About Our Herd

Beginning in 1992, with just three females and a male (purchased sight unseen from photos), Illawarra has steadily built their herd to around 500 alpacas, and established their reputation as one of the most highly acclaimed studs in the country in fleece and animal classes in shows across Australia.

A fortunate accident saw their foundation white male, Illawarra Sir Frank, as the first tested superfine alpaca in the country. Fineness in fleece has since been their constant focus, with progressive improvement in fleece weight and handle. Fleece weights of 1.5 kilograms in their foundation stock contrast with the 6 kilogram fleece weights they are now shearing from their best stud males, whose fleeces are demonstrating the increased fineness, lustre and length, as well as the exquisitely soft handle, that are the goals of the SRS® Breeding System. Comprehensive records of annual fleece weights and fibre tests, backed by retained fleece samples, constitute a dramatic demonstration of the history of each animal, and the progressive improvement in the herd.

Accelerated genetic improvement in the herd is driven by a commitment to the “Holy Trinity” of SRS® Breeding (the method), Embryo Transfer (the means), and Across-herd Genetic Evaluation (the proof).

Whilst focusing on white and light fawn fleece for the commercial market, the herd includes small numbers of dark fawn and brown alpacas whose fleeces demonstrate the same qualities as their lighter coloured cousins. These alpacas are highly valued by those breeders seeking to improve the quality of their coloured herds.