read and breed feb 2010

THE NEWSLETTER

FEBRUARY 2010 ISSUE 61

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN REGION OF THE AUSTRALIAN ALPACA ASSOCIATION LTD

Read and Breed

OFFER AT STUD

LOMAVISTA DON CARLOS

AND HEDGEWAY’S

TRUMAR GK

SEE THE BOYS AT

www.lomavista.com.au

ISSUE 61

President‟s Report 4

I Have a Theory 6

That Mysterious Selenium 9

NLIS Report 10

What is in a Name? 13

From a Breeder‟s Experience 17

How to Prepare your Fleece 18

Inside this issue:

Cover Photo:-

‘Packed ready for Export’

Kindly supplied by

Somadale Alpacas

A word or two from the Editors,

With absolutely no previous experience in editing, two very

adventurous alpaca breeders have decided they will “Have

a go” . Hence Sharon and I are now the new editors of

“Read and Breed”. Issue 61 is our learning edition and we

hope that it is to the satisfaction of all our members.

Should you like to see articles on topics that we may not

have thought of , please feel free to submit your thoughts,

or better still, articles which we are able to print/reproduce.

For those who have “Read and Breed” as their only contact

with the South Australian region, we have asked the

committee members to submit a small article about

themselves so that you can better associate with your

region representatives. These will be published as they are

made available to us. After the committee, we might well

extend this request to fellow members!

The next show in South Australia is at Mt Pleasant on

Saturday 2oth March 2010, at Talunga Park. It is a great

venue and a good opportunity to come along and meet

fellow alpaca enthusiasts—we all have the love of the

alpaca in common. Just for some fun, count the ladybirds

printed in issue 61, put in your entry form at the show and

you may well win yourself a little something alpaca!! (must

be present to win).

Our advertising rates are very reasonable, so if you should

have anything you wish to buy, sell or advertise (not

necessarily alpaca) we can include your ad in the

next issue. We do ask that your submissions be

sent to us electronically. Photos are also welcome.

Our aim, as editors, is to deliver to you a magazine full of

informative articles; a magazine you look forward to

receiving.

We will both be at the Mt Pleasant show, so look forward

to meeting you all there,

Your editors,

Rhonda and Sharon.

Committee Member Profiles 20

Administration of Injections 22

“Read and Breed” Fact Page 24

Merchandise 25

S.A. Regional Committee 26

All members are invited to submit photographs for use on the

cover and in the newsletter

OUR PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Read and Breed

Firstly I would like to thank those of you who have offered your support as I take over as president of the

region.

I would like to thank Mick Peters for his role a president and the previous committee for their work over

the last three years. Mick has raised the profile of the SA region during this time particularly with the suc-

cess of the National Show and Sale. As a result of this SA members have been recognised and ask to par-

ticipate in projects at a National level.

I am pleased to see the return of a regular Newsletter. I wish Rhonda and Sharon good luck with their ven-

ture and look forward to reading the subsequent additions. I would like to thank Alex Harrington-Smith for

the time she has given to the newsletter.

The newsletter will be one of the ways that the committee will be updating members on what is happening

in the region. We will also be making use of the AAA-SA website. All information and events: shows,

public events, education days, presentations etc. will be on the site. Please ensure you have registered for

the members section as this area will have information not available to non-members.

The committee is made up from a group of highly motivated breeders, some who have returned to the com-

mittee after a few years break, some have continued from last year and we are also joined by some mem-

bers who now feel ready to take on the challenge of committee work. This group have lots of ideas and, so

far, have plans as far ahead as November.

There will be some changes; the AGM will be held on the weekend of the Colour Classic, the day and time

will be announced after further discussions with the convenors of the show. The AGM has been pushed

later and later in the year over the past few years and needs to return to its proper time frame.

You will also notice that the majority of educational events held will be held on breeders’ properties. We

are lucky in this state to have not only the 2 largest breeders in the country, but also a vast wealth of knowl-

edge that comes from the success that a large number of our breeders have had in the show ring over the

years. As a committee we hope that we can encourage these breeders to help with educational ventures.

Some have already offered and we will be holding our first education day on Saturday 12th June – mark it

in your diaries, there will be more information to follow soon.

National Alpaca Week is being held again this year from 1st-9th May. It will have a different look to last

year. We will be having a special promotional event at Oakbank High School , as well as having farm

open days. For those of you wanting to participate please contact Glenn Russell on 08 8538 7253.

You will find the minutes of all our meetings on the AAA-SA website in the members section. There will

also be the date, time and venue for our next meeting. You are more than welcome to attend, please just

ring beforehand so we can have seating for you.

With the changes happening at a National level as well as a local level I feel the year ahead will be an inter-

esting one and I am looking forward to the challenges and the opportunities it will bring.

ISSUE 61

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Purrumbete El Dorado, Purrumbete Highlander

Purrumbete Othello, Purrumbete Windpiper,

ILR PPPeruvian Auzengate, Bonny Park Black Thunder, ILR Peruvian Drambuie

Certified Males available for part shares

Pregnant females and maidens,

Yearling males & females

Wethers

Majority are solid colours

A range of quality A range of prices

Packages available

For details contact Jo O’Connor.

