New Zealand Alpaca August 2013 by NZ Alpaca

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August 2013

Silverstream Alpaca Stud For Damn Good Dams

• • • • •

230 alpacas on farm 14 years breeding alpacas Full time alpaca farmers Three National Supreme Champions Supreme Champion Animal of Show NZ Royal 2007 • 44 Supreme Champion titles

• 128 Age group Championships • Licensed Alpaca Exporter to Europe & Asia • Three Licensed MPI Quarantine Facilities • Two Self Contained Bed and Breakfast Facilities

Silverstream Alpaca Stud Kit & Sheryl Johnson | North Canterbury | Ph: (03) 327 3020 info@alpaca-stud.co.nz | www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

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August 2013

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Alpaca 2013 World Conference And Expo

National Alpaca Day

North Island Colourbration 2013

Bruce Woollen Mill

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Inside this issueâ&#x20AC;Ś

COVER PHOTO: Courtesy of Sarah Busby

Andy Nailard

What is a Commercial Fleece

Alpaca History is Created at Victoria's Famous Dookie College

Julie Mansell

Cameron Holt and Graeme Dickson

The Introduction of Our Back 40 Yarns

Courtesy of Alpaca Culture

Alpaca Fibre Production: For Show! For Industry!

Norm Evans

A Low-Cost Portable Fleece Sorting Table

Peter and Jacquie Watson

Harvesting Alpaca Fibre: A Code of Harvest

Jenny Ellwood-Wade

Showtime

Showing and Judging Sub-Committee

A Day in the Life: A Shearer's Perspective

Robyn Anderson

Australian Alpaca Industry Record National Sale Price

Gene Markers

John Bates

Central District Field Days 2013

50 56

Graham Pedley

University of Saskatchewan Led Team Have Identified the Biochemical in Seminal Fluid that Induces Ovulation

Michael Robin

Beach Walking in Northland

Pav Stavey

Interview with Cristiano Bianchi, SIA's President

Kit Johnson

New Member Profile: David Taylor

Sheryl Johnson

Advertising Breeder Profile: Richard & Miriam Williams

Richard Williams

2013 Herd Sire Directory

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

Editor Robyn Anderson magazine@alpaca.org.nz

Website www.alpaca.org.nz AANZ – All Enquiries Toni Soppet – AANZ Office Manager PO Box 6348, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8442 Phone (03) 341 5242. Mobile 021 368 994 tonisoppet@alpaca.org.nz or aanz@clear.net.nz

Advertising AANZ Office advertising@alpaca.org.nz Phone (03) 341 5242 Media Liaison Officer Jenny Durno

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

Design & Print Wickliffe Solutions 9 Chadwick Street, Fairfield, Dunedin 9018 Phone (03) 488 4770

Deadlines New Zealand Alpaca is produced three times per year. Deadlines for all advertising & articles for the next issue is 28th October, 2013.

Keenan Scott – Vice President 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Phone (09) 372 5293 vicepresident@alpaca.org.nz Martyn Ellwood-Wade – Secretary secretary@alpaca.org.nz

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

Wayne Allison – Treasurer treasurer@alpaca.org.nz

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

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

$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.pegler@wickliffe.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. 2

Frank Walkington – Southern Region Rep. southernrep@alpaca.org.nz To be advised – Central Region Rep. centralrep@alpaca.org.nz Mary-Ann Pruden – Northern Region Rep. northernrep1@alpaca.org.nz Willem Alblas – Northern Region Rep. northernrep2@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.

“Come on everyone, this is your opportunity to be a part of the world’s largest alpaca extravaganza. Let us show the world that we can compete at an international level and put on a world class event.”

Message from the President I was reading through my President’s report from the April edition of New Zealand Alpaca where I stated that many of us will be praying for rain. Please stop praying. Many of us now will now be looking forward to some sunshine after all the recent flooding. There is a parallel message here when it comes to sales. Doom and gloom with nothing happening and then suddenly an opportunity. We should all be prepared for that email or phone call that can turn everything around so quickly. Have you taken good quality photographs of all your animals, prepared sales profiles and sent off your fleece samples for analysis? Slow responses to emails because you are not prepared, will invariably lose you sales. I recently attended the Northern, Central and Southern regional annual general meetings. There was some good discussion after the formal part of the meeting and these ideas and recommendations will be forwarded to National Council for action. Thank you everyone for your input and positivity. It was also so pleasing to hear of the many positive things happening in our industry. So much more is being done with our fibre than ever before. Gone are the days of fibre being stored in our sheds. The recession has certainly made us all re-assess our business plans. At last members are starting to realize that value adding your fibre can be as profitable if not more profitable than simply alpacas.

There will be a large turnout from Australia including a large fleece entry. Come on everyone, this is your opportunity to be a part of the world’s largest alpaca extravaganza. Let us show the world that we can compete at an international level and put together a world class event. Book your trade sites and sponsorship now and start organizing your fleece and breed entries. This is a show not to be missed. I want to thank Toni for all her hard work, often into the small hours of the morning. Everything is always done punctually and always with a positive attitude and a smile. She is one of our association’s greatest assets – please respect what she does for our association.

Kit Johnson President, AANZ

National Council has spent considerable time discussing and implementing the amalgamation of the judges group and the show subcommittee based on the recommendations of the Show Systems Review. A new subcommittee has been formed that includes judges, convenors and exhibitors. A similar system is used in Australia by AAA. The World Alpaca Conference and National Show are fast approaching – please keep a close eye on the WAC website at www.alpaca2013.co.nz Full page advertisements have been placed in many European alpaca magazines (at no cost) and electronic newsletters have been sent to the members of most international alpaca associations. Already your WAC organisers are fielding calls from many different countries, requesting further information.

Out here you don't switch off come 5pm.

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That’s what works out here. 4

Preparations are well underway for Alpaca 2013 World Conference and Expo. Entries have now closed for the show but you can still be a part of this wonderful event. Come and be a spectator at our national show. Take this opportunity to see some of New Zealand’s best alpaca on display. Talk to fellow breeders. Most will be more than willing to show you their alpaca. In 2013 the fleece section will be run as an international event and we have alpaca breeders from around the world exhibiting their fleeces. This will make an impressive display of fleeces. You will be able to purchase fleeces donated by exhibitors by way of a silent auction. Proceeds from this will go to the charity Insight Peru. One of the highlights of this year’s Alpaca 2013 World Conference and Expo is the National Alpaca Auction. This prestigious Auction will take place during a cocktail party before the Gala Dinner on Sunday 22nd September. This could be your opportunity to purchase that alpaca you’ve been looking for to give the improvement you are wanting in your herd. If you are not ready to buy an alpaca you could buy a mating at the stud services auction running from 30th August, closing on 8th September. This is a great opportunity to purchase some genetics you would not normally use. With over 30 Trade stands displaying a wide range of items including alpaca products, equipment, genetics and services, there will be something for everyone.

Mark these dates on your calendar now 30th August Stud Services Auction Bidding Starts 8th September Stud Services Auction Closes 20th – 24th September Fleeces on display 20th – 21st September Show championship Classes Judged 22nd September Non Championship classes Judged 22nd September Auction and Gala Dinner 23rd – 24th September World Conference and Vet Conference Alpaca 2013 World Conference and Expo will be the alpaca industry place to be in 2013. For more information email conference@alpaca.org.nz or visit the website www.alpaca2013.co.nz

On Farm Quarantine Facility Setting the Suri Standard

Ch o i c e Quality

Affordability All Colours

www.surilana.com.au Â

Ian and Angela Preuss Strathbogie, Victoria, Australia, 3666 PH: +61 3 57905394 Mobile: 0407931789 Email: suris@surilana.com.au

National Alpaca Day

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Held on the first Sunday in May every year, National Alpaca Day is when alpaca owners throughout New Zealand open their farms to the public to promote alpacas, alpaca fibre, and alpaca products.

Highlights

National Alpaca Day Next National Alpaca Day falls on Sunday 4th May 2014. Like ∙ Comment

National Alpaca Day

NATIONAL ALPACA DAY Visit a farm near you – click here for more info Like ∙ Comment ∙ Share

National Alpaca Day Pav Stacey of Kandiah Suri Alpaca Stud in Northland: A great National Alpaca Day again. Lots of visitors in spite of the dreadful weather. Girls and boys were all on their best behaviour and we have definitely gained some more alpaca lover converts.

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National Alpaca Day Lyn Skilling of Qtaz Alpacas in Waikato: WOW - What a day! Around 180 - 200 people at our place for National Alpaca Day. The weather was great until 3pm when it started raining. Talked so much I almost lost my voice and feet are pretty tired from standing all day but the smiles on everyones faces while they were watching the mums with babies pronking in the sun was worth all the effort. Back to work tomorrow for a rest. Like ∙ Comment

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National Alpaca Day Jenny Durno of Thornburn Alpacas in Waikato : First time we did National Alpaca Day and it was GREAT! Weather gave us a sunny window and we had a very busy day. Sold $$ of yarn and met some newly converted knitters, and better still met serious potential alpaca mates who might buy. Thanks to Lyn Skilling for the joint promotional effort, Diane Bulpit for talking herself hoarse, Julie Mansell for the stock to sell and all our supportive friends who showed up to help on the day. Book your diaries for next year! We are hooked! Like ∙ Comment

National Alpaca Day shared a link.

National Alpaca Day

Simply Alpacas in the Bay of Plenty: BAD WEATHER NOTICE FOR OPEN DAY 5 MAY. The forecast for today is horrible! We WILL be OPEN from 10 - 4, BUT if you would rather visit us another day please go to our website Enquiry Form http://www.simplyalpacas.co.nz/ Simply-Alpacas/Enquiries.php and send a message and I will contact you with an alternative date.

We had a great day at AlpacasRstyle in Taranaki for National Alpaca Day. We awoke to a very wet morning and immediately thought if the day was going to be a 'washout'.... wrong!!! We had a steady stream of visitors all keen to get their hands on the wonderful animals - feeding, leading and touching - even though the alpacas were wet and not at their best they still made themselves irresistable.

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Special thanks to Nic, Shirl and Deb who looked after the shop and maintained the coffee and tea supply . And to Al and Florence who showed what can be done using the spinning wheel and felting alpaca fibre.

Simply Alpacas - New Zealand Well Sunday's Open Day went really well in spite of the awful weather. A continuous flow of visitors from just after 10am to 3.30. It was a shame we were unable to have all the activities we had planned but there just wasn't the room left once we allowed space for everyone to get in out of the rain.

Thankyou everyone for making our Open Day successful and also thanks to everyone who came out despite the weather.

The alpacas weren't complaining to be inside nice and dry with lots of extra feed and admiring visitors to fuss over them. I think there must have been some lovely photos taken! We had our sale table of knitwear, etc in the house and sales were very good. There was keen interest in what we do with the fleece after shearing, and also what is happening on a National level. We sold 3 females, one with a female cria at foot and the new owners were delighted they get to chose a name - so Donna's cria is duly named Maya. I will be very sad to see these particular 3 females go to their new home this week because they are some of my favourite alpacas with very sweet friendly personalities. But I can tell they are going to be very well taken care of and they won't be far away so I can visit.

National Alpaca Day Hacienda Suri Alpaca Stud in the Bay of Plenty: Open Day over - fun had by all. Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and came out. And the "Name The Alpaca" competition was won by a late entry on the day - Pinata

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National Alpaca Day Shamarra Alpacas in Canterbury: Weather was perfect in Banks Peninsula today for National Alpaca Day. We had a good turn out of visitors who enjoyed wandering through our herd of females and cria overlooking Akaroa Harbour. Like ∙ Comment

National Alpaca Day

National Alpaca Day National Alpaca Day 2013 at Awatere Alpaca Stud in Canterbury: Biggest turn out ever and great interest in the alpacas. The weather held out until an hour after the close.

National Alpaca Day 2013 - Open Day at Flagstaff Alpacas. By Andy Nailard National Alpaca Day is Sunday 5th May 2013. We will be open to visitors to meet our alpacas and for our alpaca products. Free entry - 10am to 4pm! Like ∙ Comment

National Alpaca Day Andy Nailard of Flagstaff Alpacas in Otago kept his FB visitors informed throughout the day with posts at regular intervals!! Like ∙ Comment

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National Alpaca Day Gordon Baird of Waiwera Alpacas in Otago: Open day on Sunday 5th was a non-event due to the weather. I will open to those who want to come for a look at a time that is suitable to all.

Flagstaff Alpacas & Wonderful Alpacas Very wet New Zealand National Alpaca Day here in Dunedin. Boots not required as we have an alpaca or two undercover in a large garage - and plenty of local alpaca products to view. Short talks on alpaca farming, the National Alpaca Day, what we are doing with our alpacas and their fleece and the AANZ. Open 10am to 4pm... a here comes another 'flush' of rain! Flagstaff Alpacas & Wonderful Alpacas Hmm... more rain... New Zealand Alpaca Swimming Team (Dunedin Branch) having a practice... in the paddocks. Weather radar not looking good...

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Flagstaff Alpacas & Wonderful Alpacas Double trouble. Now gusting wind and driving rain. Visitors not too impressed... but alpacas enjoying alpaca nibbles away from the elements. Yuch! Flagstaff Alpacas & Wonderful Alpacas Ok... you win. Rain 32 (mm) National Alpaca Day 28 (visitors)... and it is still raining!

You can count on...

Champion Herdsires Quality Breeding Females Huacaya & Suri – White & Colours Affordable & Competitive Pricing Friendly Sales & Superb Aftercare

Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait 200 Awa Rd, Kumeu Ph. 412 5000 Fax 412 5200 aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz www.aristocratalpaca.co.nz

NORTH ISLAND 2013

COLOURBRATION SURI BREED RESULTS

Supreme Champion Black Suri Te Kowhai Knees Up

Supreme Champion Grey Suri Wild Palette Moon Shadow

Supreme Champion Brown Suri Paqocha Antonio

Supreme Champion Med/Dark Fawn Suri Paqocha Maestro

Supreme Champion Light Fawn Suri Surico Demoiselle

Supreme Champion White Suri NZ Hadstoch NZ Cracka

SURI FLEECE RESULTS

Supreme Champion Fleece Black Suri Thistledown Pandamonium

Supreme Champion Fleece Medium Dark Fawn Suri Riverdale Ipod

Supreme Champion Fleece Grey Suri Paqocha Gandalf the Grey

Supreme Champion Fleece Light Fawn Suri Gotland Gin

Supreme Champion Fleece Brown Suri Te Kowhai Colours of the Wind

Supreme Champion Fleece White Suri Mareca Florence

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

www.alpaca.org.nz/events/show_results HUACAYA BREED RESULTS

Supreme Champion Black Huacaya Valenza Chaconne

Supreme Champion Grey Huacaya Silverhill Valiant

Supreme Champion Brown Huacaya Aquaviva Cadbury

Supreme Champion Med/Dark Fawn Huacaya Honeyfields Celebration

Supreme Champion Light Fawn Huacaya Brenor Nadal

Supreme Champion White Huacaya Gilt Edge Liberty (on right)

HUACAYA FLEECE RESULTS Supreme Champion Fleece Black Huacaya Sunsetestate Ysatis

Supreme Champion Fleece Medium Dark Fawn Huacaya Karismac Belladonna

Supreme Champion Fleece Grey Huacaya Heartland Chiquita

Supreme Champion Fleece Light Fawn Huacaya Brenor Brandy

Supreme Champion Fleece Brown Huacaya Aquaviva Cadbury

Supreme Champion Fleece White Huacaya Stoney Meadows Genesis

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

Akaroa, New Zealand

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

It's a Man's World!

by Andy Nailard

The Bruce Woollen Mill (BWM) is located in Milton, Otago, 50km from Dunedin. The Mill has a long history of textile processing since 1897 under differing owners. Many of the current staff have been in textiles most of their working life and have great knowledge and experience in fibre processing. The Mill was purchased in 2011 by a syndicate of textile industry participants with NZX-listed Wool Equities Limited the senior syndicate member; the syndicates intent is to secure textile processing in New Zealand. BWM has operated the Mill since April 2012 and recently BWM completed an alliance with Ramsay McDonald, the Australian Textile company based in Melbourne, with processing based in Milton. The Mill can process a wide range of yarn types and can process a full range of fibres. BWM can process conventional yarns: Woollen, Semi Worsted, Worsted, and in addition Fancy yarns such as boucle and brushed. Lui Gundersen, the General Manager of Bruce Woollen Mills Limited, and Andy Nailard, Flagstaff Alpacas, who has processed alpaca fibre at the Mill since 2004 and is a syndicate member, discuss the capacity of the Mill to process Alpaca.

Introduction Lui: “Alpaca Fibre has been processed by the previous owner of the Mill, and BWM continues to process Alpaca fibre into yarn for those New Zealand customers as well as new clients.”

Batch Sizes and Fleece Characteristics Lui “As all Alpaca owners are aware the fibre is challenging to process; the physical nature of the fibre with its makes the processing into a yarn difficult depending on the micron, lustre, preparation quality, variations of fleece within batch, length and dirtiness of the fibre. Further, the size of the customer’s available fibre stock is a major hurdle; the Mill can 14

only economically process batch sizes of greater than 200 kilograms and the plant machinery is more suited to dealing with tonnes rather than kilograms. This is unlikely to change.” Andy “We’d prefer to process smaller batches as consumer trends are often changing. For example boucle was the fashion in 2008; currently the 100% alpaca DK and sock blends are popular. But when you are at the Mill you can appreciate the set-up times for a batch, be it 200 kilograms or two tonnes, are very similar. No wonder Lui curses when I walk through the door!”

Fibre Cleanliness? Lui “To get the best out of the Alpaca Fibre, the scouring before yarn processing is very important, we recommend that our customers use the Canterbury Wool Scour services in Timaru. We can put you in contact with them. They do a scouring run of Alpaca and other exotic fibres once a month, this is the most cost effective scouring process for removing dirt and vegetable matter.” Andy “Although the Mill has some scouring capacity the CWS Timaru product is significantly better… certainly the skilled staff at the Mill can physically demonstrate yarn quality is partly dictated by the cleanliness of the input fleece – better strength, less breaks, better lustre – all a function of how the yarn runs through the various machinery phases of its processing”.

Yarn Choices? Lui “We work very closely with our Alpaca customers, we can advise on all aspects of yarn manufacture and end use of the yarn. Most frequently issues discussed are lead times: 6-8 weeks is our standard lead time although with Alpaca this can be stretched due to the complexity of the yarn order. It is common that the batch is split into multiple yarn types, small dye lots and differing packaging and end uses.” Andy “We have worked with the Mill over the last 9 years to establish a reliable, pure 100% alpaca yarn but our customers want other qualities from the yarns so the Mill has processed sock blends, boucle, silk and merino blends to suit our customer demands. Recently a marl yarn combining different colour threads of alpaca hardly tested BWM staff!” Lui “Blends with other fibres, we highly recommend that the Alpaca is blended with a minimum of 20% wool fibre, this greatly enhances the performance of the yarn through the yarn processing, giving a higher performing yarn for textiles, knitting and weaving. Other fibres are blended with Alpaca, these include Nylon and Silk. BWM can assist in blending coloured Alpaca fibres for the customer.”

Alpaca being spun... it's all about scale.

Gorgeous, gorgeous yarn. Cones waiting stacking and Autoclave.

Other Fibre Processing Services Lui “BWM offer a dyeing service, we can loose stock fibre dye before carding as well as hank dyeing of finished yarn. We can return carded fibre only, or further process through to combing.”

What yarn types can be made? Lui “The BWM equipment can process a wide range of fibre micron, from 18 micron upwards, we discuss the micron to yarn type relationship with the customer as with other technical issues that the customer has.” Andy “We primarily process huacaya fleece of 20-26 micron and length 80-150mm with good handle and brightness. There is no dehairing capacity at BWM and quality skirting, sorting and grading are critical to final yarn quality. The Mill has yet to satisfactorily process suri.”

What packaging is available? Lui “We can return the yarn on cone, hanks or balls, with or without labels; this really depends on what the yarn will be used for next, knitting or wholesale/retail.”

The Autoclave is a critical part of the processing of all yarn, especially Alpaca.

Fibre Specifications? Lui “We test the incoming fibre for Micron, length and grease content, the three main variables that affect yarn processing. As no two batches of Alpaca will be the same these measurements influence the fine tuning of the processing. The grower can assist by presenting well prepared fibre to the scour that is well classed and the fibre as clean as possible. Not all fibres are equal!”

Closing Comments Andy “The technicians at BWM remain highly motivated and proud of their product, always keen to tweak any processing of a batch to improve our yarns. But as Lui has commented BWM continues to see a spectrum of alpaca fleece quality and only have a limited amount of ‘magic’ is available to produce a yarn that befits ‘the Fibre of the Gods’. Scale economy is also critical if BWM is to serve alpaca breeders with an output cone price of less than $50/kilogram.”

