New Zealand Alpaca December 2012 by NZ Alpaca

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Oak Ridge Oliver Elite Stud Male

Oak Ridge Oliver, an exceptional Stud Male well regarded for possessing impeccable genetics, and being at the forefront of an advanced breeding programme that is producing some of New Zealand’s elite alpacas. Awarded “Supreme Champion Huacaya” at the 2010 New Zealand National Alpaca Expo, he is a multi Supreme Champion male who continues to excel in the show ring with numerous broad ribbon awards in junior, intermediate and now senior classes. His fleece is exquisite, displaying fineness, density, lustre and a wonderful handle with bundles of high frequency staples. Oliver carries “blue blood” genetics that make him the perfect choice as a stud male for the discerning alpaca breeder.

Stud fee $1300.00 + GST, discounts available for multiple purchases. Strictly limited outside services available.

Enquire today and Invest in the Future Contact:

Martin Bennett – Oak Ridge Alpacas 52 Jacksons Road, Ohoka, R D 2, Kaiapoi 7692 Ph: 03 312 0144, Mob: 021 114 5314, email: oakridge.alpacas@xtra.co.nz Proudly co-owned by NZ Summerhill Alpacas

www.oakridgealpacas.co.nz

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Inside this issue…

Message from the President

Fleece - The Whole Point of Owning Alpacas or an Inconvenient By-product?

Premium Alpaca - Towards a Viable and Sustainable Alpaca Fleece Industry

Kit Johnson

Jenny Durno COVER PHOTO: Congratulations to Anne Rogers for her winning front cover entry, featuring Sherlin The Watchman. Anne wins a quarter page advert in the NZ Alpaca magazine. Thank you to all the entrants.

Paul Vallely

World Record Alpaca Bale

Greenacres Fibre Processing

The Creative Fibre Festival

Rumpelstiltskin - Spinning Suri Fibre into Gold

Alpaca Farming in Australia

Alpacas to the Rescue

Liver Fluke in Alpacas

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Ask the Vet

A History of Alpaca Imports into New Zealand

Profile on Ian Nelson

Town & Country News

Not Impossible Just ‘Invisible’

Why Sponsorship is a Good Idea

Alpaca 2013 World Conference and Expo

New Zealand National Expo 2012

South Island Colourbration 2012

The Australian Nationals Return to Adelaide

Breeder Profile - Thistledown

New Member Profile - Cherryl Norman

Paul Vallely

Robyn Anderson

Molly Gardner Dinah Fisher

Genevieve Rajewski Jane Vaughan

Monique Koning Kit Johnson

Denise Moysey Shirley Grant

World Conference 2013 and Expo Working Group Martin Bennett

Andy Nailard

Steph Gardner

Sheryl Johnson

New Zealand Alpaca is printed on paper derived from resources which are managed to ensure their renewability for generations to come.

Editor magazine@alpaca.org.nz

Website www.alpaca.org.nz

Advertising AANZ Office advertising@alpaca.org.nz Phone (03) 341 5242

AANZ – All Enquiries Toni Soppet – AANZ Office Manager PO Box 6348, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch Phone (03) 341 5242. Mobile 021 368 994 tonisoppet@alpaca.org.nz or aanz@clear.net.nz

Media Liaison Officer Jenny Durno Design & Print Taieri Print Limited 9 Chadwick Street, Fairfield, Dunedin 9018 Phone (03) 488 4770

AANZ Council Kit Johnson – President 68 Moodys Road RD 2, Kaiapoi 7692 Phone (03) 327 3020 president@alpaca.org.nz

Deadlines New Zealand Alpaca is produced three times per year. Deadlines for all advertising & articles for the next issue is 25th February, 2013.

Advert Sizes When producing artwork for advertising please use the measurements below. Business Card ¼ Page ½ Page Portrait ½ Page Landscape Full Page Double Page Spread

Christine Sutherland – Secretary secretary@alpaca.org.nz

88mm × 55mm 88mm × 130mm 90mm × 264mm 180mm × 130mm 210mm × 297mm 420mm × 297mm

Wayne Allison – Treasurer treasurer@alpaca.org.nz Robyn Anderson – Southern Region Rep. southernrep@alpaca.org.nz Ros Scott – Central Region Rep. centralrep@alpaca.org.nz

Advertising Rates All prices GST exclusive. All adverts full colour.

Mary-Ann Pruden – Northern Region Rep. northernrep1@alpaca.org.nz

Press Ready Artwork Supplied Business Card ¼ Page ½ Page Full Page Double Page Spread Special Positions Right Hand* Back Cover (full page) Inside Cover (full page) Inside Back Cover (full page) Specific Position* * Subject to availability

Willem Alblas – Northern Region Rep. northernrep2@alpaca.org.nz

$55 $110 $220 $400 $700 +10% +25% +20% +15% +10%

Graphic Design Advert design service available @ $60 per hour, 95% of adverts will take an hour or less to complete. We will contact you with an estimate prior to commencing work if composing your advert will take longer than an hour. Please direct any design enquiries to jason@taieriprint.co.nz Discounts A discount is available for advertising in three consecutive issues. The full rate is paid for the first two adverts and a 30% discount is given on the third advert. This is equivalent to 10% per issue. Please don’t send payment with advertising material – an account will be sent on receipt of your advertisement.

Alan Skilling – Vice President 12 Maratoto Road RD 4, Paeroa 3674 Phone (07) 862 4646 vicepresident@alpaca.org.nz

Liability Whilst all efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of information this Association accepts no responsibility for any errors contained in advertisements or text. Views expressed by advertisements and contributors are not necessarily endorsed by this association. Copyright All material appearing in NZ Alpaca is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of AANZ.

Contributing Writers Andy Nailard Molly Gardner Denise Moysey Monique Koning Dinah Fisher Paul Vallely Genevieve Rajewski Robyn Anderson Jane Vaughan Sheryl Johnson Jenny Durno Shirley Grant Kit Johnson Steph Gardner Martin Bennett

“We are slowly recovering from one of the worst economic recessions the world has ever known and now is the time to be proactive and to make a name for yourself and your stud farm.”

Message from the President How time flies – do you realize it is just 10 months before New Zealand hosts the World Alpaca Conference in Hamilton. Combined with our own National Alpaca Expo, this will be an international event not seen in the history of the New Zealand alpaca industry. We have waited five years since the decision was made at Sydney 2007 for New Zealand to host the event in 2013. This will also be the tenth anniversary of the National Alpaca Expo. I spoke at the 2012 World Alpaca Conference in Oxford in the UK and I can assure everyone there was a lot of interest from the conference delegates to attend the 2013 event. The timing of the event, the combined conference and Expo, other shows happening in Australia after the conference and the simple fact that many of our European friends have always wanted to come to New Zealand, have all contributed in the excitement and desire to come downunder. We must also remember that New Zealand is one of the few privileged countries that can export live animals direct to Europe at the moment. Compared with travelling around Europe at great expense, you will have a captive audience of experienced alpaca breeders who are the movers and shakers in the international alpaca community, all here to experience New Zealand hospitality first hand. This is one of those rare occasions where for minimal cost you can showcase your animals to an international audience under one roof. We urge you to act NOW and book your trade stands and sponsorship so that you enjoy maximum exposure at this world-class event. Speaking of National Alpaca Expo’s, we have just witnessed another fabulous event held in Christchurch. With all the turmoil in the world, not to mention an earthquake battered city, it was great to see the support that came from all parts of New Zealand. Whilst the turnout was down on the previous year, the numbers attending were very close to the 2010 event in Christchurch. The costs of travelling interisland not to mention next year’s international event all had an impact on the final number of attendees and animals being shown. Financially the show was well within budget and the working group are to be congratulated for their all round efforts in ensuring a successful show. There were many positive comments about the large and striking marquee, the catering and the robust penning.

Richards (Surico Alpaca) for producing the supreme champion huacaya and suri alpaca for 2012. Well done. Submissions for the Review of the Regions and Subcommittees have now closed and it is pleasing to see the quality of the submissions received. National Council will meet to discuss the submissions and to setup a working group (from within the greater membership) in the hope that some remits will be presented at the 2013 AGM. Thank you to those parties for making the effort to put their ideas forward. I would also like to acknowledge the work of Robyn Anderson in compiling the last New Zealand Alpaca magazine. Robyn volunteered to take this job on in a caretaker role and what an outstanding first up effort. The content was varied and informative and still the quality of the magazine was maintained – well done Robyn and a huge thank you from everyone. I would also like to remind everyone that there is currently free listing on the Services Directory on the AANZ website. This is your opportunity of promoting and selling animals and alpaca products for free – come on, we cannot make it any easier for you. Finally keep your chins up and make the effort to be involved with your association. By involving yourself in the association’s affairs and events, you learn just how much good work is being done out there. Do not be one of those sideline doomsayers who never have a good word to say about anyone or anything. Get involved and you might surprise yourself. We are slowly recovering from one of the worst economic recessions the world has ever known and now is the time to be proactive and to make a name for yourself and your stud farm. Come on let us work together and make the alpaca world a better place.

Kit Johnson President, AANZ

Congratulations must also go to Eric Lister (Thief of Hearts Alpaca Stud) and Sue, Hermione and Brooke 3

Index of advertisers Advertiser

Page

Business Cards Leo & Karen Ponsonby/Greenacres Fibre Processing

Richard Williams/Epsilon Computers

Bob & Jenny Phillips/Minffordd Cottage and Alpaca Farm

Ritchie & Maree Churchill/El dos Cadena Alpacas

1/8 Page Ann & Delwyn Bannan/Cherry Lane Alpacas

Sue Vanner/Halters Plus

David & Katherine Harding/Teri Dyes

Quarter Page P & T McKay/Mesa Natural Fibre Mill

Alpaca Seller

Vicky Tribe/GearGirl

Cilla Taylor/Wild Palette Suri

Richard Beere/Wool Technologies

Martyn & Jenny Ellwood-Wade/Cuesta Weave

Linley Yeoman/Cresta Viento

Andy Nailard/Flagstaff Alpacas

Silver Package Liz Barnes & Cheryl Hughson/The Alpaca Place

Half Page Martin Blampied/Dunstan Nutrition Ltd

John Carr/Pacific Alpacas

Jill Allan/Gem Alpaca Stud

Full Page Gold Package Frank & Anya Walkington/Shamarra Alpacas

Barbara Lomax/Honeyfields Alpacas

Kit & Sheryl Johnson/Silverstream Alpaca Stud

Hermione, Sue & Brooke Richards/Surico Alpaca

Paul Garland & Lynda Sides-Garland, Alan & Lyn Skilling/Waratah Flats & Qtaz Alpacas

Ian & Angela Preuss/Surilana

PLATINUM Inside Front Cover Martin Bennett/Oakridge Alpacas

IFC

Inside Back Cover Martin Bennett, Brendon Taylor & Sue Wise/Team Supreme

IBC

Outside Back Cover Stephanie, Molly & Phillipa Gardner/Thistledown

OBC

Patagonia Celtic Rising Sun ET FINE FAWN GENETICS

Photos courtesy of Robert Gane-Canchones

At 6yrs of age, Rising Sun has it all:

Show Successes:

• Fineness (<20µ) • Comfort Factor (98.3%) • Density (69.8 follicles per mm2) • Staple length (120mm)

• Supreme Fawn - Victoria Colourbration 2009 & 2010 • Champion Senior Male - Sydney Royal 2009 • Reserve Champion Intermediate Male - Progeny AAA 2011 • Shamarra Roaring Meg ET (Rising Sun daughter) Supreme Brown Champion at Victoria Colourbration 2012

www.shamarra-alpacas.co.nz Frank & Anya Walkington | 03 304 5141 | info@shamarra-alpacas.co.nz

The whole point of having alpacas or an inconvenient by-product? by Jenny Durno - Thorburn Alpaca November 2012

We have all had the conversations about last year’s clip still under the bed or in the shed with another lot about to be shorn. Some people seem to be doing great things with their fleece and some are mulching the garden with it. There are those who have worked out how to get the most out of their own fleece and those who have taken things a step further and are buying from other people to turn alpaca fleece into a business. We talked to some of the breeders who were taking things a step further. 6

Would you describe your herd as primarily for breeding or for fleece production? Most respondents started by breeding for better and better animals producing finer quality fibre. Once they ‘had a shedful’ they took more interest in doing something constructive with the fleece. In our sample it appears that this stage takes about five years. (Something to do with the size of the shed?) Minimum numbers of animals for those who were doing more than selling bags to the bulk buyers for lack of any option seemed to be about 25 – 30 animals. However respondents agreed that however few females you started with, 25 was how many you would end up with after five years of breeding.

What would you like your fleece to be used for, ideally? Our active members want to realize the dream of high end New Zealand produced products from fine suri garments to quality feltwear, knitwear and woven items. None are averse to pooling fleece to get the critical mass but all agreed the infrastructure was not reliable yet for ensuring that quality was retained throughout a bale. None were involved in a collective with others although some had tried it and were disappointed.

Do you have it processed and if so, what do you get done? Yes, they get the raw fleece carded and spun or felted by the few businesses offering these services. No one felt the charges were usury; these businesses had their own costs structures to contend with; but the high cost of processing inhibited larger scale processing. The smaller mills were not keeping up with demand so putting more fleece through their processing was not going to help to lower their charges. Any development of further processing mills, especially larger ones, was followed with keen interest. (If we had $1000 from each person who told me they would have invested in buying the ex-Lincoln University equipment after the Suri project, we would be challenging the cashmere market right now…)

What happens/ed to your fleece and products - past, present and future? No one admitted to burning it, not out loud. Some agreed it ended up with the man in the truck who pays you one day when you least expect it, but most had identified ways of using the entire fleece in one way or another. High quality blankets turned into spun fibre for knitting or weaving and the rest was either felted or sold for duvet or insulation.

Product was mainly sold website by website with the occasional market or onsite shop. No one was exporting multiple items – just responding if they had an online overseas request for a single item. Asked if they would be interested in pooling product in a single, well promoted outlet, most demurred – they are in competition with each other and couldn’t see how pooling product would serve them. Scared of the competition? No! They were worried that the competition would let them down. Who would set the standards? Any such initiative would require strong leadership and clear boundaries before our sample members would participate.

Will you change what you do in future? Why have you made this decision? There was a variety of answers to this question but the trend was the same. Members had set out to produce high end top quality fleece and great products which would put themselves and New Zealand on the map. The Italian high fashion houses would be banging on the doors. When reality handed them a clip which included older animals, multiple colours and bellies, they pragmatically moved into less esoteric items which nevertheless helped pay for the zinc nuts. The broad scope of responses to the challenge of using this lesser material in fact seemed to reflect the true New Zealand psyche of being able to think on the hoof, work with what we’ve got.

Any plans to work with anyone else? Would you? How? Some members were already cooperating with one other member and saw the scope to expand this. Pooling of coloured fleece seemed to be the only way to make those fleeces commercially viable so the tipping point for cooperation here was close. All agreed that they would participate in a well-run initiative to pool fleece, process larger quantities of similar micron fibre or even market to larger, probably overseas, markets. Would they run it? Answers ranged from; ‘Who, little old me?!’ to ‘Who would be paying me to take this risk?’ (Applications welcome.)

Do we have a New Zealand Alpaca Industry? We COULD have. The animals are too expensive for us to be viable yet. Our member population is too heavily skewed to the smaller breeders who do not have the capital or critical mass to progress. The processing capacity is not there and what we have is too expensive. But we are getting closer. There are some exciting initiatives in some quarters and everyone is watching those developments with great interest. There is no commercial jealously here – the whole industry is excited and admiring of any progress made, and just waiting for leadership. ‘Tell us where you want our fleece,’ they are saying, ‘and we will participate.’ The New Zealand Alpaca community has come through a financial downturn with too many animals and not enough market for them. The members I spoke to believe that the fleece industry is going to lead us back to commercial viability.

Thanks to all the people who responded to my questions, especially for the thoughtful contributions of Jenny Ellwood-Wade - Cuesta Weaving, Jenny Phillips Minffordd Alpacas and Alpaca Essentials and Maree Churchill of El dos Cadena Alpacas. Numerous others have also contributed their experiences and the culture of support and cooperation was very heartening. Next issue we will feature more members working with their fleeces and the experiences of the mills and larger processers. Contributions gratefully accepted.

FINE FLEECE SPECIALISTS

Does your fleece activity bring you a profit? Those who kept figures, adhered to budgets and counted the cost of looking after their animals mainly said no, not yet, although they had faith that it was going to happen soon. Encouragingly there were some who had a variety of products selling in some established, albeit local markets, who were turning a profit; enough to justify the expense of having alpacas walking in the fields.

Who do you see as your competitors? This was a delicate question to include as we are such a small community I didn’t know what I would do if I got answers like, ‘That wretched woman down the road is stealing all my fibre customers,’ or ‘It depends on who gets to the Farmers’ Market first.’ However, overwhelmingly the answer was ‘Merino.’ Alpaca people consider themselves one when they look at the marketing machine which is New Zealand Merino. Our product is strong, soft and luxurious. Merino is strong, soft and luxurious and has an established market. Do we emulate them? Join them? Or do something imaginatively different?

MEE TING ALL YOUR PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS

Mesa Natural Fibre Mill is able to process from a few kilos through to larger quantities. Washing | Dehairing | Carding (roving, batts, bumps) Spinning (balls, cones, skeins) Felting Quantities of carded or spun Alpaca for sale

Peter & Tessa McKay 18 Tait Road Maraekakaho RD1 Hastings 4171 New Zealand

p. 06 874 9093 e. info@mesamill.co.nz w. www.mesamill.com MESA 6846

From the start, it was our hope and expectation the venture would have a positive flow on effect with all alpaca fleece types, and not just the very fine white categories. The venture proved successful with further orders for the fibre as well as genuine enquiries for other alpaca fleece types, including coloured fibres. (We are doing what we can to develop interest with suri fibre). It was not all smooth sailing, however. There are some serious lessons to be learnt with regard to how we might successfully pursue a viable and sustainable commercial alpaca fibre market. This paper outlines suggestions on how we might capitalise on the experiences of the Ultrafine Bale Scheme.

PREMIUM

ALPACA

Towards a viable and sustainable alpaca fleece industry by Paul Vallely Paul Vallely presented this article to the 2012 Alpaca Conference in Rotorua in June this year.