C/- Post Office Eden Valley SA 5235

[email protected]

(08) 8564 1384

(08) 8564 1031 evenings

mailto:[email protected]

A BREEDER SUBMITTED STORY…. By ???

Read and Breed

'I Have A Theory’

Author Anonymous

As I sit here prioritizing the alpaca jobs 'to do' list' occasionally glancing out the window at the fast

yellowing summer paddocks, my mind wanders back to life as I used to know it. Unlike other al-

paca breeders however I do not wonder how it came to pass that so much of our family's time is

now dedicated to alpacas.

You see, I was warned you know. I was warned by an old wise woman but alas I paid her no heed.

This morning my daughter Paladin came to visit. Paladin decided to lecture me over a cup of tea.

"Mum you are working too hard and you look awful. You need to get to the hairdressers and get a

cut and some lighter streaks and colour contrast. "Can't" I replied " Too busy. Besides, it dries out

the hair too much. My hairstyle may not be fashionable but at least it's lustrous and has a good han-

dle and feel."

Paladin grabbed both my hands and said " Look at me Mum. Now, repeat after me - I am not an

alpaca, I am not an alpaca and I will go to the hair dressers!"I could not possibly expect my daugh-

ter to understand of course for she had no yet had the spit upon her.

So now to my story. Many years ago I decided to spend a weekend with a college friend, Moxie on

her farm in New South Wales. Five years previously Moxie was suffering with depression and left

her high pressure position as a share trader in Sydney boosted by a healthy bank balance and a de-

sire to live a better way of life. Moxie chose a simple rural life style living on the farm with her

elderly mother called Rosanna. We had corresponded by letters and later by emails and kept up

our contact.

The last two years had marked a particular change in her letters as she devoted more of their con-

tent to telling me of her happiness living in a friendly rural community and lots of interesting sto-

ries about her wonderful alpaca herd. it seemed as if alpacas were the most important element of

her life and her conversation was centred mostly around them. Now, finally I would get to visit my

good friend Moxie and also experience her life style.

I arrived at the farm quite late on a Friday night and enjoyed a cup of tea and biscuits with Moxie

before retiring, mindful of the early start of rural living. On this my first morning on the farm I

awoke to find a note on my door to make myself a cup of coffee.

As I was doing so in the open-plan kitchen and family room, I heard a "psst" from somewhere be-

hind me. Looking around I saw an elderly woman in a silk purple dress with striking black kohled

eye make-up, beckoning to me. She was standing in the doorway of an adjoining room that Moxie

had said was her mother's private sitting room.

I walked in to the room expecting to see a comfortable couch draped with a crochet blanket, family

photos and a T.V. and perhaps even a cat curled up on a rug on the floor, similar to that of my

mother's own lounge. room. Instead , I was quite surprised to see the inner sanctum was a badly lit

room with dark purple walls decorated with colourful charts bearing strange symbols. On a purple

velvet coloured round table sat a crystal ball.

I Have a Theory….. continued

ISSUE 61

"I am Rosanna." she said as she sat down while indicating that I should sit down on one of the two

chairs at the table. Adroitly wrapping a colourful scarf around her head she grasped my right hand

with her left hand and closed her eyes while her right hand hovered over the crystal ball.

Rosanna then pronounced dramatically " My child! Danger! I sense much danger. The alpacas,

danger! You must stay away. Beware of the spit. I have a theory......" she began.

Just then as I was torn between fascination and wanting to get the hell out of there I heard Fran

knocking on my bedroom door and calling my name. I apologised to Rosanna and scurried away

from all that weirdness.

In total amazement I then said to Fran, "I just met your mother. She called me in to her sitting

room and did a crystal ball thing. She told me to stay away from the alpacas.

My friend laughed and said "Mum has always believed there's a family gypsy connection from

some European ancestor. She enjoys her eccentricity doing readings for the bowls club ladies and

it doesn't seem to cause any harm. Mum just resents that the alpacas take up so much of my time

when she would rather I spent it pandering to her."

"How bad is the spit though?" I asked

"You get used to it " she replied.. Once I copped a spray in the face and cleaned myself up with a

damp cloth from the shed. All day however I could still smell it somewhere. Later that day I found

just this tiny bit stuck on the end of my nose and that is why I kept smelling it constantly.

We both laughed but just then Rosanna who must have been eave dropping stormed past us saying

loudly 'It's too late for you Fran. you wouldn't listen to me, would you? Oh no and now just look at

you.. you should have respect for the wisdom of your culture"

Fran laughed and said "Just ignore the drama queen. She's really enjoying having you as an audi-

ence. Let's go for a look around the farm'

Fran took me to see some alpaca mums and babies in the paddock. I really enjoyed giving a bottle

to a sweet little weak premature cria. We also took some lucerne out and fed it to a group of girls

and then as they jostled for front position, all you alpaca breeders can guess what happened next.