Name and shame, the Mill collects everything.

Lui “Bruce Woollen Mill is committed to working with the Alpaca industry to further process this high quality fibre into a finished products, interested parties can view the BWM website at www.brucewoollenmill.co.nz where processing information and contact details are posted.”

Lui Gundersen is the General and Plant Manager at the Bruce Woollen Mill. Andy Nailard runs Flagstaff Alpacas, Dunedin, and is a syndicate member of BWM Limited. 15

WHAT IS A

COMMERCIAL FLEECE by Julie Mansell

So what is a commercial fleece and how do we measure our herds to ensure we are breeding animals that produce these illusive commercial fleeces? In the show ring the Supreme winners both in the breed and fleece sections one would expect to see animals that are producing a commercial fleece. If not then what are we awarding and in fact which direction are we directing the industry? We have a competition that generally only appears at the National show or other larger shows described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most Commercial Fleeceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This competition takes a number of criteria into consideration and calculates a dollar value for the fleeces in question. The highest dollar value is the winning fleece, as a premium is generally paid for fineness, it is usually the finer fleeces that win. Interestingly this commercial fleece is not always, in fact rarely is, the Supreme Fleece. But the reasons why this happens are not the purpose of this article. I want to look at what makes up a commercial fleece from a processing perspective.

About the Author Julie Mansell is director of Riverdale Fibre Mill Limited in Otorohanga New Zealand she is also one of the New Zealand Alpaca Judges. With her husband Grant she farms a small herd of 50 alpacas of both Suri & Huacaya. 16

In most successful businesses the business owner begins the venture with an end in mind and develops his business to achieve that outcome. Unfortunately with alpaca owners this is rarely the case. Consequently we are left with a mixture in our herds and a huge variation in not only our herd but in the National Herd. Not only variation in fineness, but in fleece style and variation over each animals fleece.

Those that recognise these issues early have taken steps to improve fleece fineness and variability with good breeding. But do we really know at the end of the day what we are breeding for. In fact do we simply have some utopian view that we will magically produce the Golden Bale, but what then? Step one: Begin with an end in mind – what do you want to do with your alpaca fleece? • Sell to another end user • Sell to a middle man • Process it yourself Selling to another end user will possibly get you some return on your investment over time. Sell to a middle man is unlikely going to cover your shearing costs unless you have a herd of 15 micron alpacas and can get someone to pay top dollar for your fleeces. Processing it yourself also has some additional cost to it and then you need to consider what you want to do with the resulting yarn. We can all remember examples of return on investment from knitting beanies from one fleece One mid micron alpaca producing 2kgs of useable fleece after processing yielding say 1.7kgs making from this 25 beanies selling at $35 yielding a total sales of $875, less costs Shearing $30, Processing ($200 to $300) a Profit of $550. Allow a little more for the knitter lets make it a round $500. The Alpacas producing a useable fleece for say 4 years (hopefully more) $2000 return from one male alpaca. Let’s assume you want to process the fleece yourself and look at some of the considerations to whether your fleece is commercial or otherwise. We are also assuming that you want to process your fleece in to yarn. Remember we are beginning with an end in mind and not all alpacas are equal. Not all will get more than a cursory glance from the judge in the show ring so it is unrealistic to assume that all our fleeces from our white animals can go together to make a batch of yarn. As a breeder or should I say grower we need to take some responsibility ourselves to learn a few pointers to sort and class our fleeces. As a minimum recognise that this needs to happen. What kind of yarn do you want to produce. For example do you want to machine knit, hand knit or weave. Do you want to make baby wear, garments to be worn next to the skin or outer garments? What is my fleece like? Is it fine, hairy, dirty, clean, full of cria tips and vegetable matter? Does it have a crimp? What’s the staple/lock length? Do I have enough of a similar type to make a batch that is viable for processing? What colours do I have? Do I want to blend with other alpaca colours or wool? Do I need some help with all of this?! At this point some of you have changed your mind and decided to sell to another end user or a middle man. However there are some who are still be undeterred and have the passion to see some garments produced by your own alpacas. Some tips for you if you want to put your fleece through one of the mills. These points will apply regardless of the mill you chose, large or small.

Learn how to recognise the positive and negative traits of your fleece: • Is your fleece strong i.e. not tender, rotten or weak. Does it break easily. If it does then it will break more as it goes through the machinery • Skirt well, nothing spoils the end product more than guard hair and strong fibre left in the fleece • Pick out all or most of the VM or it will spread through the whole fleece and the resulting yarn see fig 1 and fig 2 • Consider your cria tips, should I sacrifice this fleece? Cria tips spread through out the whole fleece • If you want to add it with another fleece • is the staple/lock length the same or similar, large variations will cause problems in the processing, • Is it of a similar micron, consider the standard deviation of the fleece not all 21 micron fleeces are equal. • Is it of a similar style. You would not process a broad crimp style sheep fleece with a high frequency merino, why do you think you can do this with alpaca? • Do you know how to recognise strong fibres especially if you are a Suri breeder? Now wait a minute some of you are saying, this is all talking about processing a single fleece or perhaps one or two together, surely that is not commercial? We need to get on a much larger scale to be commercial. Yes that is true and for years I have heard people say we do not have the volume. They said that when the National Herd was 7,000 and are still saying that now the national herd is over 23,000 So what is it that makes a commercial fleece. In my opinion a commercial fleece is one that produces a good end product, whatever that product turns out to be. However to be commercial on its own is not sufficient. A commercial fleece is a fleece that: • Has been correctly skirted and classed • Is subject to a system of classing that is consistent across a number of growers • Can be pooled with similar fleeces from multiple growers with the knowledge that the product created from those fleeces will comply with the end users specifications • Is not necessarily super fine, it may be higher in micron To develop the fleece industry and reward the dedicated grower we need to develop an industry standard system of classing fleece. We need trained classers and to certify them. We need to develop as growers, pools of fibre to be processed within the grower pool, or sold to outside parties. In essence, to develop the commercial fleece we need to develop the New Zealand Alpaca Fleece Industry. 17

ALPACA HISTORY is created at Victoria's famous

DOOKIE

COLLEGE by Cameron Holt and Graeme Dickson

Just 25 years after the first alpacas were imported into Australia in 1850 a large area of farmland was reserved at Dookie, Victoria as an agricultural training site and in 1886 opened as a training institution. Dookie College, halfway between Benalla and Shepparton, covers an area of 2,500ha of gently undulating plains and today is operated by Melbourne University. This magnificent property operates a 14ha grape growing and commercial wine producing facility, runs 5,000 merinos on 1,200ha, crops wheat and canola on 650ha and has 3ha devoted to the growing of Pink Lady apples, just to name a few of the activities. On the 21st January 2013 at Dookie Agricultural College, GOTAFE (Goulburn Valley Technical and Further Education) hosted the first formal professional training for TAFE teachers who will become alpaca trainers for wool classers and anyone else wishing to become an alpaca classer at whichever level they choose to operate. The inaugural trainers for this program were David Williams and Cameron Holt assisted by the program co coordinator Graeme Dickson. The course was also attended by Mr Peter Sudholz, the AWEX wool classer registrar for Australia. This enabled Peter to experience first-hand the standards for training that had been set by the alpaca industry, together with the differences in fleece properties and classing between wool and alpaca. Here over four days the TAFE teachers studied alpaca classing - the theory of alpaca fibre structure, the differences between wool and alpaca, combined with an understanding of the Alpaca Code of Practice for both shearing shed and skirting. Much time was spent on micron and style assessment during the classing of fleeces for both Huacaya and Suri. 18

On completing this workshop the teachers will then carry out their work experience in alpaca shearing sheds so that a full understanding of the differences between alpaca and sheep are clearly defined. The participants will receive a certificate of competency in the two alpaca subjects from TAFE and will then be eligible to deliver the course as outlined at the end of this article. All these teachers are registered wool classers with AWEX.

How the system will operate There will be two levels of classers; a Professional Classer and an Owner Classer. The latter will only be for alpaca growers who have passed all the necessary qualifications to class, with a restriction that they can only class their own clip. Alpaca growers will now have the option to sell their fibre on the world market with their fleece prepared under a recognised industry quality assured system, which the classer registration and industry Codes of Practice demonstrate. The sales can be through a wool broker where they will be tested for micron, C of V etc by the Australian Wool Testing Authority (AWTA) who will issue a certified alpaca test certificate recognised on the world fibre market. Growers will also be able to sell direct to private alpaca buyers. For the small breeder it is likely that depot sheds will be set up for breeders in a given area to accept fleece which has been prepared up to the skirting stage. At this point it can be “lot built” with other breeders’ fibre to make larger lines which will be sold to an agreed purchaser, whether by auction or to a private buyer. The principle of the depot sheds have been long used in the other fibre industries. Some breeders may choose to class their fibre directly for a processor using the processor’s classing specifications as the criteria. If these specifications do not follow the recommended code of practice, the alpaca classer will not be able to apply their registered number to the bales.

Setting Industry Standards As far back as the late 1990s Australia was facing problems with venues for the sale of alpaca fibre. There were a

number of small private buyers, one main classing company (Australian Alpaca Coop Limited), but no formal structure to help growers “get the fibre out of the shed.” Although a number of training programs were carried out in fleece preparation, it was still ad hoc. In the mid 1990s there was a defacto shearing shed preparation “code of recommended procedures” which was contained in the courses run by Cameron Holt for the Australian Alpaca Association. These procedures were formulated through discussion with breeders but it was not until 2005 that Cameron was asked to present a Code of Practice for the Australian Alpaca Association for standards to be carried out in the shearing shed. Growers needed guidelines in the sorting of the “off sorts” and correct skirting for uniformity throughout Australia. The first COP was published in 2006 with associated examples of documentation. While there were still no official classing standards, each buyer had their own requirements and specifications and if classed to those specifications ran the risk of not being suitable to other buyers who had different specification requirements. Alpaca industry leaders saw the need for a standard to be created following an “Industry Hearing” with the AAA by Austrade. An industry advisory group led by Graeme Dickson attended a meeting hosted by the Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) with the purpose of establishing future standards for the preparation of alpaca fleece. This meeting included growers (both Suri and Huacaya), fibre processors, alpaca experts, fleece buyers, members of tertiary/ teaching organisations, a AAA Board member plus representatives from AWEX. From this meeting it was decided to take the minimalist approach to the number of colours, micron groups, lengths and style so as to achieve the ability to create saleable lots, ie. full bales. In other words, fibres cannot be blended any more than the standards laid down, but they can if quantities allow be split for colour and micron etc. The meeting also decided that registered alpaca fleece classers were needed to guarantee quality control. AWEX agreed to provide formal monitoring of the standard of preparation, packaging, documentation and bale description etc and would create a classer registration scheme similar to the system they monitor for the Australian Wool Industry. A sub committee of Graeme Dickson, Geoff Redelman, Cameron Holt and David Williams would formulate a Code of Practice for alpaca fleece classing and present it to the industry advisory group as well as the Australian Alpaca Association Limited Board. The next step was to train alpaca classers so the need was to conduct the first training program which was for professional teachers of wool classing who on successful completion of the program could be registered to upskill professional registered wool classers and others in alpaca fleece classing. ... and so the next challenge begins Growers now have the opportunity to have their annual output of fleece professionally classed, tested, branded in accordance with a worldwide recognized standard. The standards have been set, training will now be available, classers will be registered and an audit system is in place. We look forward to seeing Quality Assured Australian Alpaca being sold at auction throughout Australia in the near future.

Courses Required For Eligible Registration [A] A Professional Classer Registration requires successful completion of the following course • AHC41310 Certificate 1V in Wool Classing 12 Core subjects plus two additional units • AHCWOL204A Undertake Basic Skirting of Alpaca Fleece • AHCWOL313A Class Alpaca Fleece [B] A Owner Classer Registration requires successful completion of the following courses • AHC33010 Certificate 111 in Wool Clip Preparation - 12 Core subjects plus two additional units • AHCWOL204A Undertake basic skirting of alpaca fleece • AHCWOL313A Class Alpaca Fleece OR • AHC30110 Certificate 111 in Agriculture 2 Core subjects & 14 electives. Of the 14 electives the following (6) must be completed. • AHCWOL203A Carry out wool pressing • AHCWOL204A Undertake basic skirting of alpaca fleece • AHCWRK207A Collect and record production data • AHCLSK308A Identify and draft livestock • AHCSHG307A Plan and prepare for alpaca shearing • AHCWOL313A Class alpaca fleece

Waters Edge Alpacas Introducing: EP Cambridge Invictus Winner of Supreme Champion Huacaya at AAA National Show 2012

Toni, Greg & Lisa Charteris. Karaka, South of Auckland. phone: 09 292 7895 Email: toni@tcs.net.nz www.watersedgealpacas.co.nz 20

Photo Photo courtesy courtesy of of Lynn Lynn Edens, Edens, Our Our Back Back 4040

The TheIntroduction Introductionof ofOur OurBack Back40 40Yarns Yarns at atthe the2013 2013Vogue VogueLive LiveKnitting KnittingShow Show The TheVogue VogueLive LiveKnitting KnittingShow Showadvertises advertisesitself itselfasas “the “theultimate ultimateknitting knittingexperience. experience. ” Featuring ” Featuring a adesign designcontest, contest,many manyeducational educationalevents eventsand anda arobust robustmarketplace marketplacewhere whereone onecan canpurchase purchase anything anythingrelated relatedtotoknitting, knitting,the theJanuary January18-20 18-20show showoffered offeredananopportunity opportunityfor foreveryone everyonewith withany any interest interestininpremium premiumyarn yarntotocome cometogether togetherinina aforum forumdesigned designedfor fornetworking networkingand andretail retailsuccess. success. Our Our Back Back 40’s 40’s Lynn Lynn Edens Edens was was there there at at String String Yarn Yarn Shop Shop NYC’s NYC’s Marketplace Marketplace booth booth toto introduce introduce a very a very spespecial cial yarn yarn made made from from Huacaya Huacaya alpaca alpaca fiber, fiber, NeNe Plus Plus Ultra Ultra (say: (say: Nay Nay Plews Plews Ultra). Ultra). She She unveiled: unveiled: • An • An ultra ultra royal royal grade grade eight-ply eight-ply cable cable worsted worsted made made with with 1818 micron micron (or(or lower) lower) fiber. fiber. •A •A three-ply three-ply sport sport weight weight that that measures measures between between 1818 and and 2020 microns. microns. String String is is a yarn a yarn boutique boutique located located inin New New York York City. City. It It was was rated rated byby Zagat’s Zagat’s 2009 2009 Shopping Shopping Guide Guide asas thethe #1#1 Knitting Knitting store store inin New New York York City City and and featured featured inin major major publications publications from from Vogue Vogue Knitting Knitting toto Interweave Interweave Knits Knits toto Better Better Homes Homes and and Gardens. Gardens. Owner Owner Linda Linda Morse Morse notes, notes, “Fifty “Fifty percent percent ofof thethe sales sales inin our our store store areare 100% 100% cashcashmere.” mere.” String String is is committed committed toto providing providing thethe best best fashionfashionforward forward knitting knitting projects projects that that marry marry traditional traditional knitting knitting techniques techniques with with a tailored, a tailored, modern modern sensibility. sensibility. They They have have

their their own own brand brand and and seek seek outout thethe best best yarns yarns year year round. round. Every Every yarn yarn is is specially specially selected selected byby Morse Morse toto ensure ensure that that herher customers customers receive receive thethe highest highest quality quality and and thethe most most sophisticated, sophisticated, saturated saturated colors. colors. Morse’s Morse’s business business strategy strategy is is toto “get “get a customer a customer and and keep keep them them forever.” forever.” InIn addition, addition, Morse Morse is is thethe author author ofof Luxury Luxury Knitting: Knitting: The The Ultimate Ultimate Guide Guide toto Exquisite Exquisite Yarns: Yarns: Cashmere*Merino*Silk. Cashmere*Merino*Silk. AtAt thethe time time she she wrote wrote it,it, she she says, says, she she "rated "rated thethe best best yarns yarns available, available, many many ofof which which areare now now unavailable." unavailable." She She wishes wishes she she could could have have in-included cluded NeNe Plus Plus Ultra. Ultra. Morse Morse notes, notes, “Many “Many yarns yarns from from Italy Italy areare commercommercially cially manufactured. manufactured. Really, Really, yarns yarns areare a by-product a by-product ofof thethe fashion fashion industry. industry. If If I buy I buy yarns yarns outout ofof certain certain mills, mills, I know I know what what I’m I’m getting. getting. Some Some areare good, good, some some areare bad. bad. With With alpaca, alpaca, that’s that’s notnot thethe case case – it – it is is notnot yetyet standardstandardized.” ized.” ByBy joining joining forces forces with with Edens, Edens, she she knows knows exactly exactly what what she she will will getget and and that that it it will will bebe thethe quality quality herher store’s store’s reputation reputation was was built built on.on. 21

Alpaca Culture asked Morse what she likes about knitting with alpaca. Morse said, “In fact, I haven’t much liked knitting with alpaca. My #1 problem with most of the available hand knitting alpaca yarns is that they shed. My #2 problem is that while some of them are very soft and have a great hand (even if they do shed), they do not have sophisticated colors and do not look and feel as luxurious as they are reputed to be. Even the ‘royal’ alpacas with prices in the $40 range for 50 grams and very low micron counts still shed and don’t have great palettes. As a result of this, I usually carried one alpaca yarn each year – often different ones from year to year. I felt that I had to answer the often asked question of ‘do you have any alpaca?’ with a 'yes', but I had not found one that I loved.” “Lynn came to see me two years ago and asked me to explain what I like and didn’t like about alpaca yarns and other fibers, as well. So two years later, Lynn came back to see me and to show me the first yarns of Our Back 40. I was blown away. She had heard loud and clear what I had said about shedding and what I had said about a soft hand two years earlier, and she achieved it! The way it was spun and the twist were spot on. And the fibers had the necessary low micron count. There is simply nothing else like it on the market. “What she hadn’t licked on that visit was the sophisticated palette, and we spent some time going through my cashmeres. Lynn is a quick learner, and a few weeks later, she came back with new colors, and again, she blew me away! In my opinion, Lynn has achieved what she set out to achieve: she is producing the cashmere of alpaca – a true luxury yarn. And she is doing it in a wonderful manner by using American alpacas and doing everything in the U.S. I am delighted to be helping and proud to have Our Back 40 in our booth at Vogue Knitting Live. I am looking forward to having the yarns at String.” Ne Plus Ultra is being offered as a store exclusive at String and is set to debut in the high value, ultra premium segment of the market. Visit the store in NYC if you can or shop at String’s web site: www.stringyarns.com. The yarns will be available at a later date through other online retailers, direct retail and in high-end artisan yarn boutiques. This ultrafine yarn made from the fleece of some of the world’s most genetically advanced alpacas was a great success at the Vogue Live Knitting Show.

Recent Purchases of Fine Fiber Make Ne Plus Ultra Special

You may recall Eden’s purchases last year of bales from two of the top breeders in the world, Snowmass Alpacas and Pacific Crest Accoyo America. Last year, she bought 3,000 pounds of superior fiber and says she will “buy all she can find” this year because “opportunity 22

comes from scale.” Edens notes that she will pay $48 USD per pound for qualified fiber of 18 microns or less with a CV of 26% and $32 USD per pound for fiber from between 18.1 to 20 microns with a CV of less than 24%. Fiber must be “clean, skirted, and have a minimum staple length of two inches.” Our Back 40 does not purchase cria fleeces that have not been tipped. Edens explains, “This is the best possible product to get fleeces out there. We ask them to send their best and we get beautiful, beautiful fiber.” Edens gave Snowmass Alpacas a nod by noting that their five bales were much cleaner and able to withstand processing than other fiber. In fact, Edens pointed out that the alpaca industry needs long-term research to be carried out on tender fiber to discover its exact sources. “We know nutrition, stress, illness and variation among individuals plays a role. But what about medications we administer to alpacas, such as wormer? How do variables affect fleece specifically?" Tenderness, Edens explains, has “real economic repercussions.” She noted that there are a growing number of breeders in the U.S. producing finer and finer fiber. However, the group of elite breeders her interest is most piqued by is the group of breeders who produce very fine fiber that is also processable. Can fleece be too fine? “Yes, when it becomes unprocessable,” Edens says. She also remarked that tenderness should be penalized in the show ring to be consistent with manufacturer needs. Consistently, fine fiber is more beneficial to the industry than a very fine fleece that appears in the first two years of an animal's life. In other words, sustainably fine fiber is the future of alpaca. The value of an animal is the sum of all of its fleeces, not one year of superfine fleece. Strategic thinking can mean the alpaca fiber industry’s success.