About 6 years ago, Australian Alpaca Fibre Testing (AAFT) initiated the Ultrafine Bale Scheme. The objective of the scheme was to collect the finest alpaca fleeces throughout Australia with the aim of showcasing to the world, the luxurious nature of alpaca fibre and to carve a niche into the global 'top end' textile markets. 8

Firstly, the scheme has shown there is strong demand for alpaca fibre of most grades. Of particular note are the grades suitable for the luxury market. It is suggested that fleeces measuring up to 26 microns might be suitable for luxury product ranges, with fleeces under, say, 20 microns suitable for 'Prestige label' garments. In saying this, it should be noted that the global luxury retail market is currently experiencing high growth rates for turnover and net profit, contrary to the continued global economic downturn. For instance, Italian suit manufacturer, Ermenegildo Gildo reported recently of doubling net profits on the previous year. This fact should be music to the ears of alpaca breeders. Secondly, and on the other hand, market analysis carried out before and during the operation of the bale scheme has shown many users of alpaca fibre have concerns at the level of contamination and lack of uniformity of fibre type within consignment lines of alpaca. Of particular concern has been the variation in fibre diameter within consignment lines. Last year, an importer from China was reported to have lost half the purchase price of a bale of alpaca fibre due to this problem. Contamination from coarse fibres and variation in colour have also plagued our reputation as fibre producers. A further problem is the fact that alpaca is often supplied in small volumes, of say, under 100 kilos. The third point is our key observation. The opportunities mentioned in the first point are conditional upon the concerns of the second point being adequately addressed. In other words, fleeces must be consigned within a rational set of 'Quality Assurance' protocols. These protocols need to be adhered to and importantly, communicated to those who use or might use the fibre. Further, the protocols need to be specific to alpaca, and not be carried on the back of classing systems for merino wool. In addition, alpaca fibre needs to be consigned on a collective basis to ensure commercial volumes. In order to pursue the opportunities and to address the concerns identified by the Ultrafine Bale Scheme, about three years ago a consortium of Australian alpaca breeders working with AAFT, developed a breeding, fleece preparation and marketing system aimed at meeting the key demand drivers for the textile industry. Both the consortium and the concept are referred to as 'Premium Alpaca'. The consortium now comprises breeders throughout Australia, with the hope the concept might be adopted in other countries. The concept's breeding strategy involves the direct selection for highly heritable traits that are key drivers for fibre processing performance. Fibre traits regarded as being a high priority include average fibre diameter (AFD) and standard deviation of fibre diameter (SD of AFD). It is noteworthy that breeders who have adopted this breeding

strategy have recorded substantial genetic improvement in these traits with consequent improvements in correlated traits such as uniformity in AFD over the fleece and reducing micron-blowout. Tactile assessments have also indicated improvements in the handle of fleeces. Although not tested at this stage, these reported improvements would have resulted in increased processing performance of the fibre. The fleece collection component of the Premium Alpaca strategy has possibly received the most attention at this stage. In order to satisfy the demands for quality assured fleece preparation standards, a strict set of procedures are adhered to. Firstly, all contributors to Premium Alpaca consignments, must have completed a fleece collection workshop. These workshops provide breeders with an understanding on aspects such as 'reading fleece types', identifying problematic fibres, reducing levels of contamination, 'consumer driven' fleece parameters and how to enhance the standards of fleece preparation during shearing time. Once breeders have completed fleece preparation workshops, fleece collection days are organised. These days involve breeders coming together at local venues with their skirted fleeces in accordance with the guidelines covered at the workshop. As a group effort, fleeces are given a final check for problematic fibres and contamination. The fleeces are 'three point' tested to give an overall indicator of micron and then weighed. The fleeces are then allocated to respective fleece consignment lines. It might be noted that a familiar comment from participants is that these days are not only useful for fleece consigning, they are also very informative as well as being great fun. As all Premium Alpaca groups comply with identical fleece classing parameters, fleece lines can be combined with other groups in order to achieve marketable volumes of fibre. The standard consignment for Premium Alpaca fibre is pressed bales of between 110 to 160 kilos. This is a major benefit for coloured fleeces, where market opportunities have been well out of reach due to very small volume of consignments. The end result of these collection days has been feedback from buyers stating Premium Alpaca bales were found to be of a very high standard of consistent fibre. One major buyer stated they will now purchase only volume consignments from Premium Alpaca, apart from fleeces they class and skirt themselves.

While some progress in the area of marketing alpaca fibre is slow and difficult, assistance from governments and industry organisations has been nonexistent to date. We remain optimistic. While the concept has made substantial progress in the development of a viable and sustainable alpaca fleece industry, there is so much more work to be done. I guess our involvement in the concept receives much of its drive from hearing breeders tell us that without the concept, there is virtually nothing else with regard to pursuing an alpaca fibre industry. I also hear breeders tell me their involvement has resulted in reigniting their passion for growing good fleeces, and that sharing their admiration for good alpaca fibre is now extending beyond the show ring and the attention of fellow breeders, but now includes some of the world's most discerning buyers of quality garments.

Paul Vallely, AAFT, Australia In 2005, Paul created Australian Alpaca Fibre Testing (AAFT) based in New South Wales which now tests about 30,000 alpaca samples a year worldwide. In 2012, AAFT opened a permanent testing service based in the UK. Maintaining a strong involvement in the alpaca industry, Paul created the Ultrafine Bale Scheme, the National Alpaca Fibre Seminars, the Premium Alpaca concept and was a founding member of Alpaca Ultimate. He also provides consultancy service to a number of studs in Australia and overseas. He has completed research and trials involving fleece marketing, breed selection using skin traits, application of fibre measurement on alpaca fleece variation and relationship between objective fibre traits and key price drivers for alpaca fibre. Paul also operates a superfine merino breeding operation of about 2000 head. His academic qualifications include basic genetics, statistical analysis, and economics with studies also in fibre metrology.

Bales of Premium Alpaca fleeces were the only fleece lines to have been sold at a recent fibre auction in Australia, with a top inclusive price of just over $20 per kilo. Premium Alpaca fleeces have made up to $70 per kilo. The final and perhaps most challenging component of Premium Alpaca is marketing. While the concept's reputation has proven to be a major factor in promoting these consignments, some members of Premium Alpaca groups with the support of AAFT have tried to develop supply arrangements in Europe and China. Of particular note are our attempts to promote coloured fibre within eco conscious markets in Europe. We would love to work with suri breeders as I believe we have not touched the edges of realising suri fibre's potential. We are also reaching out to small craft mills to supply them with suitable consignments. 9

World Record Alpaca Bale Goes to New Zealand

by Paul Vallely

A bale of ultrafine alpaca fibre that has broken two world records has been bought by Waiheke Alpaca of New Zealand. The bale of pure white alpaca fleeces firstly broke the world record for being the finest bale of alpaca ever produced, with a certified core test result of 17.8 microns. Given the average alpaca has a fibre diameter of about 4 microns higher than merino sheep this is quite an achievement.

Following on from this initial achievement, on the 3rd August this year, the bale was sold for the world's highest price ever paid for a bale of alpaca, with a sale price of $7,000. As the bale weighed 112 kilos, this represents a per kilo price of $61.40. The bale was compiled with alpaca fleeces from growers throughout Australia which were consigned through the national fleece consigning and marketing scheme known as Premium Alpaca. Australian Alpaca Fibre Testing (AAFT),

based in NSW, coordinates the scheme and provides certified testing for all fleeces consigned through Premium Alpaca. Purchaser of the bale, Mr Keenan Scott of Waiheke Alpaca of New Zealand, said the fibre would be processed with other ultrafine alpaca fleeces to produce luxury 'next to skin wear' garments. Mr Scott said he had negotiated with AAFT for a continuous supply agreement for more ultrafine bales, thereby ensuring this was a 100% Australasian venture. He also stated the agreement would be exclusively through Premium Alpaca given the high level of 'Quality Assurance' requirements provided throughout the scheme.

Alpacas in the paddock... ...a lifestyle choice!

Long established breeders of top class white and fawn Huacaya with high value commercial fleeces. A number of quality females now available.

Barbara and Doug Lomax 15 William Stephen Road, Te Anau, New Zealand Ph: 03 249 9099 | Email: honeyfields@xtra.co.nz

www.honeyfields.co.nz 11

GREENACRES

FIBRE PROCESSING Formerly Tai Tapu Carding and Spinning by Robyn Anderson

The Owners Greenacres Fibre Processing is situated on the outskirts of the rapidly growing town of Rolleston, in Canterbury. Formerly Tai Tapu Carding and Spinning, Leo and Karen Ponsonby took possession of their newly acquired business on 4 September, 2010 - the day of the first of the recent Canterbury earthquakes. “It is all part of being in business” says Leo, when we discussed the immediate loss of several clients who had their premises, stock and businesses damaged that day.

Leo and Karen have many years of farming experience behind them, breeding white and coloured Merino, Romney and Corriedale sheep. On their Greenacres farm they now run three registered flocks of coloured sheep, and are proud members of the Black and Coloured Sheep Association of New Zealand. Leo is a qualified and well respected judge with the Black and Coloured Sheep Association and also the current president. He has shown his own sheep for thirty plus years regularly taking away top prizes in both fleece and breed. Their fleeces are also prize winners in the Black and Coloured Sheep Breeders' annual competitions, and have won the National Supreme Fleece trophy more than once. As well as processing fibre for other growers and craft people, Leo and Karen sell their own top quality fleeces to local handcrafters and export them around the world. When I visited their plant they were preparing a large order for top quality fleece for export to Japan.

The Business Greenacres Fibre Processing is a business specialising in meeting the needs of the clients with smaller quantities of fleece for processing. That does not preclude them from dealing in larger quantities. I saw several large quantities (50 – 100kg or more) of alpaca fleece all ready for processing when I visited. They have a clear, very useful website which details all their services and prices. Services include washing and carding, gilling, scouring, right through to blending, spinning, felting and dyeing. The spinning machine is not able to process 100% alpaca, but they can card 100% alpaca. For the spinning process 80% alpaca and 20% sheep wool is the minimum blend, but it is not uncommon to have requests for varying ratios – even 50% / 50% alpaca/wool. Leo can supply wool to suit. He has an impressive array of white or coloured wool to draw from, if not from his own quality fleeces, then he has a large network of sheep growers to call upon. Leo’s many years of experience handling wool enables him to select a good match to blend with the fibre he is processing. He prefers to match like micron to like micron, sheeps’ wool to alpaca and understands the effects of matching colours, and which colours will have what effect when blended.

Spinning machine - Mackie Belfast, Northern Ireland 1950s. 12

For washing, carding and scouring there is no minimum quantity required. For spinning there is a 4kg minimum, and

Gilling Machine - Prince-Smith & Stells Ltd, Keighley 1924.

Carding machine - Platt 60 inch carder, approx 105 years old.

minimum length would be 85 – 100mm (3 ½ inches). “Clients can expect to lose around 15% of their original weight of fleece submitted for processing” says Leo. “As you will all know alpacas love to roll and collect dirt, and there is some shedding during processing. If there is vegetable matter contamination there will be further losses”. Which brings us to one of Leo’s pet discussions. Quality Control, Presentation of Your Product. “Clean, well skirted alpaca is a pleasure to work with” says Leo. “You just cannot overestimate the importance of preparing your fleece for processing. It starts before your alpaca goes into the shearing shed. Get rid of as much vegetable matter prior to shearing as possible. Skirt well, get rid of the vegetable matter, get rid of the guard hair. Vegetable matter left in your fleece will go right through the process and contaminate your finished product. The better the skirting of your fleece, the better your finished product, the better the value added to your product. Leo advises that the Black and Coloured Sheep Association holds skirting and fleece preparation training and teaching days monthly. He believes it is very important to continue to educate your new breeders, and even remind the older breeders. He would encourage all new breeders to learn to skirt and present fibre well. Dyeing is also offered at Greenacres. The maximum batch dyed at any one time would be 3.5kg. “Bear in mind that alpaca fibre and sheep’s wool will behave differently in the dyeing process, so the finished product will always have a ‘textured’ look to it rather than a flat colour with no variation”. There is a shop on the premises featuring raw fleeces, carded wool, carded alpaca, dyed and spun wool, blends with silk, dyed fleece, dyed wool, and spun yarn.

The Machinery The plant includes a 105 year old carding machine Platt Bros 60 inch carder. At one time it was the test carder at the now closed Kaiapoi Woollen Mills and is approximately half the size of a normal carder. The machine is believed to have been in service for the whole of it’s 105 years, and it is still in perfect working order. The Gilling Machine is a Prince-Smith & Stells Ltd, of Keighley and manufactured in 1924 The Spinning frame is by Mackie of Belfast, Northern Ireland and is believed to have been manufactured in the 1950’s. It is also out of the Kaiapoi Woollen Mill and has been shortened for the handcraft industry. The spinning frame when operating at it’s most efficient can spin 10 different lots at any time. Originally it would have been able to spin 20 different lots.

GREENACRES

FIBRE PROCESSING Formerly Tai-Tapu Wool Carders & Spinners Available for your alpaca requirements - washing & carding, blending with wool and spinning. We can not spin straight alpaca, it has to be blended 80/20 alpaca-wool mix. Pricing available on our website: www.greenacresfibres.co.nz

Creative Fibre

The

FESTIVAL

The Creative Fibre Festival is an annual event held on behalf of the national Creative Fibre organisation at a different location throughout New Zealand each year. This year it was held in Blenheim for the first time. The National Exhibition 2012 of all the winners of the various categories was displayed at the Millenium Public Art Gallery in Blenheim for a month prior to, and during the festival. For several years now the Alpaca Association has been pleased to offer $250 plus an alpaca fleece to the winner of the category “that best illustrates the lightness and fineness of alpaca fibre”

The 2012 winning entry was a beautiful garment called “Purple Passion” by Christine Hart, of Naturally Alpaca of Kaikohe. Christine's garment was made from felted alpaca on silk tissue wrap with matching brooch fastener. 90% alpaca, 10% silk. Congratulations Christine!

New Zealand’s Alpaca Fibre Pool Fibre collection, sorting, scouring and sales of all microns, colors and quantities of Huacaya fibre. We consolidate all growers together and get economies of scale for sorting, testing, scouring and sale in bale quantity, for end use in various industries.

Mailing Address PO Box 28684 Remuera Auckland 1541

Processing 1 Pigeon Rock Road Cornish Point Cromwell RD 2 Central Otago 9384

We can provide discounted fibre testing rates. You are paid as the fibre is sold, less the direct costs. We have processed 14,000 kg of fibre as of June 2012. We can arrange pickup or you can ship to our Cromwell location. Contact Sam Gonzalez at (029) 770 0005 or (03) 445 1609 or email sam@belex.co.nz For more information visit:

www.pacificalpacas.com

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

SILVERSTREAM GODSEND ET Available for Stud Duties in the North Island NOW!

BIOGRAPHY: A son of Pucara Juliana whose progeny have won 21 Supreme Champion Huacaya titles including two National Titles (Faberge 2008 & Déjà vu 2009). Silverstream Czar another son of Pucara Juliana won 10 Supreme Champion titles until he was sold to the UK. Jolimont Attitude, the sire is a son of the highly respected Jolimont Sculptor. Both sire and dam are now based in Europe making these genetics impossible to reproduce. Silverstream Godsend ET has an impeccable show record in his own right including five Supreme Champion titles and nine age group championships. This male has it all... pedigree, show results, density, fineness and a show presence to die for.

Sire: Jolimont Attitude Dam: Pucara Juliana IAR No: 126706 DOB: 26/11/2007 Fleece Results: December 2011 - 4th fleece 20.9u, 3.8sd, 18.2cv, 50.8curve, 98cf SRS Results: January 2010 Secondary follicle to primary follicle ratio – 12.9 Follicle density – 60.8 SILVERSTREAM GODSEND ET will be agisted at: Ivor and Brenda Gainsford Brenor Alpacas Rotorua

For inquiries, please contact: Kit & Sheryl Johnson | Silverstream Alpaca Stud | Ph: (03) 327 3020 | Email: info@alpaca-stud.co.nz

Rumpelstiltskin Spinning Suri fibre into GOLD by Molly Gardner

Being part of a small emerging industry can leave you with mixed feelings at times. On the one hand you are at the beginning of something new - a pioneer if you will. On the other you can often feel small, the hurdles seemingly insurmountable. However, it is the knowledge that the fibre being carried around on the backs of your suri is something so rare, so exquisite that the hurdles are worth scaling.

Research and development is an expensive and highly important part of any new venture. Trying to take suri fibre to a commercially viable industry requires time, funds and energy - all in more measure than most of us appreciate. After the success of the original suri fabric research, where quality suri fibre proved to be a high performing natural fibre suitable for a range of luxury fabrics, we need to determine if suri processing can be undertaken in a commercial setting in NZ. AgResearch, now closed, was able to do everything required, but it was a research institute with research institute prices. In November 2011 Thistledown and Surico set about applying for grants from various funding agencies - not a job for the faint hearted! It is a long and laborious task filling out forms and waiting for what seems like an age to hear back. Finally, in May this year we heard that we had secured a grant from the Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF). This is a government grant and it is to explore whether it is possible to have suri processed commercially in New Zealand. There will be different processors involved from scouring through to the weaving. Small quantities are always a limiting factor when trying to convince processors to take you seriously, but we have had good interest from those we have approached. Although we know from our research that 100% suri processes well with relatively few problems, during the trial we had a lot of expertise to help us along the way. We will continue to draw on this expertise as we embark on this Rumplestiltskin project with the SFF grant, where suri fibre will be processed by people who have never worked with this rare fibre before. From our experience we realise that all the processes are incredibly technical and require expert knowledge to get right.

We have been running suri education workshops which have been very well attended and are now embarking on the next stage of fibre collection for the Rumplestiltskin project. An e-newsletter has been sent to all suri growers in NZ about the up-coming classing and baling days where we will be collecting suri fibre. The idea of these days is for growers to bring their suri fibre along and learn about classing their fleeces and how to identify what contaminants (different coloured fibre, hair, vegetation etc.) can down grade the class of fibre. We know from previous research that there are certain requirements critical for a high performing end product. Good things take time and it is important to be sure of the performance of a new product before you go about producing it.

We are also in the process of organising suri fibre from Australia to help pump up our volume! All fibre collected at the classing and baling days will join the cross-Tasman fibre for the processing journey. We are hopeful for the NZ suri industry and the NZ processors involved that this project will be successful and look forward to the results. We are very grateful for the SFF grant support of the project and will continue to update suri breeders throughout NZ with the projects progress through e-newsletters.

The North Island days will be on the 11th and 12th of November in Rotorua and the South Island days on the 1st and 2nd of December in Canterbury.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good things take time and

it is important to be sure of the performance of a new product before you go about producing it.â&#x20AC;?