The full frontal attack with green smelly bits on the face and bits in the hair. iI was awful but funny

too and that day on the farm as I spent time with the alpacas, I fell in love with them.

Later that day as I was going for a walk I heard a familiar "psst' sound and turned to see Rosanna

with half her body concealed behind the back of the barn. Rosanna said "'It's the spit you see. It's

the spit that does it. It gets up people's noses and bits find their way into their brains. Then they are

never the same again. I never go near those alpacas.

It's all they ever talk about, alpacas, alpacas, alpacas. They say it's love but it's not. It's addiction

you know. They start with just one to protect their sheep or their ducks and then they get just one

more. Then they get a pregnant female and before you know it they have herds of them and then

they start showing them. Next thing they travel to all the alpaca shows and go to auctions to buy

just one more."

I Have a Theory …...continued

Read and Breed

As she paused for breath I nodded and made as to keep walking but she grabbed my arm and said loudly

" It's in the spit' but then she lowered her voice, moved closer and whispered confidentially

" I have a theory. you know. They are aliens! They are an intelligent alien life form and when their

numbers are great enough they will stop acting like animals and take over the world!"

Fran and I had a good laugh about that one !

The next day I reluctantly returned to my life and job in the city. I did buy that little premature female

cria that I bottle fed however, along with her mum. I agisted them on my cousin's property two hours

drive from where I lived.

A few years later, my new partner was very reluctant at first to become interested in rural life and alpacas

but I changed all that. I took him to visit my expanded herd of seven alpacas and I knew what I had to

do. I gave him some lucerne to feed them and of course you can guess what happened next and the rest is

history. I am writing this story on the farm where we live today with over two hundred alpacas.

As I awaken from my musings I look at my long 'jobs to do' list and add to it a reminder to register all the

new crias. I have the names picked out already and they are Kruul, Romulan, Klingon, Ferengi, Cyborg,

Android, Predator, Haakonian and Astromech.

So, if you wish to know who I am you will just have to wait to see to whom any of these names are regis-

tered to on the alpaca register in 2010.

By the way, for any of you who are reading this story and have not yet made that transition to being an

alpaca owner, I have a theory..........................................

THAT MYSTERIOUS SELENIUM! Article from Mundawora Alpacas

ISSUE 61

SELENIUM

In 1998 we were trying to get 2 maidens pregnant, taking them every fortnight, for a year, to

a property about 80k‘s each way to be mated.

The vet gave them several hormone treatments during the year, none of which worked. In

the end John requested blood tests to check for any mineral deficiency. They were low in

Magnesium, Cobalt & way down in Selenium.

Selenium reference range is 15.0 – 200.0

One female test was 33.7 (which is very low) and the other one was 11.7.

After we dosed them with all that they lacked, they became pregnant within two months.

Since then, we give all our animals, even wethers, a dose of selenium – 10 mls - 4 times a

year - orally. (diluted 1 part selenium to 9 parts water)

We decided to drench rather than inject as it they wee out any excess.

Lack of selenium may cause scarcity of sperm in males, but it‘s not just for fertility, it‘s also

protective against getting white muscle disease (which sees them waste away) it also helps

promote growth in younger animals and building up muscles.

Selenium is in certain feeds, but the limit allowed in foodstuffs is quite low.

It can also be found in seaweed meal.

Because their need is quite high, their tolerance level is in excess of what would kill a cow!

When giving A.D & E, selenium should be given, as the vitamin E and selenium are linked

with each other.

In some of the notes I have, there is a part that reads:

―Diseases and problems seen in Llamas suspected of being associated with selenium defi-

ciency are lameness, arched back, colic, laboured breathing, lack of endurance, increased sus-

ceptibility to heat stress, acute death, metritis, abortions, weak or premature crias, poor cria

growth and infertility in both male & female‖.

I cannot seek permission to print this paragraph as I don‘t know who wrote it.

We were purchasing diluted selenium from a vet,

I would buy a 1 litre bottle – which was 100mls of selenium and 900mls of water.

This would cost me around $16 - $18 per litre diluted.

I now purchase it concentrated bottle from a fodder store and dilute it myself.

This year the fodder store misunderstood my order and I ended up buying a 5 litres concen-

trated bottle!!!

If anyone wishes to purchase any at an incredibly cheap price (which is the price I

paid) I have some for sale.

If you only need to make up a litre – purchase of 100ml will cost you $1.10. Then add

900mls of water.

Compare that with the price I was paying for a diluted litre!

Or you can buy a litre of concentrated – the price is $11.00 which will make you 10 litres

diluted.

Even if you‘ve drenched all your animals with selenium at shearing, they will require doses

every 3 months before the next shearing.

The drench I purchased has a shelf life until November 2010, but a vet assured me if it‘s kept

in a cool cupboard, it will last a further 6 months.

