Alpaca Advocate 2014 spring

~ SPRING Edition 2014~ Alpaca Advocate ~ SPRING Edition 2014~

Newsletter of the AAA South Queensland and Northern NSW Region—Region of Many Colours

2014 SPRING Edition

~ SPRING Edition 2014~ Alpaca Advocate ~ SPRING Edition 2014~ 2

Xmas Fete & Regional Meeting

23rd November 2014 ~ 10.00am. McLaren Vale Alpaca Stud

Contact: Leanne Tunny Ph 0755438988

South Queensland & Northern NSW AAA Ltd Region

Regional Calendar of Events 2015

15th February 2015 REGIONAL MEETING—BIG SKY ALPACA STUD—BONALBO Contact: Michelle Malt 02 66653324

22nd February 2015 The Nutrition Workshop - Murwillumbah Showground

8th March 2015 The Wonderful World of Alpacas Workshop Nattameri Alpacas Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

19th –21st March 2015 Toowoomba Royal Show Contact: Convenor Marg Hassall Fleece: Pauline Glasser (02) 66476454

26th March – 8th April 2015 Royal Sydney Show (Judging Animal/Fleece Show & Display) Contact: Paul Haslin 02 48789429

2nd May – 10th May 2015 AUSTRALIAN ALPACA WEEK Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

6th May 2015 Maclean Agricultural Show (Regional Display) Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

8th & 9th May 2015 Grafton Colourbration Show (Judging Animal/Fleece Show & Display) Contact: Colin Glasser (02) 66476454

24th - 26th April 2015 Coffs Harbour Show (Regional Display) Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

TBA Ipswich Show (Regional Display) Contact: Lynn Kincade Ph 0421093574

TBA REGIONAL MEETING

18th - 20th June 2015 Primex Agricultural Industries Expo Casino Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

27th June 2015 Murwillumbah Alpaca Show Contact: Rosemary Eva 02 6677 7500

28th - 29th June 2015 Mudgeeraba Agricultural Show (Display) Contact:Steve Rowley 07 55463971

9th July The Wonderful World of Alpacas (MCLAREN VALE ALPACAS QLD) Leanne Tunny Ph 0755438988

TBA ANNUAL REGIONAL MEETING

2nd August 2015 The Wonderful World of Alpacas (NATTAMERI ALPACAS) Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

7th – 16th August 2015 Royal Queensland Show ~ Ekka Judging Animal Contact: TBA Fleece: Pauline Glasser (02) 66476454

29th - 31st August 2015 Gold Coast Show (Regional Display) Contact: Leanne Tunny Ph 0755438988

TBA NATIONAL SHOW - Judging & Fleece

TBA Nimbin Show (Regional Display) Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

16th —18th October 2015 North Coast National Lismore Show - (Regional Display) Contact: Bob Coxon 026645 9092

14th —15th October 2015 Bangalow Show (Regional Display) Contact: Bob Coxon 02 6645 9092

23rd November 2014 XMAS REGIONAL MEETING - McLaren Vale Alpaca Stud - Contact: Leanne Tunny Ph 0755438988

CALENDAR


Advertisers:

Creekside Alpaca Stud

Grandeverge Alpaca Supplies

Melleah Jane Hewitt Photography

McLaren Vale Alpaca Stud

Sunline Alpaca stud

Wahgungurry Alpaca Stud

Contents

Dear Members,

Welcome to the SPRING edition of Alpaca Advocate, not a lot of rain about as yet,

hopefully coming into October/November the Storms will develop.

Its Shearing time most studs have finished and been busy assessing fleeces and

skirting ready for sales and showing.

Tick season is upon us as well as the threat of worms. It pays to be very diligent

this time of the year. A couple of Tick articles in this edition.

An number of Alpaca Case Study section has been added to this edition, I think

we can all learn from others experiences. Please send your experiences to me

and I will publish for all to learn.

On the big picture it is great to see alpacas have been exported to China, what a

wonderful boost for Australian Alpaca Farmers.

Our Christmas meeting will be at President Leannes on the 23rd of November we

have a great get together planned and a Xmas Fete, please try and make it. Look

forward to seeing you all. Ring Leanne if you can contribute to the Christmas

luncheon.

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year.

The Editor and South Queensland & Northern NSW Region Committee of the AAA accept no responsibility for

the opinions expressed, information supplied or advertisements published. All submissions are subject to

editing.

Copyright : The material published in this magazine is subject to copyright and may not be published in part or

whole without written permission of the author.

Articles page

Presidents Report 5

Nimbin Show 9

National Fleece Team 10

Control of Paralysis Tick 14

Alpaca Case Studies 16

Paddock Maintenance 19

Herd Sires 20

Recipe 28

Craft 29

Front Page:

Melleah Jane Hewitt Photography


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Your 2014– 2015 Regional Committee

President: Leanne Tunny 0407748477 [email protected]

Secretary: Bernadette Hunt 07 55469451 [email protected]

Treasurer: Christine Chidgey 0402234528 [email protected]

Past President: Sue Challacombe 02 6642 3336 [email protected]

Committee Members: Anne Bright 0428303821 [email protected]

Donna Crone 0419685334 [email protected]

Marketing: & Merchandise: Bob Coxon 02 66459092 [email protected]

Newsletter Editor: Pauline Glasser 0419986554 [email protected] Webmaster: Steve Rowley 07 5546 3971 [email protected] Health & Safety Officer : VACANCY

Education Officer: Leanne Tunny 0407748477 [email protected]

Fleece Liaison Officer: VACANCY

Xmas Fete Regional Meeting 23rd November 2014 ~ 10.00am. McLaren Vale Alpaca Stud - Contact: Leanne Tunny Ph 0755438988

mailto:[email protected]






From our President

Hello members,

In July of each year our region conducts ―Introduction to the Wonderful World of Alpacas‖ Workshops - we

conduct one in Queensland and one in New South Wales. The workshops are generally hosted by committee

members with attendance numbers usually around 10 – 12 people. The workshops cover a large variety of topics for

the new breeder; History of alpacas, Your objectives, Hands on inspection of animals, Selection criteria, Farm setup,

Nutrition & Health, Animal handling. Workshops give potential alpaca owners and/or breeders, a comprehensive

overview of what to expect once they have purchased alpacas. They have sometimes ‘deterred’ potential owners

which is a good thing, at least they didn’t buy the alpacas and then find out it ‘wasn’t for them’…..Although the

workshops are generally held by committee members, all regional members are offered the opportunity to hold these

workshops at their property. If you are interested in being a host, you would require ‘Farm Insurance’ to cover you from

any liability that may arise. The committee members would still ‘co-ordinate’ the attendees, the paperwork, the

payments and the presentation – reimbursement for catering would be offered. Please contact me if you would like to

host a workshop at your property. Don’t forget that these workshops are a wonderful source of information for people

that you have just sold alpacas to.