Alpaca Farming in

AUSTRALIA This picture of alpacas parading at Sydney Cove might not have been so unusual had Charles Ledger not encountered so many impediments to his epic venture. In November 1858 Ledger, an English adventurer and trader, landed a shipment of 282 South American camelids in the Sydney Domain at Farm Cove. His herd included 46 male and 38 female alpacas and his intention was to establish alpaca farming as an agricultural enterprise in New South Wales. Unfortunately he failed in the attempt and it was not until 1988 that alpacas were once again introduced into Australia and alpaca farming was set to become an industry here. The Australian Alpaca Association was formed as a “not for profit” organisation in July1990 and incorporated as a company limited by guarantee in 2007. At present AAA Ltd has 2198 voting members or 1595 memberships with herd prefixes distributed across13 regions. The national office is established in Melbourne and there is a Board of 9 volunteer Directors elected by the members. The AAA Ltd vision is “to develop standards of excellence in the breeding, husbandry and fleece production of alpacas that will establish Australia as a global leader in the New World alpaca industry”. Consequently AAA takes an active leadership role in the Australian alpaca industry. The Association is much more than simply a breed society. Typically breed societies establish breed standards, maintain the pedigree register and develop and maintain a showing and judging system. In addition to these activities AAA Ltd through the dedication and work of its members has developed and disseminates an extensive body of knowledge on matters of alpaca health and husbandry, runs programs such as Q alpaca and AGE, funds research projects and provides education and training on a variety of alpaca related issues. The Association also actively markets the Australian alpaca industry and represents the industry to government agencies. It is the national voice of alpaca farmers and breeders. As with New Zealand, Australia has a proud history of wool production and our farmers apply the skills and knowledge acquired in the wool industry to alpaca production. There are currently just under 150,000 alpacas registered on the IAR, however we know that many alpacas are unregistered and while we have no way of verifying the total number, it is estimated that our national alpaca herd numbers around 250,000 and it is claimed that we now have the second largest national herd in the world second only to Peru. Australian alpaca farmers generally have invested heavily in the genetic improvement of their herds. Selective breeding, estimated breeding values (the AGE program) and embryo transfer have been widely adopted with the result that Australia now has a reputation for excellent genetics. As our industry develops alpacas are increasingly found in the areas traditionally associated with sheep grazing, areas such as the New England Tableland, Southern New South Wales, Western Victoria, Tasmania, and the southern areas of South and Western Australia. Most alpaca farmers are still primarily producing stud livestock however the “breeding up phase” of

by Dinah Fisher

our industry is nearing its end and the focus is increasingly on the production of fleece, meat and hides. This push towards commercial farming is being driven by larger stud livestock businesses and groups of smaller growers. Record prices are still being achieved for elite stud stock. A recent example is the purchase of the huacaya female Ambersun Gold Class (IAR 157347) for $A61,000 at the 2012 National Show and Sale in Adelaide in October. However alpacas are now available at a range of price points and new entrants often enter the market with many alpacas and with alpacas with excellent pedigrees. There is now a more competitive Australian market for alpaca fleece with several operators in the market including AAFL (the former Coop), SRS, Suri Silk, Premium Alpaca and others. Premium Alpaca is a notable pioneer in this field, having arranged the first commercial auction lines of fleece that went on sale at Freemantle in December 2011 and more recently brokering the sale of the first ultrafine bale of Australian alpaca fleece to Keenan Scott in New Zealand. The bale sold for $A7,000 and weighed 112 kg. It was core tested at 17.8µ. Illawarra Prime Alpaca are pioneers in the market for alpaca meat and hides. This Company has positioned alpaca meat as a high value, healthy and nutritious product. Alpaca meat is very lean and requires careful preparation and cooking. Initially Illawarra Prime Alpaca provided master classes for chefs and focused on promoting the product at selected food fairs and restaurants. The meat was supplied direct to restaurants and hotels. Their supply chain is now expanding to include alpaca growers and others. Velieris Pty Ltd in Melbourne manufactures luxurious alpaca carpets in the subtle natural colours of alpaca fleece. They also offer a scouring service for lots of 1 bale or more of fleece and have top making machinery that will be commissioned to process tops for growers and others once sufficient volume of throughput can be delivered. In Victoria two commercial woollen mills, Creswick and St Albans are manufacturing beautiful alpaca blankets, throws and other products. Retailers such as the Australian Alpaca Centre, the Australian Alpaca Barn and others are have long been supplying luxurious alpaca garments to discerning Australian consumers and there are now a number of mini mills processing small batches of alpaca fleece to supply a vibrant handcraft industry. It’s now almost 25 years since the first modern imports of alpacas into Australia. A new generation of Australian alpaca farmers have grown up with alpacas and their vision is of 1000s of alpacas in the paddocks. 19

Fleece Statistics

Forestglen Seth

1st Fleece: 15.6 m, 2.9 sd, 19.1 cv, 100% cf

is an outstanding dark fawn huacaya male, with an exceptional fleece.

2nd Fleece: 16.8 m, 2.9 sd, 17.2 cv, 100% cf

He is widely regarded as the best fawn male ever

3rd Fleece: 17.07 m, 3.1 sd, 18.2 cv, 99.7% cf

seen in New Zealand. As

4th Fleece: 18.18 m, 3.36 sd, 18.5 cv, 99.8% cf

the Supreme Champion

a reflection of his fleece quality, he was awarded Huacaya Fleece at the first International Fleece

5th Fleece: 19.6 m, 3.6 sd, 17.9 cv, 97% cf

Show, held in Sydney, Australia, in March 2008.

SIRE OF CHAMPIONS

Forestglen Seth is now producing stunning offspring, many of which have already gone on to be show champions. We are now able to offer a limited selection of offspring for sale - call us for details.

Alan and Lyn Skilling 12 Maratoto Road RD4, Paeroa 3674 Ph: 07 862 4646 Email: info@qtazalpacas.com Website: www.qtazalpacas.com

Alpacas to the

RESCUE

New treatment for botulism holds promise for curbing other diseases too. by Genevieve Rajewski - July 27, 2011

Using a protein derived from alpacas, a team of biomedical researchers at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine is developing a cheaper, more portable antitoxin to treat botulism, a paralytic illness that sometimes can be fatal. Eventually, the scientists say, this new way of producing antitoxins could combat a host of other serious diseases.

for developing a practical treatment for botulism poisoning, Shoemaker says. The piece of the camelid antibody that binds to the toxin is called a VHH, which can be isolated and then produced as a single molecule in bacteria at very low cost. In fact, multiple different VHHs can be produced as a single protein chain, like beads on a string.

The toxin-producing botulism bacterium, called Clostridium botulinum, usually enters the body through an open wound or when someone eats improperly preserved or canned food. Symptoms of botulism poisoning typically develop within 12 to 36 hours, progressing from blurred vision and slurred speech to muscle weakness and full-body paralysis.

Because VHHs can be produced cheaply in commercial fermenters—and they have a longer shelf life than traditional antibodies—these inexpensive antitoxins could be stored and ready to go at hospitals across the country. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control stockpiles the traditional antitoxins in only a few locations.

There is a vaccine for botulism. However, it would be impractical and expensive to inoculate everyone against something to which most of us will never be exposed. A widespread vaccination campaign would also eliminate the potential use of the C. botulinum toxin in Botox treatments for medical conditions such as muscle spasms or in cosmetic applications.

Daniela Bedenice, the camelid specialist at the Cummings School, donated her own alpacas for the study. (She will adopt them back when their service is complete.) After the Tufts researchers immunized the alpacas against botulism, they drew a small blood sample to capture the genetic material that they used to identify the VHHs.

Instead, physicians treat botulism poisoning with antitoxins to prevent the progression of its potentially fatal symptoms. The problem is that existing antitoxins are costly to develop, store and deliver—and have a short shelf life to boot. The current process for making antitoxins involves immunizing animals against botulism, which then generates antibodies in their blood. These are extracted and used to attack the toxin in the human body. The healing occurs when the antibodies bind to the botulism toxins, which then get flushed out through the liver. “Attacking botulism is complicated because the bacterium produces seven known toxins,” says Charles Shoemaker, a biomedical researcher in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Cummings School. “So you can’t just think about dealing with one toxin; you have to deal with all seven.”

“All the alpacas have to do is graze on pasture and allow us to take a blood sample every couple of weeks,” says Bedenice of her animals’ role in scientific discovery. Working with Cummings School biomedical scientists Saul Tzipori, Hanping Feng and Jean Mukherjee, Shoemaker is studying how the new antitoxin functions in mice. The research is being funded by the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the New England Regional Center for Excellence for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases. The research could lead to the rapid development and deployment of other new antitoxin therapies, Shoemaker says. Work is under way to develop VHH antitoxins for severe gastrointestinal diseases caused by the Shiga toxin, common in food poisoning, and Clostridium difficile, a new superbug.

Instead of having to use antiserum from animals immunized against each of the seven toxins, Shoemaker’s innovation uses small, easy-to-produce agents that recognize and bind to all the botulism toxins. Alpacas are the gateway. Members of the camelid family, which also includes llamas and camels, alpacas produce an unusual type of antibody that offers enormous advantages

LIVER

FLUKE in alpacas by Jane Vaughan - BVSc, PhD, MACVSc

Liver fluke is the common name of the trematode, Fasciola hepatica. The parasite is found worldwide and is the only liver fluke found in Australia. Infection can lead to reduced productivity and death and costs millions of dollars each year in lost production (meat, wool, milk, liver condemnation, secondary infection, replacement stock requirements), stock deaths and costs of treatment and prevention.

The fluke mainly affects cattle and sheep, but can also affect alpacas, goats, horses, pigs, kangaroos, wombats, rabbits and deer. Humans may also be infected, for example after eating watercress collected from fluke-infested creeks or following use of contaminated water on vegetable gardens. The adult fluke is a pale brown or grayish-brown flat worm about 1.54cm long that lives in the bile ducts of the liver (Figure 1). Liver fluke are typically found in areas of south-eastern Australia where the annual average rainfall is 600 mm or greater, or on irrigated country where the average rainfall is 400 mm, in and around swampy areas, springs and seepages, irrigation channels and shallow, slow moving creeks where the intermediate host snail of this parasite breeds (Figure 2). This includes: • • • • •

Most of Victoria and Tasmania South-eastern New South Wales Irrigation areas of NSW and Victoria Northern Tablelands and north coast of NSW Small areas of southern Queensland and South Australia

Western Australia is free of liver fluke and actively manages its fluke-free status using a system of drenching and liver fluke egg testing of faeces of stock being shipped westward (see www.agric.wa.gov.au for more information).

Lifecycle The liver fluke requires two hosts: the definitive host, or alpaca, and the intermediate host, or lymnaeid snail, to complete its lifecycle (Figure 3). Adult liver fluke live in the bile ducts of the host species, such as the alpaca. The flukes produce eggs, which pass in the bile into the small intestine and into the external environment in the faeces. The eggs hatch in wet areas in warmer months (mean temperature above 10°C, typically mid-September to May) and release larvae called miracidia, which need to invade certain species of snails within 24-30 hours to survive. Once in the snail, they develop and multiply as sporocytst, rediae and cercariae. The motile cercariae leave the snails and swim onto vegetation and form microscopic cysts called metacercariae on grass, leaves and reeds. The definitive host, such as the alpaca, ingests these cysts from the pasture and they hatch out into early immature flukes in the small intestine. These

Brisbane

Sydney

Melbourne

Figure 1. Adult liver fluke (source: http://www.britannica. com/EBchecked/media/5519/Liver-fluke).

S-E NSW & most of Tasmania Most of Victoria Northern tablelands (NSW) & southern Queensland Irrigation areas of NSW and Victoria North coast (NSW) & south coast of Queensland Hobart

Figure 2. Distribution of liver fluke disease in different climate regions (Boray 2007). 22

burrow through the walls of the gut into the abdominal cavity, and make their way through the capsule of the liver into the bile ducts over some weeks where they develop into egglaying adult flukes.

The lifecycle is dependent on the presence of one of three types of lymnaeid snail that breeds in sunny, open, wet areas where there is an abundance of aquatic plant growth and algae on which to feed. Therefore, alpacas are most at risk of ingesting cysts from vegetation when grazing around waterways. Also, long, wet seasons (2012!) are associated with a higher rate of infection. Bear in mind that alpacas may prefer to graze away from swampy areas when feed is plentiful, and may therefore become infected in dry times when forced to graze more closely in the marshy areas. • Lymnaea tomentosa an indigenous, freshwater snail is the most important intermediate host in Australia and New Zealand. It lives near slow-moving, shallow creeks, swampy areas, springs and irrigation channels/drains and is summer-active. It is only rarely found in dams, water troughs and large creeks, but may be found in dam overflows after heavy rain. It can survive in dry mud for up to a year, and tolerates low temperatures. This snail is 6-12 mm long and has a clockwise thread when viewed from the point to the base of the snail.

Figure 3. Lifecycle of liver fluke is similar in alpacas, cattle, sheep and goats (Muirson 2004).

Over-wintering infection In winter, all stages of fluke development and snail reproduction cease when temperatures fall below 10°C overnight, but metacercariae produced in summer and autumn will survive in declining numbers on vegetation (especially if moisture is present) as will snails and dormant larvae. The early spring metacercarial cysts appear as a result of snails being infected by miracidia in autumn and completing the lifecycle when temperatures increase in spring.

Summer infection It takes 2-3 months from eggs being laid on the pasture to encysting on vegetation and becoming infective to the definitive host in favourable conditions: it takes 21 days for eggs to develop into miracidia in summer, but up to 90 days in spring and autumn. Metacercarial cysts can survive on vegetation for many months if there is adequate moisture and temperatures stay below 20°C so there is usually high pasture contamination by late summer and autumn. Cysts die quickly in hot, dry conditions. Snails and fluke larvae in snails survive in mud during dry periods for about a year. It takes 6-7 weeks from ingestion of metacercarial cysts until they enter the bile ducts, eating liver tissue and blood on their way. It takes another 2-3 weeks to reach sexual maturity and start laying eggs so it takes 8-10 weeks from ingestion to egg laying (pre-patent period). Each adult fluke lays 20,000 to 50,000 eggs per day, and each fluke egg can produce 4000 infective metacercarial cysts, rapidly contaminating pastures. However the eggs may enter the small intestine via bile secretions in an intermittent manner, so faecal shedding of eggs can be intermittent. Adult flukes live for about a year in cattle and may live for the lifetime of a sheep if they remain untreated. Longevity of flukes is unknown in alpacas. Egg production declines in cattle as they develop a natural resistance to chronic infections.

• Lymnaea columella is an introduced snail from North America. It is less fastidious than L. tomentosa and may be found in deeper creeks and dams, and can survive in stagnant water. It is a small snail, 8-20 mm long with a dark grey body. The shell is thin, fragile and has a clockwise coil when viewed from the top. It is widespread in Western Australia. • Lymnaea viridis has been recently introduced from various Pacific islands. It is a versatile snail, liking environments of L. tomentosa and L. columella, and has the ability to travel much further from water sources than the other snails. It is 4-12 mm long and its shell has a clockwise spiral too.

Clinical signs Liver fluke disease can be acute, sub-acute or chronic depending on the size of infection and how quickly cysts are ingested. Clinical signs results from the damage caused by immature fluke migrating through the liver, and damage by adult fluke to bile ducts and blood ingestion. Sheep have no naturally acquired resistance to liver fluke so acute and chronic fasciolosis may occur at any age. Conversely, cattle develop resistance so clinical disease is more likely in young cattle.

1. Acute fasciolosis This syndrome is seen in late spring and early summer following ingestion of massive numbers of metacercarial cysts from the pasture over a short period and many flukes develop at once. It is usually seen in specific climatic conditions combined with a lack of fluke control measures when alpacas are forced to graze heavily contaminated wet areas as a result of over-stocking and/or drought. Animals may show some abdominal pain and/or jaundice but often present as sudden death. Death occurs within weeks of ingestion and is secondary to liver damage and blood loss caused by migration of immature flukes through the liver. Reduced liver function can be detected by elevated liver enzymes in the blood of affected animals 2 weeks after infection and can be useful in diagnosing acute fasciolosis. Elevated liver enzymes may persist in sub-acute and chronic cases for 16-18 weeks. continued on page 32... 23

2. Sub-acute fasciolosis This syndrome is characterised by liver damage, anaemia, jaundice and ill-thrift and is most common in late summer to late autumn. There is extensive liver damage and haemorrhage caused by the migrating fluke (Figure 4). Liver failure and death occur in 8-10 weeks following reduced growth, fertility and wool production.

3. Chronic fasciolosis This is the most common scenario seen in sheep, goats and cattle. It can occur at any time but most commonly from autumn to spring. Parasites reach the bile ducts of the liver, and cause bile duct inflammation, enlargement and obstruction, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and anaemia over a period of months. Animals gradually become inappetant, anaemic, reluctant to move and eventually may die. Chronic fasciolosis also provides the right conditions in the liver for the fatal clostridial disease Clostridium novyi type B, or Black disease. Clostridial bacteria multiply in areas of liver damage caused by migrating immature liver fluke and can lead to sudden death. This is one of the organisms contained in 5-in-1 clostridial vaccines so make sure vaccinations are up to date if alpacas are being run in a fluke-endemic area.

Figure 4. The liver of an alpaca with sub-acute fasciolosis.

In alpacas other bacteria, such as E. coli, may be showered from the fluke-infected liver along the hepatic vein to the right ventricle of the heart, where it causes severe endocarditis and right-sided congestive heart failure (Figures 5 and 6; Links et al, 1992). Severe production losses occur when immature flukes burrow through the liver even when obvious symptoms are not apparent. Death from fluke infection, Black disease and/or E.coli abscessation depends on the burden of fluke in the liver and stage of fluke infection.

Figure 5. Valvular endocarditis secondary to fasciolosis.

Diagnosis Grazing history, clinical examination, serology, faecal egg counts, response to treatment and necropsy findings are usually used in combination to identify liver fluke infections in sheep, cattle and alpacas.

1. Dead alpacas Adult and/or immature flukes ooze out of bile ducts and tissue parenchyma when the liver is cut open.

Figure 6. Hepatic fibrosis secondary to liver fluke migration and congestive heart failure.

Figure 7. Fluke eggs (http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/species-of-the-day/scientific-advances/disease/fasciola-hepatica/index.html). 24

2. Faecal sedimentation test

4. Faecal antigen tests

Fresh samples of faeces should be collected directly from the rectum of approximately 10 alpacas in each mob using a gloved finger. 10-15 faecal pellets (30 g) should be collected from each animal and placed into separate freezer bags. Air should be excluded from the bag and bags placed into the refrigerator and kept cool during shipment to the laboratory. Collect samples early in the week so they do not get lost in transit over the weekend. Do not freeze faeces. Alternatively, move alpacas to a communal dung pile and hold them there for 10-15 minutes then collect warm samples from the dung pile in a similar fashion.

These tests are currently being validated in sheep and cattle in Australia. Commercial kits are available overseas, and they detect secretory-excretory antigens shed by both immature and adult flukes in the bile ducts. These kits should allow earlier detection of fluke prior to egg production by adult flukes.

Fluke eggs are larger than strongyle (roundworm) eggs found in alpacas and require a different faecal test (sedimentation rather than flotation) to identify their presence (Figure 7). Make sure you specifically ask the laboratory for a fluke egg count. The eggs have a characteristic operculum at one end. Sometimes alpacas will pick up massive numbers of larvae from the pasture and die before larval forms of fluke have had time to mature and begin egg laying in the bile ducts. Worm egg counts may be zero or low, but diagnosis will be made at autopsy by the presence of larvae in the liver. Because there is a 12 week lag between ingestion of metacercarial cysts and fluke eggs appearing in faeces, false negatives occur in faecal tests between December and May. Between June and November, faecal testing for fluke eggs is more reliable. Intermittent shedding of eggs by adult flukes may also lead to false negative tests. Testing 10-12 animals in a herd rather than an individual animal is recommended to optimize potential for detecting fluke eggs.

3. Blood ELISA tests Validated in sheep and cattle that test for antibodies made in response to flukes are not validated in alpacas. The test detects infection with both immature and adult flukes in a flock or herd (10 blood samples pooled in the laboratory into 2 groups of 5 prior to testing), but is not sensitive enough to diagnose infection in individual animals. Serum antibodies appear 6-8 weeks after infection in cattle, and 4-6 weeks after infection in sheep and remain high for at least 12 weeks after infection has been removed. Antibodies remain high in untreated subacute and chronic stages.

Treatment Once a diagnosis has been made, a zero-tolerance approach is recommended when treating and controlling liver fluke because even light burdens can cause significant damage and production losses. The treatment recommended will depend on the nature of infection – are immature or adult fluke causing disease? Not all flukicides (anthelmintics effective against liver fluke) are effective against immature fluke so are not recommended in acute fluke outbreaks (Table 1). They are also less efficient for strategic control of flukes. Even the best flukacides do not kill every fluke and an effective flukacide is described as being 90 % or more effective (compared with roundworm anthelmintics where effective drenches kill more than 95 % of target roundworms). Remember to test/treat introduced stock to reduce contaminating fluke-free areas. The most effective drug of choice against liver fluke is triclabendazole (E.g. Fasinex®, Flukare®, Tremacide®). While very specific for Fasciola, it is not effective against nematodes, cestodes and other trematodes. The dose rate for alpacas is estimated to be 15 mg/kg body weight orally (in comparison to sheep and goats 10 mg/kg po and cattle 12 mg/kg po). The oral route of administration ensures the active ingredient is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and delivered to the liver via the portal blood supply. Triclabendazole has been combined with oxfendazole (Flukazole S®) to improve efficiency through a synergistic effect. Note that different products contain different concentrations of the active ingredient so read the label carefully before use and contact your veterinarian for assistance with calculating drench volume if necessary. Remember no drugs are registered for use in alpacas. Do not use any of the pour-on products containing triclabendazole (Martin et al. 2010) as absorption across the skin is impaired by hair growth (cattle groom themselves and each other and lick the drench off the skin!) and will likely be ineffective in alpacas.