Jan Bentley phone: 8556 0256 Lot 191 Yundi Lane, Yundi, via Willunga, SA 5172

mailto:[email protected] [email protected]

note: If you own the ‗blue book‘ go to page 24, where there is more information.


Read and Breed

NLIS Alpaca & Llama Update

The National Consultative Committee, chaired by Neil Daniell, met in Canberra on 11th November

2009.

Current activity and implementation is being supported by a $500k grant from the Commonwealth government. Less than 25% has been spent to-date but the balance must be spent by July 2010.

Approximately 10% of producers responded to a recent industry survey – a positive result. Pre-liminary indications suggest the national herd size may be greater that the current estimate of 150,000 animals.

Implementation Timeframe

1 NLIS Alpaca and Llama allows the use of the AABA‘s AAR tag (an existing non-electronic

device) until 30 June 2012.

The proposed program still requires endorsement and sign-off by Animal Health Committee and Primary Industries Standing Committee before state jurisdictions can proceed with supporting legislation. It is anticipated this should happen by late February 2010.

NLIS devices

The technology is the same as that used by cattle, sheep & goats. Some 45 producers have ex-pressed interest in hosting NLIS tag performance trials. A trial protocol has been developed and it is anticipated trials of up to four different electronic tag types will be established before Christ-mas. This timing is critical as tags can only be given provisional accreditation after six months ini-tial trial, and the system becomes mandatory from 1 July 2010. Full accreditation is only given after three years.

Many Llama are already identified with an electronic microchip. These will continue to be NLIS approved devices provided the Llama are also identified with a brass ear tag stamped with ‘NLIS’

1 July 2010

All animals born on or after 1 July 2010 shall be identified with an electronic NLIS device before leaving the property of birth, and accompanied by an ap-proved movement document. All animals (except below) are to be identified before leaving a property, with an NLIS approved electronic device, and accompanied by an approved movement document. Any animal with an existing non-electronic NLIS device or an electronic micro-chip (llamas only) may continue to be identified by the method1

1 July 2012

All animals to be identified with an NLIS electronic device before leaving a property.

Defini-tions:

Approved – approved by the NLIS Standards Committee.

Animals – South American camelids.

NLIS device – an electronic ear tag, visual ear tag or subcutaneous microchip that is NLIS approved.

Prepared by Tim Woonton, PIRSA 16/11/09

NLIS REPORT

ISSUE 61


Movement documentation

A national health statement/waybill is about to be progressed by Animal Health Australia, who have been provided with a copy of our SA Alpaca Movement and Health Declaration as a basis from which to move forward. The possibilities are either a single nationally agreed document, or a nationally agreed set of information to be recorded for each movement in a form approved by in-dividual states.

Business Rules

Draft business/operational rules have been developed and comprehensively reviewed, and should be revised into a final draft in the near future prior to circulation for industry feedback and endorsement.

Given that NLIS Ltd will almost certainly be engaged to provide database and associated support services, the operation of NLIS Alpaca & Llama will also fall under the existing NLIS Terms of Use, device standards, tag manufacturer licensing agreements etc.

Industry Funding

A consultant has been engaged to consider various options for establishing an ongoing funding stream to support potential biosecurity commitments. Funding required for NLIS is expected to be in the order of $50,000 per annum, more if state jurisdictions expect industry to contribute to ad-ministration and compliance enforcement etc at state level. In SA the cattle and sheep industries contribute 75% of the PIRSA NLIS project cost.

Raising a levy on ownership, registration, tags, sales, movements, fibre and meat sales are all being looked at. However preliminary findings indicate a levy on tag sales (as per SA cattle in-dustry levy) is likely to be the most effective and economical to administer without compromising compliance.

Communication

The following release was sent out to rural media nationally during October. Communication will be significantly ramped up in the lead up to July 2010.

Alpacas and Llamas soon to play tag

Australia‘s alpaca and llama industries will benefit from the introduction of a national live-

stock identification system (NLIS) in 2010 according to NLIS (Alpaca and Llama) National

Consultative Committee Chair Neil Daniell.

―An outbreak of FMD is the biggest threat to our industry and would also have major ramifi-

cations for other livestock sectors and future market access‖ said Mr Daniell.

―As our industry continues to grow, it is essential that we have in place systems that track

stock movements should such an animal disease outbreak occur.‖

―The alpaca and llama industries recognise their responsibilities in terms of biosecurity and

are willing to work with other sectors in support of these responsibilities.

NLIS REPORT ..... Cont.

Read and Breed

ISSUE 61

As alpaca breeders, each of us has folders containing our animal pedigrees. At times we look

at them, reading off the names of our animal‘s ancestors and feeling proud when we get to

the stage when we know off by heart all the names contained therein. But what is in a

name?? Without knowing what the conformation, fleece stats and temperament was of that

animal, the name tells us nothing.