Community and Marketing Goals of Our Back 40

Edens says that is important for the elite alpaca breeders and the consuming public to come together, and that is exactly what she is trying to do with the entire Our Back 40 project. She says, “What I am trying to do with Our Back 40 is establish a brand image everyone [in the alpaca industry] can use.” How does the alpaca industry market fiber most effectively? Edens suggests multiple fiber classifications under 20 microns and noted the recent addition of the Sheer Ultra® category in Australia as an interesting development. The price point for Our Back 40’s skeins is about 20% lower than that of comparable cashmere. Each 100 yard Ultra Royal eight ply yarn has a retail price of about $40 USD, while the three-ply sport weight costs about $34 USD. With the extra processing involved in the pro-

Shot of store string

Photo courtesy of Linda Morse, String Above: String, a luxury yarn boutique, specializes in the most sought-after high quality skeins available.

duction of the cabled eight ply, the result is less halo and more long-term structure. Edens equates the lower price of her super premium alpaca yarn compared to cashmere to “a 20% penalty because we have not yet differentiated a quality product.” Because very fine, high quality alpaca fiber alpaca has not yet reached the level of instant recognition and respect cashmere has through years of effective marketing, it commands a lower price. As a result, she has hired a marketing firm to tackle the sophisticated needs of making alpaca fiber known and understood. In order to create positives in the industry, Edens wants to look at what seems like a hurdle and find the benefit. For example, when people say, “The American market will never be able to compete on price,” Edens replies, “We will compete on cache, quality and that we’re made in the U.S.A. Manufacturers are located literally right next door to consumers.” And that proximity spells opportunity. She notes that the industry has been plagued by questions. “First, the question of whether there was enough quantity of super premium American fiber was unclear. Now we know there is!” Although this quantity is very dependent on the largest few elite breeders in the United States, this creates tremendous opportunity for smaller breeders. Edens continues, “The next question was whether we could spin it. Yes, we can. We can dye it, we can do anything” with this high quality fiber. The last question, Edens notes, is “ Are we going to be successful in the market?” And this is, as of yet, “unclear.” We “know we can create quality at a price that

is competitive. We have to turn what might be seen as disadvantages into market strengths in other ways.” While it seems like a challenge to sort fiber from many, many locations, the silver lining is that this huge distributed market is a group of people who care for their animals and fiber and their passion is a great way to reach out to consumers with a community. In fact, partner farms will be listed with the yarns on web sites so customers can get a concrete feel for how their fiber came to be. So when critics say the yarn is higher priced, the reply can be that it is produced very close to consumers and not made overseas. It benefits working Americans and injects real money into local economies close to home. The products that come from these efforts last, are beautiful, high quality and are infused with intention and enduring integrity. This idea is in line with current cultural trends toward local commerce, slow food and others, adding value and moral cache to the marketplace. Perhaps the concept of thinking about where your clothing comes from is less familiar to the public in contrast to notions as well established as the trend toward buying local and eating local. But it is clearly the next logical step. Edens intends to be on the cutting edge of this consciousness. She notes, “Fair trade the American way,” may be the way of the future. Edens says, “I hope that people are out there looking at what I’m doing and saying ‘I can do better that that’ – and that they do it!”

Alpaca Fibre Production

For Show! For Industry! by Norm Evans

Most alpaca breeders have goals that they want to accomplish with these wonderful animals. For some it is just the alpaca’s presence, for others it is about their fine fibre and the garments that can be produced. For others it seems all about the competition for ribbons, winning in the show ring, finding fault, pointing fingers and giving excuses if different judges place their animals differently in successive competitions. With success comes speculation. While I do not show or own alpacas, I have spent the last 25 years attempting to maximize alpaca health and fibre quality through providing balanced nutrition lacking in our forages. I am blessed to attend several major shows and listen to many breeders especially potential new breeders. It is my opinion that alpaca show competitors need to guard against having a negative impact on the industry by trash talking behind winner’s backs about other breeders. Shows and healthy competition is an excellent way to attain goals and improve overall animal quality. Breeders prepare their animals for competition in different ways. Some breeders study and provide proteins that contain the essential amino acids not available in the forages and that cannot be made by the digestive process while others attempt to provide fine fibre by minimizing nutrition. While minimizing nutrition sometimes wins in the show ring because of extremely fine fibre when these champions are sold to some of my clients, it is not uncommon for these alpacas to experience fibre breaks, stunted growth, small testicles, and even become ill thrift patients. Some breeders keep the animals on turf, in their trailers and away from grass or dust while others are accused of creating brightness and luster by unnatural means. Judges are human beings just like competitors but with hours of strenuous training in the selection of the ultimate alpaca to represent the future of our industry. Theirs hands, fingers, and eyes are their tools. They judge more than fleece. They presently do not have a good metric means 24

to assess or measure. It is not the judge’s job to police or to be the enforcer of the show rules. Random samples from random competitive classes could make all exhibitors as well as judges feel more secure that all are competing evenly. Although expensive, some labs can test for over 470,000 different items. Rules and regulations that can be enforced could help the alpaca industry enjoy continued success. The following is my attempt to help all breeders, potential breeders, and judges have a better understanding of a side of fibre production apart from judging.

Where Does Alpaca Fibre Come From? Healthy skin follicles produce the fibres. Follicle genetics (the stud’s contribution) is set in place in the first 4-6 weeks of gestation or morphological fetal development. These fibres surface inside the mother at near 210 days of gestation. The mother’s nutrition at this time affects the number of secondary follicles that survive to produce fibres so density and micron fibre size is directly affected. The next critical period to maintain fibre producing follicles is the first 9 months of the cria’s life. Prevention of sickness and internal parasites at this time and through the stress of the weaning process assures healthy follicular development for the future. The follicles can be destroyed by skin insults from external parasites such as lice or mange as well as stress and staph bacterial infections. Uniformity and fineness (the genetics) is created as well as lost by the caretaker. Many alpaca breeders possess both females and males that have genetic potential to produce alpacas with a density of 40 to 60 follicles SQ MM of skin. That means that a piece of healthy skin the size of a pencil eraser will contain 3500 to 4700 fibres. Nutrition to the skin and follicles is necessary for these fibres to survive, grow and remain healthy and usable. It is like a yard that does not receive water and nutrients, it will dry up. Healthy fibre that shows good brightness or luster appears to be strongly dependent on the alpaca’s sebaceous glands. These glands secrete “sebum” which is a mixture of free fatty acids, natural oils, and lipids. In sheep, the sebum secretion is called lanolin but has not been named or even recognized by many in the alpaca. All mammals as well as humans possess these glands over much of the body. Sebaceous glands consists of lobes connected by ducts into the hair follicle sheath while some open directly on to the skin surface which is responsible for the oily feel (grease) on the skin surface. Sebum reduces water loss from the skin surface and protects the skin from infection from bacteria and fungi. Sebum production from the sebaceous glands is under the control of the sex hormones (ovaries and testicles) which produce androgens. Sebaceous glands are already

active before birth which is good reason for the luster and brightness of fibre noted in crias. I have also noted that many males that possess a high level of sebaceous glands on skin biopsy seem to pass this trait genetically to their offspring. This would seem to be a good reason to search for and utilize males with large testicles and a moderate level of sebaceous skin gland presence to promote the genetics for follicular development and fibre health in the offspring. Proteins that we as well as our alpacas consume are made up of essential and nonessential amino acids. Nonessential amino acids come from our food or can be made through the digestive process. Essential amino acids are not made through the digestive process and must be supplied or added to our diet. Analysis of alpaca fibre samples indicates which amino acids (proteins) are being utilized and at what levels in alpaca fibre production. If we know what is being used in the fibre we have an idea of what to put in the supplement to maintain the balance that most crias are born with. The lack of providing essential amino acids that the alpaca cannot manufacture and not found in forages results in a form of nutrient starvation which can reduce sebum production. Yes, some breeders are using decreased caloric intake to produce low microns for their show fleeces and this form of nutrient starvation often results in small unhealthy alpacas (sometimes “ill thrift”) and in my opinion should not be rewarded at shows and sales. Extremes can work both ways. A few alpacas’ especially dark colored alpacas show sebaceous gland hyperplasia and if strong nutrition is being utilized, it can result in excessive sebaceous gland secretion. This result is oily or greasy skin and fibre. Sebaceous gland presence appears genetic and the gland function or secretion appears to be enhanced by nutrition. Many alpaca breeders are familiar with the term “lanolin” which is the sebaceous gland secretion of sheep. Lanolin is not oil but a wax and this wax becomes oil between 100° and 107°F. Could this happen to the alpaca’s sebaceous secretion in the summer to alpacas with high level gland presence or hyperplastic sebaceous glands creating oily or greasy fibre to the judge’s fingers? These hyperplastic glands may sometimes rupture on the skin surface and exude grease like debris on the fibre. (Picture 9) This secretion when mixed with normal grime on some alpacas presents as a dark oily, waxy addition to the person handling the fibre.

Natural Oils Mimic Sebum from the Sebaceous Glands Probably 10+ natural oils mimic sebum but appear differently under magnification. Among them are extra virgin olive oil, pure vitamin E oil, avocado oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, coconut oil, grape seed oil, sheep oil (lanolin), lavender, rosehip oil and several others. One super spritz combines coconut oil, grape seed oil, and castor oil mixed equal parts. Then mix this 3 parts water

Picture 1: Shows the normal grime on the untreated fibre of a light fawn alpaca with average sebaceous gland presence.

Picture 2: A magnified view of the normal grime of a nice 18 micron fibre which is the top horizontal fibre from photomicrograph 1 above.

Environmental Impact on Fibre It seems to me that what our judges feel in alpaca fibre will be affected by heat and humidity which will increase oil secretion from the surface glands onto the skin and fibres especially at hot summer shows. It is also possible that some breeders have their own method of topical fibre preparation to impress the judges while other breeders certainly do nothing. Some hose, some dunk, some spritz and whatever else that I do not care to know about. Observe the views of clean fibre versus grimy fibre as viewed through my scope and camera system. (Pictures 1-8) Then note the microscopic changes that are noticeable to the fibre under different conditions and consider would it affect the appearance and handle of the fibre to you or the judges. Remember that there are 25,400 microns in an inch and as mentioned previously dense alpacas often have 3500 to 4700 fibres in an area the size of a pencil eraser.

Picture 3: Fibres from photomicrograph No 1 after 2 water rinses.

and one part oil and apply 2-3x per week to desired effect. Coconut oil is known for shine. What is in that spritz?? In addition to the natural oils, several animal and human shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, sunscreen agents, alcohols, machine oils, salad oils, etc. are receiving attention as fibre conditioning agents. Treated fibres can have a different appearance under magnification and the ingredients in most can be identified by laboratory tests.

Fibre Brightness and Luster: Could it be the Water?

Picture 4: Fibres from photomicrograph No 1 after rinsed and spritzed. Note definition (darkness) on cortex of rinsed and spritzed fibres.

Picture 7: Magnified view of the No 6 conditioned black fibre.

Breeders that spend $50 and have their water tested at the alpaca barn often enjoy more lusterous fibre. The body is 70 per cent water and the consumption of 4 to 6 liters day of clean water can prevent dry fleeces and promote quality fibres. The choice of water containing equine

CONDITIONED 1Â° DARK FAWN FIBER

Picture 5: Magnified view of spritzed primary and secondary fibres photographed from the lock that pictures 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 were derived from.

Picture 8: Magnified view of another conditioned primary fibre (Dark Fawn).

Picture 6: Primary fibre from black lock with normal grime before and after rinse and spritz.

Picture 9: Hyperplastic sebaceous glands show as the large gray areas that surround basically every fibre.

electrolytes both summer and winter will often increase intake and the cost is about 3 cents per day. The alpacaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tested water needs to have a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and be virtually free of iron and sulfur which causes bad taste, reduced intake and mineral tie ups. Some water softeners often contain too much calcium and salts (high pH) and can actually cause tie ups decrease fibre luster and hinder fleece growth. Even when used topically some water softeners can leave a coating on the fibre.

Alpaca Fibre Characteristics To insure alpaca fibre health, fetal nutrition must be maximized through the mother the first 45-60 days and the last 100-120 days of gestation as well as the first 9 to 12 months of the criaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. This does not mean more grain as energy or carbs but it means more quality protein in the form of quality forage (80+% of diet) plus a supplement containing those essential amino acids, minerals and vitamins needed to stimulate growth, nourish the skin and the secondary hair follicles. Forage and water testing is necessary. Based on the test results, supplements may or may not be necessary in some areas of the country. In fact, it is not uncommon that several grain additives actually can actually harm fibre quality. Fibre fineness is highly genetic. About 10-15% of the adult alpacas (7-9 years of age) that I test show basically the same fineness of microns that they showed at 2 years of age. That is genetics and it is virtually impossible to cause fibre blow out (enlargement) in these animals. Adequate nutrition is necessary for genetic traits to be manifested and maintained. We need to keep our animals healthy and natural and be sure that no alpaca is misrepresented to a new owner for our own personal gain. I want to believe that most breeders adhere to this principle.

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Dyeing & Carding

*We have a Pat Green Picker and carding machine and can offer a quick turn around service. *We can dye a whole fleece before carding and can blend. *Hold workshops for Dyeing. Agents for Unicorn products.

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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

354 Paparata Road Bombay Ph 09 236 0171 Bob 0275419329 Joyce0211518664

Email alpaca@martina.co.nz www.martina.co.nz

A Low-Cost

Portable Fleece

Sorting Table by Peter and Jacquie Watson

Now that our animals have had their annual clip, they have transformed overnight from woolly bears to stick insects! But now we need to look after the ultimate product of all our labours - the wonderful soft and lustrous fibre from those beautiful fleeces. Apart from the issues of sorting and grading, we need to get the fleeces as clean and as dry as possible before storage. This requires a sorting table - but where to get something suitable? It needs to be large enough to handle a 2-3Kg fleece, but light enough to move around easily, and not cost too much. It should also store away without taking up room when not needed for 11 months of the year! We finally combined a couple of ideas we saw in US and Australian magazines, with a few ideas of our own. It's probably not perfect, but it did the job for us. It's made from standard plastic pipe fittings available from any DIY store. The overall size is about 40"x 70", 32" high. The working area is split into 2 sections to help sort the fleece into blanket and the rest. This also makes it more rigid and provides support for the working area. You'll need 12 metres of 1.25" tubing, 4 elbow joints and 8 "T" pieces. Just saw the pipes to length.

If you want to store the table flat, off-set the opposing legs slightly so that they can fold underneath without fouling each other. You also could use 2" tubing instead - this is more expensive, but will be more rigid and if you want a bigger table, this would be the way to go. This lightweight version seems to do the job - and storage is easy. The legs just pull off, so it can just be propped up against a wall. Another tip - we use rolls of horticultural fleece" from the local garden centre to wrap and store the fleeces. It's strong enough to protect the fleece, but allows it to "breathe", so avoiding moisture build-up. We first place a layer across the top of the fleece on the table, then clip it on with shower curtain clips. They are just the right size for the pipe at the edge of the table. Flip the whole lot upside down, then remove the table. Lay another layer over the top so the fleece is sandwiched, then just fold over the edges and roll up. When we are not using our table it folds flat for storage. The legs just fold up and we hang it on a peg in the barn. Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note: Peter and Jacquie of Southwest Alpacas no longer breed or sell alpacas, but maintain their website as a resource for any newer breeders who may like some tips when starting out.

www.swalpacas.com/Table.htm 28

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

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Harvesting Alpaca Fibre:

A Code of Harvest

by Jenny Ellwood-Wade, Cuesta Alpacas & Alpaca Box

Why do you have alpacas? Do you aim to get a return on your alpaca fibre? While I was on the Fibre Sub-Committee, I became aware of several alpaca codes of harvest and this made immediate sense to me: we are farmers of fibre animals and we need to harvest our fibre. Added to that, I work with alpaca fibre all the time and am always trying to improve our fleeces. A code of Harvest aims to maximise the value of the alpaca fibre harvested at shearing time. I found advice available from many sources, including experienced alpaca breeders who utilise their fibre commercially and several codes available on the web (see Web Resources at the end of this article) Note that a Code of Harvest is very different from a shearing protocol which would be aimed at shearers and not alpaca owners. To maximise fleece returns, it is not sufficient to rely on the shearer (even a very experienced one), the owner or manager needs to get involved to maximise the fibre value. 30

I do not follow the codes word for word, I am limited by the help I have available, our farm conditions and our alpacas. This article reflects the aspects of the codes that I have implemented, but each year I try to improve. Note that work starts well before harvest time, indeed it starts with breeding.

Breeding the Right Alpacas This is truly where it starts. We must breed for fibre that either we want or that others are prepared to buy at a price that gives us an economic return. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just watched a fascinating BBC programme â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Shepherdessâ&#x20AC;?. The second episode was based around alpacas in Peru and the key message was that the Quechua herders need to improve their genetics to keep the industry alive in Peru. They are also working on artificial insemination. Watch the programme when it gets to New Zealand. So how do we know what fibre is in demand? This requires some market research. Check out the Fibre Processor page on the AANZ website which also lists fibre purchasers. These may primarily be focussed on the prime fleece, also look for purchasers of the lower grades which can be used in carpet production, duvets and insulation, for example. These purchasers may be local to you rather than national as transportation costs can become an issue with relatively low value fibre. Value revolves around colour and fleece characteristics. Colour: this depends on your market. Large buyers want white which is consistent and can be dyed any colour for the market. Hand spinners and felters usually prefer the natural colours and may love the greys and multis,

but they also tend to buy vibrant colours, though natural black is very popular and sells quickly. There is a market for items made from natural colours, but it is relatively small at the moment and you need to work at it. Fleece Characteristics: To make progress here, you need to be able to understand the fleece testing data (unless you are a trained judge...). There have been good articles previously in the magazine on this subject, check them out.

Key Fleece Statistics • micron (lower is good) • weight of the usable blanket (higher is good) this is a mix of density and how far the good fibre covers down to the belly and legs (most of us aren’t there yet!) • Standard Deviation (SD) or the shape of the fibre histogram (a good bell shape with a sharp fall off on the coarse side is good)

My prime focus at the moment is to breed out strong primaries within the blanket area. Strong primaries are usually straight and stand above the secondary fibres creating a halo effect. They are coarser than the rest of the fibre. These coarse fibres stick out of yarn, increase the prickle factor and give alpaca a bad name. This should be reflected in the SD, but I have experimented and removed the strong fibres and it hasn’t made a difference to the test results. It is easy to see strong primaries both on the alpaca and at skirting time. If the strong primaries are only on the blanket extremities, these areas can be skirted out and added to coarser fleeces. Dehairing machines can remove some of these stronger fibres, but they can also damage the other good fibres as well. The results are not always what you would want and there are not used by our two largest commercial mills, though combing can remove some coarse hairs.

Keep the Fibre Clean This primarily means keeping Vegetable Matter (VM) out of the fleece. The work starts at the date of the previous shear, no rest I’m afraid. VM comprises seeds, hay and stalks. VM is the curse of processing and hand spinners. Most alpaca in NZ goes through a very light scour technique and this will not remove all of the VM in a heavily contaminated fleece. If the fibre is combed during processing, this will remove the VM, but there may also be a high degree of wastage. For all markets, you will get maximum price if your blanket is relatively free of VM, but check with your purchaser. VM is picked up in the paddocks, and the easiest solution is to clear your paddocks of problem weeds, plants and trees. Hay is also a source of VM, but the alpacas need the dry matter in their diet. Even though we use hay feeders, the alpacas discard anything they don’t like and then love rolling in it. This is really only a problem with crias as the hay sticks like velco to their tippy fleeces, there is always one in each drop who looks like a walking hay bale. I try (without much success) to get Martyn to vacuum

VM: The Nasties Prickles: skirters and classers are not going to like being prickled. These are picked up from rubbing against prickly shrubs: gorse, buckthorn and rolling in thistles (especially that one where the large leaves stick to the fibre). Seeds: try to shear before the grasses and other plants seed. A lot of the smaller ones come out in processing but dock is terrible and not just the seeds, the stalks become thoroughly entangled. If you can’t pick it off easily it is a problem. Tree Debris: Rimu or Cryptomeria “leaves”. Once tangled in a fleece, they have to be cut out. These are bad trees to overhang your paddocks.

up the debris for the 1-2 months prior to shearing and remove the hay entirely as shearing day approaches. Dirt is also a contaminant, but we haven’t found a solution. We conquer one rolling patch and they create another. The good news is that dirt washes out, but too much and it increases processing costs as the carding and spinning charges are usually calculated on incoming weight. The BBC programme mentioned before, also showed some of the more advanced alpaca breeders putting plastic coats over the fleece to keep them clean. Would this work in our warmer, more humid climate? We also need to clean the alpacas immediately before shearing. No, not a good shampoo or a comb! The aim is to get rid of contamination whilst leaving the fleece intact. Discover wands: imagine a wire coat hanger stretched into a narrow ‘U” shape and inserted into a handle. In the week or two before shearing we try to get around all the alpacas to wand them and put their name around their neck so we know who is who at shearing. Wanding sets up an electrostatic charge which throws out light vm and dirt. It needs a few muscles and, with 100+ alpacas now, we need new techniques. Forums provide some alternative suggestions: e.g.using a blower or compressed air (I’m going to try that this year), but make sure you don’t spook the alpacas just before shearing time, you want them to be calm. Cria fleeces are tricky. The tips of their fleeces often catch all the VM and are often rotten, in our climate anyway. Try pulling a tip: does it come off easily? If it does it will break off during processing and contaminate the whole batch. We have tried taking the tips off at 1-3 weeks old, but the finer ones seem to just create new “velcro” tips. I have resorted to using hand shears to remove them just before shearing or take them off on the skirting table. Neither is sensible and good suggestions are welcome. If the processing is to include combing, the tips can be left on; we recently visited the Two Rivers spinning mill in Dorset (England) and all fibre goes through the comb which takes out the VM. I judge the additional cost of processing a good trade off vs the hours spent tipping a fleece which doesn’t make economic sense. 31

Preparation for Shearing Day This is where the organisation starts, remember we want the fleeces clean and skirted (or skirtable if they are to be done later) not just bundled any which way into a bag when the shearer hands it over. Buyers will want to assess the fleeces before purchase, so they need to be rolled up and separated. We also need to consider the welfare of the alpacas. Check out the web resources for detailed lists, but the box shows my key ones.

