Alpaca breeders from across NSW are combining efforts to build a marketplace for their premium fibre products, assisted by Farming Together.
The Australian Government-backed program has been helping the 16-member Alpaca Breeders Collection since it was established in early 2017. The growers come from an area ranging from Mudgee to The Rocks, NSW.
The group, formed by Angela and Matthew Smith (right) of One Tree Hill Alpacas, Murrumbateman, processes all the fleeces in NSW and will start selling on-farm from May 12.
Angela said: “The new venue allows us to showcase more of the quality garments and yarns fashioned from the fleeces drawn from across a wide region.”
With assistance from Farming Together the Smiths created a new website featuring the collection members. https://blackwattleyarn.com.au/members/
The farm shop opening on May 12 will be at 315 Patemans Lane, Murrumbateman from noon to 4pm (official opening time 1pm).
Farming Together program director Lorraine Gordon said: “The Alpaca Breeders Collective is value-adding to a premium fibre. Processing the fleeces in Australia, rather than South America, sends a strong message of pride in the product.”