Fortunately the alpaca industry is still very young , and thus there are still people amongst

us, some still breeding and some, although not involved in alpacas anymore, are alive and

well, who do have the knowledge that goes with these mysterious names which we banter

around. I am not talking just about the well known famous stud males which have set a

great foundation for our industry, I am talking about ALL of the names printed on those

pedigrees. The girls supply 50% of the genetics of their offspring but seem to be the forgotten

ones when we talk of the family tree. (there are a few exceptions of course).

So, what I propose to introduce to our magazine is a regular feature, which will profile and

give acknowledgement to the animals from the 3rd, 4th and 5th generations of today‘s herd.

We are in a position where this can still be done; in 20, 30, 40 years time this knowledge will

be lost.

I would like to be able to feature in each issue of ―Read and Breed‖ a double page, showing a

half page devoted to each of the featured animal (ie. 4 animals per issue). I would like this to

include

a photo

a short history of the animal

purchase price if relevant

a description of the animals personality

number of progeny

anything else you would like to include

However this can not be done without your help, for it is you, out there, who have this

knowledge and the photos of these animals. It doesn‘t matter if the animal is/was considered

a ―roughie‖, whether they looked more like a llama than alpaca; if their name appears on a

pedigree certificate their blood flows through the veins of today‘s herd. Then, instead of just

being able to proudly quote a name from our pedigrees, we can then see and show and

understand far more about our beloved alpaca. Should you still know past breeders who can

help you with information, I am sure that they would only be too pleased to aid us with

supplying old photos and facts about their alpaca.

So, let‘s turn a pedigree certificate that is just a list of names into a meaningful history book,

not only for us but the alpaca breeders of the future.

To submit the ―oldies‖ for their acknowledgement, please email to [email protected]

or send via snail mail, c/- Post Office, Sherlock. S.A. 5301. I will send back the photos to you

if you include a stamped, self addressed envelope.

Regards

Rhonda Pitt

Lomavista Alpacas

WHAT IS IN A NAME? .....a new feature idea ........ But needs your help


Read and Breed

ISSUE 61

Read and Breed

―Identification and traceability is integral to the future development of the industry.‖

Australian Alpaca Association, the Australasian Alpaca Breeders Association and the Llama

Association of Australasia are in full support of a national identification system and are

working together with the support of the NLIS Alpaca and Llama National Consultative

Committee (NCC) to progress the development of a national system.

The NLIS (Alpaca and Llama) National Consultative Committee (NCC) represents industry,

the Australian Government, state and territory governments, Meat and Livestock Australia

and Animal Health Australia.

―NLIS is already in use and has a proven track record with other livestock industries‖, said

Mr Daniell.

―It is with this track record in mind that we are looking for the best option for our industry‖

The alpaca and llama industry has considered a number of animal identification options, in-

cluding: ear tags, brands, tattoos, subcutaneous microchips and rumen boluses.

Ear tags were identified as the preferred option for alpacas but new technologies have given

rise to the electronic ear tag. These tags provide additional benefits to the visual ear tag al-

lowing the tag to be read manually or scanned with an electronic reader. Llamas will also

have the option of using subcutaneous microchips.

Trials of the electronic tags will commence very shortly.

―Current estimates indicate that the national flock size is in excess of 150,000 so we see this

as the perfect opportunity to put in place an effective tracking system for our industry,‖ said

Mr Daniell.

―No matter what system we introduce, there will be some initial costs to get the system up

and running but in the long run it is cheap insurance compared to dealing with a disease

outbreak in our industry‖.

For further information visit

Animal Health Australia at www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au

Media Contact:

Neil Daniell

Chairman NLIS National Consultative Committee

Ph 0438 528 029


NLIS REPORT ..... Cont.

ALPACA SHEARER

AVAILABLE

FRANK JACOB I am taking over Terry and Rosemary Bormanns’

run as they are retiring due to health problems.

For booking details phone Ruth on 0400 406 636

DID YOU KNOW?

THE RUNS IN BOTTLE FED CRIA:

The runs in a bottle fed cria can be assisted by

putting about 1/3 of an Inner Health or

Acidophilous tablet into its bottle once a day. This

will promote good bacteria into the gut. If this does

not help, veterinary advice should be sought.

http://www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/

ISSUE 61

FROM A BREEDERS EXPERIENCE submitted by Waradene Alpacas

As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Heat Stress and Hyperthermia can happen at

anytime and in any season.

When the elements are against us, some small measures can go a long way. The use of hay bales,

shelters, sheds, trees, shelter belts etc are useful in preventing and helping keep the extremes of the

elements at bay. Getting the alpacas to use them is quite easy, placing feed in them or walking them

down when things are OK, will make them comfortable in using the protection at any time.

None of the structures have to be the Taj Mahal, but functional to the alpaca and user.

HEAT STRESS:

It does not have to be extreme weather conditions for heat stress to occur. If you suspect your alpaca

to be heat stressed, some visible signs can be flaring nostrils, wide stance, heavy breathing, drooling

etc.

A much stressed animal will not often oblige by walking where you need them to go. It may be possi-

ble to physically carry or walk the alpaca to a cooler spot (eg under shade, in a shed with fan on, a

wet area under protection etc). Once where you want them to be, a variety of methods can be used.