Planning You need to be there; do not expect the fleeces to be well presented if you are at work and the shearer has to manage on his own. If you know what you are doing, take fleece samples in advance and send them for testing so that you know the average micron of each alpaca and can sort the fleece as they are shorn. Book your shearer early, enquire about how much help you need to provide, how long it is likely to take, the price, the normal order of shearing an alpaca (does the blanket come off first, or the hairy bits). Check out the websites for what to expect and what to ask for, though often the shearers aren’t prepared to change their method. The order of shearing is important for planning how to collect the blanket from the shearer to keep it in good order: we use a large piece of coreflute, lightweight and easy to manage and to clean between colours. A small but heavy tarp can also work well. Prepare your shearing area: Where you are going to shear and what tackle/equipment you need to provide. Electricity is a must. If the shearer shears on the floor, he will need anchor points for his ropes and we like to shear on a vinyl covered foam mat (expensive but easy on the knees and easy to clean). If you don’t have a mat, a tarpaulin will do. It the shearer uses a table, they don’t normally need extra equipment, except for good light. All shearers sometimes get delayed and turn up late in the day and shear into the night, good electric lamps are needed. Recruit as much help as you can, allocate tasks to each person and give them clear instructions as to what they are to do. They might need some practice before hand. Plan the order in which you are going to shear your alpacas, by name (or number if you use large ear tags). The usual order is: • White to dark, though being a black breeder, I like to go the other way • Low micron to high micron, though it is useful to shear a coarse fleece that is going into insulation after a change of colour to get rid of contamination from the combs • Separating the boys and girls is a bit of a challenge and now we have 100+, we try to do them on separate days

Print off labels in the order of shearing: I do 3 for each alpaca who fleece I think I want to process/sell, one for each of: sample, blanket and neck. This saves an amazing amount of time writing on bags. For those fleeces going to insulation or duvet, I just print one label (2 if I want a sample) and stick this on a sheet of paper to go with the woolsack. Have bags/nets/woolsacks ready and make your skirting table if you don’t already have one. If you are going to sell the blanket fleece, find out how the buyer wants it presented. Usually they want each blanket separated so they can be easily classed, work out how you will do this. They can be rolled up in a way that is easy to separate afterwards, they can be separated with paper, avoid plastic bags, especially feed sacks and biodegradable ones. Have snack-size plastic or paper bags for the fleece samples. Determine the market for the non-prime fleece: there is no point separating neck and hairy pieces if they are all going to the insulation man! Plan the logistics • how you are going to organise the barn • how you can keep the alpacas dry before shearing • how you will provide shelter for the alpacas after shearing if you get cold, windy & wet weather.

Immediately Prior to Shearing This is not difficult but there are lots of things to be done and it requires organisation and your time. I try to do it in advance so I am not already tired when shearing a day arrives, that also means I can pop out to the shops if I’ve forgotten something or lost it.

Preparation Move the alpacas into appropriate paddocks or races so they are easily available, in the order of shearing. Prepare the barn and/or shearing area, it should be clean and hazard free, have a simple health and safety plan ready for briefing the helpers. Allocate tasks to the helpers and let them know what time to turn up and what they will be doing. Have your catering arrangements all sorted out. Everybody will be thirsty and hungry. Gather the equipment together: • brushes and vacuums ready to keep the floor clean • towels for mopping up spills • A few large old socks to put over the nose of spitters (no, they don’t suffocate) • Buckets or baskets for the fleece (those large flexi tubs are great and can be colour coded)

• Shearing board/tarp for putting the fleece on • First aid kit and superglue in case the shearer runs out Keep your alpacas covered the night before shearing if it is wet or there is likely to be a heavy dew and you are shearing early. If you have 5 or less alpacas, you may be able to dry wet fleeces, more than that and it is impractical. Decide which fleeces will be going into the lower grades, duvet or insulation. Insulation fleeces get bundled straight into the woolsack, just making sure dirty and wet parts are excluded. Duvet gets a light skirting. Decide if you want any fleeces as show fleeces. Let the shearer know and have something like an old sheet to wrap each on up in.

For several reasons, we have now moved to shearing on multiple days, preferably with recovery time (for us) in between. We pick a shearer who can do this and who can be flexible about re-arranging if the weather is foul. Our reasons are that we are getting older and just don’t have the energy and stamina to harvest the fleece properly if we are doing 100 in a day, even with a lot of help. We also don’t have the barns to keep 100+ alpacas dry before shearing or sheltered afterwards if the weather turns nasty.

Shearing Day Get up early and get all set up, see box. This is the only calm part of the day so enjoy it!

Set-up Check with the shearer when he will arrive, stuff happens and you don’t want helpers hanging around all day. Assemble the alpacas so they can be presented to the shearer in the right order. Have your helpers arrive well before the shearer so they can be briefed on their roles and trained if necessary. Have your buckets/baskets in the right places and labelled e.g. rubbish, neck. Have the woolsacks ready and labelled for the rubbish, neck and any other classes that you are collecting. I have sacks for: prime blanket by colour, duvet, insulation, floor sweeping and other rubbish. Make sure you know what your buyers want: e.g. for duvet, they usually only want the light colours, don’t want guard hair or legs which are likely to be dirty. Have the skirting table set up in a sensible place. Work out people and alpaca flows. Sort out the food and drink. When the shearer arrives, discuss shearing techniques and ask him to train the people collecting and clearing the fleece from the table so that they can collect it safely and put 33

the appropriate fleece in the right buckets/bags. The most important part is the prime blanket. Make sure the shearer knows you want it off in only one or two pieces, without much inferior fibre attached and you want to collect it on a board or tarp to be taken to the skirting table. This does slow the shearer down but hey will be happy to do this if they know you are going to use the fleece.

1 person finding the next alpaca and giving a wand to make sure it is clean (this is where the name tags really help) unless it is going straight into the insulation bag.

Also agree how the shearer wants to handle bringing the alpacas in and taking them out and say if you want to collect fleece samples.

1 person who helps bring the alpaca to the shearing station and assists the shearer with managing the alpaca as they are being shorn; this may be pulling ropes, holding the neck, helping to turn the alpaca over and releasing it when finished.

You may want to rearrange the barn after this!

1-3 people clearing away the fleece:

One or Two Stations? If you have a large number of animals, the shearer may want two stations set up so that there is an alpaca waiting to be shorn immediately he has finished the previous one. If so, you need a lot more help to keep up and manage the fleece coming off. The purpose of having two stations is for the shearer to shear more alpacas in a given time and hence earn more money for that time. In this case, ask for a better price per alpaca (unless he has squeezed you in to an already busy schedule). If you don’t succeed, ask why you are using this shearer and if you can keep up with this rate of work.

Shearing To shear 100+ alpacas we try to have about 6-7 people involved, though we can do it with just the two of us if we are only doing about 15-20, especially if most of it is going into duvet or insulation. We recruit other alpaca owners (either ones whose alpacas we are shearing with ours or those we reciprocate with by helping them), woofers and friends. Last year the woofers were great: they are young and have great stamina, but they do need training.

Helper Roles for 100+ Alpacas

• One managing the shearing board and presenting the blanket to the skirting table; cleaning the board and the table between alpacas • The other collecting neck and rubbish into the right buckets (and then into the right wool sacks) • Another collecting and bagging the fleece samples and fetching the towels if there is any weeing going on and sweeping the floor to keep clean and tidy. 2 people handling the initial skirting of the fleece.

Initial Skirting of the Fleece This means: • Throwing the fleece out onto the skirting table in one layer, cut side down, in the shape of the alpaca so that all the edges are nearest to the edges of the skirting table • Shake the fleece (without pulling it apart) to get rid of most of the shearer’s second cuts. This is much easier to do when the fleece is freshly shorn. After it has been bagged up, those second cuts are much more reluctant to fall off.

• Quickly skirt the outside edges of the fleece. You are aiming to: • Discard any guard hair (the straight prickly parts from the belly & britch), this can easily spread over the rest of the fleece as it does not hold together in staples and I haven’t found a shearer yet who doesn’t get some of this included in the “blanket” • Discard any wet, dirty or heavily contaminated parts of the fleece (check at the base of the neck and the back line) • Take away fleece that is not as good as the main blanket (take a staple from the nicer part of the fleece and use it for selection), this can be put into a bag that is collecting fleece of a lower quality • Pick off any obvious pieces of VM. Wrap or bag the fleece for later sorting and classing and label. One year I was lucky enough to find some failed whitebaiting mesh, this is perfect for wrapping individual fleeces, secured with safety pins, labelled and then put into large wool sacks.

Does this sound like you don’t have time to breathe? Well that’s pretty much what it is like if you have a fast shearer and lots of alpacas.

I have a number of bags ready for the colour that I am sorting and classing. At the moment my classes are: • Under 21 micron • Under 25 micron, not hairy • Under 25 micron, hairy • Under 30 micron, not hairy • Under 30 micron, hairy • Over 30 micron. This year, the last two classes may go straight into the duvet bag, though I want to do a test and blend them with some wool and see if I can weave them for rugs. The “under 25 micron hairy” causes a problem. It is nice fleece, but if those strong primaries aren’t somehow taken out, it spoils the yarn. If it is only lightly contaminated, hand spinners can pick them out as they spin, but make sure they know what they are buying. After I have classed the fleeces, I will see how much weight I have in each class and decide how to combine them for processing. I would love to find a classer that could do this for me as I am usually busy with weaving and the sorting takes months.

Summary

The farm manager (Martyn) takes care of the animals and makes sure none of them goes down with hypothermia. He also does the initial clear up in the barn.

If you have a small number of alpacas, all the above is easy and you should be able to do it without any drama. Just take it one step at a time and expect ot get better as the years go by. If this all sounds foreign to you, my advice is to go to cluster group skirting sessions and get your hands into the fleece, lots of practice is required. Another idea is to help out on a larger farm on shearing day to get some more experience, we are always happy to have more helpers.

After my feet and legs have recovered, I then start classing my fleeces. I usually start with my more valuable black fleeces and start with the coarsest ones first. My process is shown in the box.

When your herd size gets larger, shearing day is hard work. If, like us, you are also getting older consider splitting shearing over more than one day. This has pros and cons (the feet ache for longer and the helpers are needed for several days).

After Shearing My first priority is to feed the helpers and then put my feet up!

Final Skirting • Throw back out onto the skirting table (it should still be in alpaca shape)

If this all sounds like too much bother, accept that the fleece will have little value and sell it to the insulation man or another buyer of lower grade fleeces. You will find that you keep the best fleeces but discard more lower value fleece.

• Decide whether the fleece is usable as a fleece. If not, the fleece can go straight into the insulation or duvet sack without any further work (in fact this will probably have happened at shearing time) • Finish the skirting, take off VM and then do a final check for short cuts. • If it is going to a carder or direct to a spinning mill, I will gently pull the fleece out, bit by bit, shaking gently, it forms a light web. This gets rids of a lot of dirt and makes it easy to see any remaining second cuts. This totally destroys the order of the fleece though and if you are selling it to somebody, they will prefer it intact, so turn the fleece over and pick off any remaining second cuts, then give the fleece a really good shake to get as much dirt out as possible.

Web Resources 1. US Suri Network Code of Harvest: http://www. surinetwork.org/pages/CodeOfHarvest4-23-2010.pdf this is great information, is equally applicable to Huacaya and has become my gold standard 2. AAFT (Paul Vallely): http://www.aaft.com.au/ Shearing%20protocols.doc. This does cover order of shearing but covers the other aspects of a codes of harvest as well 3. AAA shearing code, but it is also a code of harvest: http://www.alpaca.asn.au/docs/about/fleece/ shearing_code.pdf. 35

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SHOWTIME by the Showing and Judging Sub-Committee

Before the show season gets started the new showing and judging committee (SJSC) wanted to present to the membership some new initiatives regarding our show system that were developed under the old show sub-committee. In December 2012 National Council approved the show system review document (SSR). This document encompassed changes to our show system which aims to meet the needs of all those involved in showing, exhibitors, convenors, judges and stewards. The SSR document is on the website for those members who would like to read it in its entirety.

Why the changes came about The size and number of our shows had out grown the systems originally developed by the AANZ. NZ was ready to have a more structured approach to our show system which would allow for professional development of judges. In the SSR document the following are outlined: • Show regulation changes • New level system for judges and shows • Judges Review Panel (JRP) • Formal complaints procedure • Codes of conduct

Show Regulations Several show regulations were out of date and will be reviewed at regular intervals in the new system to make sure they are functioning and up to date.

New level system of judges and shows The judges and shows will now operate under a level system with 3 tiers, Level 1- 3 where by Level 1 is the highest. For judges this means our newly qualified judges will start out on level 3 and work their way up to level 1 if they desire. For shows this means that Level 1 will be Nationals, Royals, Colourbrations and larger regional A&P shows. Level 2/3 shows will be decided by entry numbers. We will now have a structure similar to that of the AAA show system where judges will be able to advance as they meet the criteria for each level. This professional development will be done through training and co judging appointments and is very important for the up-skilling of NZ judges and to ensure the membership are rewarded with highly skilled and trained judges. It is very important that we have shows on varying levels. Size of show has no bearing on the quality of the alpaca at that 38

show. The national champion could quite easily be exhibited at a level 3 show. The SJSC does not value shows simply by numbers but recognizes the huge part, no matter what the size, they play in the marketing of alpaca. A&P shows are quite often the first place people are introduced to alpaca and smaller shows are perfect for allowing new members to enter the show ring in a more relaxed atmosphere than a larger show. Having shows leveled will also help convenors to choose a judge with the appropriate skills for their show.

Judges review panel (JRP) A review process is important for the credibility of the AANZ judges and the accountability of AANZ to those of its members that actively show alpaca. The JRP is an independent panel using a transparent, objective and impartial system and are responsible for judge accreditation and the assignment of judge levels.

Formal complaints procedure To accompany the new show system a more formal complaints procedure was required. This procedure must be seen as fair and eliminate the ability for petty or vindictive complaints being used against any person. All complaints will be received in writing to the SJSC. If the complaint highlights a rule or procedural issue, this will be rectified. If the complaint is of a behavioural nature, the person (convenor, steward, judge, exhibitor) the complaint is about will be asked for their written comment on the incident. All complaints will be dealt with ‘in committee’ and confidentially until they are upheld. A flow diagram of the process is clearly outlined in the SSR document.

Codes of conduct Codes of conduct are currently being written for convenors, exhibitors, judges and stewards.

Feedback form Also in the pipeline is a proposed after show ‘feed back form’ where anyone involved in the show can comment with new ideas and comments about shows. We are very much looking forward to the support of the membership during the changes to our show system. All of us will enjoy the benefits of up-skilled judges and a better show system all round as our industry moves forward and matures.

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.

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A day in the life:

The Shearer’s Perspective Keenan Scott – is a shearer, an alpaca judge and the current vice president of the Alpaca Association. When, why, how did you end up shearing alpacas Russell Gent had sold one of his uniquely Kiwi shearing tables to my neighbour. He arranged a time to travel up to and demonstrate to my neighbour how to use it and how to shear alpacas. My neighbour asked if I could handle the Alpacas for him while he got tuition in shearing. In the middle of it all my neighbour decided the whole process was too daunting for him and that I should learn. After a half hour shearing crash course I was thrown in the deep end. Russell had to leave to catch a flight back home, the rest is history.

So, how long have you been shearing alpacas?

Any particular reason why? I believe it is easier on several levels. It is easier on the alpacas. They can be on eye level with their cria and fellow alpacas. The alpacas, I think, feel less like prey than being put at ground level and potentially heavily constrained. The leg restraints do not need to be as tight as when they are shorn on the ground, the body and head can be keep in a more neutral and natural physical position. I can shear the whole leg, even the ankle area easily. I think this is important as in some areas I have seen skin conditions developing, previously undetected. Some skin conditions are exacerbated with denser alpacas and often high humidity. I am seeing this as an increasing problem. Some will argue it takes longer. It can, but the very positive compromise is the animals are less stressed and often the alpaca owners are too. If there is a large herd, we can run two tables side by side. If desired I can do toenails, shots, teeth etc with ease.

In 2004/2005 I took myself off to Australia to learn everything I could about alpacas, the fibre, fibre handling and observing shearing practices. I volunteered myself as free labour to as many alpaca farms that would have me, to learn as much as possible. I wanted to develop my ‘eye to fleece’, my ‘handling skills’ and my overall expertise. I wanted to learn all I could from these breeders, not just about shearing but also breeding goals, decisions, and how they measure those results. I wanted to be an expert in my field.

It is also easier on the longevity of shearer, handlers and rousie’s backs. We aren’t getting any younger!

I handled over 10,000 alpacas over that period, probably more than most will handle in their lifetime, and the experience gained was invaluable and greatly appreciated.

Equipment?

Had you shorn sheep previously? No, I had no previous experience in shearing anything!

What is your preferred method for shearing alpacas? I prefer and use the table shearing method. I had tried both methods earlier on in my shearing career. 42

by Robyn Anderson - Editor

How many alpacas do you shear per annum? Around 3,500 Alpaca.

NZ only? Predominantly but now also in Europe.

The tools of trade are very important. It is critical gear is sharp and set up properly. There are several different combs available for alpaca shearing dictated by many variables i.e. weather conditions, fleece contamination, age and type of the alpaca, finish the owner wishes, show fleeces, speed you wish to shear etc. Probably most important is selection according to your shearing ability. I wouldn’t recommend an inexperienced shearer or shearer shearing infrequently to use a cover comb which is only 9 or 10 teeth as it is far too dangerous for an inexperienced shearer. I prefer these combs as they are fast, can run with less comb / cutter pressure and

cutting surface area is less, wearing slower and allowing more dirt to fall through. This is better for longevity of gear and less frequency of sharpening. This type of comb also leaves some fleece cover against potential adverse weather conditions. A safer comb to shear with is a 13 tooth Camelid comb for the less experienced. I use these on cria and they come with or without lifters if you wish to leave more fleece on.

Should we be training shear teams – shearer, classers, sorters, graders etc?

What do you love about shearing?

How should we treat the fibre once it is off the animal's back?

Many things, for a start everyone is always happy to see the shearer turn up. Really the lottery I guess where each alpaca fleece is different and interesting, every alpaca is different in nature and requires modification to your technique to make the process as easy and quick as possible for all concerned. The fleece analysis would have to be my passion and seeing something new every year and first and foremost taking pride in your work. On top of that I like to keep fit and shearing certainly does that.

Any tips for the breeders? How could they best improve their preparation for shearing? Most importantly put your Alpacas in the cleanest paddocks leading up to shearing season as free of vegetation and dirt / sand as possible. This might mean covering the rolling pits as well. This will pay dividends right through the process of shearing and utilisation of fleece.

How could they best improve their preparation for sorting? Discuss with the shearer your potential use for the fleece before shearing and he can usually help you maximise your yield and save you a lot of fleece preparation and time down stream and less potential contamination. Having wool fadges for your poorer grades will help lessen the chance of this and make it easier and faster for the rousie. A trained rousie is invaluable.