Table 1. Efficiency of drugs available in Australia for the treatment of liver fluke in sheep and cattle (modified from Boray 2007).

Active ingredient

Triclabendazole Closantel Closantel + oxfendazole Closantel + albendazole Nitroxynil Albendazole Oxyclosanide + levamisole Chlorsulon + ivermectin Nitroxynil+chlorsulon+ivermectin

Safety index at recommended dose 20 5.3 5.3 5.3 4 6 4 20 4

Over 90% efficiency at the recommended dose rate (age of flukes in wks) 2 4 Early immature + + +

6 8 Immature + + + + + + + +

10 + + + + + +

12 Adult flukes + + + + + ± ± + +

14 + + + + + + + + +

continued on page 34... 25

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2012 Herd Sire Directory

Disclaimer The information contained in these herdsire listings has been provided by the individual advertisers. The AANZ does not accept responsibility for any errors, or for the accuracy of information contained in the advertisements or text. Views expressed in the advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by the AANZ.

Index Huacaya herd sires Aquaviva Hermes Cambridge Storm Trooper Establo Bilbo Baggins Silverstream Godsend ET Waratah Flats Limited Edition Wildflower Gnangara Silverstream Infinity

Colour Guide:

28 28 29 29 29 29 30

Waratah Flats Achilles Martina Lopez Olde Oaks Apache Silverstream Governor Grey Suri herd sires Surilana Casino Wild Palette Pascoe

30 30 30 31

31 31

White/Light Fawn

Fawn

Brown

Grey

Thistledown Nazir Thistledown Zanzibar Valley of Peace Leviathan Armentalis Count of Monte Cristo Surilana Moss on the Rocks ET Armentalis Blackadder Aviana Farms Upshaw Canchones Silvester

Black 32 32 32 32 33 33 33 33

Huacaya Aquaviva Hermes IAR: 1005036 Born: 5 February 2010 Sire: Waratah Flats Achilles Dam: EP Cambridge Commishka STUD FEE: $1100+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Philip and Robyn Anderson Awatere Alpacas 224 Curries Road, Springston South RD 4, Christchurch 7674 Ph: 03 329 5654 Mob: 027 292 8373 Email: alpaca@awatere.co.nz www.awatere.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Judges described his fleece as an advanced fleece type being consistent right across his body. For the breeder looking to add density, fleece length and shear weight to their herd, Hermes would be a great choice. Hermes started working the day he was certified and his first cria are due in March 2013. We are happy to offer his stud services for this season only, at the introductory offer of $1100+gst. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 - Senior Male Huacaya White/Light Fawn, Oxford 2012 - Champion Adult Male Huacaya, Temuka & Geraldine 2011 - Champion National Junior Male Fleece 2011 - Supreme Champion Huacaya Fleece - Canterbury 2011 - Champion Huacaya Fleece, MacKenzie 2011 - Reserve Champion Junior Huacaya Male Fleece, Royal Waikato 2011 - Reserve Champion Intermediate Male Huacaya, MacKenzie 2011 - 1st White Junior Male Fleece, Royal NZ Show 2010 - Reserve Champion Junior Male Huacaya, Ellesmere 2010 - 1st Junior Male White/Light Fawn, Canterbury FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 19.6µm, 4.2SD, 21.3%CV 2nd shear – 2011 – 22.9µm, 4.2SD, 18.2%CV

Cambridge Storm Trooper IAR: 57104 Born: 24 September 2001 Sire: Jolimont Conquistador DAM: Jolimont Atalia STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Kit & Sheryl Johnson Silverstream Alpaca Stud North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: This male had an impressive show record before coming to NZ having won age group championships at major Australian shows. He has won three age group national titles at the NZ National Alpaca Expo. From nine show appearances in New Zealand he was placed first five times, second twice and fourth twice. What is so good about this male is the progeny he is producing. Three of his progeny include Silverstream Idol, Kingmaker and Knockout all of whom have been age group champions at major shows. Even his fleece for an 11 year old working male is most impressive. Storm Trooper passes on via the progeny great crimp style and staple definition with excellent lustre. SHOW CREDITS: 2004 - Senior Male Champion, Southland 2005 - Reserve Mature Male Champion, National Alpaca Expo 2006 - Mature Male Champion, National Alpaca Expo 2008 - Veteran Male Champion, National Alpaca Expo 2009 - Veteran Male Champion, National Alpaca Expo FIBRE DETAILS: 11th shear – 2011 – 26.8µm, 5.7SD, 21.2%CV, 48.8curve, 86%CF

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Establo Bilbo Baggins IAR: 89059 Born: 27 January 2008 Sire: ILR Alpine Fiber's Brutus DAM: Cedar House Audrey Jane STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Angela Ruske Establo Alpacas & Farmstay Ph: 03 476 7118 Mob: 021 452 111 Email: ruske@stonebarn.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Bilbo Baggins has only been working on my farm and has 3 offspring to date. They are all improvements on their dam and have fine, well structured fleeces that are all similar in style. Bilbo is an upstanding solid male with a lot of presence. He has sound confirmation and has a dense soft-handling fibre with good structure. He has strong genetics on both sides – including Brutus, Hemingway and Snowmaster. SHOW CREDITS: 2008 - 1st Junior Male Huacaya White/Light Fawn, South Otago A&P Show 2009 - Supreme Champion, Champion Junior Male Huacaya White/Light Fawn, 1st Junior Male Composite Class, Gore A&P Show 2010 - 4th Place Senior Male White/Light Fawn, National Show FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2008 – 16.8µm, 3.9SD, 37.1%CV, 100%CF 2nd shear – 2009 – 21.1µm, 5.1SD, 38.9%CV, 94.9%CF 3rd shear – 2010 – 20.6µm, 5.1SD, 42.4%CV, 95.2%CF 4th shear – 2011 – 22.4µm, 5.9SD, 38.8%CV, 88.8%CF

Silverstream Godsend ET

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: A son of Pucara Juliana whose progeny have won 21 supreme champion huacaya titles including two National titles (Faberge 2008 & Déjà vu 2009).

IAR: 126706 Born: 26 November 2007

Silverstream Czar another son of Pucara Juliana won 10 supreme champion titles until he was sold to the UK.

Sire: Jolimont Attitude DAM: Pucara Juliana STUD FEE: $1400+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Kit & Sheryl Johnson Silverstream Alpaca Stud North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

Silverstream Godsend ET has an impeccable show record in his own right including seven supreme champion titles and twelve age group championships. From 26 show appearances he has been placed first 17 times, second 6 times and third three times. For a working stud male, we think this is a rather impressive record.  Godsend ET has a very fine, soft handling fleece with excellent density. SRS Results - 2010 Secondary to Primary Follicle - 12.9 Follicle Density - 60.8 FIBRE DETAILS: 4th shear – 2011 – 20.9µm, 3.8SD, 18.2%CV, 50.8curve, 98%CF

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

Waratah Flats Limited Edition IAR: 1000162 Born: 12 February 2009 Sire: Homestead Farm Apollo DAM: Waratah Flats Crystal STUD FEE: $750+GST on farm. Discount applies for multiple matings. CONTACT DETAILS: Stoney Meadows Alpacas 502 North Eyre Road Swannanoa, RD6, Rangiora 7476 Ph: 03 312 0512 Mob: 027 404 4000 Email: stoneymeadows@xtra.co.nz www.stoneymeadows.co.nz

Wildflower Gnangara IAR: 152496 Born: 1 May 2009 Sire: Wildflower Kakoda DAM: Amberley Park Evelyn STUD FEE: $800+GST on farm. Discount applies for multiple matings. CONTACT DETAILS: Stoney Meadows Alpacas 502 North Eyre Road Swannanoa, RD6, Rangiora 7476 Ph: 03 312 0512 Mob: 027 404 4000 Email: stoneymeadows@xtra.co.nz www.stoneymeadows.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Limited Edition is a well conformed, well boned, bold, up right male with a real presence about him and an obvious natural lack of guard hair. His sire is the well known Homestead Farm Apollo (IAR 84230) and his dam is Waratah Flats Crystal (IAR 47452) who in her 9th fleece was 24.2micron, 4.6SD 38.1CRV and 90.9%CF. Limited is a proven male with cria on the ground and appears to be throwing the colour of the dam. All crias to date are a substantial improvement on their dams. Free agistment for up to 60 days (includes scanning). Mobile matings by arrangement. Additional fee may apply depending on location. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 - Reserve Champion Light Fawn Male Fleece, NI Colourbration 2012 - Reserve Champion Senior Male, MacKenzie Highland Country Show 2012 - Champion Senior Male 36 months and over, Temuka/Geraldine Show 2012 - Reserve Champion Intermediate Fleece, Banks Peninsula Show 2011 - Reserve Champion Fleece, National Show (Tauranga) 2011 - Senior Champion, Upper Clutha Show (Wanaka) 2010 - Champion Junior Male Fleece, National Show (Christchurch) 2010 - Supreme Champion, Upper Clutha Show (Wanaka) 2010 - Champion Composite, Gore Show FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2009 – 19.3µm, 4.3SD, 22.4%CV, 98.9%CF 2nd shear – 2010 – 19.3µm, 3.2SD, 16.4%CV, 98.0%CF 3rd shear – 2011 – 22.9µm, 3.5SD, 15.1%CV, 96.0%CF DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Gnangara has only been lightly shown but has ribbons from both Australia and New Zealand including Championships. Gnangara started working early and his first pregnancies confirmed at 21 months, first crias on ground February 2012. His sire, Wildflower Kakoda still had a 19 micron fleece at the age of four years old. Imported in November 2010 for his fleece qualities and excellent genetics which include: Jolimont Warrior, Jolimont Conquistador, Jolimont Marilu, Swan Valley Majestic, Mokare Mignon, ILR Pperuvian Pluro, Shanbrook Elite, Purrumbete Ledgers Dream, Sumerset Peruvian Excellence. Gnangara has now been proven with 7 cria on the ground and all cria are a improvement on their dams. We have one very nice cria from him and one of our best girls, and we are looking forward to showing the cria this coming summer. To date, Gnangara has only been mated to white or light fawn females, but last summer we had the opportunity to put him to a dark fawn girl, so we are eagerly waiting to see what colour that cria will be. Improve your bloodlines with Gnangara's excellent line up of genetics. Free scanning and agistment for up to 60 days.Mobile matings by arrangement. Additional fee may apply depending on location. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 17.9µm, 4.3SD, 23.9%CV, 99.9%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 18.5µm, 4.2SD, 22.7%CV, 96.0%CF

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Silverstream Infinity IAR: 1004737 Born: 26 December 2009 Sire: Blue Grass Southern Warrior DAM: KC Charm STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Kit & Sheryl Johnson Silverstream Alpaca Stud North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Infinity is one of those males that just commands your attention. He pumps out a huge fleece and has gorgeous teddy bear looks. The fleece has excellent crimp and lustre and is extremely uniform. The dam (KC Charm) keeps on turning out champions. All three of her progeny have been reserve age group champions at the National Alpaca Expo, only being beaten by white males. The sire, Blue Grass Southern Warrior is packed with superior genetics including Jolimont Warrior and Purrumbete Vanilla. Infinity is now working and we look forward to his offspring. SHOW CREDITS: From 22 show appearances, Silverstream Infinity has been placed in the first three on all 22 occasions. His broad ribbons include 2 supremes, 8 champion fawn, titles, 5 age group and 7 reserve age group championships. FIBRE DETAILS: 2nd shear – 2011 – 18.5µm, 4.0SD, 21.5%CV, 55.1curve, 98%CF

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

Waratah Flats Achilles IAR: 80722 Born: 28 January 2005 Sire: Kaihere Peruvian Ven-Chura DAM: Waratah Flats Paucar Juanita STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cathy Roche & Stephen Davy Ph: 03 312 5009 Mob: 027 417 2167 Email: aquaviva@scorch.co.nz www.aquaviva.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: For breeders looking to introduce or develop fawn-coloured fleece within their herd, Achilles could be an inspired choice. He offers fawn genetics from both parents who are both medium fawn with superb records for retaining their fineness. His dam’s 8th fleece was 21.7 micron. Achilles’ progeny have had outstanding success including Supreme Champion Fleece Canterbury A&P Show 2011, National Junior Male Huacaya Fleece 2011 Expo, Supreme Brown and Champion Brown at the 2010 South Island Colourbration, inclusion in the 2011 National Auction plus a host of other broad ribbons. See our website for a more complete list of show success for Achilles’ progeny. His offspring consistently exhibit an advanced fleece style and excellent coverage with crimp extending to the extremities. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2005 – 19.1µm, 4.37SD, 22.8%CV 3rd shear – 2007 – 20.3µm, 4.6SD, 22.8%CV 4th shear – 2008 – 23.1µm, 4.9SD, 21.2%CV 6th shear – 2010 – 24.2µm, 4.5SD, 18.6%CV

Martina Lopez IAR: 1007251 Born: 16 February 2010 Sire: Greenvale Gerado Dam: Le Jardin Gemima STUD FEE: $800+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Bob & Joyce Martin 354 Paparata Road, RD 1, Bombay 2675 Ph: 09 236 0171 Mob: 027 541 9329 (Bob) Mob: 021 151 8664 (Joyce) Email: alpaca@martina.co.nz www.martina.co.nz

Olde Oaks Apache IAR: 113958 Born: 23 March 2006 Sire: Paca Perfect Heath DAM: Sandjo Candice STUD FEE: $900 (No GST) CONTACT DETAILS: Sue Rodrigues Olde Oaks Alpaca 2A Kaikanui Street Kaiapoi 7630 North Canterbury Phone: 03 327 8625

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Lopez is a fine strong looking male sired from good blood lines Greenvale Gerado. He has a fine, dense fleece picking up champion grey at Franklin A&P show and Royal Easter show in Auckland. His first progeny are due in March/April 2013. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 18.39µm, 4.4SD, 24.0%CV, 98.7%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 22.6µm, 4.4SD, 19.6%CV, 94.9%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Apache is a beautiful Dark Grey, his fleece has a high definition crimp is super fine & dense. His Dam Sandjo Candice is Solid Black & at 7yrs old has amazing fleece stats (29.4 micron, SD 5, CV 17.2, with a comfort factor of 54). Apache's first progeny were shown this last session at 3 shows for two 1st's, one 2nd and 4th in progeny. Apache is leaving Greys, Roans & Blacks, from his first crop of limited matings he left 2 Grey, 1 Roan/Grey & 1 Black, of these 3 female & 1 male. If you want to breed Grey then Apache is the one for your females. Service available at owners property or limited travel to your property.

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Silverstream Governor Grey IAR: 111106 Born: 28 January 2007 Sire: Greenvale Bosco DAM: Greenvale Verona STUD FEE: $800+GST

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Governor Grey is the best grey male we have ever produced. His fleece is super fine and soft with a high definition crimp. Just look at that histogram for a five year old, working stud male. His dam, Greenvale Verona on her seventh fleece is still only 23.1u, 4.8sd, 20.6cv, 53.0curve and 89cf. Governor Grey has been shown 25 times for twenty four firsts and just one second placing. He has won the Grey Championship at the National Alpaca Expo three times in 2007, 2008 and 2009 and at the National Alpaca Expo in 2011 and 2012 won Reserve Champion Senior Male. He has been Grey Champion on ten occasions and Supreme Champion Grey twice.

CONTACT DETAILS: Kit & Sheryl Johnson Silverstream Alpaca Stud North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

If you want to reduce the micron on your grey females, then this is the male for you. Governor Grey is producing some fantastic cria that are very uniform in colour and with minimal spots. SRS Results - 2009 Secondary to Primary Follicle - 11.5 Follicle Density - 50

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

FIBRE DETAILS: 4th shear – 2011 – 20.6µm, 4.3SD, 20.7%CV, 55.3curve, 95%CF

Suri Surilana Casino IAR: 143045 Born: 17 March 2008 Sire: Surilana Odin Dam: Jolimont Caori STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sonric Suri Alpacas Richard & Rosemary Newson 71 Turntable Hill Road, Apata, RD 2, Katikati Ph: 07 552 0016 Mob: 0274 SONRIC (766 742) Email: info@sonric.co.nz www.sonric.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Casino is producing some absolutely stunning cria. Casino's fleece has a beautiful creamy lustre and exquisite handle. He has amazing fleece stats and the most “gentlemanly” nature. Casino has been G.I.F.T. tested and was analysed as follows: “The average ‘across sample’ SD is 3.48 microns. This is well below the average for alpacas... This alpaca is considered superior for breeding towards reducing the incidence of coarse fibres... This alpaca is considered superior for breeding towards premium fleece." Mating to be done onsite at Sonric Suri Alpacas, Tauranga or Gotland Suri Alpacas, Palmerston North - subject to time of year, unless otherwise arranged. SHOW CREDITS: 2011 - NZ Alpaca Nat Show Champion Suri Fleece Male 24-36 Mth (20/20 for fineness and a total score of 79) 2011 - Rotorua White Suri Fleece Male 24+ Months - First place FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2009 – 17.9µm, 3.7SD, 20.5%CV, 99.9%CF, 3.5kg 2nd shear – 2010 – 18.9µm, 3.9SD, 20.7%CV, 99.4%CF 3rd shear – 2011 – 20.7µm, 3.8SD, 18.4%CV, 98.0%CF, 3.96kg

Wild Palette Pascoe IAR: 1002132 Born: 11 April 2009 Sire: Surilana Parsifal DAM: Surico Ruby STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cilla Taylor & Des Kan 36 Zanders Road Waimauku, Auckland 0882 Ph: 09 411 7616 Mob: 029 ALPACAS Email: cilla@wildpalette.co.nz www.wildpalette.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Pascoe is a true to type suri male with excellent conformation, head shape, coverage, density and lock structure. Pascoe is available for matings on farm, where your female may stay free of charge until spitting, or by mobile matings in the Auckland/Rodney areas. SHOW CREDITS: 2010 - Reserve Champion Junior Male Suri, Auckland Royal Easter Show 2011 - Supreme Champion Suri, Kumeu Show FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2011 – 23.1µm, 3.7SD, 16.1%CV, 96.4%CF

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Thistledown Nazir IAR: 116612 Born: 9 February 2008 Sire: ILR NGG Ferrari DAM: Al Brijoni Ambrosia STUD FEE: $1000+GST

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Nazir with his excellent luster, density, staple length and good solid frame has given us the chance to greatly improve the quality of our herd. His progency are showing excellent improvement over their dams. Nazir has Accoyo bloodlines on both his sire and dam's sides and has had a very successful show career. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2008 – 20.3µm, 4.8SD, 23.7%CV, 3.8Kg 2nd shear – 2009 – 25µm, 4.9SD, 19.3%CV, 5Kg

CONTACT DETAILS: Laurell MacDonald Surisupre 168 Aotearoa Road RD 7, Te Awamutu 3877 Ph: 07 872 2886 Email: zulli@xtra.co.nz

Thistledown Zanzibar IAR: 58960 Born: 4 December 2006 SIRE: ILR NGG Ferrari DAM: Purrumbete Silk Dream STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Molly Gardner Thistledown 341 Le Bons Bay Rd, RD3, Akaroa Ph: 03 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz www.blacksuri.com

Thistledown FINE BLACK AND COLOURED SURI ALPACA

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Zanzibar is a show winning male who is well grown and true to type. He has Accoyo genetics on both sides of his pedigree. He exhibits a lustrous, uniform, soft handling fleece with good density and a great temperament. Zanzibar’s cria are very pleasing and have been black, fawn and brown. FIBRE DETAILS: 4th shear – 2010 – 24.1µm, 4.2SD, 17.4%CV, 4.16kg Latest shear – 2012 – 26.0µm, 4.4SD, 17.1%CV SHOW CREDITS: BREED: 2007 - 1st Jnr, Ellesmere; 2nd Jnr, Canterbury Royal; 1st Jnr, National Show 2008 - 1st Intermediate, Ellesmere National Show 2009 - 2nd Senior, Malvern 2010 - Champion Senior Male, Nationals FLEECE: 2008 - 1st Jnr, Rsrv Champ, 'Most Valuable Comm Fleece, Canterbury Royal; 2008 - 1st Jnr, Jnr Rsrv Champ Male Suri Fleece, National Show 2010 - Senior Champion 24-36 months, Nationals

341 Le Bons Bay Rd. RD 3, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula. Ph/Fax: (03) 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz Web: www.blacksuri.com

Valley of Peace Leviathan IAR: 110834 Born: 14 March 2008

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Leviathan is a multi-award winning male in fleece and breed. He is a solid-boned compact male with fantastic lustre, handle and great density. His bloodlines are both Accoyo and Allianza. His progeny all have his excellent bone, lustre and density.