Gold Coast Show – Unfortunately the Gold Coast Show, Halter Class 2014 had to be cancelled this year due to a lack

of entries! By the nominated closing date, we had only received 34 entries (it is recommended that a show have a

minimum of 50 animals or at least three animals in each class). The decision to cancel the show was very

disappointing to the owners of the 34 animals entered and also to the Gold Coast Show Society. The Gold Coast Show

Society very much enjoy having the alpacas at the show and hope that we can resurrect the show for 2015. Some

members ensured that the show still had an ‘alpaca’ presence and alpacas were on display for the three days of the

show and homemade alpaca merchandise was for sale.

Please remember that if we don‘t patron our regional shows, we may lose them!

Our next regional meeting on Sunday November 23rd will be held at McLaren Vale Alpacas at Tamborine. The meeting

will be our official end of year ‘Christmas’ celebration for 2014. Our region will host a ‘traditional Christmas lunch’ and

Xmas Fete with many alpaca related ‘lucky door prizes’. We welcome you to come and join us and share the

Christmas festivities (if you would like to donate your culinary skills, you will be reimbursed by the region for the cost of

the food required for your creation) – please contact me to see what is on the menu that you may be able to bring.

We look forward to seeing you all at the next meeting. Regards, Leanne Tunny – President


PRELIMINARY NOTICE OF REGIONAL MEETING

Incorporating a

CHRISTMAS PARTY & FETE

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23RD 2014

Venue: McLaren Vale Alpacas

1931 Beaudesert-Beenleigh Road, Tamborine Qld 4270

Hosts: Kerry & Leanne Tunny (Mobile: 0407 748 477/Home: 07 5543 8988)

Time: Please arrive at 9.30am (Qld time) for a 10.00am start (Qld time)

Bring: Chair

Lucky door prizes: Alpaca merchandise

PROPOSED AGENDA

1. Apologies

2. Confirm minutes previous Regional Meeting

3. Committee reports: Committee reports will be forwarded by email a week before the meeting for your review. The committee

reports will NOT be discussed in great length at the meeting in an effort to reduce time spent on formalities although questions about

the reports are welcomed

General business

Notice of Motion

Members are advised that any ‘Motion’ that they would like put to the Regional Meeting should be forwarded to the Regional Secre-

tary in writing and must be received no later than November 12th 2014.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH

The regional committee invite you to share in the Christmas festivities on offer at the forthcoming regional meeting. A traditional Christmas lunch will be supplied by the region - turkey, baked ham, chickens, salads, plum pudding, custard, cream, fruit cake and fruit mince pies (members wishing to assist with catering are welcome - you will be reimbursed by the region for food purchases – please keep receipts) – please contact Leanne Tunny for menu requirements

CHRISTMAS FETE

We welcome members to participate in a ‗Christmas Fete‘ - you are welcome to bring your hand made alpaca products to sell in a market stall style venue – market stall holders will need to bring their own tables and shade. Members who would like to participate are asked to book a stall through Leanne Tunny;

Mobile: 0407 748 477 or [email protected] **A chance to get your Christmas shopping done early**

South Queensland & Northern NSW Region


Alpacas in China Posted Mon at 1:49pmMon 6 Oct 2014, 1:49pm

The Australia alpaca industry has just completed a huge export of quality breeding stock to China, the largest shipment ever to leave Australia. The precious cargo of 525 stud animals, sourced from Victoria and South Australia, is also believed to be the largest number of alpacas ever to land in China.

The breeding males and pregnant females travelled last week in crates on a chartered Singapore Airlines 747 freighter aircraft, a 10.5 hour journey.

The alpacas will form a breeding herd at Shanxi University and will also be used for genetic research into wool colour.

With China being the biggest textile producer in the world, Western Australian exporter Steve Ridout, of Wildflower Alpacas and Quarantine Services, says he's pleased to finally crack the market.

"It's a major significant breakthrough for the Australian alpaca industry.

"The China market obviously opens up a large market. It actually gives us an impetus for all our breeders, large and small, to keep growing fine alpacas.

―There’s a lot of scope for growth. There’s obviously a lot of people in China and a lot of people with money to spend.

―The alpaca industry itself is unique, the wool itself is very very unique and the Chinese are looking at the fibre industry and developing one over there in China for future growth.‖

Mr Ridout has been exporting alpacas since 2008 to Europe, New Zealand, Thailand and the United States.

LISMORE SHOW DISPLAY Lismore Show

Display proved to be

successful again this

year. Started slowly

but by the Saturday

there were many

visitors interested in

the farming of

alpacas in our region.

Thank you

to all who

made the

three days a

success

Bob Coxon

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-06/australian-alpacas-arrive-in-china/5793064


NIMBIN SHOW DISPLAY

NIMBIN AGRICULTURAL SHOW – 20TH

September 2014

On arrival at the grounds around 7.30am we were informed by the Show Society that our site had

been taken by another stall holder (a paying customer) who had set up overnight. So we were al-

located another site but unfortunately it wasn’t big enough to have our display as well as alpacas.

We decided to run with the display so Barbara and Bruce from Mangowood took their beautiful an-

imals home which was a major disappointment to us and of course the show patrons. Luckily the

reallocated site was in a good location and our display attracted interest.

Nonetheless, we carried on regardless and enjoyed the fantastic Nimbin weather and the laidback

atmosphere that the area is well known for.

Overall it was a pretty good day although passing trade, for most of the time, was a little slow. We

did manage to sell $285.00 in merchandise with Jackie’s crocheted slouch beanies proving very

popular. Without alpacas on display it was a little difficult to successfully promote the industry.

However, we did manage to complete two requests for further information and handed out a num-

ber of magazines, breeder’s directories, stickers etc

The event also gave us the opportunity to test our new EFTPOS facility. We only had the one

transaction for $25.00 but it was smooth sailing and the money is in the region’s bank account.

Many thanks to Barbara, Bruce and Jackie.

Cheers,

Bob Coxon

―Another satisfied Nimbinite!‖

SHOWS


Deadline for next advocate - SUMMER - DEC 30

Hi everyone,

A document, released in May this year produced by the Australian Association of Bush Regenerators, which reviews current information on ticks, tick removal, preventing tick bites and tick-related diseases.

There’s plenty of good tips in this booklet

It’s available at

http://www.aabr.org.au/site/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/AABR-Ticks-and-tick-borne-diseases-protecting-yourself1.pdf

from

Steve Rowley

HEALTH AND WELFARE

Thank you to Nerimbera Transport

who supported our Regions Fleece Team at the

National Fleece Show by transporting all the 230

Fleeces and equipment safely from Lower

Southgate NSW to Bendigo VIC Show Grounds.

Thank you Byron for your assistance in setting

up, folding hundreds of corflute boxes and

general help for the two days of judging. Your

assistance was greatly appreciated.

Lehanne,Di,Col and Pauline

https://staffowa.det.nsw.edu.au/owa/redir.aspx?C=7909CUsYME6gZYlWDztgUemNtoARttFId-Af9oWcXJqYf9F4oR0reS4c9liJOlJfjlro6JVa7f8.&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.aabr.org.au%2fsite%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2013%2f12%2fAABR-Ticks-and-tick-borne-diseases-protecting-yourself1.




2014 Nationals Fleece Section

Behind the Scenes - A LOGISTICAL EXERCISE!