Wet down with hose or sprinkler, cover with wet towels and keep wetting them, put a fan on them,

anything that will cool them down quickly.) A toddler pool can be of use but the alpaca might not

want to oblige if stressed. Offer water to drink. If alpaca is not interested in drinking, scoop water in

your hand and put to alpacas mouth.

Keep an eye on the body temp. A normal temperature is around 38.5C. The abovementioned treat-

ment may need to be repeated several times during the day until the alpaca is up walking and acting

normal. It is advisable that the alpaca is kept in a small area (with company is a good idea) so that

they don‘t go back out into the sun and heat up again.

If the alpaca is a cria, taking it to the trough or bath tub is a good idea. Dunk them up to their neck

in the water and hold in for several seconds. This might need to be done regularly. Moving the cria

inside a shed (or house) or shady area with the dam is a good idea. If the cria does not drop its tem-

perature to normal or becomes lethargic or starts fitting, it is necessary to seek medical attention.

HYPERTHERMIA:

As detrimental as heat stress. If an alpaca shows signs of hyperthermia, symptoms could include

huddling, shivering, lethargy, inability or reluctance to get up, confusion, assistance to help this al-

paca is desperately needed. This can happen after shearing, illness or sudden cold snap.

Moving the alpaca out of the cold area, into a shed (preferred) or sheltered area. Using bales of hay or

straw to break the wind if it is outside. Wrapping the alpaca in blankets, bubble wrap and hot water

bottles is a good way to help bring up the temperature.

If in a shed, put a blanket under and over the alpaca with hot water bottles (not directly on skin/

fleece). Wrapping in bubble wrap before the final blanket layer helps keep the heat in. Use of heaters

needs supervision. Do not use a fire heater unless it is protected by a screen and someone is with the

alpaca. I have safely used an oil heater that has fins as it does not normally burn the alpaca, but still

use caution by screening it.

In addition to the above, particularly if it is a cria, the cria can be put in large garbage bag and

dunked into a warm bath up to the neck to help bring up the temperature.

Should the alpaca show increased signs of lethargy or temperature not increasing (which could take

hours if really cold), a vet will need to see the alpaca.

Read and Breed

TWO CERTIFIED MALES FOR SERVICE

PARNABRAE LUCIANO

SDBR

SIRE - ILR PERUVIAN DRAMBUIE SLF

DAM - KAKABA KARIBA SLBR

(GRANDDAUGHTER OF HIGHLANDER)

Service fee $600 GST not applicable

LYNEDEN CALLAGHAN

DKF

SIRE - COONAWARRA GLADIATOR SBLK

DAM - LYNEDEN CRYSTAL ROSE SLF

(GRANDDAUGHTER OF AUZENGATE)

Service fee $400 GST not applicable

For further information please contact

Jo O’Connor

[email protected]

(08) 8564 1031 evenings or

(08) 8564 1384 to leave a message

Mailing address

C/O Post Office

Eden Valley SA 5235

2009 Fleece Statistics

4th fleece (NEFT):

21.2 micron

3.21 SD

99% CF

Schutara Park Alpacas

Schutara Park

Apollo

now standing at stud

present

Solid white macho exhibiting outstanding fleece qualities of

fineness & handle combined with excellent conformation &

temperament. Apollo‘s progeny are showing consistent

improvement in fleece characteristics over their dams. Quality

bloodlines including Auzengate.

SHOW RESULTS include:

2007 Champ Adult Male Clare; Res Champ Adult Male

Strathalbyn; Res Champ Huacaya Fleece Strathalbyn

2008 Res Champ Senior Male Clare

2009 Res Champ Huacaya Fleece Strathalbyn

STUD FEE from $495 (gst inc); live cria guarantee

Contact Robyn on ph: 83982180/0418828177

www.spalpacas.com


ISSUE 61

Azul

ALPACA PRODUCTS

Quality Products, Reasonable Prices

HALTERS AND LEADS IN 7 COLOURS.

COATS IN 5 SIZES WITH A CHOICE OF 3 LININGS AND 3 OUTER FABRICS.

FLEECE BAGS IN 5 COLOURS.

ANY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS CAN BE “MADE TO ORDER” WHEN POSSIBLE.