SIRE: EP Cambridge Peru Accoyo Armadeus DAM: Valley of Peace Amber Rose Elite STUD FEE: $1250+GST

FIBRE DETAILS: 3rd shear – 2010 – 24.3µm, 5.0SD, 22.8%CV, 4.8kg Latest shear – 2012 – 27.0µm, 6.0SD, 22.0%CV

CONTACT DETAILS: Molly Gardner Thistledown 341 Le Bons Bay Rd, RD3, Akaroa Ph: 03 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz www.blacksuri.com

SHOW CREDITS: BREED: 2009 - 1st Int Fawn, Reserve Champ Intermediate Male, Canterbury Show 2009 - 2nd Intermediate Fawn, National Show 2010 - 1st Senior Male Fawn, Reserve Champion Fawn, Malvern Show 2010 - Champion Adult Male, National Show FLEECE: 2009 - 1st Junior Colours, Champion Coloured Fleece, Canterbury Show 2009 - Champion Suri Fleece, Mackenzie; Champion Suri Fleece, Malvern 2010 - 2nd Int Fawn, Mackenzie; 1st Int Fawn, Champion Fawn, Malvern 2010 - 1st Intermediate Colours, Mayfield

Thistledown FINE BLACK AND COLOURED SURI ALPACA

341 Le Bons Bay Rd. RD 3, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula. Ph/Fax: (03) 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz Web: www.blacksuri.com

Armentalis Count of Monte Cristo IAR: 119793 Born: 21 February 2008 Sire: Somerset Monte Cristo DAM: Armentalis Delilah STUD FEE: $900+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cilla Taylor & Des Kan 36 Zanders Road Waimauku, Auckland 0882 Ph: 09 411 7616 Mob: 029 ALPACAS Email: cilla@wildpalette.co.nz www.wildpalette.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: The Count of Monte Cristo is an impressive looking dark grey suri with black fleece under his belly and chin. We had 4 crias born to him this season, all female and all suri. When he was young three of his paddock mates went down with FE. Because he would not eat the zinc supplements we did blood tests on him too – the “normal range” for GGT in alpacas is 12 – 27 and his were at the low end at just 12, proving that he had absolutely no liver damage from FE. Maybe it was just good luck, or maybe he has an inbuilt resistance to FE. He is available for mobile matings in the Rodney/Auckland areas, or on farm where your female may stay free of charge until spitting. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 24.58µm, 5.30SD, 21.58%CV, 85.05%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 27.6µm, 5.4SD, 19.5%CV, 74.3%CF

2012 Herd Sire Directory

Surilana Moss on the Rocks ET IAR: 138814 Born: 25 November 2007 Sire: Somerset Stirling Moss DAM: Jolimont Joady STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cilla Taylor & Des Kan 36 Zanders Road Waimauku, Auckland 0882 Ph: 09 411 7616 Mob: 029 ALPACAS Email: cilla@wildpalette.co.nz www.wildpalette.co.nz

Armentalis Blackadder IAR: 119788 Born: 15 December 2007 Sire: Aviana Farms Upshaw DAM: Tavistock Wildella STUD FEE: $900+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cilla Taylor & Des Kan 36 Zanders Road Waimauku, Auckland 0882 Ph: 09 411 7616 Mob: 029 ALPACAS Email: cilla@wildpalette.co.nz www.wildpalette.co.nz

Aviana Farms Upshaw IAR: 38329 Born: 10 April 2001 Sire: Purrumbete the Silversmith DAM: Aviana Farms Riyala STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Cilla Taylor & Des Kan 36 Zanders Road Waimauku, Auckland 0882 Ph: 09 411 7616 Mob: 029 ALPACAS Email: cilla@wildpalette.co.nz www.wildpalette.co.nz

Canchones Silvester IAR: 94257 Born: 13 April 2005 SIRE: Jolimont Sandro DAM: Warragaburra Barbara STUD FEE: $1200+GST. Mobile matings available. Discount for multiple matings. CONTACT DETAILS: Molly Gardner Thistledown 341 Le Bons Bay Rd, RD3, Akaroa Ph: 03 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz www.blacksuri.com Co-owned by Excellenz Alpacas, Waimauku, Auckland

Thistledown FINE BLACK AND COLOURED SURI ALPACA

341 Le Bons Bay Rd. RD 3, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula. Ph/Fax: (03) 304 7448 Email: thistledown@clear.net.nz Web: www.blacksuri.com

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Moss on the Rocks has a homozygous Peruvian grey suri sire and a beautiful Peruvian imported grey suri dam. His fleece is a lovely lustrous silver colour and he has a well covered true to type suri head. He still exhibits good lock structure and coverage in his fourth fleece. All his cria to date have been suri. He is available for mobile matings in the Auckland/Rodney areas or your female may stay free of charge on farm until spitting. SHOW CREDITS: 2009 - 1st in Class, Champion Grey Suri, Auckland Easter Show 2010 - 1st in Class, Champion Grey Suri, Auckland Easter Show 2012 - 1st in Class, Champion Grey Suri, Kumeu Show 2012 - Supreme Champion Grey Suri, NI Colourbration FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 25.12µm, 5.24SD, 20.86%CV, 87.90%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 26.5µm, 5.1SD, 19.1%CV, 84.8%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Blackadder has a fine fleece with great lustre and fine pencilled locks. The photo shows him in his second fleece. He is available for mobile matings in the Rodney/Auckland areas, or on farm where your female may stay free of charge until spitting. SHOW CREDITS: 2008 - 1st in Class, Waikato 2008 - 1st in Class, Whangarei 2009 - 1st in Class, Auckland 2009 - 2nd in Class, National Show 2010 - 1st in Class, Kumeu 2010 - 1st in Class, Auckland FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 19.83µm, 4.95SD, 24.98%CV, 95.60%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 21.2µm, 4.8SD, 22.6%CV, 94.6%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Upshaw is a compact, solidly built black suri who tends to throw a well covered, lustrous, upright cria. We have shown several of his progeny, and have a box full of ribbons as a result! He often produces a much improved cria over an average or poor dam. He is the sire of Armentalis Blackadder (also in this catalogue). Shorn at 10 years of age he is still under 30 micron. He is available for mobile matings in the Rodney/Auckland areas, or on farm where your female may stay free of charge until spitting. FIBRE DETAILS: 1st shear – 2010 – 27.16µm, 5.17SD, 19.04%CV, 74.55%CF 2nd shear – 2011 – 28.5µm, 5.4SD, 19.1%CV, 70.2%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Silvester is a blue-black male sired by Jolimont Sandro who left many prize winning progeny before his early death. Silvester carries a very lustrous true to type suri fleece and returns well locked each year. His progeny so far have been suri (currently 96% probability to be homozygous) and they have been blue-black, black, brown or fawn. FIBRE DETAILS: 2nd shear – 2007 – 25.5µm, 5.2SD, 20.3%CV, 2.4kg 3rd shear – 2008 – 28.7µm, 5SD, 17%CV, 3.1kg Latest shear – 2011 – 31.0µm, 6.3SD, 19.3%CV SHOW CREDITS: BREED: 2006 - 1st Intermediate Male, Nelson Show; 2nd Intermediate Male, National Show 2006 - 1st Intermediate Male, Ashburton Show FLEECE: 2007 - 1st Int, National Show; 2nd Int All Colours, Canterbury Royal 2007 - 1st Int, Malvern; 2nd Int All Colours, Mackenzie Highland PROGENY: Excellenz Nero Cadiz 2010 Intermediate Rotorua, Kumeu and Easter Show, Champion Black

...continued from page 25 Closantel is effective against liver fluke and Haemonchus (barber’s pole worm). The drug is effective against young, mature fluke (6-8 weeks of age) but has reduced effect on immature fluke. It is an oral drench and has been combined with oxfendazole (Closicomb®) to improve efficacy against susceptible 4 week-old fluke. Nitroxynil (Trodax®) is an injectable sheep and cattle flukacide that has activity against adult fluke. Nitroxynil, clorsulon and ivermectin combination (Nitromec®) is an injectable cattle flukacide reported to be effective against early immature fluke as well as immature and adult stages (Hutchinson et al. 2009). Unconfirmed reports claim that the nitroxynil, clorsulon and ivermectin combination may cause local injection site skin reactions in cattle. Timing of fluke drenches will depend on region of Australia and rainfall and temperature pattern and may vary a little from the outline below. The programme needs to be developed in conjunction with your local veterinarian. In south-eastern Australia, pick up of larvae usually begins in spring and continues through summer when snail survival is favoured (wetlands/irrigation). Snail numbers tend to plummet in winter so pickup of immature flukes decreases markedly. Beware though that in mild winters snail activity and fluke pickup may continue.

1. Late April/early May The most important treatment. Most fluke infections are picked up in summer and early autumn. After the first frost in southern Australia, snails become inactive so there is very little uptake from pastures once it gets cold. Drenching at this time will markedly reduce fluke egg output over winter and reduce pasture contamination. Use a drench that kills immature and adult fluke such as triclabendazole.

2. August Even the best flukacides do not kill every fluke and some fluke would have been too young to respond to drenching in autumn, so there will be some fluke in the liver left after the autumn treatment. Some metacercariae may have been picked up over winter too. Use an adult flukacide, such as closantel+oxfendazole or nitroxynil, at this time to prevent spring pasture contamination before snails become active, as there will only be adult flukes in the bile ducts of the liver at this time of the year.

3. December/January

Resistance of flukes to triclabendazole and closantel has been reported in Australia in various areas (Pyramid Hill in Victoria and New England Tablelands and Bega district in NSW) following 20 years of use. Resistance is not widespread and has been slow to develop because there are large refugia of susceptible fluke in the environment to dilute out resistant strains. Resistance is usually first seen as reduced effectiveness against immature flukes. Resistance to fluke drenches allows spread of fluke among properties via infected stock or snails. Consider rotating from a flukacide with activity against immature and adult fluke in autumn to an adultspecific drench in August. Closantel can be used successfully against triclabendazole-resistant fluke and vice-versa as they belong to different drench families. Nitroxynil, clorsulon and ivermectin combination drench may be useful to use in rotation with triclabendazole to reduce development of fluke resistance to triclabendazole. Limit the use of combination products that are effective against fluke and roundworms to when treatment of both is required. Before you treat your animals, carefully read the directions for use of the selected drench. Shake the container so the drench is mixed evenly. Make sure you weigh some of the largest animals in the group and treat to the heaviest in the mob so that no animal is under-dosed. If the group has a wide range of weights, divide into lighter and heavier mobs so the smaller animals are not overdosed. Calculate the correct dose. Ensure drenching equipment, delivered via both injectable and oral routes, is calibrated to deliver the correct dose (and check throughout the day). Ensure drench is not spilled during drenching. If you are using an oral drench, place the drench gun over the back of the tongue and allow time for the alpaca to swallow. If injecting, place the needle subcutaneously. Do not hold drenched animals off water for too long after treatment. To check how well your flukacide is working, do a fluke egg count on the day of drenching and again 28 days after drenching and calculate the percent reduction in faecal egg count. You need to wait 28 days for the fluke eggs to clear from the bile ducts of the liver. Remember that no drugs are registered for use in alpacas and you should work in close consultation with your local veterinarian to obtain appropriate information about off-label use of drenches.

Drenching at this time will help reduce spring pick-up and to keep egg production low if pastures are very contaminated. A drench effective against early immature fluke, such as triclabendazole, should be used. This drench is usually applied on farms that are heavily infected with fluke.

Control

When using a drench that kills immature and adult flukes, egg production and pasture contamination will cease for about 10-12 weeks.

• Use strategic fluke drenches. Eradication is almost impossible because it is usually not possible to prevent re-infestation of pastures and animals.

Treating more often than required is costly and may lead to the development of drench resistance. Not all of the above treatments may be required but treatment is essential when clinical disease is apparent. Aim to prevent disease and markedly reduce pasture contamination over the long-term. Remember to treat sheep and cattle if co-grazing with alpacas occurs.

• Monitor worm burdens regularly in your herd by collecting fresh faeces and testing for fluke egg output in the herd. Worm egg counts are given as a measure of numbers of parasite eggs per gram of faeces. Remember that the routine faecal egg count method that detects roundworms/ nematodes does not detect fluke eggs and a fluke egg sedimentation test must be requested.

A continuous and coordinated strategic control programme is required because flukes and snails reproduce at such a high rate.

• Participate in Q-Alpaca. Liver damage secondary to fluke will be detected at autopsy so a control programme may be implemented before too many deaths occur. • Avoid introducing animals (alpacas, sheep, goats, cattle) with liver fluke onto your property by quarantining and drenching new animals that come from a liver fluke area with an effective, broad-spectrum flukacide. • Do not forget about the intermediate hosts! It may be prudent to fence off swampy areas to prevent grazing where snails may reside or to drain wet areas to reduce snail habitat and numbers. Planting trees may reduce snails by increasing a dense cover of vegetation. Keep irrigation drainage channels clear of vegetation so water flows freely and snails and cysts do not accumulate in their vicinity. Chemical control of snails is not an option because they reproduce and repopulate areas so quickly and no molluscacides are registered for this use in Australia. • Grazing management. Identify snail-infested pastures on the property and treat only those animals grazing these areas. Graze cattle on fluke-prone areas rather than alpacas. Limit grazing of ‘flukey’ country in autumn and early winter (February to June), when pickup is greatest. • Development of vaccines against fluke have been very disappointing to date as the level of protection is not high enough to warrant commercialisation. However, ensure alpacas are vaccinated against Black disease using a 5-in1 clostridial vaccine.

References and further reading 1. Boray J. Liver fluke disease in sheep and cattle. Primefact 446. New South Wales Department of Primary Industries. March 2007. 2. Campbell N, Miller G. Control of Liver Fluke. Victorian Department of Primary Industries, AgNote, February 2007. 3. Hutchinson GW, Dawson K, Fitzgibbon CC, Martin PJ. Efficacy of an injectable combination anthelmintic (nitroxynil + clorsulon + ivermectin) against early immature Fasciola hepatica compared to triclabendazole combination flukicides given orally or topically to cattle. Veterinary Parasitology, 2009; 162:278–284. 4. Links IJ, Vaughan JL, Godwin J, Philbey A. Hepatic abscessation, valvular endocarditis and focal myocardial degeneration in alpacas (Lama pacos). Conference Proceedings of the Australian Society for Veterinary Pathology, Adelaide 9-10 May 1992. 5. Lloyd J, Boray J, Campbell N. Identifying liver fluke snails. Primefact 476. New South Wales Department of Primary Industries. June 2007. 6. Love S. Liver fluke – the basics. Primefact 813. New South Wales Department of Primary Industries. September 2008. 7. Martin PJ, Chambers M and Hennessy DR. Efficacy against Fasciola hepatica and the pharmacokinetics of triclabendazole administered by oral and topical routes. Aust Vet J. 2010; 87:200-203. 8. Muirson D. Liver fluke disease and the liver fluke snail. Western Australia Department of Agriculture. No. 40/2004. 9. Sangster N. Liver fluke disease. University of Sydney. http://sydney.edu.au/vetscience/sheepwormcontrol/topics/ topic12.html

Caption Contest And the winners of the caption contest are:

Shirley Grant says, “I think a fancy might win Supreme today”. Kees Reply, “Yeah Right!”

- Kees & Catherine Rietveld

“National pledge to make compulsory ownership of alpacas a cornerstone of our monetary policy going forwards, but we have yet to decide if it will make all New Zealanders richer or poorer.”

- Sarah Busby

Vet: Monique Koning

If you have questions you would like the vet to answer, please send to editor@alpaca.org.nz - our vet will do her best to answer as many questions as possible.

Q. Is there an optimum time of day for mating to influence the sex of the baby? A. I am sure a lot of people will have an opinion on

output on the pasture. This would reduce the number of eggs present on the property, which are the main contributors to your parasite presence.

that question. Scientifically there is no evidence for a better time to breed for either boys or girls. This is not surprising, as there are so many variables involved. We know of only a few variables, of which we can control even fewer ... In modern breeding one can opt for the use of sexed semen, and so get a high chance of obtaining the sex of offspring aimed for. However, the use of sexed semen is not yet commercially available for alpacas.

From the above one could also deduce that young animals should be drenched more frequently than older animals. Pregnant animals should be drenched around parturition if possible. Sick and stressed animals may have to be drenched and additional time if the disease and stress doesn’t resolve within a short period. If a parasite problem arises at your property this could mean that the whole herd needs to be drenched!.

Q. How often should I drench my alpacas? I am worried about resistance. A. One should drench as often as necessary! How can one

For an animal to get (re)infected with worms it needs to eat an infective worm larva, which then matures into a sexually mature and egg producing worm. Eggs hatch only under special temperatures and humidity. This varies for the different worm species. In general, eggs in cooler climates won’t hatch during winter (too cold, although exceptions exist), or are slower to hatch. Therefore it makes sense to drench your animals and kill their internal parasites at the beginning of winter. The animal will ingest no or only a few infective larvae for while, and the internal parasites having just been killed by the drench, do not, or only to a limited extend, contribute to egg contamination of your pastures over winter. Of course this does not work if the environment is worm hatch friendly (warm and humid) all year round!

determine when it is necessary to drench? Should one drench all animals on the property? Different groups of animals are more or less susceptible to worms. Translated into practical language this means that some animals are better at assisting worms to survive and proliferate... What can one do about it? When is the best time to drench the alpacas? Rather than looking at the problem from the perspective of your stock, try looking at it from a perspective of the worms and how they survive and multiply. One should realise that roughly 95% of the parasites on a property are present on the pasture, and the remaining 5% of the parasites is present in the stock grazing! The 95% of the parasites on the pasture is mainly consisting of parasite eggs. These eggs hatch under their preferred circumstances into larvae, which mature into infective larvae and climb up the blades of grass to be eaten by the stock. In general, if one looks at worm egg output by the stock one can divide the animals into high worm egg producers and low worm egg producers. The potentially high egg producers can be subdivided into 3 groups: 1) young animals (arbitrarily) up to 2 years, 2) pregnant animals, especially around giving birth, and 3)stressed and/or sick animals. One could target these specific groups at the right times with worm drenches to kill the worms to reduce the worm egg 36

Monique Koning is a vet in Canterbury who has a special interest in alpacas. The interest was triggered when she found a Tetralogy of Falot in one of the first post mortems in these creatures. Since that post mortem many more interesting alpaca features have become apparent. Never a dull day, always something new to learn.