This year the STH QLD NNSW AAA Regional Fleece Team volunteered to convene the 2014

National Fleece Show

It certainly was a challenging logistical job! Di Smart, Lehanne Robinson, Colin and Pauline Glasser travelled to Bendigo, to work

with Judge Lyn Dickson and Apprentice Judge Dean Ford.

Prior to September THE PLAN

A large amount of organisation took place in the months prior to the judging.

Each team member had a specific role. Lehanne and Col weighing and testing

230 fleeces, Di organisation of acceptance and return register of fleeces and

the organisation of sampling to be packaged to the New England Testing

Laboratories. Pauline’s role was to have all entries on the computer and print

outs ready for Judges & Stewards once we arrived in Bendigo. Col laminated

for weeks! the girls cut out, collated all bag numbers, entry names and

judging numbers.

The Plan for the display took a time to decide, on how to achieve what we

wanted, how many fleeces to display? We knew what we wanted but not

quite sure how to achieve it! A phone call to Shane Carey who directed us to

Sid and Deb Parker. Sid was a delight, transforming our vision into reality. Sid

manufactured stands which flat pack for transport and table extensions for the judges tables! The Theme would be Gold, Grey and

Black with Champions on Red. Lehanne spent hours going through classes and working out the colour combination and the

number of satins that would be necessary to complete the display. Phone calls to regions to borrow their satins, which then had to

be coded so we didn't misplace any! Out came the overlocker and afternoons making satins in the right colours to make sets.

The team decided on a uniform, as exhibitors needed to recognise us when we returned fleeces that were not on display. Di and

Pauline devised a return of fleece system of cards which exhibitors received with their introduction packages on arrival.

Transporting Fleeces to Bendigo? At the EKKA Cheryl Cochrane of Nerimbera Transport was approached re pick up from Lower

Southgate NSW to Bendigo VIC. Nothing was a problem for Cheryl and her brother Byron. This was a huge relief as it meant door

to door service where satins, computers and printers could safely be sent as well! Di was able to acquire huge waterproof fertiliser

bags to pack fleeces and our equipment into as well as the exhibitors wool bales.

A call for helpers—we decided we would like to offer to all members the opportunity to help at the Nationals - The AAA office girls

sent a broadcast email and members offered their help—a Roster was developed all set to go.

THE PLAN into reality

Fleeces arrived courteous of Tumi Alpaca Transport, Rohan made a late afternoon delivery, Australia Post delivered fleeces daily

and TNT arrived with bales from the Colourbration Show - All was set to check off Fleeces. All accounted for except TWO—Phone

call and they were never sent! A great relief. Email to all exhibitors to let them know their fleeces had arrived safely. Fleece

FLEECE


Testing and Histograms arrived on time, great! update of computer work and print out of all

Histograms in A5 card for display.

The team arrived to spend three days weighing, tagging and sampling 230 fleeces (some fleeces

were entered in four different classes i.e. class, sires progeny, dams progeny and commercial

class - another lot of logistics, different tags and discussion re what if? etc. so we were all on the

same thought process.) Sampling done, Di off to the post office as short turn around.

Fleeces were then packed in order of classes to arrive safely

in Bendigo. Byron was booked for the next week to pick up the goods! The same afternoon

we arrived in Bendigo a phone call from Byron to say all had arrived safely. THANK YOU to

Byron from Nerimbera Alpaca Transport.

We started set up on Monday after the sheep cleared out of the pavilion. Unpacking of our

stuff! Boxes made and tables set ready for the two day judging on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Helpers arrived and the job was finished very quickly. Tea and coffee station for judges and

helpers. Sid and Deb arrived with the stands. Computer was working and all sheets etc for

Lehanne’s class organisation and Di’s judge pencilling sheets all ready for a very early Tuesday.

We were all set to go. Home for a drinks!

Judging went to plan thanks to Lyn and Dean, two huge days.

Wednesday night the judging finished, it was set up time, all

fleeces had to be taken to the opposite end of the Pavilion.

Lehanne and Col had it organised, all non winning fleeces were

packed away out the back in the float ready to be distributed to

exhibitors on Thursday. All Firsts, Seconds, Thirds and

Champion / Reserve Champions on display. Display needed to

be bigger! Col found recycled timber “out the back” and the

display accommodated the prize winners. By 10.30pm it was

time to go home as we were all “brain dead”. We would love to

have finished display for all exhibitors to see when they arrived.

It was not going to be a reality. Home to drinks, evaluation of

our plan and print out the results to display next day.

Thursday: Up early, finished display, time for a break! Results

posted on results board.

Friday: Return of all non display fleeces to their owners.

Sunday: Pull down display and organise fleeces in studs ready for distribution after the Sale. Pack up our

gear and send home with Geoff and Sheryl Simper from Blu-Haven back to Grafton NSW.

Thank You to all who made this exercise possible: The exhibitors who trusted sending fleeces to us! Paul

Haslin so understanding of our requests, Lyn Dickson, Dean Ford, Sid & Deb Parker, Shane Carey, Rohan from Tumi Transport,

Tam Lamson, Prue Walkduck, Heather Burn, Sue Tutera, Graeme

Dickson, Sheryl & Geoff Simper and Byron from Nerimbera

Transport for your support.

We all did it! An exhausting job but very rewarding!

Pauline Glasser - Fleece Convenor


Fleece workshop A group of breeders met at Buhai Hill Alpaca stud last month, to do a workshop with Paul Vallely. His topic was to get our fleeces marketable to the European market.

To do that we MUST start on shearing day. Skirt, not for show grades but for big money prices, hence quality not quantity. If all breeders are serious about our fleece industry, doing a workshop is the start.

We were shown how to database our fleeces and double and triple check quality to be collected , tested then baled. There is a big demand for natural colours overseas. Paul is passionate and very helpful, a must do workshop. Jude Barlow—Kallaroo Alpaca Stud

GUIDELINES FOR SHEARING AND PRESENTING ALPACA FLEECES FOR THE PREMIUM FIBRE MARKET

The alpaca fibre market is witnessing an increase in demand for most grades of fleeces, particularly those suitable for the premium end of the textile market. In order to meet the criteria for acceptance into this market, however, fleeces need to be shorn and prepared in a manner that greatly reduces the incidence of contamination and reduces the variation of fleece types within consignment lines.

While many years may be spent achieving genetic progress towards improving fleece type, and while a year may be spent trying to maintain suitable fleece quality standards, all these efforts can be wasted in the few moments during the time the respective alpaca fleece is shorn and skirted.

These guidelines focus on the consignment of fleeces for the premium suri and huacaya fibre markets. These guidelines can be applied to all other fleece types, however, their applicability might be dependant on the relative worth of fleeces.

The protocols are the result of consultation with breeders, shearers, buyers and processors who/that are associated with the alpaca industry.

This document was prepared, and is owned by Australian Alpaca Fibre Testing (AAFT). AAFT give permission for copying or reprinting the whole or portion of the document providing AAFT are acknowledged in the copy or reprint.

The document is considered a ‘live’ draft and feedback is appreciated so that we may continually update the protocols so they reflect current ‘best practise’.