Fleece sampling – how and when? I shear in such a way that Fleece sampling can be easily done whilst shearing so I have no preference if taken before or during shearing. Maybe for some shearers before maybe a good option so no fingers are reaching into the midside area at the wrong time during shearing, but I normally offer up the sample from the midside for consistency of sampling, site and safety.

Do you have some ‘best practice’ advice from a shearer’s practical perspective? How can the breeders do things better/differently? Having the alpacas as close as possible to the shearing area will minimise handling and alpaca stress and less handler effort. I don’t recommend haltering alpacas unless absolutely necessary. This just slows the process down and additional handling of the alpaca on the most stressful day of the year for them. Keep Dogs Away. The alpaca doesn’t want even the most familiar dog around when they are restrained and vulnerable.

Any training is good training. I teach shearing and classing and even if not utilised by the breeder regularly it gives them insight into preparation and on-going improvement which can only pay dividends at shearing and fleece harvesting time.

Primary skirting is done by a good shearer and shearing team, however if this is continued by giving further attention to classing and skirting as shearing is carried out and before the fleece is bagged or baled this will greatly improve usable fleece quantity and consistency, reduce contamination by colour and coarser fibres, and add to the overall quality control.

How should we store our fleece? Fleece needs to be kept dry and free from vermin such as rodents and insects. If storing in plastic bags allow the fleece to breathe so they don’t sweat. Wool bales and paper bags work well. Ideally don’t store it, use it!

Should the fleece be classed and graded at shearing time? By whom? This depends completely on what you intend to use your fleece for and who you have available on the day. Ideally yes, or to the point where it can be stored for later assessment and completion of grading and classing. So some thought needs to go into this process prior to shearing day. A great way is to share expertise with local breeders and help each other at their shearing. You will learn and again experience and maximise your fleece harvest.

What is the difference between skirting and classing? Skirting is primarily removing unwanted vegetation, contamination and coarser fibre which will degrade your usable or higher quality components of the fleece. Classing is identifying and collating the same type, grades and colour of fleece or fleeces together generally depending on your requirement. This will probably include, colour, micron, length etc.

Should our alpaca shearing practices mirror the sheep shearing shed? No I don’t think so. We have at this stage so many uses for the alpaca fibre. It is being used for products both commercially and for cottage industry or personal use. We generally don’t have the quantities at this point in time of any one colour or micron range which will drive this parity with sheep shearing and wool harvest. In the future the commercial buyers will eventually dictate and be the drivers for this need for more standardisation, certainly for classing. Continued overleaf... 43

The shearing experience – should it be ‘purely business’? Should it be a community event, social aspect etc…? Fun? I think it is what you make it certainly within the restraints of what the customer wishes or their requirement for alpaca shearing / fleece harvest and the welfare of the alpaca. They are all paramount. Keeping it fun, social and a learning experience are the added bonus of shearing Alpaca on many NZ farms and worldwide, but at the end of the day the commercial alpaca shearer has to remain viable and alpacas need to be shorn for their welfare. This can be greatly enhanced though by some forward planning and continued improvement / innovation and training by all concerned. In doing so it is a win / win for the Shearer , the Alpaca Owner, and the Alpaca and the Industry as a whole.

Brent Craig – runs a Bed and Breakfast on the Kapiti Coast, where his alpacas are a great hit with his guests. When, why , how did you end up shearing alpacas?

What is your preferred method for shearing alpacas? The table method serves me best. As I said I am 6ft 4inches so it is easier on my whole frame. I have adapted my table a little with the use of a neck strap. My adaptation can now hold the alpaca still and I can shear him without an assistant if I need to. I take pride in grooming the alpacas too. I trim the fleece from their entire leg even the little tufts left by the leg ropes, and I trim toenails. The topknot is also cut to the owners’ specifications.

How many do you shear per annum? 300 plus per annum. It is growing each year from word of mouth recommendations. Most of the herds are on life style blocks of 2 – 14 alpacas. There are also a few larger herds of between 30 and 60 alpacas. I shear mostly within my own district these days. Originally I moved all around the Wellington, Wairarapa and Manawatu districts but the logistics required me to reduce the radius closer to home. There are a lot of small holdings around the Kapiti Coast, Horowhenua and Manuwatu.

Any tips for the breeders? A small yard for containing the alpacas is helpful for getting the alpacas to and from the shearing table. Get to know the behaviour of your alpacas. You can then predict how they will react to a situation. I can usually anticipate how they will behave by their mannerisms. Take a

Initially my wife fell in love with them and persuaded me that we needed to have alpacas. We run a bed and breakfast, grow most of our own food and felt this would be an added attraction for our guests as well as for our own pleasure. With alpacas of course comes the need for shearing and my first experience was with a shearer who used a sheet of ply wood on the ground, and wore lino layer’s knee pads for support. What hard work. The shearer could see that I loved the animals and enjoyed the experience. He offered his client base to me and it has grown and grown since then.

FINE FLEECE SPECIALISTS

So, how long have you been shearing alpacas? Twelve years ago I bought a shearing table made by Russell Gent and a Heiniger hand piece and started from there. I use 13 tooth alpaca combs as they have a 7ml riser underneath which leaves 5 – 7ml fleece on the alpaca. The table is portable, and is on wheels so really all I need is a power point and I am in business.

Had you shorn sheep previously? I have shorn a few sheep over the years. I am 6ft 4inches tall so it isn’t the easiest task for me bending over all day long. I'd rather pay someone else to do it.

Was sheep shearing experience a useful skill to transfer to alpaca shearing? Yes. It was useful, but as alpacas have a different body shape it therefore requires a different technique. 44

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little time to halter train them and they will not be so fearful of the shearing experience. They will be much better behaved and it becomes a much easier day for all. Shearing is much easier with at least two people for handling, opening and closing gates, collecting the fleece etc (and making lunch). Keep the alpacas dry, and in a dry yard. Brush them with a wand prior to shearing to get rid of as much dirt, dust and vegetable matter as possible. I believe it is also very useful to trim the tips of a cria fleece when they are around five months old. This will yield a better first year fleece from a processing view point.

What do you love about shearing? Shearing day can be a great fun. The alpacas are a special animal and are easy to be around. I also get to see some of the alpacas that I've trained and sold. There is a social aspect to the day as well. It is useful to swap hints and tips about the alpacas and alpaca health and enjoy some time with the alpaca’s owners.

Nigel Wood – hales from the Southland/Otago area. He grew up on a sheep farm and has been in and around sheep sheds almost his entire life. At age 12, his Dad pointed at the dozen or so pet sheep and said “Son, those sheep need shearing”. The rest as they say is history. So, how long have you been shearing alpacas? I shore my first two alpacas about 6 years ago when my friend bought a couple of alpacas for his lifestyle block. He was happy with my work – my first attempt, and asked me back the following year. I have since spent quite a bit of time with other alpaca shearers observing their methods and improving my own skills.

Was sheep shearing experience a useful skill to transfer to alpaca shearing?

What equipment do you use? I use an electric handpiece. In Southland most breeders will ask for the’ cover comb’ or ‘snow comb’ cut for their alpaca most likely because of the climate here. In Australia increasing numbers of breeders seem to prefer this method. The cover comb has 9 teeth as opposed to the normal 13 tooth comb, and leaves a small amount of fibre on the alpaca, rather than cutting right to the skin.

How many alpaca have you shorn? It is increasing each season through word of mouth. I shore around 700 here last year, and over 1,000 in Australia. I expect to shear 3,000 in Australia this season. I would like to make alpaca shearing my full time career.

What do you love about shearing? There is lots to love. I meet different people every day and I really like to do a good job. I also like that the harder I work the better I can do for myself, rather than just earning a fixed salary… and the alpacas are a really lovely animal to work with.

Any tips for the breeders? How can breeders best improve their Shearing day practice? Every one has different opinions on how best to run their shearing days. I shear quite a few smaller herds of alpacas, often just 2 or 3, but the practice is no different for a small or a large herd. Have your alpacas penned before the shearer arrives. Have an area set aside in advance for shearing. I have had a few instances of alpaca owners pointing at the far end of the paddock, with no penning facilities, saying “There they are. Go get ‘em”. If a job takes 3 times longer, it is reasonable to expect it will cost 3 times as much.

Fleece Preparation? Preparation of fleece is important. Get rid of as much vegetable matter as possible. If it looks like it will rain on shearing day, get the alpacas under cover in good time. Keep unshorn alpacas out of pasture that has seeded. The seed heads will go right through the blanket and devalue it.

Do you have some ‘best practice’ advice from a shearer’s practical perspective?

Most definitely. I had been shearing sheep for several years before I met my first alpaca. I have a very adaptable style when I shear. I try to fit in with the client and how they run their shearing days.

Clean the fleeces of vegetable matter as best as possible. Fibre contamination will always devalue your fleece. Always sweep the area clean after each alpaca has been shorn to avoid contamination of those little pieces diving in amongst your beautiful blanket fleece. Shear the blanket first and remove before shearing the rest of the alpaca.

What is your preferred method for shearing alpacas?

Should our alpaca shearing practices mirror the sheep shearing shed?

I am just as happy shearing an alpaca on the table as on the floor. As I said I can adapt to suit either method. Either method takes a similar length of time depending on the setup of the shed. Every alpaca shearer appears to have their own style or method, which is interesting. Generally I take off the blanket first, in one piece. That is then cleared away and I shear the rest of the alpaca.

To an extent, yes, that would be good practice.

Should we be training shearing teams – shearer, classers, sorters, graders etc? That is certainly a goal, but there are probably not the numbers in NZ yet to justify shearing gangs. 45

Australian Alpaca Industry

RECORD SALE PRICE NATIONAL

The Australian – May 06, 2013 The Australian alpaca industry has rebounded from droughts and poor world financial markets to see a record national sale price for its top competition macho, with an Adelaide Hills male selling for AU$175,000. EP Cambridge stud owner Matthew Lloyd said the macho alpaca Invictus, which was last year named the nation's supreme champion, was sold to a New Zealand breeder for the record price. “There have been lots of ups and downs but it dawned on me about five or six years ago that no matter what you're in, whether it be racehorses or pigeons or alpacas, no matter how small the market is, there's always an appetite for the very best,” Mr Lloyd said.

Toni and Greg Charteris run their herd of huacaya alpacas in the gentle grazing land of Karaka, south of Auckland. It is an area best known for it’s racehorse businesses and of course the Karaka stud sales which are important for the horse industry world wide.

Last year, 2012 we had the option to purchase Invictus and we were very keen to see this happen. Invictus is Latin for Unconquered and unconquered indeed he is. Not only is Invictus himself a winner of top honours in the AAA National show ring but his sire, Windsong Valley Firedragon too has an impressive show record. 4 Supreme Championships, multiple broad ribbons and a pedigree to envy. He is still producing incredibly dense, soft handling lustrous fleece at 8 years old, and produced 4.1kg of skirted fleece when he was 6 years old. Those were the attributes that we want to put into our own breeding plan. EP Cambridge purchased Firedragon at the Windsong Valley herd dispersal sale for $150,000 AUD. The first mating he did once arriving at EPC was over one of their most beloved and successful females Verona. Verona is the dam of the 2012 British Futurity Sires Champion “EP Cambridge Top Account of Fowberry”. Invictus was the product of that first mating. Earlier this year we decided to visit the EP Cambridge stud to complete our purchase. Their stud is situated outside Adelaide, and is on typically dry Australian bushland. Our trip across the ditch was exciting but we added a few fun things along the way by sightseeing in Hahndorf, a German settled township still very much Germanic in it’s ways. It is a very popular 1 hour drive from Adelaide to visit Hahndorf and the town is thronged with city folk during summer weekends, bratworst in hand.

Now perhaps Karaka will become known for something else, it will soon be the home of last year’s AAA National Supreme Champion Huacaya, EP Cambridge Invictus. As we are in our 60s and we feel that time is precious we set out to begin our alpaca herd with some really good quality alpacas as we feel we do not have enough time to start at the bottom and breed up to quality. We have done that before, in our younger days when we had a herd of Saanen goats and also Angora goats. Back then we began with some crossbreed goats and there was a way in which you could breed them to full pedigree bucks and eventually produce progeny that were classed as acceptable to the goat registry. We ended our goat breeding with importing bucks from Zimbabwe and winning national honours with our stock. Our alpaca venture was going to be conducted quite differently.

EP Cambridge Invictus

It was a hot day, up in the 30s and the flies were pesky, as gastronomic centre. Arrangements to bring Invictus into NZ are well underway. He will be a pivotal part of our ET program they can be in Australia. We arrived and after a brief chat to that is run under the stewardship of Dr Jane Vaughan. Cathy and Matthew Lloyd we went indoors to have a good Our aim with Invictus is to produce a supreme solid white look through the fleece, shorn off Invictus a month or two commercial herd, but given Invictus father’s proven capability after his big win. The photo here in this article is of that fleece. to produce coloured animals from the Dams side, we expect His Supreme Champion ribbon as well as the AAA cup were he will be successful in producing coloured progeny also. available so we dressed up the fleece before taking photos. We were extremely impressed with the trophy room that Cathy Invictus is a young male with a long future ahead of him. and Matthew have set up at their farm, testament to their years Together we hope we can give him a good life in New Zealand of breeding. Enough photos were taken and it was time to go and of course we hope he will inject genetics into our future out to their impressive set-up of yards to have a good look at herd that will justify his purchase. As before, only time will tell Invictus. He was very gentle natured and lovely to handle. His but we are certainly very excited. fleece was only short but it was easy to see the impressive regrowth in a short timeframe since shearing. Firedragon was in the pen beside Invictus and a large group of Firedragon progeny and relatives of Invictus (on the dam’s side) were there for us to inspect too and they alpacas were indeed a lovely group. Firedragon was let out of his pen and carried out a mating while we chatted about different management issues and shearing issues that such a large herd would need to accommodate.

Cherry lane

Happy with our boy we said farewell and drove back to the city centre to celebrate with a meal in Adelaide’s

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.

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Gene Markers by John Bates – Client Manager, Lincoln University Gene Marker Laboratory

Over the last 15 years gene markers have been used to assist breeding in most domesticated livestock species and in humans it has been used predominantly to identify genetic disease that are transferred from one generation to another. A recent example of this was Angelina Jolie the celebrity who had a double mastectomy because she carried a defective gene that significantly increased her chances of breast cancer. The key here is that it increased her probability of getting the disease, but didn’t guarantee that she would get it. Most gene markers are like this and can be influenced by environment, feeding, etc.

A genetic marker (or gene marker) is a gene or part of a gene, where the location on the chromosome is known. It can be used to study the relationship between that gene and its effect on a trait or characteristic, or to mark the transfer of the gene (and the characteristic) to the progeny of a mating. At Lincoln University we have concentrated on sheep gene markers and predominantly in the disease area. These can be split into two types, firstly those that are genetic disorders and that are underpinned by single gene defects, while the other group are more complex and are based around the ability of the animal to either respond to a disease 50

(as in the case of our footrot gene marker) or improve a desirable trait (such as our lamb survival gene marker). To use gene markers it is important to know both their value and their limitations and how they are affected by environment. I personally believe that gene markers have been over sold to the sheep, dairy and beef industries. Presently our knowledge of what genes do and how they interact is very limited and given that we can’t “see” genes, we have to rely on the research being done accurately. In the case of our footrot gene marker we have had many years of research to give us confidence in the gene-marker but even now, there is still more to learn. To give some idea of the complexly of this gene-environment interaction I have included a brief description of our footrot gene marker The footrot gene marker influences the immune response of the animal to an attack by the footrot bacterium. This gene is highly variable (they call this polymorphic) with some forms being associated with a sheep mounting a good immune response to footrot, while others mount a much weaker

response. This allows us to rank this variation in the gene from 1 to 5 with a 5 score being approximately 10 times more likely to get footrot compared to a 1 or 2 score. Typically breeders, who have rams that have been regularly challenged with footrot and who have only selected those that show no infection, have mainly 1’s or 2’s and very few 4’s or 5’s. Equally those breeds which have been bred over a long period of time in environments with footrot (like the NZ Romney), also show the same effect (i.e. lots of 1’s and 2’s). This gives us additional information that the gene has a major effect in the response to footrot.

We see the best effect with this gene when there is some footrot present, allowing the immune system to be primed and allowing the animal to fight the disease naturally. There are a number of examples where commercial farmers have only used footrot gene-tested rams (1,1 or 1,2 etc) and have reduced footrot from their number one animal health problem, to one that while present, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cause problems. However where properties donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have footrot present and get an outbreak, even with using low scoring footrot gene-tested rams, the initial outbreak can be severe. The incidence and severity of the outbreak will be reduced with more tolerant genetics. Some of these properties try to eradicate footrot. This cannot be achieved with the gene-marker alone For farmers where footrot is a problem this gene marker will help to reduce the incidence of the disease. It is interesting to note that dedicated breeders can achieve the same effect by just breeding from animals that are challenged, but have no footrot, but this approach is much slower and there are significant animal health and welfare issues to consider. Therefore gene markers can help to eliminate undesirable genetic diseases from a population and can also be used to enhance breeding programmes where it would be slow and potentially undesirable to use normal breeding methods. When a breeder can either see or measure a particular trait then the advantages of gene markers will be less because it is possible for them to breed for that trait by visual selection and/or measurement. It may however be slower or less accurate.

Many of you would have heard of SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) which is now being used in both sheep and dairy cattle. These rely on screening a large number of genes and relating that information back to variation in various traits. It also relies on having a large database describing trait variation in a particular breed if it is to be accurate. There is certainly an advantage in being able to select animals of high genetic worth earlier in their life, but it needs to be balanced against the cost of testing and inability to select for all measured traits that you may wish to select for. The use of gene markers and related gene selection methods offers breeders of all domesticated animals the opportunity to improve their particular animals. However these should never be used to replace common-sense breeding, the measurement of heritable traits that are important to you, and good observation. We still only understand a small part of how genes interrelate and as such gene markers should always be seen as simply another tool for a stud stockman or woman to use to advance their particular breed or species. At present I am not aware of any gene markers available for Alpacas but a good place to start would be looking at the genes that influence fibre diameter and primary secondary follicle development (including guard hairs). Research funding would have to be available and scientists available to do the research. MAF-SFF is a good place to start for funding and Lincoln University for the scientific expertise.

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Welcome New Members of the AANZ On behalf of the membership of the Alpaca Association of NZ, National Council and the Editorial team, we would like to extend a warm welcome to the following new members of our association.

Kay & Allan Mann Hawera

Carey & Warwick King Wanganui

Nadine Corcoran Wanganui

Jane Alexander & Nigel Smith Kaiapoi

Peter Smits Hamilton

David Finer Kerikeri

Rob & Sally Walsh Upper Moutere

Emma & Dean Letcher Howick

Petra Reid Kaiapoi

Graham Croft Hamilton

Gordon & Lynn Carter Ohaupo

Tom Chatterton Otaki

Derek Barrett Wanganui

Jeffrey Ellis & Amie Cox Rangiora

Marion & Steve Titmuss Katikati

Simon & Louise Huntley Ladbrooks

Bert Van Heuckelum Katikati

Ken & Young-Oak Wells Oxford

Jackie Clarke (Associate) Kaukapakapa

Nola & Thabani Sibanda Wanganui

Allan & Sylvie Currie Gore

Stephen & Crystal Witte Papanui

Graham & Joca Keen Kaiapoi

Trish Irwin Howick

Ali Charlton Dunedin

Dave Charlson Waipawa

Keith Bouskill Whangarei

David Taylor Winton

Jacqueline Hartley Feilding Julia & Sidney Hill Palmerston North Patricia & Peter Clarke Porangahau Michele Usher Carterton Daphne Judith George Herbert Angela Cheney South Australia Debra O'Neill New South Wales

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Home of the Wonderful Alpaca

     



www.flagstaffalpacas.co.nz

 

Ataahua Alpacas

Fancy Blacks?

“Choose Quality”

We Do Too !!

