Alpaca farms open to public
LOVERS of all things cute and cuddly have an extra-special treat in store for them this month.
Alpaca breeders will open their gates to the public to celebrate national Alpaca Week and promote growth in the unique industry.
With trademark pointy ears, boofy heads, lona 40-head herd as part of their business Beavona Lodge Suri Alpacas between Gin Gin and Mtg necks, doe eyes and luxurious silky coats, alpacas are a favourite with the younger generations and the young at heart.
Fiona Laughton and her husband Darrel maintain Perry.
Mrs Laughton said alpacas were a popular option for small-scale farmers because they were not as labour-intensive as other animals such as sheep and cattle and deliver strong returns.
"They are an absolutely delightful creature to work with," she said.
"They're easy on the environment, they're easy on the farmer and they deliver fairly consistent returns."
Mrs Laughton said the younger members of her herd always got plenty of attention when the property held open days.
"The little ones are absolutely adorable," she said.
"People tend to make quite a fuss but that's no surprise."
Beavona Lodge Suri Alpacas will be one of many alpaca farms to hold open days this month to promote the industry.
The Laughtons will open their property on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13.
Ivory Park Alpacas at Bungadoo will be open Sunday, May 13 and Sunday, May 20.
In Childers, Jacaranda Park will be open for visitors from May 5-11.