PRE SHEARING PREPARATION

1.1 Plan order of shearing:

Plan the order of shearing by prioritising the fleece types of your alpacas. The highest priority fleece types should be shorn first. For instance, shear the white ultrafine/superfine types first, then the broader whites followed by colours, lighter shades first. The aim of this practise is to avoid the more valuable fleeces being contaminated by fibres from the lesser valued fleeces. Further, lighter fleece colours should be shorn first as the darker the fibre, the greater the limitations on dying. If catering for the eco market where dying is replaced by using natural colours, it is still good practise to shear the lighter colours first.

1.2 Plan layout of classing lines.

Plan where the various fleece lines will be placed within the shed so that the more valuable lines are furthest from the skirting table and shearing area. The reason for this is to ensure contaminant fibres from lesser grade fleeces

are not carried past the more valuable lines.

1.3 Make a list of staffing requirements.

Far too many alpaca shearings are carried out in a hasty manner. In these cases, fleece preparation standards are compromised. It is crucial there is an adequate number of suitably trained and/or experienced staff. The staffing needs to accommodate the work roles of alpaca handling at the point of shearing, sorting fibre at point of shearing, picking up fleeces, maintaining cleanliness of point of shearing, fleece skirter, fleece classer and general duties to help with herding alpacas and odd jobs. Obviously, some staff will be responsible for more than one work role and some roles might be shared with more than one person. Some shearing teams will provide their own staff, however, it remains the breeders responsibility to ensure there is adequate staff.

1.4 Ensure adequate and serviceable equipment is on hand.

Before shearing commences, there should be a stock-check to ensure all relevant equipment such as shed sweeps, bale holders, wool packs, fleece bags, bale fasteners, marking pens and animal husbandry equipment is on hand and serviceable. Normal straw or wisp brooms should be avoided, as the fibres/straw will contaminate fleece lines. Plastic shearing sweeps and vacuum cleaners should be preferred. Containers should be available for necessary small items such as bale fasteners so they do not find their way into fleece packs/bags. All used wool packs and fleece bags should be turned inside out to remove remaining fibres before being re-used for fleece storage. A suitable skirting table should be available. The table should be sufficient size to take an entire fleece from any one alpaca. The table can be square or round, made from wood or metal, and have about 20mm square gaps to allow short fibres to fall through. The design of the skirting table should avoid fibres sticking to the surface area such as occurs with plastic tables.

1.5 Determine fleece classing parameters.

Before shearing, it may be advantageous to speak to potential fleece buyers to determine preferred fleece line parameters, particularly with regard to acceptable limits on fibre diameter and fibre length. For this reason, it is a good idea to have pre-shearing fleece tests carried out on alpacas you consider to have high quality fleeces, and have this data available at shearing.

1.6 Ensure shearing and classing receives adequate lighting

Lighting is critical for effective quality control during shearing in order to keep the area clean of contaminate fibres such as guard hair. Before shearing, a check on serviceability of lights is required and that sufficient lighting is available. Lighting should be provided by fluorescent lights or skylights (natural light).

1.7 Reduce exposure to wind.

The shed or shearing area should be inspected to ensure the area is not at risk of wind as this will create significant problems from fibre contamination.

1.8 Ensure point of shearing has adequate flooring

The most preferred flooring at the point of shearing is wood, with no cracks or sharp edges that can make sweeping the area a problem. With less desirable flooring such as concrete, a rubber matt of sufficient size might be used.

1.9 Clean the shearing area thoroughly

As fibre contamination is one of the most common causes of devaluation of fleeces, the shearing area needs to be thoroughly cleaned before shearing. Items such as baling twine, old fleeces, feed bags, hay, dirt etc should be removed. It is worthwhile that yards and pens be also cleaned.

1.9 Ensure there are sufficient rubbish containers.

Containers should be available for foreign articles found during shearing such as baling twine. Further, containers should also be available for unwanted fleece types such as guard hair. It is a good idea to clearly label these containers so that the staff know what goes where.

CONDUCT OF SHEARING

Brief staff on required work roles and standards. To ensure all work roles are covered by at least one person, areas of responsibility should be made clear to all staff before shearing commences. The briefing should not be carried out in a condescending manner, but should promote a team spirit in achieving professional results. The briefing should acknowledge that a high standard of fleece preparation relies on every staff member, collectively and individually performing his or her work roles.

2.2 Clean alpacas before shearing.

Some alpaca breeders give their alpacas a clean to remove vegetable matter before shearing. The worth of this practise may need evaluation as any vegetable matter easily removed before shearing would be easily removed during the initial scouring during processing. It may, however, be worthwhile if appearance is a critical factor, such as for individual selling at craft markets.

2.3 The saddle areas should be shorn from the alpaca in a manner that avoids contamination Before the first side of the saddle area is removed, many shearers remove contaminating coarse fibres around the belly area. When this is done, the coarse

FLEECE


fibres should be collected before they have a chance of falling into the saddle area. Ideally, however, the saddle should be removed before any other fleece parts are shorn. Once the first side of the saddle is removed, it should be taken to the skirting table. If the saddle is to be rolled for this, the extremities of the saddle should only come into contact with the other extremities of the saddle, in other words, folded end to end. This avoids the coarse fibres at the edge of the saddle coming into contact with the centre of the saddle. If they come into contact with the centre of the saddle, it is extremely difficult to remove the offending fibres during skirting. The saddle should not be placed on the ground before (or after) skirting.

Before the second side of the saddle is removed, some leg and neck fleece is often shorn. These parts of the fleece, eg legs and neck should be removed and placed in individual bags to avoid contamination. The second side of the saddle should be removed and placed on the skirting table as with the first side of the saddle.

A further option is to remove both sides of the saddle area as one fleece. This is ideally carried out before any other fleece parts are shorn.

2.4 Always sweep between each alpaca.

The accumulation of guard hair and other coarse fibres left after each alpaca is shorn will substantially devalue fleeces. For this reason, the shearing area needs to be swept or wiped before the next alpaca is brought to the point of shearing.

2.5 If possible, sweep or collect guard hair as it is being shorn

As previously mentioned, guard hair or coarse fibres can substantially devalue fleeces. For this reason, efforts should be made to continually remove such fibres during shearing. This should be carried out in a manner that does not jeopardise OH&S standards, nor impede the shearing process.

2.6 Eating and smoking should not occur near shearing area.

Fibre processors have often complained at the amount of food containers and cigarette butts found in fleece consignments. For this reason, lunches etc should be eaten in an area away from the shearing area. An ashtray should be available outside the shearing area.

2.7 Husbandry practices during shearing. Many breeders trim toe nails and teeth during shearing. While these objects can be easily removed during initial stage processing, they do more damage to a reputation than to the actual value of the fleece. If possible, toe and teeth trimmings should not be allowed to enter fleeces.

2.8 Seek feedback from buyers. In order to identify areas for improvement in fleece preparation and classing standards, it is a good idea to seek feedback from buyers and/or processors. This practise also cultivates a credible reputation by showing you are concerned with meeting your ‘customers’ requirements.