Black & Coloured Fine Huacaya

THESE ARE OUR BLACK STUD TRIO

Alpacas for Sale Breeding Stock & Show Winners

“Champion Awards” MANDRAKE

DIEGO

WIZARD

AND… WE WILL BE BREEDING OUR BLACK & GREY GIRLS TO BLACK & GREY STUDS THIS SEASON

Want to know more? Contact us: Ross & Alanah Brabham ROSALA ALPACAS P: (09) 411 9188 E: info@rosala-alpacas.co.nz W: rosala-alpacas.co.nz

Stud Services Elite Black Genetics

Supreme Black Huacaya Fleece

NI Colourbration 2012

Supreme Huacaya Fleece - Rotorua 2013 Jackee, Jeff & Ashlee Peters Hamilton, NZ

www.ataahua-alpacas.co.nz 55

Central District

FIELD DAYS by Graham Pedley – President Central Region

Last year the Central Region committee thought this field day would be an opportunity to promote Alpacas. But how could we do it? We put the idea in our report to the AANZ council thinking it could become a national project and left it there. It was great to hear back form the M&P sub committee that they would fund a site if we could put it together and man it for the three days. They booked the site, and we set about putting together what we needed to make a display for all alpaca breeds. Firstly we had to put aside our personal studs, this was going to be a regional event for alpacas. We knew we had to have animals on display to attract the public, but not for sale. What about a free draw we thought. With the generosity of a couple of breeders, who donated a young boy each, we had a pair to put into a free draw. Knowing how alpacas attract people we drew up some strict conditions of entry to make sure that those that entered could look after and have the land suitable for these beautiful boys, one Suri and one Huacaya. The cooperation we got from members who were willing to help was wonderful, some lending equipment and prepared to cover their stud name, so we could have a stand that was free of individual studs. We printed information on Alpacas plus the names of all registered members in the central region to put on display so the public could see a member near them. We organized 56

2013

fleeces of all colours to go on display, someone to be spinning alpaca fibre, the office sent us Focus magazines to hand out. We thought we were organized for the three days. On the Wednesday afternoon we had arranged to put up the marquee we had hired “at a good rate” (not what you know but who you know). But the great Manawatu wind tried to help!!! It took longer than anticipated, with a few near Mary Poppin displays and some help from our neighbouring site holders we had it standing, hoping it would still be there in the morning. The first morning of the Feildays was still and hot and the marquee was still standing, with the animals in their pen, fleeces on display, we were ready for the public. Would they stop when we had nothing to sell? I think we were one of the few sites that was not trying to sell something, but giving people an opportunity to go in a draw to win two free Alpacas if they met the conditions. What we hoped would happen, happened. People stopped to talk ask question, without being pressured to buy anything and we meet people who had some alpacas and needed some help. Great, this was working. As anyone who has had a stand knows it can be hard work and it was so good that we had a number of members who were prepared to give some time to help. Thank you. In my mind I thought, with the conditions we had for people to go in the draw, if we had fifty by the end of the field days it would have been worth it, by the end of the first day we had fifty two names with phone numbers and address. The second day was just as hot and the dry spell we were sharing with the rest of the North Island continued, but the public come and the interest in the alpacas was amazing. Every one who was on the stand could tell you a story about someone they spoke with. There is one I would like to share.

An elderly lady being pushed in a wheel chair by her daughter was trying to reach into the pen to touch the alpacas, I asked if she would like me to bring one out on a lead so she could feel how soft it was, she was so excited, she proceeded to tell me all about alpacas, she had read every thing she could about alpacas she loved them so much, but she had never touched one. When I got the alpaca out she nearly jumped out of her wheelchair and her daughter informed me she was 89, and she wanted her daughter to take a photo, but not sitting in her wheelchair, we helped her out and she stood with her arms around the neck of the alpaca while her daughter took a photo “Not one but more” she said “More”. As we put her back in her chair she smiled at me and said “I can die tonight happy”. I hope she didn’t, but to me that is what alpacas do for some people and that is what promoting alpacas is all about. By the end of the third day we had 192 people in the draw and I had said I would deliver the two boys to the winner, well we had names of people from all over the lower half of the north island and further, I was thinking I’m in for a big trip somewhere. We got the man from the stand next to us to do the draw as he had watching the activities going on at our site for the three days. We asked him to draw four names as we wanted to make sure that the first one or two came up to the conditions we had set, and believe it or not the first name was someone who lived just down the road from the field days.

I must say, taking down a marquee is a lot easier and quicker than putting one up. We all went home tired but happy that it had all gone so well with just one big job to do. As I rang the number of the winner of the draw, no one had been able to put a face to the name, I was thinking, I wonder if this person is serious about owning two alpacas. When the phone was answered, I asked for the person who’s name I had she said it was her and I asked if she was serious about owning two alpacas. She just said “Have I won!? Have I won!?” When I told her that her name had been drawn out of the 192 names in the draw, she just said “I never win anything. You had better talk to my husband”. I thought I hope I’m not going to be in the middle of a domestic here as I could hear her running from the phone yelling “I won, I won!”. He was fine with it and knew she had gone in the draw, we arranged to meet in a couple of days to inspect their property as part of the conditions. As we drove up the drive Peter could remember talking with them at the field days and we couldn’t have chosen a better home for the two boys if we had tried Promoting is not just about what you do today - it is about what people remember tomorrow.

BrEnor AlpAcA

BrEEdInG Champi ons

We offer leading genetics Superior dams Quality progeny Champion certified males Friendly service

br enor Brenda & Ivor Gainsford P 07 332 2336 ı M 021 275 3720 E alpaca@brenor.co.nz ı W www.brenor.co.nz

MUXLOW ALPACAS is a New Zealand boutique white and light fawn alpaca breeder where the best genetics, quality and consistency come together. We aim to continue with uncompromising attention to health and welfare to breed a further succession of premier supreme animals.

You will ďŹ nd us at 57 Speedy Road, RD4, Pukekohe, New Zealand. email: muxlowalpacas@ix.net.nz website: www.muxlowalpacas.co.nz Telephone: +64 (0)9 236 4227 mobile: +64 (0)21 641 572

NZ1092313-Nexus Investments:NZ1076557-Nexus Investments

Alpaca training equipment animals for sale

Vicky Tribe

Gotland SURI Alpacas www.gotlandalpacas.co.nz Breeders of Whites & Coloured Champions

Lars & Heather Olsson 98 Hendersons Line R.D.10

Palmerston North New Zealand

Email: enquiries@gotlandalpacas.co.nz

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

T Your chance to own the iconic New Zealand Alpacas Ltd 23 Hectares of land boasting over 500m of prime road frontage on State Highway 1 Extensive buildings including a 4/5 bedroom brick-built family home with in ground salt-water swimming pool, office , visitor centre and animal handling complex including a registered pre-export isolation facility Situated 8km South of Cambridge, 2km from the shores of Lake Karapiro commanding outstanding views of Maungatautari and stunning surrounding countryside

For Sale By Tender October 2013 Land and buildings or as a going concern For more details contact Chris or Tasha 787 State Highway 1 RD2 Cambridge 3494 info@nzalpacas.com Mobile (64) 21 532241 Business (64) 7 8233551

University of Saskatchewan led team have Identified the Biochemical in Seminal Fluid that Induces Ovulation by Michael Robin - University of Saskatchewan Research News

An international team of scientists led by Gregg Adams at the University of Saskatchewan has discovered that a protein in semen acts on the female brain to prompt ovulation, and is the same molecule that regulates the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells. Male mammals have accessory sex glands that contribute seminal fluid to semen, but the role of this fluid and the glands that produce it are not well understood. “From the results of our research, we now know that these glands produce large amounts of a protein that has a direct effect on the female,” says Adams, a professor of veterinary biomedical sciences at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the U of S. The work, which appears in the August 20, 2012 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), raises intriguing questions about fertility in mammals, including humans.

The team characterized the protein, dubbed ovulationinducing factor (OIF), that they have found in the semen of all species of mammal they have looked at so far. In the process of discovering its identity, the team compared OIF to thousands of other proteins, including nerve growth factor (NGF) which is found primarily in nerve cells throughout the body. “To our surprise, it turns out they are the same molecule,” Adams says. “Even more surprising is that the effects of NGF in the female were not recognized earlier, since it’s so abundant in seminal plasma.” While OIF/NGF may function differently from animal to animal, it is present in all mammals studied so far, from llamas, cattle and koalas to pigs, rabbits, mice, and humans. This implies an important role in reproduction in all mammals. Just how it works, its role in various species and its clinical relevance to human infertility are a few of the questions that remain to be answered. OIF/NGF in the semen acts as a hormonal signal, working through the hypothalamus of the female brain and the pituitary gland. This triggers the release of other hormones that signal the ovaries to release an egg (or eggs, depending on the species). For this latest study, the team looked at two species: llamas and cattle. Llamas are “induced ovulators,” that is, they ovulate only when they have been inseminated. Cows – and

humans – are “spontaneous ovulators,” meaning that a regular buildup of hormones stimulates the release of an egg. Using a variety of techniques, the researchers compared OIF and NGF and found them to have the same size and to cause the same effects across species. Work at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron at the University of Saskatchewan confirmed the structure of the molecule. “The idea that a substance in mammalian semen has a direct effect on the female brain is a new one,” Adams explains. “This latest finding broadens our understanding of the mechanisms that regulate ovulation and raises some intriguing questions about fertility.” The team includes Marcelo Ratto and Ximena Valderrama from the Universidad Austral de Chile in Valdivia, Chile, as well as Adams, Yvonne Leduc, Karin van Straaten and Roger Pierson from the University of Saskatchewan. This research was funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Alpaca Research Foundation, the Chilean National Science and Technology Research Council, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). For more information see: www.alpacaresearchfoundation.org/library/fertility.html Photos by: Liam Richards for the University of Saskatchewan

FULL HERD SALE We’re having a full herd sale, so if you’re after quality black huacaya in any shape or form, you need to talk to us! Studs, and potential stud males, experienced dams, some with cria at foot, and maidens all available, as both packages and single sales. At Valenza, we have built the herd carefully on excellent genetics, and have produced quality animals, as evidenced by our show results at local, regional, and national levels. One-stop shopping for black huacaya – contact us now for further information.

www.theblackalpaca.co.nz Lindy Boyd & Kirsty Connell 1230 Omanawa Road, RD1, Tauranga Mobile: 027 2411 805 • E-mail: info@theblackalpaca.co.nz

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

WOOL ‘Everything Alpaca’ TECHNOLOGIES List FREE CASH PAID FOR ALPACA for aFIBRE limited time!

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

www.AlpacaME.co.nz New Zealand’s Alpaca-Only Auction Site

HOMESTEAD FARM APOLLO

Apollo is stamping his unique pedigree superiority on his progeny and is consistently passing on his wonderful fleece characteristics. As an example, he won two Alpaca Championships with his 7th fleece showing style, structure and character. His progeny have won championship after championship ribbon and are hard to beat. Apollo is undoubtedly one of the best white stud males in the country, consistently reducing guard hair in his progeny - increasing density, extreme fineness, structure and super soft fleece. Carrying the genetics of Benleigh Bellisimo, Benleigh Debut, Purrumbete Inti, Purrumbete Highlander (both sides) Purrumbete Brigantine, Purrumbete Sweet Freedom, Purrumbete Maid of The Mist, his pedigree is UNPRECEDENTED 7th Fleece FD 23.4u, SD 4.4, CV 18.6, CF 92.4%

DIRECT PEDIGREE

BENLEIGH BELLISIMO BENLEIGH DEBUT PURRUMBETE BRIGANTINE PURRUMBETE INTI BENLEIGH HIGHLAND BELLE PURRUMBETE HALO PURRUMBETE HIGHLANDER (On both sides of the family) Anne Rogers Photography

Anne Rogers Photography

UNPRECEDENTED

AN OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED

JUNE - DECEMBER John & Norma Bush Muxlow Alpacas 57 Speedy Road, RD4 Pukekohe email: muxlowalpacas@ix.net.nz website: www.muxlowalpacas.co.nz Telephone: +64 (0)9 236 4227

JANUARY - MAY Paul & Sandy Drogemuller Sarau Hills Alpacas 93 Supplejack Valley Road, RD1 Upper Moutere, Nelson email: drogs@ts.co.nz Telephone: +64 (0)3 543 2634 Mobile: +64 (0)21 763 411

Beach

Walking

in Northland

by Pav Stavey

All alpaca owners and breeders know just how lucky they are to be close to these amazing animals on a daily basis. Sometimes we forget just how much pleasure they can give to other people who do not have the luxury of owning that not so little patch of green grass.

rugged beaches with amazing views and it occurred to me that offering people the chance to walk an alpaca on one of those beaches would be an experience of a lifetime. In the past 6 months we have taken both overseas tourists and New Zealanders on these walks and every time both the alpacas and the visitors have had a ball. The alpacas all have different personalities and I try and match them to the people as best as I can. I take male and female alpacas ranging from 8 months old to 8 years. One male in particular makes a beeline for the water as soon as he gets on to the beach which usually results in a startled look from the person holding him quickly followed by a huge grin. Luckily they only go in up to knee level so the visitors don't have to be swimmers!

In 2004 I saw my first alpaca, and as so many people before me have said “it was love at first sight”. Eleven years later I am still in love and enjoying being able to share the experience with people from around the world and from all walks of life.

Our Asian farmstay visitors particularly enjoy this unique experience, as do children. One of the most rewarding walks ever was with 2 adult intellectually challenged ladies who absolutely adored it. On that occasion I did have an extra long “safety” lead attached to one of the alpacas just in case both ladies let go at the same time but I needn't have worried.

Visitors to New Zealand love our wonderful beaches and what better way to enjoy them than strolling along with an alpaca at your side. Northland has some stunning

On another amusing beach walk, we came across a very frightening, very large piece of driftwood. The alpacas refused to go near it so we had to take a huge detour with them

keeping their eyes firmly on the piece of wood to make certain it did not leap into the air and attack them! It is now winter and I expected the bookings to stop, or at least slow down until the warm weather returned. However, it seems that people are quite happy to put on an extra layer of clothing and walk in the rain – anything so as not to miss this opportunity to be up close and personal with these gentle creatures in an unforgettable environment.

Styx River Alpacas Striving for excellence in all things alpaca “Most Successful Huacaya Exhibitor”

Styx River Cleopatra

Little River A&P Show 2012! Quality doesn’t always have a high price tag! We have excellent quality females for sale now, choose a mating from our champion stud males. Packages designed to suit every need and

Catherine & Kees Rietveld www.styxriveralpacas.co.nz

Mob: 027 4815 785

National Junior Female Championship Fleece 2010

Cristiano Bianchi, SIA’s President by Kit Johnson

How many members are there in your association? Before replying at this question, we must say that 4 years ago, when I became President of SIA Alpaca, the situation in Italy was quite “at the beginning”. There were just few small alpaca owners who started breeding only a few years after the boom of English-speaking countries, but they were not able to develop their business despite the interesting opportunities presented by those who sold them the animals. Despite the presence of an existing association since 2001 (it was closed in 2011), farmers were isolated, poorly informed, often in conflict with each other. The owners of alpacas were almost all convinced that they made a bad deal and then were divided between those who wanted to sell away their animals telling the same stories of “enrichment” that were told to them and those who sought to dissuade you. Only a few young informed people were trying to find a way to work seriously for the development of the alpaca in Italy. I joined these people, and together we founded SIA (Italian Alpaca Society) with the intent to organize farmers in Italy but especially to give new interested people as much information as possible. Our intent is to build a strong group of breeders informed and aware that they can become the protagonists of a boom in acquisition and growth of the “Flock Italia”. At the moment, our association has 40 careful members.

How many alpacas in Italy? About 2000 animals so far. SIA by the way, was born to increase the number of animals: as we are working with the Italian government, the goal is to reach 30,000 animals in the next 7 years that will represent the 8% of the value of the fibre in Italy.

Where have most of the alpacas come from ie UK, Chile or other parts of Europe? The first animals came from Chile but the new ones are arriving from various parts of Europe , UK, Australia and NZ.

How many alpaca shows do you have and when? In the past years we had just one national championship. For the next year we are planning two shows. 66

What are the most popular colours? Brown and black

Italy is famous for its processing of fibre - we would love to know more about your processors and what they want? In Italy there are the best industries in the world for fine fibres. To work with them you have to know them and enter into a relationship in order to avoid possible problems. This can certainly be done in a perspective of collaboration between Italy and NZ: we are the best weavers and NZ has the best breeders. The S.I.A. does not deal with any of fibre production processes. It deals only with breeding.

Tell us more about your magazine - how many copies and how often it is printed? Alpaca Magazine Italia was born last year, in 2013 we are having 3 issues (Apr - Aug - Dec), both printed and on line and we are planning to increase the quantity and the number of issues. For the moment the readers are around a thousand. Usually the printed copies are distributed in Italy among the members of SIA: some of them have also shops or hotels so they spread their copies to their customers too. The magazine wants to inform as much readers as possible about the world of Alpacas, with technical information, curiosity from farms in Italy and abroad, updates on initiatives of the association, interviews. Usually we write technical articles but there are also some articles about tourism in Italy and abroad. We always dedicated some pages to an interview with a foreign person who can be the president of a foreign association, a judge, a stylist, etc...

What do you hope to achieve in the next 12 months? Last year we had the government recognition of our association. We received a mandate to record all the animals on their territory, and to undertake a program to improve the flock in the whole Italy.

What are the problems facing your industry in Italy? The alpaca in Italy is now entering in the world of agriculture. At this moment Italians do not consider the alpaca an investment, they are not interested in shows, they want to

breed alpaca only if the fibre can produce an income for them. In Italy, we were not used to breed animals for the fibre. We were used to buy the fibre from abroad and to transform it.

2011 Herd

Beside this mentality, there are also other “smaller” issues: • From a physical point of view, Italy has a shape suitable for breeding but the frequent droughts may become a problem, especially in the territories of the south. • Veterinarians are overwhelmingly disinterested to alpaca and to the new challenges generated by its farming.

males available for stud dutie

• Farmers are often isolated and the culture of farming, usual in the past, wasn’t passed to the new farmers.

package deals available on request

• There aren’t people with textile skills who are also interested breeding and most breeders ignore the problems related to the use of alpaca fibre from the industry, because the contacts between the two are quite rare at the moment.

Is the industry flourishing or is it difficult to sell animals? The alpaca in Italy is expanding. It is not difficult to sell animals if they have a fair price compared to the income you sherlin macgyver 107218 can earn from them. SIA is working to increase theIAR: sector. In Col: Dark Fawn particular we are organizing shows, workshops and lessons; Stud Fee: $850 + GST we are spreading information thanks to our magazine and our website, we are creating a quality trademark for our fibre or for products made with our fibre, we are developing contacts with the main Italian breeding associations, with the foreign ones, with the Italian government and also with banks and private companies that can be interested in fibre.

uesta Alpacas For True Blacks cedar House perez IAR: 40066 Col: Solid White Stud Fee: $900 + GST

Pioneering breeders of true, blue black alpacas, the only naturally black fibre in the world. For us the conformation and colour comes first and now our show winning stud males are adding low SD, style, density and fineness. Visit us to see how really black alpacas can be.

Weaving

We also provide custom weaving services to transform your yarn el paco into fabric and have asurilana wide range IAR: 95922 of woven alpaca products sale. Col:for Solid White Stud Fee: $900 + GST

cedar House amar IAR: 62329 Col: Solid Black Stud Fee: $1250 + GST

cedar House ardisia IAR: 70746 Col: Med Fawn Stud Fee: $850 + GST

pinjarra

IAR: Col: M Stud Fee: $

Breeding Champions 2012 Canterbury A & P Show

Father, Son and pinjarra Daughter opal man IAR: 28693 IAR: 97060 allCol:champions at the same show Solid White Col: Solid White

adsail commissar Stud Fee: $900 + GST

Stud Fee: $850 + GST

Sire Sherlin Commodore Champion Mature male

pinjarra W

IAR: Col: Sol Stud Fee: $

Son Sherlin Illusion Champion Junior Male Daughter Sherlin Adeline Champion Junior Female and Champion White Suri santa laureano “What ever sherlin the colour IAR: 63139 Col: Med Grey in Suri or Huacaya Stud Fee: $900 + GST talk to Lindsay and Sheryl”

sherlin tingo alvardo IAR: 66810 Col: Solid Black Stud Fee: $900 + GST

sherlin c

IAR: Col: Sol Stud Fee: $

sHerlin alpaca stud

43 LAWFORD ROAD, CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND.

www.sherlin-alpaca.co.nz | admin@sherlin-alpaca.co.nz

Jenny & Martyn Ellwood-Wade cuesta@ellwood.co.nz www.cuesta.co.nz +64(0)92924334, Hunua, Auckland

PHONE 03 349 7524. MOBILE 0274 331094. SHERLIN ALPACA STUD

43 LAWFORD ROAD, CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND.

www.sherlin-alpaca.co.nz | admin@sherlin-alpaca.co.nz PHONE 03 349 7524 | MOBILE 0274 331 094

NEW MEMBER

New Member Profile:

PROFILE David Taylor - Winton

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 David Taylor from Winton.

by Sheryl Johnson

David Taylor suspects he might come from convict stock! His grandfather moved from Australia to New Zealand, with his new wife, in 1912 and David’s family have farmed in the Winton area ever since. He has downsized the original 400 acres to just 180 acres and at 70 years young, this is his idea of retirement.