ORDER A PINK HALTER AND LEAD SET FOR $27.00. WE WILL DONATE $13.50 TO

SUPPORT4CANCER

brumosa.com.au

PHONE Deb 0407 587 405 Syd 0428 322 661

ROPE HALTERS

ROPE LEADS

SHOW FLEECE BAGS

CRIA COATS

ADULT COATS

MADE TO ORDER

THE 2010 SHOW SEASON IS ABOUT TO BEGIN

WITH

147TH ANNUAL MT PLEASANT SHOW

20 MARCH 2010

ALL MEMBERS, YOU SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED YOUR SHOW

DETAILS/ENTRY FORMS IN THE MAIL BY NOW

FURTHER ENTRY FORMS CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM

www.aaasa.com.au

ENTRIES CLOSE ON 26TH FEBRUARY 2010: NO LATE ENTRIES ACCEPTED

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED FOR STEWARDING AND SCRIBING ON THE DAY— PLEASE CONTACT KERRY

PLEASE NOTE: BECAUSE BROAD RIBBONS/RIBBONS ARE ORDERED BY THE SHOW SOCIETY IN

OCTOBER THE SPLITTING OF THE GREY AND ROAN CLASSES WILL NOT APPLY AT 2010 SHOW

ANY QUERIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO

SHOW CONVENERS

JOLYON AND KERRY PORTER

(08) 8568 5254

Read and Breed

COUNT THE LADYBIRDS! (one entry only per immediate family member of AAA SA region members – ie. yes the kids can enter)

Throughout this issue of “Read and Breed” a number of ladybirds appear, either coloured or black and white! Simply count the number of times they appear. Fill out this coupon and place in box provided at recorders table at the Mt Pleasant show. Be present at the drawing of winners (after Supreme has been judged). A correct entry could win you – something alpaca!!!!

Name:....................................................................................................................

Breeder Prefix........................................................

Number of ladybirds...............................

GOOD LUCK

SARAH AND PERRY WHEELER

Sarah—President

Perry - Committee member/web site manager

Perry and I have had alpacas since November 2006. We

started with just 2 and we now have 55 on our property, I

am sure this number will have grown by the time you read

this!

When not with the animals I work with RDNS as a district

nurse, I choose to work on a casual basis so if needed I am

free to be on farm.

I enjoy showing, although I prefer not to be in the show ring I find it a good

way to meet other breeders and talk alpaca.

I have learnt a lot from my previous year on the regional committee and from my time on the Na-

tional Show and Sale.

I‘m looking forward to working with the rest of the committee to deliver some real benefits for

South Australian members over the next year.

COMMITTEE MEMBER PROFILES

JEN DUGGIN — Vice President

I am a mother and grandmother and have a passion for caring for people and

animals.

My vast employment background and two university degrees has given me

the knowledge and life experiences to allow me to help others by providing

support, advocacy, training and leadership.

Personally my interests lie in the growth of the Australian Alpaca industry

and improvements in fibre quality, marketing, sales and animal husbandry

and I look forward to working with the SA Region in achieving this aim.

ISSUE 61

COMMITTEE MEMBER PROFILES

DERRICK HALL - Committee member and Fleece Liaison Officer

Born in UK. Lived and worked on grandfathers farm on the Sherbrook Estate in

Nottinghamshire until I was 16. Worked as a rigger until coming to SA in 1966.

Worked in the transport industry as a heavy haulage driver, crane and heavy

earthmoving machine operator, before starting my own engineering business for

20 year doing repairs and maintenance to heavy earthmoving machinery and

transport equipment. Started Somadale Alpacas in 1997 we now have 71 alpacas.

Moved to Kersbrook 5 years ago, retired, took on the FLO position, maintain the

region pen panels and co-convener of the Clare show.

GLEN RUSSELL — Committee member and Publicity Officer

Involved in the alpaca industry since early 1999 - currently managing an all coloured herd of approx

450 animals I have previously worked for the SA Regional Committee for 4/5 years - being involved in

successful fund raising dinners and also the first Alpaca Extravaganzas held at Oakbank. I look

forward to continuing the position of Health, Marketing and fund raising and will be asking for your

support in the future.

ROSALIE BRINKWORTH — Committee Member

Having purchased my first two alpacas in 1999 I have 10 years of experience breeding and now have

a herd in excess of 100 animals. I have previously supported the SA Region Committee for 3 years -

involved in catering, health, education and having run workshop for the AGE program. I look

forward to again supporting the Committee and Region for 2009/2010.

SANDY EVANS – Secretary

We have been in alpacas for four years now beginning with two alpaca guards for our Wiltipol sheep.

We have been delighted with the support from experienced breeders.. I work at Birdwood High

School as student counsellor. I am pleased to be working as part of our committee to support the

continued growth of this wonderful industry.

JO O‘CONNOR – Committee Member

I have been a breeder of alpacas since 1997. I live in the beautiful Northern Mt Lofty Ranges at Eden

Valley enjoying all aspects of my alpaca herd. I breed mostly coloured animals with the occasional

white appearing. I have volunteered at shows, scribing or helping with the fleeces. I have entered

animals or fleeces to all the SA shows plus a couple of the Victorian ones. I have been fortunate to

sometimes win a ribbon but of course lots of times not. I do find going to shows whether volunteering

or showing is rewarding and has been quite an advantage. It gives you an insight on how the indus-

try is progressing and where you are at with your own animals. You also have the opportunity of

meeting and talking to other members. Enjoy this exciting industry.

