Introduction to alpacas

Are you interested in having alpacas? Our 2.5-hour workshop is the best investment you can make. You will learn the essentials alpaca management and find out if they are the right animal for you and your property. You will learn:

• The different reasons people keep alpacas 
• What to consider when setting up your farm 
• Males, females, wethers, and which ones are best for you
• What alpacas require to be healthy and happy
• Types of illnesses alpacas get and how to prevent them
• The basics of alpaca handling

The workshop is led by experienced alpaca owner Rita Soares, who believes in placing alpaca welfare and wellbeing at the forefront of all decisions. Rita is an advocate of ethical alpaca ownership and natural farming.

The workshop includes morning tea, notes, inside knowledge about alpaca ownership, and an exclusive Campo Verde farm and alpacas tour. You will learn in a small group of 8 participants to maximise your learning experience in an intimate setting.

Location:  Campo Verde Alpacas farm in Harcourt (next door to Castlemaine, just south of Bendigo, and about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Melbourne)

Feedback from previous participants:

• "Thanks again for the workshop yesterday. I was buzzing with delight all day from it." Celene
• "Wow, what a brilliant day. Loved every moment of the workshop."  Gloria
• "Thank you for a lovely and informative day. I learned so much about caring for alpacas and enjoyed the balance of theory and practical learning."  Julie
• "Thanks again for last Sunday. My daughter and I really enjoyed the day. You were very informative and welcoming." Tanya

The presenter:

Rita Soares is a member of the Australian Alpaca Association (AAA). She was born in Brazil and lived most of her life in big cities. She made a tree change to regional Victoria seven years ago when she acquired her first alpacas. From an initial 3, her herd has grown to 40 alpacas.  Rita has participated in various professional development courses in the alpaca industry, learned from specialist alpaca vets, international and local experts,  volunteered at alpaca farms, participated in alpaca shows, and is committed to continuous learning.  She believes in keeping alpaca welfare and wellbeing at the forefront of all decisions. 

Rita has worked professionally as a careers counsellor, educator, and in marketing. She has held volunteer roles with the Australian Alpaca Association regionally and nationally. In 2017, she was awarded "Most Enthusiastic New Breeder" by the Australian Alpaca Association - Victorian Central Region. Rita is an avid knitter, artist, and felter. She loves teaching others about appropriate alpaca keeping and advocating for their wellbeing and welfare. 

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