David has sold most of his sheep but still has a large herd of angora goats and some hens and recently introduced 8 alpacas to his farm livestock. David’s herd of alpacas will increase because he has purchased a couple of pregnant females but he is not sure how many alpacas he will eventually run. David’s first purchase of 3 young males led him to purchase another male when one of the boys fretted. He had come from a different herd and missed his mates. When David returned to the original breeder to collect the extra male, he saw a mother with a new cria and his heart melted. He purchased a mother and two of her daughters and he hopes that at least two of them are pregnant. He is looking forward to the new arrivals once the harsh Southland winter has moved on. David first saw alpacas at the Winton Show about 20 years ago. He was standing next to a woman who had an alpaca lead in each hand and she was rather nervous about going into the grand parade because she had to follow all the cattle. Any alpaca breeder who has followed all the cattle round the ring in the Grand Parade at Canterbury A&P show will sympathise with her. David is not sure if he will show his alpacas at the Balclutha show because they are not halter trained but he will be at the Winton show this year helping celebrate the 100th year of that show and he will be showing his goats. David has also been very successful in showing pigs many years ago and used to give the boys at Canterbury a “run for their money”. David has gone for a colourful look in his herd. He has one black male, a white male and the rest of his herd is differing shades of fawn. We wish him all the best with his alpaca experience and look forward to catching up at one of the Southland country shows in the future.

ADVERTISING BREEDER

PROFILE Richard & Miriam Williams

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.

by Richard Williams

Queens Birthday weekend 1999. That's when we first saw the piece of land where we now live. Rather, it was the view of the South Wairarapa at our feet, the snow-covered Tararuas and Kaikouras in the distance that blew us away. The totally undeveloped hilly farmland behind us was a bit daunting - But That View!!

and affordable. Off we went to the Mystery Creek Fieldays to research alternative power, water tanks and some pretty weird sewerage systems. That's where we met our first alpacas. Over the two days we were there, something kept pulling us back to them.

Like many people who live here now, we'd been weekending in Martinborough regularly for several years and the time had arrived when we felt ready to make the move. We'd tossed up between Martinborough and Wanaka but Martinborough's familiarity and its proximity to Wellington (and Richard's work in IT) won out. The next 12 months saw us move to Martinborough and get started with planting trees. Our initial idea had been to plant the whole 9 acres but that quickly showed itself to be an unrealistic goal. We weren't sure exactly what to do with the land but knew we wanted to build.

In the meantime, all three girls had given birth to male cria - whom we'd named Ruamahanga Russian Fudge, Ruamahanga Nougat and Ruamahanga Rolo. Fudge and Nougat won ribbons at the 2001 Canterbury Show and are now two of our resident studs. Sheena, Phyllis and Dolly have given us 23 cria and many other animals have come and gone over the last 12 years. We very sadly lost Phyllis in 2009 but Sheena and Dolly - both 15 now - still keep the young ones in line! At any one time we have had about 20 alpacas on the property, so we've never seen ourselves as 'big-time breeders'.

Because there were none of the services we'd taken for granted in the city (phone, power, water, sewerage...) whatever we did would need to be energy efficient

The other challenge which, in our naivety, we hadn't really counted on was that the land came with no services whatsoever. When you're living in the city

In September we set off on a 10-day skiing trip to the South Island. To cut a long story short, it wasn't a good ski season and we ended up skiing 3 days and visiting 10 alpaca farms When we arrived home and announced that we had bought 3 pregnant (huacaya) females, our friends and family all thought we'd lost the plot!! Our house wasn't ready for another 18 months so we left the animals at Southern Alpacas in West Melton where we had bought them. This turned out to be a smart move because by the time they arrived on our property we had learned a lot by making several trips south, helping Nic and Linda around the farm and attending a couple of shows.

you take water, sewerage, power and telephone for granted. We thought: 'It can't be all that hard!' Rain water and a septic tank are pretty standard; a landline telephone is permanently out of the question. Because of our location, hooking up to the 'grid' was out of the question financially so we focused on low energy use, batteries, some solar panels, an inverter and, for the first two years, a diesel generator. Our water is heated by a combination of solar and a wet-back on the fire. We cook with gas. A couple of years down the track we acquired some neighbours who shared the cost of getting the power on and we've had a hybrid system since. At the moment we are in the process of renewing our batteries and more than doubling our solar panel capacity in the hope that we can keep our power bills to little more than the line charge. Always a sucker for punishment, I put my hand up for the AANZ Northern Region committee and, later , National Council from 2002 to 2005. By this time we were also taking animals and products to local markets and shows and Central Districts and Mystery Creek Fieldays. We have a small shop set up in our barn and have hosted many visitors from crafters and tourists right through to Probus, rest home and school groups. After a very short time as our herd developed, it became more and more difficult to remember who was related to whom, the progress of any particular mating, when cria were due and also scheduling the more mundane tasks such as drenching and inoculations. Richard has been working in IT since the mid 1970's and quite quickly decided to write a computer program to assist us in keeping track of our herd, their ancestors and the husbandry tasks. The first version of Alpaca Manager came into being towards the end of 2002 - only intended for our own use. Of course it wasn't as simple as that! As we told our friends and alpaca colleagues about the application, various of them expressed an interest in trying it. The first commercial release (which included context-sensitive help text right from the beginning) came out in September 2003.

hardware and operating systems and making modifications based on suggestions and requests from users. Conversion of data from other herd management programs is usually possible and data can also be imported â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example shearing statistics or weight observations. When animals are sold, their data can be transferred to the new owners. To find out more about Alpaca Manager, visit: www.epsilon.net.nz/alpacamanager.html Fast forward almost ten years to 2013. We now have hundreds of users all over the world - not only in NZ, Australia, the UK and USA but also in South Africa, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland and Ireland. We've attended three AAA National Shows in Melbourne, Canberra and Adelaide and also had a presence at the 2012 Sydney Royal Show. The internet has made it easy to communicate when there are questions and it's even commonplace to connect to a client's computer to resolve problems or help with an installation So, what started out as buying a block of land with a great view has ended up being an international software business. Of course, we still have the animals and breed on a fairly small scale but our focus has shifted somewhat over the years.

AGE and Shows were added in 2004, an online tutorial in 2005. October 2007 saw the inclusion of the BAS (UK) and ARI (USA) registries and in March 2008 significant changes made it possible to track ET pregnancies. The last major development was in March 2009 when Worksheets were added. Richard has also been kept busy ensuring compatibility with advances in computer

Miriam feeding.

Richard & Hannibal in the kitchen.

2013 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 Benleigh Sancho ET Silverstream Godsend ET Tiger Hill Elliott Tiger Hill Esprit Waiheke Apollo Moon Waratah Flats Limited Edition Wildflower Gnangara Lemar Marlow Silverstream Infinity Waiheke Phenomenon ET Arcady Toblerone Arcady Le Cadeau

Colour Guide:

72 72 73 73 73 73 74 74 74 74 75 75 75

Greenvale Donato Greenwood Greylord Martina Lopez Alpacaspecialist Elvis Canchones Atonement Canchones Bleecker Street Canchones Ferragamo ET Canchones Tycoon Milduck Mandela Pejo Grenadier Sunsetestate Nitro Sunsetestate Serengeti Sunsetestate Urban Myth

Aquaviva Hermes IAR: 1005036 Born: 5 February 2010 Sire: Waratah Flats Achilles Dam: EP Cambridge Commishka STUD FEE: $1,100 incl. GST CONTACT DETAILS: Awatere Alpacas Philip and Robyn Anderson 224 Curries Road, Springston South RD 4, Christchurch 7674 Ph: 03 329 5654 Mob: 027 292 8373 (027 AWATERE) Email: alpaca@awatere.co.nz www.awatere.co.nz

Benleigh Sancho ET IAR: 111353 Born: 16 May 2006 Sire: Jolimont Warrior Dam: Benleigh Sweet Caroline STUD FEE: $1500+GST on farm only CONTACT DETAILS: Aristocrat Alpaca, Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait Kumeu, Auckland, Ph: 09 412 5000 Email: aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz Water's Edge Alpaca, Karaka, Auckland Toni & Greg Charteris, Ph: 09 292 7895 Email: toni@tcs.co.nz

75 76 76 76 76 77 77 77 77 78 78 78 78

White/Light Fawn

Fawn

Brown

Grey

Suri herd sires Surico Trilogy Surilana Casino Thistledown Bombastic Valley of Peace Aristocrat Berwyn Cedar House Gold Rush 2 Surilana Troubador Valley of Peace Arkin Waiheke Midnight Oil

Black

79 79 79 79 80 80 80 80

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Hermes’ first progeny are here and Hermes has delivered. We have a team of robust, improved cria with long and lustrous, soft handling, advanced style fleeces, all with excellent density. Stud fee includes free agistment for up to 60 days. Mobile matings by arrangement. With any purchase of our breeding females, a mating to Hermes is included. SHOW CREDITS: 2013 Champion Senior Male - Winchester 2013 Reserve Senior Champion Fleece - Banks Peninsula 2012 Reserve Champion Male White Fleece - SI Colourbration 2012 Senior Male White / Light Fawn - Oxford 2012 Champion Adult Male - Winchester 2011 Champion National Junior Male Fleece 2011 Supreme Champion Huacaya Fleece - Canterbury 2011 Champion Fleece - MacKenzie 2011 Reserve Champion Junior Male Fleece - Royal Waikato 2011 Reserve Champion Intermediate Male - MacKenzie 2011 1st White Junior Male Fleece - Royal NZ Show 2010 Reserve Champion Junior Male - Ellesmere 2010 1st Junior Male White / Light Fawn - Canterbury FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 22.9µm, 4.8SD, 21.1%CV, 93.0%CF DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: SANCHO ET is fast becoming one of the Iconic Impact Males of his time. SANCHO won Champion Intermediate Fawn male and then Reserve Intermediate Male at the Australian National Show 2007. His shorn fleece then went on to win the Intermediate class at the World Fleece Show in Sydney over all other colours. With numerous Championship and Supreme ribbons to his credit, SANCHO ET is available for restricted matings by application only. SANCHO’s cria are consistently of advanced fleece types with very high density and and microns as low as 14.54. FIBRE DETAILS: 6th Fleece – 2011 – 23.4µm, 4.9SD, 20.9%CV

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Silverstream Godsend ET IAR: 126706 Born: 26 November 2007

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).  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: Silverstream Alpaca Stud, Kit & Sheryl Johnson North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz Brenor Alpaca, Brenda & Ivor Gainsford 58 Ward Road, Hamurana, RD 7, Rotorua Ph: 07 332 2336 Email: alpaca@brenor.co.nz www.brenor.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 Fleece – 2011 – 20.9µm, 3.8SD, 18.2%CV, 50.8curve, 98.0%CF 5th Fleece – 2012 – 19.2µm, 3.8SD, 19.7%CV, 67.5curve, 99.0%CF

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

Tiger Hill Elliott IAR: 141345 Born: 17 February 2009 Sire: Solitaire Donahue Dam: Bellbird Ridge Brydie STUD FEE: $900+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Tiger Hill Alpacas Don & Melissa Bell PO Box 404011, Puhoi Mob: 021 298 9499 Email: melissa@tigerhill.co.nz

Tiger Hill Esprit IAR: 141346 Born: 22 February 2009 Sire: Cedar House Zephyr Dam: Cedar House Rustic Ruby STUD FEE: $900+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Tiger Hill Alpacas Don & Melissa Bell PO Box 404011, Puhoi Mob: 021 298 9499 Email: melissa@tigerhill.co.nz

Waiheke Apollo Moon IAR: 1005670 Born: 16 January 2010 Sire: Homestead Farm Apollo Dam: Loose Beare Wallareen Moon STUD FEE: $1100+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road, Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 | Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz | www.waihekealpaca.co.nz Roger & Jan Ward 1121 No 2 Road, RD 3, Te Puke 3182 Ph: 07 573 9094 | Mob: 021 303 323 Email: kisimul@netsmart.net.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Elliott is a well formed boy with a fine, soft light fawn fleece, which has a broad crimp style. He consistently produces good fibre length and fleece volume each year. He is a keen worker and his first progeny, born early in 2013, is brown in colour. SHOW CREDITS: 2009 – 1st Conformation Jnr W/Light Fawn Male Huacaya – Whangarei Show 2010 – 1st Intermediate White/Light Fawn Male Huacaya – Franklin Show 2011 – 1st Senior White/Light Fawn Male Huacaya – Franklin Show 2011 – Reserve Champion Senior White/Light Fawn Fleece – Franklin Show FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 25.81µm, 5.1SD, 23.6%CV, 79.9%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: As a double Supreme Champion, Esprit still exhibits a superb, light fawn, dense soft handling fleece and good conformation. His first progeny born earlier in 2013 range in colour from light fawn to dark brown. SHOW CREDITS: 2010 – Supreme Champion – Franklin A&P Show 2010 – Supreme Champion Auckland Royal – Easter Show 2010 – Reserve Champion Intermediate Male – Kumeu Show FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 22.3µm, 4.8SD, 21.7%CV, 94.2%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Apollo Moon is an impressive example of an upcoming male. He is sired by the famous 100% Accoyo Male, Homestead Farm Apollo, who is not widely available for outside services. Apollo Moon's fleece displays a well aligned, high frequency structure that is super fine and soft handling. He produces a large fleece with high density and even coverage right down his legs and up to his head. His frame has good substance of bone, excellent conformation, amazing testicular development, and a lovely nature making him easy to handle. Waiheke Apollo Moon is the complete package. He now has confirmed pregnancies and with his genetics he will do well across a broad range of females regardless of colour. SHOW CREDITS: (NOTE: Only shown once prior to Waikato 2011) 2012 1st Adult Light Fawn Male at North Island Colourbration 2012 1st Senior Light Fawn Male at Auckland Royal 2012 1st Senior Light Fawn Male at Kumeu 2012 1st Senior Light Fawn Male at Franklin 2012 2nd Senior White/Light Fawn Male at Morrinsville 2012 2nd Intermediate White/Light Fawn Male at Rotorua Show 2011 1st Intermediate Light Fawn Male at Waikato Show 2010 5th (out of 18) Junior Mid/Dark Fawn Male at AANZ National Show FIBRE DETAILS: 2nd Fleece – 2011 – 19.23µm, 3.8SD, 19.5%CV, 98.9%CF, 18.5µSF 3rd Fleece – 2012 – 21.7µm, 4.5SD, 20.5%CV, 95.0%CF

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Waratah Flats Limited Edition IAR: 1000162 Born: 12 February 2009 Sire: Homestead Farm Apollo Dam: Waratah Flats Crystal STUD FEE: $750+GST (Discount for multiple matings) CONTACT DETAILS: Stoney Meadows Alpacas Wayne & Sandra Allison 502 North Eyre Road, RD 6, Rangiora 7476 Ph: 03 312 0512 Mob: 027 404 4000 Email: info@stoneymeadows.co.nz www.stoneymeadowsalpacas.com

Wildflower Gnangara IAR: 152496 Born: 01 May 2009 Sire: Wildflower Kokoda Dam: Amberley Park Evelyn STUD FEE: $800+GST (Discount for multiple matings) CONTACT DETAILS: Stoney Meadows Alpacas Wayne & Sandra Allison 502 North Eyre Road, RD 6, Rangiora 7476 Ph: 03 312 0512 Mob: 027 404 4000 Email: info@stoneymeadows.co.nz www.stoneymeadowsalpacas.com

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 Edition is a proven male with cria on the ground ,including Supreme Championship winner Stoney Meadows Honeydew (Mid/dark fawn) 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 60days (includes scanning). Mobile matings by arrangement. Additional fee may apply depending on location. FIBRE DETAILS: 4th Fleece – 2012 – 20.8µm, 3.6SD, 17.5%CV, 64.2%CF, 1.75kg (skirted)

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 and Jolimont Marilu. Swan Valley Majestic, Mokare Mignon, ILR Pperuvian Pluro, Shanbrook Elite, Purrumbete Ledgers Dream, Sumerset Peruvian Excellence. Gnangara has now been proven with several on the ground and all cria are an improvement on their dams. We have one very nice cria (dark fawn female) from him which we are looking forward to showing this coming summer. Gnangara appears to be throwing to the colour of the dam. Improve your bloodlines with Gnangara's excellent line up of genetics. Free agistment for up to 60days (includes scanning). Mobile matings by arrangement. Additional fee may apply depending on location. FIBRE DETAILS: 4th Fleece – 2012 – 19.2µm, 4.7SD, 24.7%CV, 97.0%CF

Lemar Marlow IAR: 108826 Born: 20 January 2007 Sire: Pinjarra White Sprit Dam: Lemar Zambucca STUD FEE: $750+GST on farm (mobile by arrangement) CONTACT DETAILS: Aristocrat Alpaca Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait Kumeu, Auckland Ph: 09 412 5000 Email: aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: It wasn’t only his impressive pedigree, including Purumbette Highlander, Inti, Don-quixote, and Cedar House‘s Accoyo Jacomo, that encouraged us to snap up MARLOW at just 3 months of age. Exhibiting truly luxurious handle, his midfawn fleece is fine, pencilled, well-aligned, lustrous, soft and dense, with uniform broadly crimped coverage from top to toe. MARLOW’s consistently high show results testify to his superior quality. Ask us for a look. His desirable attributes are made affordable for any budget with our long-term payment options. SHOW CREDITS: 2008 Franklin A & P – Intermediate Reserve Champion 2008 Auckland Royal Easter – 1st Intermediate 2009 Auckland Royal Easter – 2nd Senior 2009 Kumeu A & H – 3rd Senior 2009 Auckland Royal Easter – 2nd Senior 2009 Waikato’s World – 3rd Senior 2010 Kumeu A & H – 3rd Senior 2010 Auckland Royal Easter – 3rd Senior FIBRE DETAILS: 6th Fleece – 2012 – 23.8µm, 4.8SD, 20.2%CV

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

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

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 Fleece – 2011 – 18.5µm, 4.0SD, 21.5%CV, 55.1curve, 98.0%CF 3rd Fleece – 2012 – 18.5µm, 3.9SD, 21.2%CV, 69.7curve, 99.0%CF

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Waiheke Phenomenon ET IAR: 1005658 Born: 16 August 2010 Sire: Benleigh Sancho Dam: Silverstream Divinity STUD FEE: $1400+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

SHOW CREDITS: 2011 Supreme Champion Kumeu (Judge: Julie Mansell) 2011 Champion Junior Huacaya Franklin (Judge: Molly Gardner) 2011 Reserve Champion Junior Huacaya Morrinsville (Judges: Diane Marks & Kevin Burgess) 2011 Reserve Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Hawkes Bay( Judge: Molly Gardner) 2012 Supreme Champion Medium/Dark Fawn Huacaya North Island Colourbration Show (Judge : Julie Bird) 2012 Champion Intermediate Male Auckland Royal (Judge: Kevin Burgess) 2012 Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Auckland Royal (Judge: Kevin Burgess) 2012 Champion Intermediate Male Franklin (Judge: Paul Garland) 2012 Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Franklin (Judge: Paul Garland) 2012 Best of Colour Mid/Dark Fawn Franklin (Judge: Paul Garland) 2012 Champion Intermediate Huacaya Morrinsville (Judge: Peter Kennedy) 2012 Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Huacaya Kumeu (Judge: Angela Preuss) 2012 Reserve Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Rotorua (Judge: Simon Kneebone) 2013 Supreme Champion Alpaca Warkworth (Judge: Nic Cooper) FIBRE DETAILS: 2011 – 16.11µm, 4.0SD, 24.5%CV, 99.4%CF 2013 – SGS Fleece Test – 16.32µm, 3.3SD, 19.9%CV, 99.7%CF

Arcady Toblerone IAR: 169061 Born: 28 December 2010 Sire: Arcady Paua Dam: Arcady Jaffa STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: A recently imported striking Roan male with an upstanding and very exact confirmation. Toblerone’s fleece is extremely uniform in micron, density and character with extremely little variation where ever it is opened. As a consequence it has a lovely soft handle, emphasizing the low primary diameter and fineness. His fleece has won multiple Championships and in one very large show bet all junior fleeces over 70 junior fleeces in total. We have imported this male to provide impact and great advances in Grey and coloured Breeding. Toblerone also provides totally new genetics in a sometimes quite close bred fraternity in many Grey lines. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 1st Junior Grey/Roan Fleece, Champion Roan/Grey Fleece, Royal Adelaide (Judge: Ron Reid) 2012 1st Junior Roan fleece (Highest scoring Junior fleece in show 83.5 points!), Champion Roan Fleece, Creswick Wollen Mills Alpaca Fleece Show (Judge: Cameron Holt) 2012 2nd Adult Roan Male, SA Colour Classic (Judge: Rick Hodgson) 2012 1st Intermediate Roan Male, Reserve Champion Intermediate Male, Best Roan Alpaca, Mount Pleasant Show (Judge: Kylie Martin) 2011 1st Junior Grey/Roan Male, Royal Adelaide Show (Judge: Rick Hodgson) FIBRE DETAILS: Quarantine Shear – 2012 – 21.1µm, 4.08SD, 19.34%CV, 98.45%CF