A complication that sometimes pops up is when infective larvae get ingested by stock and these larvae then do not immediately develop into mature egg producing worms. Instead these infective larvae hibernate for a while in your animal, until they receive a signal to wake up again and mature in an egg producing worm that causes damage to your animal. Another complication is that some worms are not prolific egg producers or variable egg producers, but even so they can cause significant damage. That’s why a low faecal egg count (FEC) is not always a guarantee that your herd is healthy. Faecal egg counts only tell how many eggs are deposited onto the pasture. Therefore faecal egg counts in a group of animals on your property can indicate when it’s time

to drench. Faecal egg counts are a good indication for when to use the worm drench if the egg count is high. However... a FEC can be low and there can still be a problem with parasites in your animals! One does have to take into account what the animals are telling you in combination with the results of the tests! Don’t be blinded by numbers, but look at your animals as well! The animals don’t lie and your tests can be deceiving you! The relation between FEC and worm burden in your alpaca has not been established. It has been done in cattle and sheep, where a “sort of” linear relationship between FEC and worm burden exists. However, in horses there is no clear relationship established between FEC and worm burden. A low FEC result in an alpaca does not necessarily mean it has only a low number of parasites. Other factors can be present that influence egg production on a particular day! So let’s go back to looking at it from the perspective of your animal. It is always necessary to look at your animals at the same time as a FEC is done. Check their body condition regularly. A fall in body condition with enough feed present should sound alarm bells. Check their mucous membranes (pull the lower eyelid down and peer at the inside of the eyelid for a mucous membrane colour). The mucous membranes should be pale pink. White mucous membranes should sound alarm bells. Use these 2 simple signs to warn you that problem is present, preferably together with a faecal egg count, and let this guide you in your decisions on when to use a worm drench. Drench resistance can be an issue. If one thinks the animals don’t respond as expected to the drench one has administered resistance could be an issue. Other factors that cause animals to fail to respond to the worm drench are common as well. Check that there is enough feed available. Make sure that the animals are drenched for their weight: underestimation of body weight and spitting out drench with oral drenching is a common problem. Other pitfalls are incorrect calculation of drench volume, or a drench gun incorrectly calibrated. If one is sure these factors are not an issue a FEC reduction test is in order. This tests the number of worm eggs present on 2 occasions, before and after a worm drench. To top it off one can culture the still present eggs after the drench to obtain additional information of the problem.

temperatures (which include nights!) are regularly over 10 degrees Celsius there is obviously a nice environment for H contortus to survive as a species. About 95% of the parasite presence on your property is on the pasture (mainly as eggs and a few larvae), with the remaining 5% of parasites living in your animals. Sexually mature H contortus worms in the animals are excellent egg producers (and blood suckers!). Many eggs are excreted onto the pasture where they hatch when the circumstances are right. Eggs can survive for longer periods on the pasture despite some adverse conditions. This means that cold nights and dry spells can be survived by the worm as a species. As soon as the eggs have hatched the emerging larvae are more vulnerable to environmental conditions. Hatched larvae die when it suddenly becomes cold/frosty, or dry, when they are exposed to an unfavourable environment before they are eaten by the animal in which they can mature. Cold and dry spells more often occur in the South Island than in the North Island. This is the reason that H contortus as a species can survive in the South Island, but its numbers can’t usually build up enough to cause a large amount of damage (but that is relative of course, if it kills your animals it is causing a lot of damage to you!). An unusual wet summer in the South Island, such as last summer, can create ideal conditions for H contortus to thrive. Sometimes an infective larva “safely” ends up in the animal and then decides to go into hibernation for a while before it matures into an egg producing and damage causing parasite!. This is another way for the species to survive. Also some worm drenches are better at killing all phases of the parasite life cycle than other drenches (we know this from other species such as cattle and sheep) .... Sometimes it is necessary to repeat the drenching to catch the parasites that have come out of hibernation. The unique circumstances on certain properties sometimes also can create excellent circumstances for H contortus to thrive. Sheltered sunny spots with regular irrigation can create the perfect environment for H contortus to hatch and mature into infective larvae. Of course these infective larvae still need to be eaten by susceptible stock, such as alpacas and sheep. Please also read the section on “How often should I drench my alpacas”.

A rough idea about the presence of resistance can also be obtained by doing a FEC test in a number of animals 10 days after administration of a worm drench. The FEC should be very close to 0 at that time. Unfortunately, if you have managed to read through all the above, it is not all straight forward “if A then do B”. This is where your vet should be able to help you make the right decisions at the right time.

Q. Does the barber’s pole worm exist in the South Island? A. Barber’s pole or Haemonchus contortus is present in large parts of New Zealand, including the South Island. The worm has been causing trouble as far south as Otago. However, it more regularly causes trouble in the North Island. The reason is that H contortus worm eggs need a constant humid and warm (minimum temperature over 10 degrees Celsius) environment to hatch and become infective. If the daily 37

IMPORTS

INTO

NZ by Kit Johnson

How did alpacas evolve in New Zealand, where did they come from and who were the major players involved in their establishment in New Zealand? Why do some Australian born alpacas have New Zealand genetics in their background? These and many more questions started my interest in doing some research into the origins of the New Zealand alpaca industry.

A simple project you would think given the relative young age of our industry but several years of research in both New Zealand and Australia and still there are missing pieces to the puzzle. My enquiries have taken me to the public libraries of Timaru, Christchurch, Wellington , Auckland, Sydney and Goulburn NSW as well as the Alexander Turnbull library in Wellington and the Mitchell library in Sydney. Then there is the internet and it is fair to say that there have been plenty of late nights spent pursuing my passion of decoding the origins of the New Zealand alpaca herd. 38

http://strlhistorymatters.blogspot.co.nz/2011/06/charles-ledgers-alpacas.html

A HISTORY OF ALPACA

The Charles Ledger Import Alpacas were first imported into New Zealand in 1865 – a surprise to some of you but there is clear evidence of their existence as far back as 1865. To trace the origins of these animals it is necessary to follow the adventures of Charles Ledger. Ledger was an Englishman who had spent his entire working life in Peru. He married a Peruvian and taught himself the three principal native Indian dialects. In 1829, following a particularly disasterous shipment of alpacas to England, the Peruvian authorities decreed that llama of any species were not to be exported. In 1844 a shipment of 16 alpacas were sent to Queen Victoria – this action so incensed the Peruvian Government that the decree was turned into law in 1845. Ledger believed Peruvian laws were fairly flexible and in 1857 he was asked by the New South Wales Government to bring a flock of alpacas to NSW. Aware of the new Peruvian laws prohibiting the export of alpacas, Ledger had to find a way via Bolivia and Argentina to Caldera in Chile, a distance of nearly 2700 kms. He suffered great hardship including blizzards, frost bite, illness and fevers and traversed some of the most inhospitable country imaginable including a 5000 metre mountain pass in the Andes. As a consequence he lost 294 animals out of the 570 animals that started the journey these animals arrived in Sydney in November 1858. Despite great fanfare on his arrival in Sydney, Ledger started to experience problems. Promises of reimbursement of expenses and the promise of 10,000 acres of land failed to materialize and eventually after several years of failed efforts to establish alpacas in NSW, the herd was put up for sale. In 1864, 324 animals were auctioned near Goulburn in NSW on behalf of the NSW Government but the auction failed to attract any bids. Many of the animals were given away and for many years the animals were to be found on farms in NSW and Queensland. The last representatives of Ledger’s herd were sent to the Sydney zoo.

In 1865 the Wellington Provincial Government who had tried to buy some of Ledgers alpacas several years earlier, purchased 10 alpacas for 15 pounds each and had them shipped to New Zealand for a total cost of 500 pounds. The Wellington Provincial Government was no more successful than their NSW’s counterparts and incurred substantial financial losses.

“There is a small flock of alpacas on this run, which of course had to be shorn. These animals have an unpleasant habit of spitting in one’s face if treated with too much familiarity, so the Maoris were offered double pay for shearing them. Maoris as a rule are sports and would have shorn them for the fun of the thing anyhow. A great deal of amusement was got out of the incident.” I have been unable trace what happened to John Matson’s alpacas that he purchased from Robert Heaton Rhodes or the alpacas that remained in Wellington.

Five alpacas were eventually sold to Robert Heaton Rhodes and farmed at Purau on Banks Peninsula. The Rhodes later sold Purau Station and the alpacas to D.H. Gardener. The numbers grew to 14 by 1873 and then in 1874 they were sold to a John Matson who lived on the outskirts of Christchurch. Two of these animals were then sold to the Otago Acclimatisation Society.

There is a photograph of alpacas being unloaded at the Gisborne wharf and herded down the main street in 1870 – were these animals part of the original Ledger herd and were they the Matson animals or the animals that remained in Wellington. One wonders just what happened to these animals. Certainly alpacas had proven to be expensive and difficult to breed, leaving a trail of disenchanted owners in both Australia and New Zealand.

The remaining five alpacas from the Wellington Provincial Government purchase remained in Wellington. This was where the trail of this first import finished or so I thought until a phone call from Ian Nelson, one of the founders of the NZ alpaca industry. Ian posted me a photocopy of several pages of a book entitled “Adventuring in Maoriland in the Seventies” by G.L. Meredith. The reference to alpacas below relates to a station at Mahia about 40 kilometres south of Gisborne.

Charles Ledger died penniless at Leichhardt near Sydney in 1895 never fulfilling his dream of producing a pure alpaca flock from female llamas mated to male alpacas.

Credits: The Life of Charles Ledger – professor Gabriele Gramiccia Ian Nelson – Tauhara Alpacas Victoria University Library – Wellington Goulburn Public Library

The Ian Nelson Shipment The farming of alpacas in New Zealand came about through the efforts of Ian Nelson. The change in status from a zoo animal to a farm animal led to the establishment of a protocol allowing breeders and businesses to import animals direct from Chile. Ian and Virginia Nelson for many years had had a fascination with South America. A three month holiday in South America in 1981 where they saw large herds of alpacas grazing, convinced them to investigate farming alpacas in New Zealand. Despite extensive enquiries, it became evident there were no alpacas in either Australia or New Zealand. They would have to import the animals from overseas. Ian was obliged to write an Environmental Impact Assessment report – the report was sent to thirteen Government Departments and other organizations. Finally in August 1985 after many toll calls and visits to Wellington, the Minister of Agriculture granted approval of Ian’s application to have llama and alpaca as farm animals within New Zealand. Due to animal health regulations and availability, the Nelson’s turned to the United Kingdom. Eventually three alpacas are sourced from the Chester Zoo together with three llamas from Wiltshire. In December 1985, the Nelsons apply for an import permit only to find that the protocol with Britain was not completed yet. After numerous toll calls to Wellington, the permit was issued just as the animals went into British quarantine.

Arranging insurance, air and land transport, booking quarantine space in both countries and obtaining a CITES permit (endangered species) proved to be a monumental task. Everything is finally arranged and a flight booked for February 18th 1986. Three days before the flight’s departure, the Nelson’s learn that their animals will not be on the flight. After many anxious phone calls and a few days later, Ian receives a call from a MAF vet stating that deer entering the United Kingdom from Hungary had been held in the same quarantine station as the alpacas, thus contradicting the quarantine requirements. The animals had been removed from quarantine and the airline was about to seize the animals as security for non payment of the aborted flight. Three months later, prepayment of the next flight was requested and the payment is made. There are further anxious moments when it is learned that the permit has got caught up in a British postal strike. Further calls to MAF in Wellington and finally the animals are cleared to leave, arriving in New Zealand on June 3rd, 1986. A male alpaca that should have been on this flight is held back due to a Tb scare and finally arrives 11th of August 1986. Thirty days in quarantine and finally the Nelson’s get to see their animals. Not only has their dream come true but to their sheer delight, a female cria had been born. 39

As Ian and his wife Virginia have recently announced their plans to retire from the NZ alpaca industry it is appropriate to record Ian’s longstanding involvement with alpacas in New Zealand, and to recognise his important contribution to the establishment of alpaca farming in New Zealand. Born Ian Didsbury Nelson in Pahiatua in February 1929, Ian grew up on his parent’s farm in the Wairarapa. His initial education was by correspondence and then schooling at Masterton and Wanganui Collegiate. Those formative years were difficult times through the Great Depression and rationing etc associated with World War 2. He married Virginia Hyde in Dunedin in 1958 and they had two sons and one daughter. Ian became a sheep farmer in the Alfredton area in the Wairarapa, obtained his pilot’s licence and served on the Eketahuna County Council for 18 years.

PROFILE ON

IAN NELSON Compiled by Dan Carter – Fernbrook Alpacas and Anne Rogers – Editor, NZ Alpaca

In 1984 he planned his retirement from the farm. He had been looking into the possibility of farming alpacas for some time. They were very difficult to source as most outside South America were in zoos. In 1981, after returning from two months in South America assessing the potential for farming alpacas in New Zealand, he drew up an Environmental Impact Assessment for MAF setting up an import protocol. After four years of frustrating delays, finally the then Minister of Agriculture gave Government approval for the farming of llamas and alpacas in New Zealand. This opened the way for the formation of city syndicates to bring alpacas out of Chile. In 1986 Ian imported his first alpacas from the Chester Zoo in England. In 1988 Ian was presented with an award by the International Llama Association of USA for “paving the way for private ownership of camelids in New Zealand.” In 1989 he was a member of the group which was involved in the formation of ALANZ, THE Alpaca and Llama Association of New Zealand. In 1997, after discussions with Don and Jude Carter about new genetics, he travelled to Niue Island in February and spent a week there selecting for himself and two other breeders from a shipment of Peruvian animals which were in quarantine there. These were some of the first Peruvian animals to be imported into NZ. The import was fraught with a number of difficulties, amongst which arose the need for a new import protocol and the fact that the animals were initially denied entry into NZ due to a mix up with a Q fever test, so the animals were sent on to Australia, where they spent a further month in quarantine before coming to still more quarantine in New Zealand. In 1997 Ian was also made an honorary life member of ALANZ for his contribution to the industry. The May 2001 edition of NZ Alpaca and Llama contains his article “An ex-Sheep Farmer’s View of Alpaca Farming” and discusses criteria in breeding alpacas ie selecting for stud animals that have parents and grandparents with good records, not to buy sires on show performance records alone, ne aware of advertising hype, as well as advising against using females that are poor breeders. His article emphasises the importance of improving young reproductive rates and selecting stud stock with finer, heavier fleeces. We wish Ian and Virginia a long and happy retirement and hope that they will still continue to attend Alpaca Association functions when able.

This article was first printed in NZ Alpaca - December 2005 40

The New Zealand Alpaca industry certainly has a great deal to acknowledge and thank Ian for, as his vision and perserverance established alpacas as a farming animal in New Zealand.

TOWN&

COUNTRY

NEWS

LYTTELTON TIMES | ISSUE XVII | 5 NOVEMBER 1862 | PAGE 4 The Alpaca—A recent decision of the Peruvian Government allows the export of this valuable animal under certain restrictions. Hitherto the exportation of Llamas and Alpacas has been forbidden under pain of the severe punishment of ten years penal servitude in the Chinca Islands. It was to escape this penalty that Mr. Ledger underwent the greatest hardships during six years in driving a flock overland to Copiapo previous to their exportation to Sydney in 1859. We are now informed through the columns of the Otago Daily Times, that the Government of that province has received an offer from a Lima firm of some of these much coveted animals. It is stated that an immediate answer to this offer must be given, and that it is therefore impossible for the Otago authorities to communicate with the neighbouring provinces but the hope is expressed that if Otago undertakes to order – say 200 - this province will be prepared to take its share. The price asked by the shippers is £150 for pure white and £100 for mixed colours. Though the amount asked appears large, it is stated that Victoria is anxious to take the whole number under contract for sale by the Peruvian Government, amounting to 1500, at the same price. The peculiar advantages of the Alpaca are now tolerably well known but as some of our readers may not be acquainted with the facts, we will briefly summarise them. The average weight of fleece is about 9lbs., and Mr. Ledger mentions a case; where he clipped 7lbs of wool from an animal bred in Australia, only five months old. The wool at the present time is worth 2s. 6d. a lb.'in the London market. The flesh of these animals is stated by various authorities, to be of excellent flavour, and perfectly fit for the table of the most fastidious. In addition to these important advantages, the Alpaca is a' useful least of burden when domesticated, being capable of carrying when full grown a weight of 60 lbs. Again, it is a patient hardy animal, thriving on coarse pasture, and capable of sustaining heat and cold without injury. From all accounts our hill runs would contain all the requisites both of climate and pasture for rearing the breed to perfection. As a rule we believe that new fields of industry are generally more successfully occupied by private than by public enterprise. The introduction of the Alpaca, however is a somewhat exceptional case and it may be doubted, considering the outlay of capital required even for a small flock, whether a commencement could, not be more advantageously made by the Government than by the isolated efforts of the public. We believe the New South Wales Government bought Mr.

Ledger's flock and still hold them, and it is most probable that the Victorian Government would be the buyers of the major part of the animals under notice. The most feasible plan appears to be for the Government to purchase the lot and establish a temporary breeding station. The produce might be sold at intervals by auction, the lots being put up at a fixed upset price. By this means the breed would soon be spread over the province, and the necessity for maintaining a Government breeding establishment be done away with. From the limited information at our command, it is impossible to say whether the Peruvian authorities contemplate allowing a free exportation, of these hitherto sacred animals. Should that be the case, it would, of course, militate against any arguments in favour of Government action in the matter. As far as we can judge, however, this seems to be a special contract obtained by some firm at Lima as a concession.

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NOT IMPOSSIBLE…

JUST ‘INVISIBLE’! by Denise Moysey

A personal odyssey began for me in 1995… the quest to breed a ‘solid grey’ alpaca… but, as sometimes occurs, when it actually happened, it came as a complete surprise!

