil connection experience in nature. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself within nature. 

Finding relaxation by being calm and quiet among trees. All about de-stressing for adults and children and to improve health and well-being naturally. You can book via their website. $45 pp. 

https://tannorwoodflowerfarm.com.au/shop/workshops


The Giving Farm, Jilliby 

Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July 2024

This one is for animal lovers where kids have the chance to learn and feed their farm animals on a certified organic farm. 

Meet the cuddle crew, goats and kids and babydoll sheep their little lamb. Lots of learning farm activities for the children and a hunt for blue eggs. 

Book online for a day with the farm animals. From $27.50 pp. 

https://thegivingfarm.com.au/farm-animal-cuddle-feed-pat/

Meliora Farm Peats Ridge 

They have been growing citrus since 1925, and this weekend is their 

PYO Oranges 

Saturday 20th July and Sunday 21st July 2024 The family entry pass is $30, and you will receive a picking bag that holds 10 kg of fruit. Make sure you book via their website. https://meliorafarm.com.au/

At the Avo Farm by the Peruch Family, Somersby 

Sunday 21st July 2024, only 

third-generation citrus and avocado farmers.

PYO Sunflowers. 

$15 per person or $30 for a family entry, and carry as many sunflowers home as you can. 

10 am to 2 pm. Cash only for PYO. 1345 Wisemans Ferry Rd, Somersby

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080487427210

Also in Somersby a quick hint, the 

Somersby Falls walking track and waterfall is now open after a major upgrade by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Watch the 3 levels of cascading waterfalls from the accessible viewing platform, or take a walk through the rainforest if you’re keen to see more. 

Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars and keep an eye out for local wildlife, as 270 native animal species call Brisbane Water National Park home, as well as the stunning gymea lilies and rainforest plants. Park entry fee so jump on the website for more info.

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/somersby-falls-walking-track

Grace Springs Farm Kulnura 

Morning Chores Private Tours for children. 

Tours begin with a milking cow demonstration. Then they move around the farm, tending to the chooks, ducks, pigs and cows. The children help as they go along.
These tours are a wonderful experience for families and a glimpse into everyday farm life at Grace Springs Farm.
Virginia's tours are particularly suited to children under the age of 5 as they are shorter and move quite quickly to keep up with the children's pace and learning. Book in advance for these private tours at Grace Springs Farm. https://www.gracespringsfarm.net

Markets 

Northside Produce Markets
Saturday 20th July 2024 

8 am to 12 noon 

Simon Chung at the Vegie King stall, tells us that it has not been easy of late, trying to sew new crops and harvest in water logged soil and grow produce in little sunshine due to the constant rain.

Simon's tip for this market, is their Choy Sum and baby Bok Choy, as they are more tender at this time of year.

https://www.northsydneycentre.com.au/markets

Carriageworks Farmers Market 

Saturday 20th July 2024 

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

https://www.facebook.com/CarriageworksFarmersMarket

Camden Fresh Produce Market

Open Every Saturday 7 am - 12 Noon 

Camden Town Farm 4o Exeter Street Camden

https://www.facebook.com/camdenfreshproducemarketarket

Central Coast

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

https://www.facebook.com/gosfordcityfarmersmarket

Hosted right across Sydney is the Organic Food Markets that are held on Saturdays or Sunday. 

https://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au

photo credit : ABC 702AM

Do you have a favourite alpaca?

OOOH, thats a difficult question… I love them all!

Whenever we hold an alpaca workshop, I often get asked, "Which is your favourite alpaca?"

I don't have a favourite, as I share a unique bond with each one. The crias take their time to bond and build trust. Usually, by three months, they have assessed me and are no longer timid.

Some females are cuddlers, some revel in a back or neck scratch, and others show no interest until I have their food in my hand.

They are very aloof animals, but once they trust you, they trust you completely. It's truly amazing!

Join us for our alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley and see the unique bond I have with these majestic animals. Daniela

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

We are members of the AAA - contact Daniela for livestock sales

What is Bio-Security at Little Valley Farm

Biosecurity Essentials

Biosecurity is a term used to describe a set of management practices that reduce the risk of introducing or spreading disease on your property or other people's property.

As alpaca breeders, it's our responsibility to implement sound biosecurity practices. These practices are the best defence against pests and diseases, and quick and simple measures built into everyday practices will help protect your farm.

Almost anything moved onto your property can be a potential source of pests and diseases for livestock. To reduce the biosecurity risks to your property, monitor animals or plant materials that enter the property.

A couple of things that we do:

-strictly via appointments only at our farm.

- Know where our feed/hay is sourced from and its quality.

- any new livestock on the farm are drenched, monitored, and quarantined.

- record and take notes on each new livestock, including FECs and current vaccinations.

- good fencing to avoid roaming livestock.

- restrict the movement of vehicles and people on our paddocks.

- purchase livestock from our reputable breeder and ask for their PIC#.

And lastly, have the biosecurity sign installed at the entrance to your farm.

Pick up your biosecurity sign at your Local Land Services in NSW.

Jump on our Little Valley Farm website for our next alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley. See you soon, Daniela

We are members of the Australian Alpaca Association

Feed buckets for alpacas

Feeding our alpacas and what buckets we use.

Good morning, everyone; it is Daniela from Little Valley Farm.

We have received some questions regarding alpaca feed buckets, so I wanted to show you our large feeding ones.

These ones are ex-food-grade IBCs that are cut in half.

It's a lovely sunny day, so I have dragged the buckets outside today.

The feed buckets are placed inside the shed, out of the rain, so the alpacas can enjoy a serving of whatever hay we have left for them.

We recommend:

- Leaving a bucket of feed undercover so alpacas can help themselves.

- Keep it out of the rain to prevent mould from growing on the hay.

- It gives alpacas a central place to eat.

- Helps keep hay off the grass, as it can kill paddock grass in patches.

- More importantly, if there are any worms/parasites in the grass, it will help reduce worm burden as the alpacas are eating from the bucket.

For a comprehensive understanding of our feeding methods and more, we invite you to join us at our upcoming alpaca workshop in the Hunter Valley.

Ex food grade IBC modelled by Koko

We are located 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast in the stunning bushland setting of Wollombi Valley.