SKIRTING FLEECES

3.1 Variation in fibre diameter over the saddle area. The degree of variation over an alpaca has been shown to be slightly correlated to the average fibre diameter. Most alpaca saddles, however, vary by about 2 microns, although at the edge of saddle, the diameter might increase by a further one to three microns. At the edge of the saddle, some clusters of guard hair might be evident. This hair might be as much as 20 microns broader than the centre of the saddle.

3.2 Fleeces should be correctly skirted before storing or packing.

A constant cause of contamination is the storing of

fleeces in bags etc before they are skirted. When placed in bags, the risk of guard hair and other problematic fibres is very high. If guard hair finds its way through a fleece while being bagged, its value will be substantially decreased, or in some severe cases, made worthless. Once skirted, they should be placed immediately in packs or bags.

3.3 ‗High value‘ fleeces should be covered/protected after skirting.

‘High value’ fleeces should be bagged in such as way that contaminants will not be able to enter the bag. Such bags should be securely tied with no open ends. If these fleeces are placed in open fleece lines, the fleece bin or pack should be covered to protect the fleeces from airborne fibres or foreign articles.

3.4 Herd recording.

Shearing is an ideal time to record comments regarding fleece type or fleece problems. Recording comments such as tender fleece, discolouring, high evidence of coarse fibres, fleece rot and fleece weights will help with herd improvement. These comments can also be included with fleece midside samples so that all fleece comments can be included with fibre test data.

PROCEDURE FOR SKIRTING AND CLASSING

A Spread saddles out onto table with the tip side upper most. B Remove obvious faults from centre of saddle such as guard hair, urine stained fibre, excessive vegetable matter and foreign objects. Particular attention should be paid to guard hair and other problem fibres found within the saddle area. If there is a significant amount of guard hair throughout the fleece, the fleece should be downgraded. C Any unwanted colour fibres should be removed

D Look carefully at middle area of saddle to determine the prominent fleece type for that particular fleece, paying attention to crimp and softness (to evaluate variation in fibre diameter) and fibre length. Then work around saddle to remove short fibres, guard hair and other coarse fibres. Normally, the problematic fibres should be confined to 30 mm to 40mm from the edge of the fleece, although they may be evident up to about 100mm from the edge. Guard hair and other coarse fibres are often identifiable by a pointier tip, a harsher feel and a flatter crimp definition. The important issue with this procedure is that skilling can only come with experience.

E Check for ‘soundness’ or tender fibre by holding a fibre bundle (about 5mm in width) and try to break it. Check a couple of fibre bundles to ensure the whole saddle is sound. If tender, the fleece will need to be placed in a ‘tender’ fleece line.

F Place in classing line according to predetermined classing parameters. The best method for determining average fibre diameter is a three point grid test. The next preferred method is to use the mid side test, although it needs to be kept in mind that the mid-side test will be generally between .5 to 1.5 microns finer than the saddle average. Finally, if no test is available, subjective appraisal will have to be relied upon.

FINAL COMMENTS

Following the above guidelines will assist in achieving high standards of shearing and fleece preparation so that fleece values can be maximised. Underpinning these guidelines, however, is the adoption of a diligent and determined approach to presenting premium grade fleeces to their maximum potential, combined with adequate skilling that can only be achieved through experience.

Paul Vallely AAFT 12th July 2014

FLEECE


HEALTH AND WELFARE


This article has been reprinted to help inform our breeders—many new breeders have been enquiring to the control of ticks.

Remember: Even if you have read an article once—you will often glean something new with a fresh read!

HEALTH AND WELFARE


A friend is cycling Peru and sent this picture back for our

magazine—Editor


A simple but effective marketing principle to employ is:

CREATE THE CONTACT + FIRST CLASS CUSTOMER SERVICE + QUALITY FOLLOW UP = SALES

CASE STUDY:

TICKS FOUND ON CRIA!

This is the story of a two day old cria that was found with ticks on nose and how we treated the situation. 17/09

Fleur is a lovely dark grey Suri cria that was born at 335

days gestation on 17/09/10. Her birth was normal and she was sitting up in kush within 5mins of birth, walking within 10mins and feeding within 1.5hrs. She is a big 7.5kg health girl, born to an experienced mum who bonded well. 18/09

Found Fleur sitting in the middle of the paddock, well away from her mum and other alpacas and crias. This was

not normal behaviour for a new born and she did not run away when approached.

Upon inspection, she had 3 very, very small - almost miniscule ticks on her white nose. I tried to pull them off,

leaving one head behind - using a pair of forcep tweezers, I managed to pull the head out. The ticks were so small we could not determine the type.

Called VET, who advised to put cria in a shaded pen, confined with mum so that she cannot move around too

much, in a stress free environment. Watch to make sure that she did not become wobbly on feet at all. We gave her a very small dose of Cydectin injectable with dosage approved by VET- can cause temporary blindness in very young crias and be toxic if given too much. We also gave the cria vitamin C, B and Cophos injectable. Coated her in a shaded location - if tick affects her over then next few hours, she would not be able to regulate her temperature.

If she showed any symptoms of being affected by the tick, we would have to take her to the VET clinic for serum

treatment. 19/09

Cria survived the night and was just fine the next day.

Had to keep an eye on her for 24hrs as it can take that long for tick to take affect.

Vet adivsed that her clinic had been treating a very high number of both tick and snake bite victims for the past month - even though it seemed to be too early in the season for ticks. Upon checking with other breeders around Queensland, there was also a high prevalence of tick problems as far south as the Gold Coast over the past month. We drenched our whole herd with Cydectin on the day we found the ticks and as agreed with our vet we will be drenching with Cydectin monthly until the wet season in January 2011 hits - to try and avoid any further problems with ticks. It must be noted that in the past four years - we have found one tick only on an alpaca previously.

Supplied by Pfeiffer Park Alpaca Stud

ALPACA CASE STUDY


CASE STUDY:

CRIA DEATH DUE TO

PREMATURE BIRTH & POSSIBLY

DRENCHING!

This is a very sad story of a healthy, experienced dam who delivered a stillborn cria six weeks prematurely and the possibilities that caused this sad event. LUMINNA's STORY A perfectly healthy, experienced dam was moved from a large paddock with two other females to the maternity paddock. They were all 6-8 weeks off delivery (355 days). It is our farm policy to drench the animals as they move into the maternity paddock, so all three were done.

Next Day

The weather was looking overcast, so I went to the maternity paddock to open the gate to the night pen so that if the rain came the maternity paddock could move to shelter at will.

To my surprise I found Luminna laying on her side, looking like she was in labour ... on closer inspection she was!

I grabbed my cria kit as this cria was going to be 6wks premature.

Suddenly a gush of fluid was thrust from her vulva, along with what looked like half of the placenta! This is not how it should be happening. Luminna got up to her feet and over the next 15 minutes was contracting and pushing and looking very uncomfortable, the placenta still half out. Next a couple of toes came out, but no head. I moved in and wrapped a towel around the legs and gently began to pull with the contractions, but I could not see the nose anywhere. I gloved up and felt inside her only to find that the head was folded down under the chest of the cria. I moved the head to the correct position and them assisted again by pulling with the contractions - the cria came out easily now to the shoulders. Luminna delivered the rest on her own. Very quickly thereafter the placenta followed and broke - with approx 2/3rds of if on the ground and the rest hanging from the vulva. The cria was stillborn - a 3.5kg male dark grey huacya.