A lot of discussion has been had in recent years, both within Australian alpaca circles and overseas, about what is a ’true grey’ and what is a ‘roan’ alpaca. Does an alpaca need to exhibit the ‘classic’ pattern of white face and light tuxedo to be considered a ‘true grey’? Are ‘roans’ just a colour fault? Are ‘greys’ really just a type of multi anyway? Personally, I suspected that a large part of the discussion problem stemmed from people’s failure to recognise that ‘grey’ and rose alpacas are really just roan variants. Alpacas do not have grey like in horses, which are born a colour and gradually grey and lighten with age (like human hair). I view ‘roan’ as a genuine alpaca colour type, and not an inconsistency in fibre colour. The white face and tuxedo is simply a pattern or marking gene, and, although very commonly linked with the ‘grey’ and rose colouration in alpacas, I couldn’t believe that it was required in order to produce ‘grey’. (NB not all coloured alpacas with white fibres fit into the roan category however, and a white fibre colour fault does occur, causing further confusion in the discussion). Acceptance of spots and blotches of other colours on the body of a ‘grey’/rose alpaca has added to their stigma and encouraged their sometimes being labelled ‘multis’. These patterns or markings would not be tolerated in any other-coloured alpaca and I felt that they should not be tolerated in ‘greys’ either. Roan definition : (Wikipedia) Roan is a coat colour found in many animals, notably horses, cattle and dogs. It is defined generally as an even mixture of white and pigmented hairs that does not ‘grey out’ or fade as the animal ages. ‘Grey’ or rose alpacas fit this colour type. Eg : the silvery ‘greys’ are variants of ‘blue roan’ = basically black coat with varying % of white fibres. Desirable even silver greys. 42

Our ‘grey’ breeding philosophy is very simple. If you want ‘silver grey’, breed with ‘silver grey’ animals or animals with good ‘silver grey’ heritage. Breed away from patches or blotches of other colours and do not accept them in your stud males, at the very least. Breed away from animals with a defined white tuxedo or socks. Pursue animals which exhibit good even ‘grey’ colour also across the chest, up the neck and down to their feet. Breed away from animals that are ‘silver grey’ but tone to brown under their bellies. A significant motivation for the pursuit of a ‘solid grey’ is my strong belief that with colour variation comes change of fibre type and micron eg the cream shaded fibre on vicuna fawns is significantly different to the fawn body, likewise the white/ light colour on the chest of ‘greys’ is different to the main fleece. Logically, the more similar the colour, the more chance you have of similar fleece qualities. Further, in the event that you did not get the expected ‘grey’ progeny, but some other colour, then the likelihood of undesirable white markings in that animal is significantly reduced / the likelihood of solid colour increased. Our luck has been to have 2 ‘grey’ male bloodlines which combine very well to produce even ‘grey’s with no tuxedo or sock markings and few, if any, other colour marks on their bodies. The cross also produces some dark grey animals with dark faces and solid roans. None of those have actual ‘grey’ faces, but they were certainly the most evenly-coloured greys we had seen. It is now not uncommon to see a black-faced dark grey, or brown-faced rose grey, alpaca in the showring. And then came April 9th, 2012. At sunrise, scanning the birthing paddock through my binoculars, I could see that a new cria had been born overnight and was up, walking about amongst the girls, but, in the twilight of dawn, I couldn’t make out the colour very well and it didn’t get any more clear as I got closer. Or, more exactly, I couldn’t believe what I thought I was seeing!

Dark-headed greys.

The cria had obviously not rolled about after its birth and the birth membrane had dried and was still wrapped tightly around its body like crisp tissue paper. For the first time ever, my first action was not to lift the tail to find out what sex this cria was, but was to peel off the fine paper in great excitement to discover what colour the body was… because the head, neck and legs were evenly ‘grey’… and, underneath that dried membrane, so was the body!! Only then did I lift the tail, and, in another first, I was happy to see that this cria was male! Welcome to the world, Arcady Invisible. So there it was… Our first ‘solid grey’ alpaca. And with parents who were both ostensibly solid black ! But, at least, with 3 grey grandparents. The general consensus from people who have seen Invisible is, quite simply, WOW! His colour is so even, so unexpected and unusual in the world of alpacas. It seems impossible that he is a first or the only one of a kind, but he is most certainly very rare and we can only look forward to the future, and his progeny, with great anticipation. Arcady Invisible.

Why

Sponsorship is a good idea! by Shirley Grant

I think there is a very fine line between sponsorship and advertising… but I soon realised the benefits of sponsoring rather than advertising.

Sponsorship is a wonderful way of getting yourself ‘out there’ so to speak, especially if you are very new to the advertising and promotional world. It can be extremely daunting and nerve racking to arrange your first lot of advertising, so I opted for the easy way out and went with the sponsorship line… With sponsorship deals you have the hard work taken away, you just need to provide the basic material and the person arranging the sponsorship package does the rest. They are usually very helpful and guide you through the process without any fuss. When I first started promoting the ‘spotty’ alpaca people just glossed over what I was trying to do… but when I started taking out sponsorship at local A & P shows, websites and then at the major AANZ run shows people actually started to look, think and comment about my business. You have to keep in mind that you only take out sponsorship to promote your business and what better way than to promote to a group of similar minded people with the same business interests. As the rest of the world regards New Zealand as a very small country ‘down under’ we need to take the best advantage of what’s available worldwide for our business and sponsorship is one of the best ways I have found to attract people to my business. When I take out sponsorship in another country it builds an instant relationship between my business and that country as I am not just advertising my business, I am sharing my earnings from my business with them. That goes a long way in today’s economic climate and they remember you as a sponsor not an advertiser! The sponsorship deals I tend to look at are the long term or long lasting deals. Meaning that my advertising will be available for not just the life of the daily newspaper, or the life

of the weekly magazine but the longest time I can possibly have my business out there and people seeing it for the lengthy duration of that publication whatever it may be. You have to make your hard earned cash work for you… you have to make good sound choices that will benefit your business for the longest possible time. Sponsoring Alpaca shows is an extremely easy way to be heard, seen and get the best for your buck so to speak ! They put together great packages for all budgets and the best reward is, that most people collect the catalogues for many years and to have your sponsorship details splattered throughout the catalogue is a bonus. The alpaca magazine is another great way to promote your business with sponsorship deals. Remembering, that the magazine is regarded as a ‘coffee table’ style magazine, and continually being read, so another long term investment. Also with sponsoring this type of magazine, the organisers are able to keep up the high standard of publications which we all enjoy.

Sponsoring also helps an organisation function. No matter what business, event or magazine it will only be a success if they have sponsors on board. It’s very rewarding and a wonderful feeling to get comments and phone calls from people you have never met being interested in what you have advertised via your sponsorship. Lastly with sponsoring an event, function or whatever it may be, you usually get great benefits. You don’t get these extra benefits with straight out advertising. Getting something ‘extra’ is a bonus and only comes with sponsoring!!

Minffordd Cottage and Alpaca Farm is situated in Feilding, Manawatu. Quiet self-contained homestay, sleeps 4 people. Stud services and alpacas for sale in assorted colours. Breeding to improve fleece. Contact Bob and Jenny Phillips Ph: 06 323 1182 | www.minffordd.co.nz

www.alpacas-nz.co.nz

Reclass, Processing and Marketing Alpaca, Black and Coloured Wool and Specialty Fibres richard@wooltechnologies.co.nz

WOOL TECHNOLOGIES CASH PAID FOR ALPACA FIBRE

Reclass, Processing and Marketing Alpaca, Black and Coloured Wool and Specialty Fibres richard@wooltechnologies.co.nz

NORTH ISLAND CASH Philippa Wright PAID FOR FIBRE PhilippaALPACA Wright Wool Merchants 8 Coughlan Road, Waipukurau NORTH ISLAND Ph: 06 858Philippa 9434 orWright 027 242 2033 philippa@wrightwool.co.nz Philippa Wright Wool Merchants 8 Coughlan Road, Waipukurau Ph: 06 858 9434 or 027 242 2033 philippa@wrightwool.co.nz

SOUTH ISLAND Lindsay Riddle Sherlin Suri Alpaca Stud Lawford Road, RD5, Christchurch Ph: 03 349 7524 or 0274 331 094 leriddle@xtra.co.nz

SOUTH ISLAND Lindsay Riddle Sherlin Suri Alpaca Stud Lawford Road, RD5, Christchurch Ph: 03 349 7524 or 0274 331 094 leriddle@xtra.co.nz NZ1092313-Nexus Investments:NZ1076557-Nexus Investments

Cherry lane alpacas

Because alpacas are our passion We love alpacas, and we enjoy sharing our passion for alpacas with others. We have: -breeding stock -lifestyle pets -alpaca fleece -prize winning alpacas -for sale or to view Give us a call, email us or stop in for tea or coffee today. We would be happy to show you around our farm and introduce you to our alpacas and alpaca farming.

6 Sunnex road, RD2, Rotorua

Alpaca training equipment animals for sale

Vicky Tribe alpaca gear: halters, leads, books, DVDs and CDs. Shop online at www.willowfarm.co.nz alpacas for sale: top quality, easily managed animals available now training clinics: how to choose and fit a halter, leading, learn the ‘toolkit’ – wand, catch-rope and herding tape, trimming toenails and other maintenance, managing difficult behavioural traits

Ask about hosting a CamelidynamicsTM Clinic. Register your interest when a course is in your area by emailing or phoning.

Contact Vicky Tribe, Gear Girl: email kvnexus@xtra.co.nz website www.willowfarm.co.nz 45

Alpaca 2013 World Conference and Expo will be the alpaca industry place to be in 2013. This prestigious event is hosted by Alpaca Association New Zealand Inc (AANZ) and will include the who’s who of alpaca personalities from around the globe.

20th to 24th September 2013

Important Dates

The five day event will feature an Alpaca Expo, the International Fleece Show, the AANZ National Show, trade stands and displays from around the world, and the World Alpaca Conference and workshops.

• Sponsorships Available - NOW!

Friday 20 Sept to Sunday 22 Sept will be the EXPO and feature the AANZ National Show culminating in the prestigious Alpaca Auction held Sunday evening and the Gala Dinner Sunday night. th

Monday 23 Sept to Tuesday 24 Sept will be dedicated to the Conference and Workshops where you can learn from experts from around the world. rd

• Show entries close - 20th August 2013 • Fleece Judging - 16th to 18th September 2013 • Site Build - 19th September 2013 • Alpaca 2013 World Alpaca Conference & Expo - 20th September to 24th September 2013 • Alpaca Auction - 22nd September 2013

Through the whole event you will be able to visit the Trade Stands and Displays and the International Fleece Show. There will also be other dinner events to maximize your networking and socialising opportunities. All of this will be held in one venue…

Claudelands Event Centre, Hamilton This modern venue is ideally laid out to host Alpaca 2013. Large well ventilated halls ideal for housing alpaca are adjacent to the conference facilities allowing the whole event to be housed under one roof. Claudelands Event Centre is situated in the heart of the New Zealand agricultural city, Hamilton. It is an easy walk from accommodation or a 5 minute drive from the city centre. The closest international airport, Auckland, is just over an hour’s drive and the local Hamilton airport has flights from around New Zealand. The AANZ National Show, International Fleece Show, trade stands, and alpaca will all be housed in Halls A & B, with room to overflow into Halls C or D if required. The Conference will be in the conference rooms adjacent to Hall A. More venue information can been found at: www.claudelands.co.nz 46

• Early Bird Registrations and Entries Finish - 1st July 2013

Registrations Conference registrations along with booking for the other events and dinners will be available on the website www.alpacaexpo.co.nz or by contacting the AANZ office.

AANZ National Show Planning is still underway for many of the details of the 2013 AANZ National Show, but at this stage we can confirm...

Judges Co-judging in the breed ring will be Paul Garland (NZ) and Angela Preuss (Aust).

Dates The Championship classes will run Friday 20th & Saturday 21st Sept, then Non-Championship classes Sunday 22nd Sept. All Alpacas will remain on site 20th to 22nd Sept. Some sponsors, as part of their sponsorship package will be able to have alpaca remain on site for 23rd and 24th September. Off site accommodation for alpaca will be available on local farms for the days around the event.

International Fleece Show In 2013 the fleece section will be run as an international event and alpaca breeders from around the world will be invited to exhibit their fleeces.

The International Fleece show will be run under the rules and regulations of AANZ. These are currently being modified to allow fleece entries from outside NZ at International shows. Currently negotiations are underway to facilitate the smooth importation of fleeces into NZ as there are strict quarantine rules that must be followed. More information on the process for importing fleeces will be available soon.

Judges Judging the Suri Fleeces will be Sarah Busby (NZ). Judging the Huacaya Fleeces will be Lyn Dickson (Aust)

The local market will also be promoted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; advertising will be focused on the large number of small block holders in the Waikato and surrounding areas of Bay of Plenty and South Auckland. There will also be nationwide advertising and a major effort to get more existing breeders to this event. The main benefit for you of becoming an Alpaca 2013 sponsor is the opportunity to promote yourself at this event, designed especially to grow the alpaca industry.

Contact For more information email conference@alpaca.org.nz or visit the website www.alpaca2013.co.nz

Sponsorship Sponsorship is a great way for you to get more involved in this event and support the alpaca industry. There are sponsorship packages available for all levels you can view the packages at www.alpacaexpo.co.nz or talk to us about what will best suit your needs. This event is aimed at attracting both local and international visitors to maximize your exposure to potential clients. The export market is a growing source of sales for New Zealand breeders and this event gives you the chance to promote your alpaca to targeted international visitors from Europe and Asia. Alpaca2013 is using a combination of print, electronic and social media along with referral and word of mouth to promote this event to alpaca breeders and enthusiasts around the world. 47

New Zealand

NATIONAL

EXPO 20 12

by Martin Bennett - Oak Ridge Alpaca Stud Photos courtesy of Anne Rogers

The New Zealand National Expo is always an eagerly awaited event for alpaca breeders in New Zealand. This is the ‘premier’ event on the show calendar, attracting breeders from all over the country, to showcase the very best in alpaca breeding in New Zealand. Also, this was the first show on the calendar, and after a wet & cold winter, marked the start of warmer weather, more shows to follow & catching up with fellow breeders, both friends & associates. The 2012 Expo was a culmination of 12 months hard work by the Expo committee – consisting of Kit Johnson, Anya Walkington, Steve Davey, Kees Rietveld & Martin Bennett. This year was to be a first, it would be held in a grand marquee at the Canterbury Agricultural Park in Christchurch. Breed Judge was Jude Anderson from the USA & Fleece judging was undertaken by Molly Gardner & Diane Marks both from NZ. Set up for the show was meticulously handled by many volunteers who selflessly gave up their time to help bring this event together. So thank you to all involved, your efforts are appreciated.

So the day of the show finally arrived and exhibitors were all buzzing, eyeing up the competition, catching up with fellow breeders & making last minute preparations to ensure their alpacas were at their very best for their two minutes of fame in the show ring. The weather was fine and dry, although 48

the infamous Canterbury Easterly wind came up over the weekend which cooled temperatures somewhat. The judging by Jude Anderson was excellent. Place ribbons were not handed out lightly, rather they had to be earnt which I think was a good benchmark and any exhibitor receiving a ribbon knew that their alpaca was well deserving of it. Throughout the weekend, the spirit of competition was alive and well with a real calibre of high quality alpacas being judged. It was encouraging to see many exhibitors from the North Island making the effort to come down to support this show and it is really important to reiterate that our National Show is exactly that, so we all need to be right behind it and supporting it whether it be in the North or the South islands. Friday night saw the president’s barbeque which was well attended and a very convivial evening with a fantastic selection on the menu and the Dinner on Saturday night was equally as enjoyable. Very positive comments on the catering over the weekend which was masterminded by Sheryl Johnson so thank you Sheryl for an excellent effort. Overall, the feel of this year’s National Show was a relaxed one, with everyone enjoying the proceedings and everything running seamlessly and to plan. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to putting the Show together and also to the exhibitors for their support without which we could run a show at this level. And now please… a drum roll for the winners. Congratulations to all place and champion winners and especially to the following who received Supreme titles in fleece and breed: Supreme Champion Suri Fleece Surico Trilogy Sue, Hermione & Brooke Richards Supreme Champion Huacaya Fleece Homestead Farm Sophie Ella Carolyn & Russell Nelson

Supreme Champion Suri Surico Walkinshaw Sue, Hermione & Brooke Richards Supreme Champion Huacaya Banksia Park Khandy Man (Imp. Aus) E & G Lister All champion place winners received a very special hand carved Oamaru Stone Alpaca Trophy made with great attention to detail from “Stone the Crows’ of Banks Peninsula, Canterbury. In summary this was a hugely successful National Show and as we all packed up ready for the journey home, reflected on the enjoyment of the weekend and a great way to kick off the forthcoming show season. We now all eagerly await next year’s National Expo in Hamilton, which will combine with the prestigious World Alpaca Conference – a first for New Zealand. I hope to see you all there.

BREED SHOW RESULTS - SURI Champion Suri Junior Female SURICO DEMOISELLE HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Reserve Champion Suri Junior Female GLENMORGAN EMILY STEPHANIE, PHILLIPA & MOLLY GARDNER Champion Suri Junior Male SURICO PICARDY ANNE & NEIL GODFREY & H, B & S RICHARDS Reserve Champion Suri Junior Male SURICO TESORO II HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Suri Intermediate Female BROMFIELD PARK SAMARA BRENDON TAYLOR & JANETTE MATHESON Reserve Champion Suri Intermediate Female GOTLAND MARIA LARS & HEATHER OLSSON 49

Champion Suri Intermediate Male SURICO WALKINSHAW HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Reserve Champion Suri Intermediate Male MADDISON PARK QUAKE ANN & MALCOLM DUNCAN

Champion Huacaya Intermediate Male BANKSIA PARK SKJ KHANDY MAN ERIC & GAYE LISTER Reserve Champion Huacaya Intermediate Male STONELEIGH DISCOVERY CHRIS & LIZ STRACK

Champion Suri Adult Female SHERLIN GRACIELA SHERYL & LINDSAY RIDDLE

Champion Huacaya Adult Female SILVERSTREAM JAPANJI KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Adult Female SHAMARRA SUNDANCE ANYA & FRANK WALKINGTON

Champion Suri Adult Male BROMFIELD PARK ARTURO BRENDON TAYLOR & JANETTE MATHESON Reserve Champion Suri Adult Male EL DOS CADENA KAHLUA RITCHIE & MAREE CHURCHILL Supreme Champion Suri SURICO WALKINSHAW HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS

Suri Colour Championships Champion White SURICO WALKINSHAW HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Light Fawn HADSTOCK N.Z. SILKEN MAVERICK MURRAY & YUMIKO KING Champion Mid/Dark Fawn JACANA SIR CAMELOT ANNA STENHOUSE Champion Brown BROMFIELD PARK SAMARA BRENDON TAYLOR & JANETTE MATHESON Champion Grey SHERLIN MONIQUE SHERYL & LINDSAY RIDDLE Champion Black THISTLEDOWN DAMALI STEPHANIE, PHILLIPA & MOLLY GARDNER

BREED SHOW RESULTS - HUACAYA Champion Huacaya Junior Female SILVERSTREAM LA TOYA KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Junior Female SILVERSTREAM LADYSHIP KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Champion Huacaya Junior Male STYLIST SIR EDMUND HILLARY TRISH & NEIL WATSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Junior Male WARATAH FLATS HAT-TRICK PAUL GARLAND & LYNDA SIDES Champion Huacaya Intermediate Female OAK RIDGE TUSCAN SUN MARTIN BENNETT & DEBBIE WALLACE Reserve Champion Huacaya Intermediate Female STONELEIGH FLAMBELLINI CHRIS & LIZ STRACK 50

Champion Huacaya Adult Male STONELEIGH VALENTINO CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Reserve Champion Huacaya Adult Male ALGOMA CHASKA STEPHEN & EVELYN LEWIS Champion Huacaya Senior Female STONELEIGH FLAMBELLA CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Reserve Champion Huacaya Senior Female SILVERSTREAM IDOL KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Champion Huacaya Senior Male SILVERSTREAM GODSEND ET KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Senior Male SILVER-STONE ICE MASTER ET LIZ STRACK & SHERYL JOHNSON Champion Huacaya Mature Female SILVERSTREAM GRACELANDS KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Mature Female WARATAH FLATS OBSESSION PAUL GARLAND & LYNDA SIDES Champion Huacaya Mature Male AQUAVIVA TITUS SOUTHERN ALPACAS Reserve Champion Huacaya Mature Male SILVERSTREAM GOVERNOR GREY KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Supreme Champion Huacaya BANKSIA PARK SKJ KHANDY MAN ERIC & GAYE LISTER