Read and Breed

ISSUE 61

READ AND BREED—OUR REGIONAL NEWSLETTER

Read and Breed

ADVERTISING RATES 2010

Black and White

Single edition 4 editions

Full Page $90.00 $300.00

Half Page $50.00 $180.00

Quarter Page $35.00 $120.00

Business Cards $15.00 $50.00

Colour

Full Page $220.00 $800.00

Half Page $150.00 $500.00

All subject to availability and booked on first come first served basis.

All advertising must be paid for by the closing date.

Bookings covering four editions must be paid in full by the closing date for the first edition.

DISCLAIMER:

The Editor and the SA Region Committee take no responsibility for the opinions expressed, information submitted or

products advertised herein. Whilst every effort is made to ascertain accuracy, liability is neither expressed nor implied.

All submissions are subject to editing. The Region Committee reserves the right to decline any article or advertisement.

Deadlines for next issues:

Issue 62 22 April 2010

Issue 63 30 July 2010

Issue 64 29 October 2010

Issue 65 28 January 2011

Article, advertising and payments (payable to AAA SA Region) should be sent to :-

The Editors

Sharon Warland:- Phone 8532 3029/0438 072383

Postal address P.O. Box 595, MURRAY BRIDGE SA. 5301

Email [email protected]

Rhonda Pitt Phone 8574 3195/0408814534

Postal address c/- Post Office, SHERLOCK SA 5301

Email [email protected]

MERCHANDISE

ISSUE 61

Description PRICE (au $)

Alpaca Breeders Reproduction Handbook by McMillan/Jinks 25.00

Camelid Companion by Marty McGee Bennett P.O.A

Magazines—Alpacas Australia—current issue 7.70

Magazines—Alpacas Australia—3 back issues 9.90

Conference Proceedings 1999 —Glenelg S.A

2000—Canberra A.C.T.

2004 —Hobart TAS

2006—Adelaide S.A

2008—Sydney N.S.W.

25.30

25.30

25.30

25.00

28.00

Herd Books—available through National Office P.O.A

Farm Gate Signs (available to AAA members only) PVC—will not rust 65.00

Bumper Sticker 1.50

Available to Order

PLUS POSTAGE WHERE NECESSARY

Note: GST does not apply to goods or services provided by A.A.A. S.A. Region

Contact: Susan Haese Merchandising officer, Phone/fax 08 8555 4163 email [email protected]

Description Price (au$)

Halter Sets (discounted being discontinued) 20.00

Delux Halter—small/medium(double buckle)

large

30.00

39.00

Fleece bags 0.50

Show coat logo 20.00

„Yacca the Alpaca‟ (Children‟s story book) - discounted 10.00

„Managing Alpacas in Australia” an introductory guide for alpaca farmers, breeders

and pet owners under Australian conditons

3.00

“ABC for Alpaca Owners - Antenatal,birthing and cria care” by McMillan/Jinks 33.00

“An Alpaca Alphebet” - contains abbreviations, acronyms, colour chart, fleece

grades, glossary of Alphabetic terms 9.00

Stock held by AAA SA Region

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN REGIONAL COMMITTEE

Read and Breed

Visit our regional web site for up to date news and information.

Website: www.aaasa.com.au

President Sarah Wheeler

[email protected]

8388 3051

0434 982760

Vice-President Jennifer Duggin

[email protected]

8556 0131

Secretary Sandy Evans

[email protected]

8568 5797

Treasurer Wendy Jones

[email protected]

8535 88280

0415 250588

Executive Members

Committee Members

Derrick Hall

[email protected]

8389 3269

Glenn Russell 0417 828753

Perry Wheeler

[email protected]

8388 3051

Rosalie Brinkworth 8524 6805

Jo O‘Connor

[email protected]

8564 1384

Other Representatives

Certified Males Directory Susan Haese 8555 4163

Fleece Liaison Officer Derrick Hall 8389 3269

Jodie Christian Memorial Trophy Celia Smith 8388 2668

Merchandise Susan Haese 8555 4163

Name Badges Margaret and Jim Thompson 8278 2927

Website Perry Wheeler 8388 3051

Publicity Officer Glen Russell 0417 828753

ISSUE 61

THREE ELITE COLOURED STUDS

NOW OPERATING FROM ONE CENTRAL LOCATION

THE ADELAIDE HILLS

THE ALPACA SPECIALISTS

COME AND SEE SOME OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST ELITE

FAWN, BROWN, ROAN AND BLACK ALPACAS

ANDEAN GOLD ALPACAS

MY MISSION IS TO BREED FINE DENSE LUSTROUS

FAWNS, BUT OTHER COLOURS ALSO AVAILABLE

GREENVALE ALPACAS

SPECIALISING IN BREEDING ELITE SILVER AND ROSE

GREYS. NOW RELOCATED TO THE ALPACA SPECIALISTS

– KEVIN HERRMANNS ROAD, MT TORRENS

ALPACA SPECIALISTS ANDEAN GOLD GREENVALE ALPACAS

GLENN – 08 8538 7253 ROSALIE – 08 8524 6805 GLENN – 08 85387253

read and breed feb 2010

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