Luminna's temperature was normal. I rang the vet who approved Oxytocin shot (hormone to expel the placenta) after 3hrs if it had not come away, along with 5 days of Penicillin in case of infection from any material left behind.

Luminna was given Oxytocin treatment 3 hours later and delivered the remainder of the placenta within 30minutes. We left her with the cria during that time and she sat by its side. We removed the cria with the placenta and move her into a night pen with feed for the night and monitoring to make sure she was okay.

On top of the loss, this was not our cria or dam .... so I had to ring the owner to advise what had happened. A big disappointment, but understood that these things happen sometimes. At least the dam seemed to be okay and we would move forward with a live cria guarantee remating.

In discussions with the vet, it was decided that this could have happened for any number of reasons: - the cria had died for an unknown reason and caused her to go into labour - placenta previa, in that the placenta was coming out ahead of the cria, but that did not explain the premature birth - cria death by suffocation, due to ill presented cria, but still did not explain prematurity - Luminna was drenched the day before with Cydectin. There had been discussion about giving this drench to females in the last trimester recently at an Alpaca Meeting - some breeders do, some don't. My vet was at that meeting and recommended that it not be given. LESSSON LEARNT

We will not be giving a Mectin drench to females in last trimester hereafter.

We will use an approved pour-on for lice/mites

when moving into maternity paddock and do a faecal egg count test to determine any internal parasites.

Thereafter we will seek vet approval to treat if

necessary with an appropriate drench. Supplied by Pfeiffer Park Alpaca Stud

ALPACA CASE STUDY


Why alpacas perform better than sheep when

on poor quality forage:

• Slower particulate passage time (microbes have longer

to attack structural carbohydrates in C-1 – 63 hours in

alpacas, compared with 41 hours in sheep).

• Faster liquid passage time (constant removal of microbial

protein, vitamins and soluble minerals from C-1 and

C-2 maintains a rapidly dividing population of microbes

which is more efficient. Liquid flow is 10.4% per hour in

alpacas, compared with 7.7% per hour in sheep).

• Greater volume of saliva production (in relation to foregut

volume).

• Efficient output of energy and protein on limited quality

feed.

• Efficient nitrogen balance (by reduction of urea excretion

through kidneys, thereby enabling recycling of urea

through their saliva and directly through the wall of C-1).

Paddock Feed

Alpacas are primarily grazers and eat small amounts of a

wide variety of plants. They will eat approximately 2% of

their body weight in feed per day and prefer shorter pastures.

Ideally they should have a diet consisting of 20% fibre.

They are very effective at extracting nutrients (protein and

energy) from the available feed. Alpacas are efficient recyclers

of urea and protein levels of 10-12% only are required.

Although they can survive harsh conditions they do best on

good quality pasture. The growth of a variety of grasses and

forbs in quality soils will provide your alpacas with good

nutrition.

Care should be taken to avoid poisonous plants in your

pasture or hanging over fences into alpaca paddocks, such as

highly toxic oleander, lantana etc.

Supplementary Feeding

In seasons where pasture becomes limited, alpacas may be supplemented with

good quality pasture hay and/or various grains according to their physiological

state (e.g. pregnancy, lactation, growth, maintenance) and body condition score.

Roughage in the form of hay should be available at all times, especially in spring or

on lush pasture, e.g. irrigation.

Depending on your location, paddock feed may not be adequate throughout the

year for alpacas, particularly those requiring extra nutrition. Pregnant and

lactating females need a higher daily intake than other alpacas.

Australian soils are often deficient in certain minerals and trace elements.

Pastures and soils can be analysed to assess any areas of deficiency and it is

important that this be done to avoid using unnecessary additives.

Alpacas can be supplemented using a commercial mix designed for alpacas, and

some owners have reported success with seaweed meal. Extracts from AAA Alpaca Facts #5

Peruvian studies have shown that alpacas consume tall grasses in the wet season and short grasses in the dry season. Alpacas are

highly adaptable grazers that will eat grass when it is available but they will adapt to sedges during dry periods of low grass

availability.

The sedge family (Cyperaceae) comprises annual and perennial grass-like or rush-like plants which usually show a preference

for marshy or wet places but a few also occur on dry sandy soils with unimproved pasture. On improved pasture, sheep will eat

at least 2.5 times more legumes such as clovers than alpacas, so alpacas still prefer grasses even in this situation.

Reasons why nutrition is so important:

Viable birth weights

Proper growth rates

Proper development of all body parts, eg.

Straight legs etc.

Disease resistance

Eliminates the need for injections re

selenium, vitamins E,A,&D

Healthy skin, thus proper follicle and fibre

alignment

NUTRITION


Sire Name Colour IAR Stud Stud Fee Photo

Alpha Centauri

Tahvo Huacaya,

Solid White

134917

Cobaki Creek Alpacas $450.00

Encantador Alonzo (ET)

Huacaya,

Light Fawn

118157

Cobaki Creek Alpacas $500.00

Grand Flowerdale

Traviator

Huacaya Medium

Fawn 130107 Creekside Alpacas $600.00

Erragolia Double

Ice Huacaya,

Solid White

129715 Erragolia Alpacas $ 400

Wilari Park

Ballantyne Huacaya,

Solid White

72710 Erragolia Alpacas $ 200.00

Erragolia Collaroy Huacaya,

Dark Fawn

114843 Erragolia Alpacas $ 300 .00

Longueville Park

Black Opal Huacaya Black 50527 Erragolia Alpacas Co

Owned with Misty

Mountain

$ 300 .00

Janda

MONTE CARLO

HUACAYA

Solid White

72948 Jacaranda Alpacas $300.00

Wyona

CENOTAPH

Huacaya Solid

Black 115482 Longueville Park $660.00

Longueville

Park

RHYLEY

Huacaya Solid


Send in your favourite

Alpaca photos

HERD SIRES


Longueville

Park

PEGASUS

Huacaya Solid


Longueville

Park

PHOENIX

Huacaya Solid


Longueville

Park

BRIGANTINE

Huacaya Solid


Pacofino

RITZVILLE

Suri Solid

Dark Fawn 125158 Mangowood

Alpacas

$880.00

Balfour Haven

Noble Monarch

Huacaya

Dark Fawn 125054 Misty Mountain Stud $500

Silcron

Mars

Huacaya

Dark Fawn

74257 McLaren Vale

Alpacas

$300

Arcady Auberon

Kallarro Huacaya Grey Kallaroo Alpacas POA

Barkala Garcia Solid White 91399 Nattameri Alpacas $400.00

Arcady Hoax Huacaya

Rose Grey 15538 Stanmore Park

Alpacas $500.00

Criadero Fidel Huacaya Solid

Black 95506 Wahgungurry Alpacas $400.00

Ninbella Matt Huacaya

Medium Fawn 74124 Wahgungurry Alpacas $400.00

HERD SIRES

AAA Involvement in 5000 Poppies Project

As part of the 2015 Anzac Commemoration, marking 100 years since the Anzac Gallipolli landing, the 5000 Poppies project will be "planting" a field of more than 25,000 (probably more like around 50,000) poppies in Federation Square,

Melbourne as a stunning visual tribute to Australian servicemen and women for more than a century of service in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Donated ribbons not used during the show will be distributed throughout NSW and VIC for participants to make

poppies. For any further information, to lend a hand, post your ribbons/completed poppies or suggest a display venue for 11 Nov, 2014, please contact: Cath Lukin m 0400 076 432


Value add to your business by advertising in The Alpaca Advocate

The Advocate is sent to all Regional Members, All AAA Directors, AAA

Regional Presidents and Regional Newsletter Editors. We often have

subscriptions from people interested in our industry from Intro to alpaca

workshops.