Huacaya Colour Championships Champion White STONELEIGH VALENTINO CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Champion Light Fawn THIEF OF HEARTS NORTHERN LIGHTS ERIC & GAYE LISTER Champion Mid/Dark Fawn BANKSIA PARK SKJ KHANDY MAN ERIC & GAYE LISTER Champion Brown OAK RIDGE TUSCAN SUN MARTIN BENNETT & DEBBIE WALLACE

Champion Grey SHERLIN THE WATCHMAN SHERYL & LINDSAY RIDDLE Champion Black LILLYFIELD SPADES ARE TRUMPS SOUTHERN ALPACAS Breed Show Results Total - 278 Suri - 73 Huacaya - 275 Judge: Jude Anderson

FLEECE SHOW RESULTS - SURI Champion Suri Junior Female Skirted Fleece EXCELLENZ BIANCO CHIVA LORAINE SEPERS & WARD VAN DAMME Reserve Champion Suri Junior Female Skirted Fleece NGAHERE ILLUSION PAUL & JAN DIXON Champion Suri Junior Male Skirted Fleece SURICO TRILOGY HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Reserve Champion Suri Junior Male Skirted Fleece GOTLAND SAXTON LARS & HEATHER OLSSON Champion Suri Intermediate Female Skirted fleece SURICO ROSSE HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Reserve Champion Suri Intermediate Female Skirted fleece GOTLAND LIMOUGE LARS & HEATHER OLSSON Champion Suri Intermediate Male Skirted fleece HADSTOCK N.Z. CRACKA GRANT & JULIE MANSELL Reserve Champion Suri Intermediate Male Skirted fleece SURICO TANGIER HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Suri Adult Female Skirted Fleece SURICO CALAIS HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Suri Adult Male Skirted Fleece TE KOWHAI SOLAR ECLIPSE STUART & ANN WEIR Champion Suri Senior Female Skirted Fleece HADSTOCK N.Z. SILKEN SANTOLINA STUART & ANN WEIR Reserve Champion Suri Senior Female Skirted Fleece NGAHERE LEIKAS AIR PAUL & JAN DIXON Champion Suri Senior Male Skirted Fleece LA ROCHE GOLD PACN ANNE & NEIL GODFREY Champion Suri Mature Male Skirted Fleece HADSTOCK N.Z. IMPERIAL STUART & ANN WEIR Supreme Champion Suri Fleece SURICO TRILOGY H, B & SUE RICHARDS

Suri Fleece Colour Championships Champion White SURICO TRILOGY HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Light Fawn SURICO ROSSE HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Champion Mid-Dark Fawn HADSTOCK N.Z. SILKEN FUSHIA ANNE & NEIL GODFREY Champion Brown BROMFIELD PARK ARTURO BRENDON TAYLOR & JANETTE MATHESON Champion Grey SHERLIN CHEYENNE SHERYL & LINDSAY RIDDLE Champion Black SHERLIN AURA SKYE SHERYL & LINDSAY RIDDLE Most Commercial SURICO TRILOGY HERMIONE, BROOK & SUE RICHARDS Finest GOTLAND SAXTON LARS & HEATHER OLSSON

FLEECE SHOW RESULTS - HUACAYA Champion Huacaya Junior Female Skirted Fleece HOMESTEAD FARM SOPHIE ELLA RUSSELL & CAROLYN NELSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Junior Female Skirted Fleece HONEYFIELDS ALEXANDRIA BARBARA LOMAX Champion Huacaya Junior Male Skirted Fleece HIGHWAY STAR SNOWMAN SUSAN WISE Reserve Champion Huacaya Junior Male Skirted Fleece SILVERSTREAM KUBLA KHAN KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Champion Huacaya Intermediate Female Skirted fleece WARATAH FLATS ELITE FASHION PAUL GARLAND & LYNDA SIDES Reserve Champion Huacaya Int. Female Skirted fleece HOMESTEAD FARM SOPHIE ELLA NORMA & JOHN BUSH Champion Huacaya Intermediate Male Skirted fleece ALGOMA CHASKA STEPHEN & EVELYN LEWIS Reserve Champion Huacaya Int. Male Skirted fleece OAK RIDGE OLIVER MARTIN BENNETT & DEBBIE WALLACE Champion Huacaya Adult Female Skirted Fleece STONELEIGH FLAMBELLA CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Reserve Champion Huacaya Adult Female Skirted Fleece CRESTA VIENTO ESHA LINLEY YEOMAN 51

Champion Huacaya Adult Male Skirted Fleece HOMESTEAD FARM TOP NOTCH RUSSELL & CAROLYN NELSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Adult Male Skirted Fleece SILVERSTREAM ICARUS KIT & SHERYL JOHNSON Champion Huacaya Senior Female Skirted Fleece HALCYON SNOWDROP ET CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Reserve Champion Huacaya Senior Female Skirted Fleece STONELEIGH FLAMBOYANCE CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Champion Huacaya Senior Male Skirted Fleece HOMESTEAD FARM ABSOLUTE RUSSELL & CAROLYN NELSON Reserve Champion Huacaya Senior Male Skirted Fleece HONEYFIELDS SUTHERLAND BARBARA LOMAX, B & N BISHOP Champion Huacaya Mature Female Skirted Fleece FORESTGLEN DELPHINIUM SARAH & PETER BUSBY Reserve Champion Huacaya Mature Female Skirted Fleece BENLEIGH SIERRA ROYALE CHRIS & LIZ STRACK Champion Huacaya Mature Male Skirted Fleece PREMIER FERNANDO BARBARA LOMAX Supreme Champion Huacaya Fleece HOMESTEAD FARM SOPHIE E R & C NELSON

Huacaya Fleece Colour Championships Champion White WARATAH FLATS ELITE FASHION PAUL GARLAND & LYNDA SIDES Champion Light Fawn HOMESTEAD FARM SOPHIE ELLA RUSSELL & CAROLYN NELSON Champion Mid-Dark Fawn ALGOMA CHASKA STEPHEN & EVELYN LEWIS Champion Brown WAIKARA PARK MR T BRENDON TAYLOR & JANETTE MATHESON Champion Grey FERNSIDE PARK RAPHAEL GRAEME & SOPHIE HENDERSON Champion Black SUNSETESTATE JAXXON WILLEM & DITA ALBLAS Most Commerical HOMESTEAD FARM SOPHIE ELLA RUSSELL & CAROLYN NELSON Finest CLOVER-LEE CLEOPATRA COURTNEY CHURCHILL Fleece Show Results Total - 149 Suri - 44 Huacaya - 105 Judges: Molly Gardner & Diane Marks

What Animal Am I is a stunning hard covered book which introduces young children to the ever increasingly popular farm animal – the alpaca. Real life photographs are used to compare alpacas to other popular animals loved by all children. This book teaches children about alpacas – what they look like and their lifestyle. Not only the perfect bedtime book but also a great learning tool to share with any young child.

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77 Main Street, Fairlie. Ph: 03 685 8689 | Email: jill@pacashack.co.nz | www.pacashack.co.nz

• Quality white huacaya alpacas – plus a small line of coloured alpacas for fibre use • Top genetics and fibre • Member of SRS® breeding scheme • Animals for sale - wethers, breeding females, great starter “pacs” • Management advice and after sales support, including facial eczema advice and spore counting service • Alpaca fibre for sale – carded fibre and knitting yarn • Fine handspun alpaca fibre products for sale

info@alpaca-breeder.co.nz www.alpaca-breeder.co.nz

SOUTH ISLAND 2012

Photography by Anne Rogers

COLOURBRATION

Premier Fancy Suri

Supreme Champion Black Suri

Supreme Champion Grey Suri

Supreme Champion Brown Suri

Supreme Champion Medium/Dark Fawn Suri

Supreme Champion Light Fawn Suri

Supreme Champion White Suri

Premier Fancy Huacaya

Supreme Champion Black Huacaya

Congratulations to all of the winners! Check out the website for a full list of results:

www.alpaca.org.nz/events/show_results

Supreme Champion Grey Huacaya

Supreme Champion Brown Huacaya

Supreme Champion Medium/Dark Fawn Huacaya

Dye your own Alpaca fibre with our ranges of ACID DYES (hot) or FIBRE REACTIVE DYES (can be used cold) Supreme Champion Light Fawn Huacaya

Phone: 06 376 4400 Email teri.dyes@xtra.co.nz PO Box 85, Woodville

Contact David or Katharine today for a full colour price list

Supreme Champion White Huacaya 55

The

Australian Nationals return to Adelaide... and alpaca was certainly on the Show menu!

he Australian National Alpaca Show and Auction 2012 was recently held over 4 days in the Wayville Pavilion at the Royal Adelaide Showgrounds, Adelaide. Over 120 breeders entered 650 alpacas and 300 fleece at this 19th running of the National Show. The breed classes are jointly judged by two Internationally- certified judges (IAJS), with the fleece and product elements of the Show judged by individual judges. This year the two breed judges, Natasha Clark and Peter Kennedy, both from Australia, provided constructive comment throughout the Show to breeders. Our own Paul Garland got to handle and judge the 300 alpaca fleece on display, no mean task!

QualitYarns New Zealand, Milton, earlier this year. Several of the trade stands at the Show exhibited alpaca yarns processed in New Zealand as there are few commercial-scale mills able or keen to process alpaca in Australia. A number had previously worked with the Mill before its change of ownership and were keen to re-kindle those relationships. Australian breeders regularly commented their New Zealand colleagues have independently developed more extensive and higher quality product ranges from their own alpaca fleece despite the considerably larger scale of the Australian alpaca herd, that advantage partly driven by the processing options in New Zealand.

The backdrop of a very high quality digital screen presentation in the show ring and the penning area meant breeders and the public had full coverage of the ongoing judging. The only disappointment for breeders appeared to be the use of a sand, hay and woodchip mix for bedding and in the show ring. Despite its obvious absorption properties and low dust environment the combination was more unstable in the show ring than organisers had anticipated, and readily contaminated the fleece of many of the alpacas. All credit to the breeders and judges seeing through that issue. Other than that the Show pavilion was well ventilated and traders well satisfied by the conditions in the Pavilion to demonstrate their products and services.

As proved at the previous 2009 Nationals in South Australia a popular trade stand was the alpaca meat stand of ‘Illawarra Prime Alpaca’. ‘LaViande’ the alpaca meat retailer at that previous Show was also present informally discussing their current focus is the export of alpaca meat to clients in Asia and the Middle East. The alpaca food stand, branded as a ‘Taste of the New World’, served a variety of hams, sausages, patties, semi-dried jerky and recognisable cuts of alpaca. Certainly the meat presented well and proved easy eating. The clean looking meat with minimal graining and great texture to the knife was often commented upon and the underlying herb blends milder than the writer had previously experienced offering a better appreciation of the meat. The cured hams were a new addition to the display, beautifully presented and surprisingly good eating.

The Australian National classes have age brackets slightly different from those in New Zealand, although any registered alpaca aged 6 months to ‘mature’ can be entered. Classes include solid coloured and fancy for both breed and fleece. The showing ran smoothly over the four days mixing suri and huacaya judging, the order popular with breeders as it allowed those with large entries a break between classes. The eventual Supreme Champions were also popular choices from Surilana Alpacas with Surilana Surpass in the suri breed class, and local breeder EP Cambridge with Intermediate White Male EP Cambridge Invictus in the huacaya class, their first ‘Nationals Supreme’. The writer attended the Show and Auction primarily to update breeders on the re-opening of Bruce Woollen Mill, formerly 56

by Andy Nailard - Flagstaff Alpacas

The weekend finished with the Annual National Auction with nine lots sold. With total auction revenue was over NZ$215,000, and the highest bidder being for a dark fawn female fetching over NZ$75,000, the Australian elite herds are still in demand both nationally and internationally. Bidders included both experienced and new Australian breeders as well as New Zealand and United Kingdom breeders. A good finish to the National Show demonstrating the continued strength of the alpaca industry in Australia.

20th - 24th September Hamilton, New Zealand www.alpaca2013.co.nz

JOIN US FOR THIS

INTERNATIONAL

ALPACA EVENT Alpaca Expo International Fleece Show AANZ Alpaca Show World Alpaca Conference Trade Stands Gala Dinner Alpaca Auction

BREEDER

PROFILE

Stephanie, Molly & Phillipa Gardner Trading as Thistledown by Steph Gardner

hile still living in Auckland, my husband and I purchased a small block of land and house at Coutts Island, Christchurch for our retirement - toying with the idea of eventually having some alpaca. Our daughters Phillipa and Molly looked after the place and their horses and goats. Unfortunately, life does not always go as planned and some time after my husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death I joined the girls in 2002 and we decided to go ahead with the original alpaca plan and purchased our first 4 alpaca - two Suri and two Huacaya. Phillipa is a Conservation Biologist and at the time worked on the outer Chatham Islands with an endangered seabird. Lately she works in conservation outreach. Molly ran her own business, working with children and adults with reading disabilities and had contracts with schools in the education system. She is now a full time alpaca farmer. Even at this early stage, Phillipa and Molly had an active breeding programme for coloured boer goats and had previously bred horses. In fact their first breeding programme began in Auckland when they and there siblings bred birds. We very quickly fell in love with the much rarer Suri and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exquisite fleece and decided to concentrate on them. We were always interested in natural colours especially black and so we began our coloured Suri breeding programme. It very soon became apparent that this was going to be a lengthy process but we understood these things take time,

Advertising Breeder Profile: Our featured breeders were drawn from the pool of advertisers from the previous magazine. If you would like a chance to have your profile featured in the Alpaca magazine, make sure you advertise in the next issue of New Zealand Alpaca.

especially when you have mostly boys for two years running!! That certainly slows up your breeding programme! At the time it was difficult to buy black Suri in NZ, so we imported a few black Suri girls from Australia. That was only the first step, even though we slightly increased our black numbers, a lot more work had to be done to improve the fleece and frames of black Suri. To try and gain the Suri qualities we desired in our coloured herd more quickly, we made a very important decision for our breeding programme. We chose to select for fine, uniform, lustrous fleeces as these qualities commanded the highest fibre prices internationally and would be able to be used for high-end luxury items. As coloured breeders this added and extra hurdle but again by breeding carefully we felt over time we could achieve this. We chose to step away from breeding solely black to black but introduced the already improved qualities of the fawns to better our fibre. It was always in the plan to continue to layer the blacks back through our breeding programme. Therefore to start with, to improve the fibre quality of our stock, we also imported a light fawn american male via Australia. He was known to throw colour, even black. For us, his well nourished fibre of uniform in micron, was the most desirable of his many Suri traits. He was prepotent for this quality which allowed us to lay down the first layer of a selective breeding programme for fibre. We were able to monitor through fleece testing for this improvement in the progeny. His first drop of

cria demonstrated and reinforced why a definite direction in our breeding programme was so important. As expected the colour range of our animals broadened! But we always knew this would be a lengthy process. As the herd grew we could see we had to move from our small property. In 2006 we moved to our present farm at Le Bons Bay on Banks Peninsula. It has lots of large paddocks and rolling hills which the animals seems to enjoy and thrive on. It was time to reintroduce black into the herd. Again we imported some better black males from Australia, carefully choosing the genetics for our desired traits. It was important to find good animals with different parentage to keep some genetic depth. Putting the black males over our fawns has resulted in blacks with improved fleece qualities and we have more black in our herd again! We still continue to use quality fawn males within our programme. We feel we are making positive steps towards our breeding goals but breeding coloured Suri is still a challenge that we enjoy. Molly has become a qualified AANZ judge and delights in the beautiful fleeces and animals she is privileged to judge. She enjoys being able to see so many wonderful Suri and Huacaya and the gains many people are making with their breeding programmes. Through our involvement with the trial to make Surissimo Suri fabric at Ag Research, many of our fleece goals were validated. Sue Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Phillipa and I went to Australia to gain more classing experience which was very helpful to me personally as I had always spent far too much time sorting through each fleece and agonizing over how much to throw away. I just love the stuff. It was a very valuable experience and vital for us as we are absolutely determined to be part of a Suri fibre industry in NZ. Of course having as many Suri breeders involved is the best way to achieve this, and I hope that more Suri breeders become passionate about this glorious fibre too. It has been hard work, I have had to absorb so much new knowledge and I could not have done this without my daughters who have been equally enthusiastic and hardworking. At times it is frustrating and you battle on, but it is also exiting to be part of a wonderful new industry and to be doing this with one of most adorable animals Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve known.

NEW MEMBER

PROFILE Cherryl Norman of the Wairarapa

New Member Profile: Each issue AANZ profiles a new member, taken from a draw from the ranks of those who have joined the Association since the last magazine. This issue we feature Cherryl Norman of the Wairarapa.

by Sheryl Johnson

ike most of us, Cherryl was first attracted to alpacas by those eyelashes. Who can resist them? Cherryl purchased, what she describes as 6 acres of heaven (which many of you will know as the Wairarapa) in June this year and Rachael, her daughter, lives there with her. This is the first time that Cherryl has owned land and she has dived right in and purchased her first alpacas in August.

Cherryl and Rachael already have ten animals in a variety of colours. They love all the different colours that alpacas come in and especially like the individuality of the multi coloured ones.

Cherryl and Rachael are looking forward to taking their alpacas to shows when they have time. Cherryl is a primary school teacher so her days are packed full but she loves coming home to the peace and quiet of happily grazing alpacas.

NEW MEMBERS On behalf of the membership of the NZ Alpaca Association, National Council and the Editorial Team, we would like to extend a warm welcome to the following new members of our association. Frith & Grant Latham Auckland Natasha Sanders Christchurch Henk Van Oeveren Nelson

Cherryl enjoys it when she fills up a large container with water for her alpacas and they drink and splash all the water out of the container in 5 minutes! They gallop around the paddock sometimes neighing like horses and springing along like cartoon deer ( I know just what she means!!). Although Cherryl is not a knitter, she is interested in handcrafts and thinks that she would like to learn to felt so that she can process the fibre from her alpacas. Becoming involved in the alpaca industry is a win/win situation for Cherryl because her alpacas keep the grass on her six acres under control and she gets to watch them enjoying alpaca heaven in her own slice of heaven. If you are passing by Carterton in the future; look up Cherryl near Carterton in the Wairarapa. I am sure she would be happy to discuss alpacas for a while.

Louise Weaver (Associate) Christchurch

Nicola Halstead Upper Hutt

Chris & Joanne Worsley Havelock

Robert & Toni Fairhurst Roxburgh

William Lloyd & Laura Jane Jerome Northland

HPBC Ltd Christchurch

Heather Bridson Katikati

Jessie & Ray Haanen Manapouri

NZ Goldenwool Ltd Auckland

Cherryl Norman Carterton

Team Supreme! Elite genetics in New Zealand now available for Stud Duties

Algoma Chaska

Flowerdale Shackleton and Timbertop CT Legacy

Oak Ridge Oliver

Each of these sought after males is a Supreme Champion in the New Zealand/Australian Show circuit, and are now producing champion progeny that are a must for the discerning alpaca breeder. All progeny exhibit ultra-fine, advanced structured fleece styles, with excellent handle, density and brilliant lustre.

Bright Whites - Fabulous Fawns - Beautiful Browns Progeny are now available for sale – Breeding Females and Future Stud Sires. Also females pregnant to these stunning males.

Enquire today and Invest in the Future Contacts: Martin Bennett – Oak Ridge Alpacas, Ph: 03 312 0144, Mob: 021 114 5314, www.oakridgealpacas.co.nz Brendon Taylor – Waikara Park Alpacas, Ph: 03 303 7299, Mob: 027 433 2054, www.alpacas4u.co.nz

Breeding black champions

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