Arcady Le Cadeau IAR: 179878 Born: 18 April 2011 Sire: Arcady Corinthian Dam: Arcady Ooh-La-La STUD FEE: $1200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

Greenvale Donato IAR: 97021 Born: 17 November 2005 Sire: Greenvale Guido Dam: Greenvale Shiela STUD FEE: $1100+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Recently Imported Cadeau is a Striking and very attractive rare Varnish Grey just begining his working life. Cadeau has a dense, super soft handling fleece with very fine Primary's and very little micron variation across the Blanket / Body. Further attributes of great coverage of fleece and fast growing length of staple he is sure to provide a huge impact in grey breeding in NZ. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 1st Junior Roan Male, Mount Pleasant Show (Judge: Kylie Martin) 1st Intermediate Roan Male, Victorian Alpaca Fest (Judge: Karen Caldwell) FIBRE DETAILS: 2nd Fleece – 2012 – 20.6µm, 3.0SD

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: One of the famous four original Greenvale Grey Males imported by Waiheke Alpaca and Silverstream. Donato has been recently purchased back to complement the expanding demand for Rose Grey genetics in NZ. Having never been available for outside services by the previous owner Greenvale Donato is rare Grey genetics indeed. Donato has a very fine fleece for his age with great staple length often lacking in Grey breeding. His fleece is another example of the exemplary Greenvale breeding showing uniformity of micron, density and low primary diameter across the blanket. Donato has a lovely quiet nature, great presence and is a must for serious Grey Breeders wanting that next step. FIBRE DETAILS: 8th Fleece – 2013 – 23.42µm, 4.4SD, 18.8%CV

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Greenwood Greylord IAR: 39474 Born: 23 February 2005 Sire: Hope Downs El Gordo DAM: Greenwood Mischa STUD FEE: $1000+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Kit & Sheryl Johnson Silverstream Alpaca Stud North Canterbury Ph: 03 327 3020 www.alpaca-stud.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Silverstream are delighted to announce the purchase of Greenwood Greylord from Australia. He is an impressive looking male with great frame and bone. He grows a good length of staple and has absolutely no spots. Greylord has 81 progeny on the ground and over grey females, has been very consistent in producing grey offspring. FIBRE DETAILS: 8th Fleece – 2012 – 24.5µm, 4.6SD, 18.6%CV

Silverstream Alpaca Stud

Martina Lopez IAR: 1007251 Born: 16 February 2010 Sire: Greenvale Gerado Dam: Le Jardin Gemima STUD FEE: $800+GST

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. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 Champion Grey Franklin A&P Show and Royal Easter Show, Auckland

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

Alpacaspecialist Elvis IAR: 98630 Born: 23 February 2007 Sire: Coonawarra Gladiator Dam: Alpacaspecialist Elvira STUD FEE: $1400+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Sired by Gladiator, arguably the best black sire around today. Elvis is consistantly competitive in the Show Ring against the best of all colours with his advanced fleece types seldom seen in Black. A highly aligned, superb handle with fine primarys and little micron variation throughout the fleece. He produces a huge fleece when shorn, rivalling the weights of white animals. This is highlighted and proven by Elvis's recent GIFT Test as a Sire for Premium Fleece Production. Elvis' cria are stunning examples of elite black alpacas. His progeny have already been awarded major colour championships in the Show Ring and others exported. Waiheke Black Soverign was sold to Holland and went on to win Champion Black at the International Alpaca Show at Assen 2011. SHOW CREDITS: 2008 Champion Black Auckland; 2008 1st Intermediate Black Male Auckland 2009 Reserve Champion Intermediate Male Warkworth; 2009 1st Intermediate Black Male Warkworth; 2009 1st Senior Black Male Waikato Sires Progeny Awards (Against All Colours including White) 1st Warkworth 2011; 2nd Waikato 2010; 2nd Rotorua 2011; 2nd Franklin 2011; 4th Nationals 2010; FIBRE DETAILS: 7th Fleece – 2013 – 26.68µm, 5.0SD, 18.6%CV

Canchones Atonement IAR: 134537 Born: 11 February 2008 Sire: Canchones Shogun Dam: Jolimont Adriana 2 STUD FEE: $1,300+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Atonement’s sire is a top Australian based sire Canchones Shogun, with many of his progeny being certified as stud male or sold overseas. His dam is a Peruvian female from the well known Jolimont herd. Atonement himself is also a full Peruvian stud male with excellent bone, sound conformation and a very black fleece. This is the male we use to give us blue black progeny. Virtually all of them turn out blue black. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 26.0µm, 5.3SD, 20.7%CV, 81.0%CF

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Canchones Bleecker Street IAR: 161607 Born: 24 October 2009 Sire: Canchones Criadero Provocateur Dam: Canchones Bustinza STUD FEE: $1,300+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

Canchones Ferragamo ET IAR: 114407 Born: 28 September 2006 Sire: Canchones Gendarme Dam: Canchones Kenzoki STUD FEE: $1,300+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

Canchones Tycoon IAR: 123943 Born: 09 April 2007 Sire: Canchones Gendarme Dam: Pachamama Tinina STUD FEE: $1,300+GST

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Bleecker Street’s sire is the Australian based stud male Canchones Criadero Provocateur with an outstanding reputation. Many of his progeny have been Black Champions in shows in Australia. Bleecker Street’s dam is a female selected by Peter Kennedy in Peru. Bleecker Street himself is a full Peruvian male with excellent bone, sound conformation and an unbelievably dense fleece. Also his fleece length is amazing and he is passing on these characteristics to his progeny. Many of them will be shown this season. So, don’t hesitate to come and check them out in our pens at shows or on our farm. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 25.0µm, 5.1SD, 20.2%CV, 86.0%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Ferragamo’s dam and sire are two of the best black alpacas around. His dam is Canchones Kenzoki and his sire is Canchones Gendarme. Both these two alpacas have won multiple classes and black championships in Australia. Ferragamo is a full Peruvian black stud male with excellent conformation and good bone. His fleece is blue black with good structure and density and has a micron of only 23.3 and a CF of 91%. And all this at 6 years of age. So, if you are after the best black genetics you can get, this is your stud male. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke or Kaipara Pines Alpaca Stud, South Head, Auckland, depending on Ferragamo’s residence at the time. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 23.3µm, 5.2SD, 22.4%CV, 91.0%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Tycoon, a son of the top, Australian based, black stud male Canchones Gendarme, is a stunning male winning multiple Championships in breed and fleece. Even today, at 6 years of age, he is still doing the same. Tycoon is producing elite progeny which are also doing very well on the show circuit. Tycoon’s fleece style is still today breathtaking with a curvature of 56.6 and a micron of only 24.0.

CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke, Cuesta Alpacas, Papakura, or Martina Lifestyle Alpacas, Bombay, Auckland, depending on Tycoon’s residence at the time. Mobile matings by arrangement.

Milduck Mandela

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: The newest addition to the champion lineup of Waiheke Stud Services. An exciting option for black and grey breeders alike. Mandela has consistently impressed judges in Australia and looks to be the first Propaganda progeny to come to New Zealand (see below). Don't miss this opportunity to secure champion bloodstock to advance your black and grey breeding programmes.

IAR: 146815 Born: 21 April 2009 Sire: Wyterrica Propaganda Dam: Millduck Jolie STUD FEE: $1400+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 24.0µm, 5.9SD, 24.6%CV, 85.0%CF

SHOW CREDITS: 2010 Supreme Black at Colour Classic 2010 Premier Black at AlpacaFest 2010 Champion Black at Melbourne Royal 2010 Champion Black at Seymour Show 2010 Champion Black at Bendigo Show 2010 Reserve Champion Black Male at VCR Colourbration 2010 1st Junior Black Male at Sydney Royal 2010 1st Intermediate Black Male at AAA National 2011 Champion Black at Wodonga Show 2011 Best Black Male at AlpacaFest 2011 1st Adult Black Male at Sydney Royal FIBRE DETAILS: 4th Fleece – 2013 – 24.68µm, 5.4SD, 21.8%CV

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Pejo Grenadier IAR: 141663 Born: 03 April 2008 Sire: Aviana Farms Jefferson Dam: Pejo Gabriella STUD FEE: $800+GST CONTACT DETAILS: McKenzie Alpacas Ros & Andy Scott 1306 Tangimoana Road RD 3, Palmerston North Ph: 06 324 8904 Mob: 021 733 033 Email: info@mckenziealpacas.co.nz www.mckenziealpacas.co.nz

Sunsetestate Nitro IAR: 1003199 Born: 06 December 2009 Sire: Banksia Park Moonraider ET Dam: Waiheke Gladiator Lass STUD FEE: $1,200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

Sunsetestate Serengeti IAR: 1008858 Born: 05 December 2010 Sire: Canchones Baladin Dam: Canchones Sabi STUD FEE: $1,200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

Sunsetestate Urban Myth IAR: 1008872 Born: 27 April 2011 Sire: Canchones Tycoon Dam: Canchones Urban Energy STUD FEE: $1,200+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Sunset Alpaca Stud Dita & Willem Alblas 1764 Te Matai Road, RD 8, Te Puke 3188 Ph: 07 573 4480 Mob: 027 608 6672 Email: info@sunsetalpacas.co.nz www.sunsetalpacas.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Grenadier is a handsome, well built male. He is fine and carries his micron all the way round with very little guard hair. Grenadier has produced some stunning coloured cria who have done well in the show-ring. His genetics include Purrumbete Highlander, Purrumbete El Dorado and Timbertop the Scud. FIBRE DETAILS: 2013 – 24.4µm, 4.5SD, 18.6%CV

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Sunsetestate Nitro is one of only two black males in New Zealand from the late Banksia Park Moonraider ET. His first cria are on the ground and look absolutely stunning. You will be able to see his progeny on the show circuit this season. So, if you after some rare top quality genetics to improve your black herd, here is a stud male for you. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke or Cuesta Alpacas, Papakura, Auckland, depending on Nitro’s residence at the time. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 24.4µm, 4.2SD, 17.2%CV, 92.0%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Sunsetestate Serengeti’s sire, Canchones Baladin, is a son of the well known black stud male Somerset Peruvian Black Reign. Serengeti’s dam, Canchones Sabi, is a very fine fleeced black alpaca. At 8 years of age she still has a 21 micron fleece with 93% CF. This is where her fleece stats have been for the last 5 years. Serengeti has a beautiful nature which he inherited from his sire as well as his dam. He has a dense fleece with good structure and a curvature of 53.5. Like all our stud males, he has very sound conformation. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 20.5µm, 4.6SD, 22.4%CV, 96.0%CF

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Sunsetestate Urban Myth is a son of, the award winning, Canchones Tycoon. Urban Myth’s dam, Canchones Urban Energy, did very well on the show circuit in Australia before coming to New Zealand. She also produced Sunsetestate Shine, who was Black Champion at the 2011 National Expo and has since been exported to Europe. Urban Myth himself is also doing very well at shows. He has an excellent fleece structure with a curvature of 56.1 and has very sound conformation with good bone. Matings to be done onsite (drive-by) at Sunset Alpaca Stud, Te Puke. Mobile matings by arrangement. FIBRE DETAILS: 2012 – 20.7µm, 4.6SD, 22.3%CV, 97.0%CF

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Surico Trilogy IAR: 1007624 Born: 02 January 2011 Sire: Surilana Mister B. ET Dam: Surico Athena STUD FEE: $1000+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: Trilogy has always stood out from the rest with his extraordinary lustre and handle. In 2012 his fleece won Supreme Champion at the Rotorua show with lustre scoring 15/15 and handle scoring 5/5 (a total score of 84.5). Trilogy’s fleece went on to win Supreme Champion Suri fleece at the National expo later that year. Now in his third fleece he is still exhibiting gorgeous lustre, fabulous handle, and great locking. Trilogy has been G.I.F.T tested and his summation said the following: This alpaca is considered superior for breeding towards premium fleece. Trilogy is small in stature but generously ‘endowed’ and should be ready for breeding in early 2014. Mating’s to be done onsite at Sonric Suri Alpacas, Tauranga – free Agistment offered while females being serviced. An extra fee will be charged for travel if you need the male to be brought to your farm. Multiple mating’s discount available. FIBRE DETAILS: 20011 – 17.7µm, 3.9SD, 22.0%CV, 99.5%CF 20012 – 21.0µm, 3.7SD, 17.4%CV, 97.8%CF

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 Fleece – 2009 – 17.9µm, 3.7SD, 20.5%CV, 99.9%CF, 3.5kg 2nd Fleece – 2010 – 18.9µm, 3.9SD, 20.7%CV, 99.4%CF 3rd Fleece – 2011 – 20.7µm, 3.8SD, 18.4%CV, 98.0%CF, 3.96kg 4th Fleece – 2012 – 22.0µm, 3.9SD, 96.0%CF

Thistledown Bombastic IAR: 58958 Born: 22 November 2005 Sire: Pucara Allegro Dam: Purrumbete Silk Dream STUD FEE: $750+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

Valley of Peace Aristocrat Berwyn IAR: 110916 Born: 11 November 2006 Sire: Jolimont Santino 2 Dam: Cambridge Tonga STUD FEE: $750+GST on farm (mobile by arrangement) CONTACT DETAILS: Aristocrat Alpaca Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait Kumeu, Auckland Ph: 09 412 5000 Email: aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Bomb’s fleece still has beautiful locking and great density. When he was younger, he exhibited stunning lustre, excellent fineness and lovely handle – all traits that he is still passing on to his cria. Bomb has won many Champion and Supreme Champion ribbons for both fleece and breed, the latest was in 2011 when he won Champion Male 36-60 mth Suri fleece at the National Show and his offspring have followed in dad’s footsteps winning many Champion and Supreme Championships of their own. Bomb is a sturdy male who has a special way with the ‘ladies’. All mating’s are to be done onsite at Sonric Suri Alpacas, Tauranga – free Agistment is offered to females while they are being serviced. An extra fee will be charged for travel if you require him to be brought to your farm. Multiple mating’s discount is available.

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: BERWYN is a stunning example of the Rural Alianza genetics Jolimont Santino2 passes on to his progeny, and has consistently achieved Reserve Champion status at all levels in his class. His excellently conformed and sturdy frame is covered from head to toe with a dense, fine and lustrous fleece which handles well, and is characterised by a chunky, well-twisted lock architecture. His ribbon-winning progeny consistently reflect his outstanding qualities. BERWYN will enhance your Suri breeding programme, and his desirable attributes are made affordable for any budget with our long-term payment options. SHOW CREDITS: 2007 Waikato’s World – Junior Reserve Champion 2007 National Alpaca Expo – Junior Reserve Champion 2008 Warkworth A & P – Intermediate Reserve Champion 2008 Waikato’s World – Intermediate Reserve Champion 2009 Waikato’s World – Senior Reserve Champion FIBRE DETAILS: 6th Fleece – 2012 – 28.8µm, 5.3SD, 18.4%CV

2013 Herd Sire Directory

Cedar House Gold Rush 2 IAR: 83726 Born: 08 January 2003 Sire: PV Peruvian Senator G153 Dam: GJ Suzendy Cedar House Marigold STUD FEE: $600+GST on farm (mobile by arrangement) CONTACT DETAILS: Aristocrat Alpaca Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait Kumeu, Auckland Ph: 09 412 5000 Email: aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: GOLD RUSH 2 is a rare golden coloured Suri sired by the famous Peruvian Senator. He is a line bred Senator son exhibiting excellent lustre, locking, fineness and coverage, all in a golden package. Senator progeny have proven to be some of the best in the world, with outstanding show records in all classes, and GOLD RUSH 2 is yet another Champion. The attributes which gain his fleece Champion placings are passed on to his multi award-winning progeny, which include some truly spectacular results. GOLD RUSH 2 is a sturdy, strong-boned sire who will enhance any colour Suri breeding programme. His desirable attributes are made affordable for any budget with our long-term payment options. SHOW CREDITS: 2006 Franklin A & P – Intermediate Champion fleece 2007 Auckland Royal Easter – Senior Reserve Champion fleece 2007 Waikato’s World – Senior Reserve Champion fleece FIBRE DETAILS: 6th Fleece – 2012 – 25.6µm, 5.1SD, 19.9%CV

Surilana Troubadour IAR: 147275 Born: 19 November 2008 Sire: Pinjarra Machu Mayu Dam: Pinjarra Tustella STUD FEE: $1250+GST CONTACT DETAILS: Keenan & Lisa Scott (Waiheke Alpaca) 26 Donald Bruce Road Waiheke Island Ph: +64 9 372 5293 Mob: +64 21 033 5589 Email: lkscott@xtra.co.nz www.waihekealpaca.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: A brilliant coloured suri male with a full Peruvian pedigree. His sire, Pinjarra Machu Mayu has recently passed away, so Troubador's genetics are very unique. Virtually unrelated to anything in New Zealand. Beautifully covered, with excellent lock structure and "knock out" lustre. He is a "well put together" male, with strong bone and a fantastic head. A terrific choice for the coloured suri enthusiast with a show record to match. Troubador has now retired from the showring - he was never beaten in his class and went on to win a broad ribbon at all but one show. SHOW CREDITS: 2012 Champion Fawn Suri at Rotorua Show 2012 Champion Senior Male Suri at Franklin Show 2011 SUPREME CHAMPION Suri Morrinsville Show 2011 Champion Fawn Suri at Kumeu Show 2011 Champion Fawn Suri at Rotorua Show 2011 Reserve Champion Senior Suri at Franklin Show 2011 Reserve Champion Mid/Dark Fawn Suri at Hawkes Bay Show 2011 Reserve Champion Senior Suri at Waikato Show 2011 1st Mid Fawn Adult Male at AANZ National Show FIBRE DETAILS: 3rd Fleece – 2013 – 20.88µm, 5.0SD, 23.8%CV

Valley of Peace Arkin IAR: 110941 Born: 11 December 2007 Sire: EP Cambridge Peru Accoyo Armadeus Dam: Cambridge Tatum STUD FEE: $750+GST on farm (mobile by arrangement) CONTACT DETAILS: Aristocrat Alpaca Ross Stevenson & Ralph Tait Kumeu, Auckland Ph: 09 412 5000 Email: aristocrat@nuthouse.net.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: ARKIN is a medium fawn Suri with excellent bloodlines not commonly available in the North Island. His highly-regarded sire Armadeus is famous for his lustre and handle, and ARKIN’s long and beautifully-pencilled fleece exhibits those same qualities. With outstanding conformation and strong bone, ARKIN will enhance your white and fawn Suri breeding programme. His desirable attributes are made affordable for any budget with our long-term payment options. SHOW CREDITS: 2008 Waikato – 1st Junior 2009 Warkworth – Intermediate Champion 2009 Franklin – Intermediate Fawn Champion 2009 Morrinsville – Intermediate Reserve Champion 2009 Kumeu – Intermediate Fawn Champion 2009 Auckland Royal Easter – Intermediate Best Fawn 2010 Morrinsville – Intermediate Best Conformation & Composite Suri FIBRE DETAILS: 5th Fleece – 2012 – 26.3µm, 5.5SD, 20.9%CV

Waiheke Midnight Oil IAR: 1005664 Born: 15 May 2010 Sire: Surilana Blackbeard Dam: Surilana Joanne STUD FEE: $800+GST CONTACT DETAILS: McKenzie Alpacas Ros & Andy Scott 1306 Tangimoana Road RD 3, Palmerston North Ph: 06 324 8904 Mob: 021 733 033 Email: info@mckenziealpacas.co.nz www.mckenziealpacas.co.nz

DESCRIPTION / COMMENTS: Midnight Oil started his mating career with enthusiasm early 2013. He has lustrous fleece, great independence of lock structure and very evenly distributed. The bonus with Midnight is that his he has some different genetics on his sire's side - Surilana Blackbeard who is sadly deceased. He also has plenty of grey on his dam's side with the famous silver grey sire, Somerset Stirling Moss and Jolimont Joady a silver grey female. This of course is great news for those those wanting to breed greys. FIBRE DETAILS: 2013 – 26.9µm, 5.3SD, 19.6%CV

Anne Rogers Photography

Chris & Liz Strack 55 Threlkelds Rd, Ohoka RD2, North Canterbury, New Zealand. Phone: 0064 3 3133832 Email: chrisstrack@xtra.co.nz SRS速 Member