Our reasonable rates:

Full Page $ 85.00

Half Page $ 40.00

Quarter Page $ 25.00

Classified—Business Card size $ 10.00 (4 for $36)

Special Offer: 10% discount for 4 Adverts - discount applied on the 4th Advert.

Subscription— 4 copies $22.00 per year.

Advertise on the

SthQLD-NNSW web page

Cost:

$20 for 3 months

$30 for 6 months

$50 a year

Contact our Webmaster for more in de-

tails.

Regional Merchandise

Have you considered giving Alpaca Product for your Christmas presents?

It is easy to buy from our Regional Products online.

GO TO : Our Regional Website

ENTER Your Password

Follow instructions

OR

Contact Bob Coxon on 02 66459092 [email protected] for more information


Spring IN THE Paddock

Clover

Red and white clover are two types of clover commonly used to plant or replant pastures, and are very useful in improving the

quality of the pasture already in existence by providing nitrogen. For grazing, though, white clover is your best choice. Clover is a

legume rather than a grass, which means it belongs to the plant family Leguminosae.

The existing pasture forages should be no higher than one inch when you start planting. Choose a certified brand of seed, then plan to plant it in late February or early March on a day that's not windy, hot or dry. Also avoid planting when the soil is dry. Preferably, you'll plant when there is still some frost on the ground. As the frost dries, the seeds will be brought down to the soil for germination. When you plant, if your pasture is not sodded, you can use the broadcast technique to plant by walking the pasture and throwing out the seed onto the ground. If the pasture is sodded, you will need to use a tractor with a disc attachment to disc up

alternating strips of the pasture to broadcast the seeds on. Use 1 kilo of white clover per acre, or 4kg of red clover per acre.

Clover grows best in higher pH levels than other pasture forages, and also needs more phosphate and potash to be present in the

soil. Work with a local agent to get a soil test. After the test, the agent will advise you on liming the pasture for best growth results

of your clover. Don't use nitrogen fertilizer, though, as that will cause the existing grass in the pasture to start growing.

The Importance of Soil Analysis and Testing for Australian Growers

Agronomists and growers should not under estimate how important it is to do proper and timely soil analysis and testing. It is important to note that the information received from soil analysis and testing, particularly as it relates to local conditions across Australia, is highly dependent on how the samples are obtained, the overall agricultural soil testing

strategy used, and the procedures employed by the soil testing lab.

The details below are derived from procedures based on over a decade of soil analysis and testing by one of the most respected certified soil testing labs in Australia. These details should assist Australian agronomists, growers, consultants, and

governmental departments in collecting soil samples prior to submitting them for chemical analysis.

Soil Analysis and Soil Testing

Our tests provide you with a complete report on the status of your soil’s mineral and micronutrient makeup. The information contained in this report provides growers and agronomists with valuable guidance on proper fertiliser selection and micronutrient

applications.

These soil tests include: Total Soil (with PBI) (S7): pH (H2O), pH (CaCl2), EC, S, P, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Al, Cl, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, B, NH4-N, NO3-N, % Organic Matter, colour, texture, Lime requirement, CEC, Ca/Mg ratio, % Base saturation & PBI.

Better crops, better food. Water, Soil, & Plant Lab Results in 5 Days www.phosynanalytical.com.au

PADDOCKS

http://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=CheqQ2Bk7VIT3B9Gq8gXhi4LQCeeVp4QDr6m-kTPAjbcBEAEg4_GbAigEUJzi_pEEYKX4kYCQAaAB4eCD7wPIAQGpAn7hi7JbJK0-qAMBqgSaAU_QU-G3vGN87AupE-_YkhKq29W0ohRELISns-yj8ScQGbWrM19eTz0r9pAtREdzepKyl8Nb6DpWd7XNZP7mf-33hERcF6G082


DO YOU WANT TO BE PART OF AAA'S

NEW AND EXCITING PRODUCT CATALOGUE?

In 2015 the AAA is publishing a Product Catalogue in addition to the annual magazine, ‘Australian Alpaca, An Introduction to Alpacas’. Alpaca product is of interest to a wide range of potential customers, many of whom are not in a position to own and/or breed animals. A strong product market is essential for the alpaca industry to grow locally and the AAA can help strengthen this area through a visible Product Catalogue. The Product Catalogue target audience is members of the public who are interested in alpaca products, but not necessarily in becoming alpaca owners. It will be incorporated into the Annual Magazine (giving an idea of the potential and significance of alpaca product to newcomers to the industry) but will also be printed and distributed as a separate catalogue. The combined reach of these publications will be a print run of 30,000 copies, providing a large presence to our target market. The Product Catalogue will showcase the best of alpaca product (fashion, homewares and craft) and we are currently looking for advertisers in this exciting new venture. Participants in the catalogue simply need to commit to this offer and provide the AAA with their own products before October 16, we will arrange professional photography and graphic design. Providing product rather than photos will ensure that all photos are of the same consistent quality and style. Goods will be returned after photography if return postage is included. Please find attached a mock-up Yarn Page (made up of business card sized ads) and a mock-up page of Quarter Page Ads to give you an idea of the possible lay-out of the catalogue. Please bear in mind that we are in the early stages of designing the catalogue and these mock-up pages have been included just to give you an idea of how the advertisements will be pulled together. The final design will depend on the products being presented. We need to get the Product Catalogue printed early in 2015, so that it is ready for distribution by the end of summer, as most alpaca products are more appealing during the Autumn and Winter months. In order to do so, we need to gauge interest in the catalogue as soon as possible, with product being supplied to the office by October 16. 2015 Product Catalogue pricing information - special introductory prices only valid for this year Full page - $950 Half page - $625 Quarter page - $450 Business card sized - $175

Please contact either Vicky ([email protected])

or Esmé ([email protected])

as soon as possible to secure your place in this new publication.

Further details will be discussed with advertisers when they confirm their interest.

http://asn.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=71fbb2a378fba12972fdfe7e9&id=692d690189&e=570646305c

http://asn.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=71fbb2a378fba12972fdfe7e9&id=80790e39eb&e=570646305c




CASE STUDY: ULCERATED CORNEA

At this time of the year it is quite common for alpacas to get infections in their eyes. Treated quickly the eye will make a full recovery. Often the alpacas eye will be weeping, or partly closed, the eye will look white and will develop very quickly without treatment. The cause of the eye injury is usually a scratch or seed. The characteristic sign is a white spot on the surface of the eye and the eye will have a cloudy look

Treatment is by VET prescription ointment Opticlox in eye twice daily,

until at least 4 days after the eye has returned to normal. The alpaca will make a full recovery. Occasionally a small white dot on the eye may remain

Pauline - Wahgungurry Alpaca Stud.

ALPACA CASE STUDY


Declaring 2015 the Australian Year of the Alpaca.

Interesting Websites:

The listing of these websites is simply for interest and the information is not a recommendation. e.g. on health matters, please consult with your Vet.

www.owning-alpaca.com (Excellent site, has instructions for washing fleece, craft projects, felting etc, packed with information.)

www.alpaca-uk.co.uk (Articles)

www.camelidsupplies.com.au (Supplier)

www.alpaca.org.nz (Info & Articles)

www.thinklivestock.com (Suppliers of

Vaccination Equipment)

W T T O D A Y R J F D S H X

B A R B E R S P O L E F H T

L E A D F N H G K O P L A D

C L C K X V K A H A H O Y T

S B T K F U D T E N T A R M

P S O H S I R E E G F T Y A

O R R O T O Y G K U L P J C

N F S S E K C R T A E L O H

S C U T W X X A T R E I L I

O A P U A H H S U D C E K N

R F R B R H I S H H F R P E

F Y E M D W J P J H J S E F

L K M W R B U C K E T R N L

E Y E L D E E N S R N I S E

I V S C H A M P I O N G W E

S E E W W E A T H E R I A C

E Y S H O W E R S U R I O E

K G W T K L O L E I T O E S

U W O R K P B O O T S A I D

S P I N N I N G W H E E L D

barbers pole

bucket

champion

eye

dry

fleeces

float

hay

heel

host

gate

grass

guard

lead

machine

needle

pliers

pens

sponsor

spinning wheel

sire

show

steward

supreme

suri

today

toes

tractor

tent

weather

work boots


Shearers Bob Dunn (02) 4930 3446

Chris Powers 0438653782

Drew Shearman (02) 49201507

Ted Winnell (Casino) (02) 66625379 Mob: 0427 343991

Bernie McInerney Mob: 0429 668240

Dusty the Aussie Shearer 0422 946697

Mike Snow via Kelli Pfeiffer [email protected]

Contacting fellow breeders in your Region for a recommendation is probably the best way to

locate a shearer.

Arrange well ahead of time as the shearers are booked out quickly.

The AAA Website also has a list of shearers on the home page. qldnsw.alpaca.asn.au

Fibre Testing Micron Man Pty Ltd

Email for more information

[email protected]

New England Fibre Testing Service

Walcha 02 6777 2122

Australian Wool Testing Authority (AWTA)

Geelong office 03 5277 9842

Melbourne office 03 9371 2100

Australian Alpaca Fleece Testing (AAFT) (AWEX accredited)

Paul Vallely, PO Box 246, Crookwell, NSW 2583

Phone/Fax: 02 4834 2132

International Fibre Centre, Gordon Institute of TAFE, Geelong

Geelong 03 5227 2358

Howe, Watts & Co

Mudgee 02 6373 3403

Riverina Wool Testers Pty Ltd

Wagga Wagga 02 6925 1407

Riverina Fleece Testing Services (RFTS)

Wodonga 02 6026 0551

Southern Tablelands Fibre Testing (STFT) (AWEX Accredited)

Kim Cartwright, Thalaba Downs, Laggan 2583

Phone/Fax: 02 4837 3210 Mobile: 0427 373 211

SHEARING


470 gms buttercake cake mix

1/4 cups desiccated coconut toasted

120 gms butter chopped

2 eggs

400 gms canned sliced peaches—drained

250 mls sour cream

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp sugar

Method

STEP 1 Pre-heat oven to 180C.

STEP 2 Process butter cake, cooled coconut, butter and 1 egg in food processor to form a soft dough.

STEP 3 Spread dough evenly over a greased and lined slice tin. Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.

STEP 4 Spread drained peaches evenly over base.

STEP 5 Mix sour cream, egg and cinnamon together and spread over peaches. Sprinkle with sugar.

STEP 6 Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes until top is set and knife comes out cleanly when inserted.

STEP 7 Cool in tray and cut into slices. Serve as is or with ice cream.

Sent in by Anne Bright

Anne made this slice for our

last meeting– Just the BEST!!

Recipe provided by Robyn, Cement Australia, originated from QCL.

―BLOODY BEAUTIFUL SLICE!‖

Caramel Walnut Crunch

1 can Condensed Milk

½ cup sugar

185g/6oz butter

2 tbsp golden syrup

185g arrowroot biscuits

125g walnut pieces (or 110g Macadamia Nuts)

125g dark or milk chocolate

30g copha

1. Break biscuits roughly into a 28 x 18cm tray, greased and lined with foil. (Break, don’t crush). Spread

nuts over the biscuits.

2. In a saucepan combine condensed milk, golden syrup, sugar and butter. Stir over low heat until melted.

Gradually increase heat until boiling, stirring constantly. Cook until golden brown 7 –10 minutes.

3. Spoon over biscuits and nuts. Put in fridge for about 1 hour.

4. Melt chocolate and copha and spoon over mixture. Leave in fridge until set. Cut with a hot knife.

This is an old Favourite

Quick and Easy

RECIPES


Tex~Paca ~ all to do with the use of Alpaca fibre.

CRAFT


Spring is probably the busiest season in the garden. Plants are waking up, mulch needs to be removed, winter

clean-up has to be done, and all before you can start planting this year's garden.

Get whatever you can transplanted now, before the weather turns hot and the mosquitoes take over.

Mulch around trees and shrubs. Give the Citrus a good dose of alpaca mulch right out to the edge of

canopy.

Make sure you water, if rain is not regular.

Replace cool season flowers and crops as they begin to fade, with warm season plants.

Keep and eye out for grasshopper infestations.

Start seeds of warm season plants.

Keep feeding flowering annuals don’t forget to debud your old flowers on

calendulas and pansies.

Give your spring flowering plants a good dose of Liquid manure to get

them through the warmer days.

Check citrus trees for pests like citrus leaf miner (contorted or misshapen

leaves), aphids, scab, scale, whitefly and mites

Enjoy the warm days of spring and the flowering trees.

http://gardening.about.com/od/gardenmaintenance/a/Mulch.htm

http://gardening.about.com/od/annuals/tp/CoolAnnuals.htm

http://gardening.about.com/od/annuals/g/Annual.htm

http://gardening.about.com/od/insectpestid/qt/Leafminer.htm


BLU-HAVEN LODGE

WARADENE NOTRADAMUS DELILAH

BEST ROAN HUACAYA

LONGUEVILLE PARK

PEGASUS

1ST BLACK 60M & OVER

HUACAYA

18 –30months Roan

BLU-HAVEN LODGE KOBDEN JAMES


Date post:	05-Apr-2016
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Alpaca Advocate 2014 spring

Documents