Up until the 1980s alpacas were only bred in their native homeland of South America. Now, the Australian alpaca industry reports some 2,000 registered breeders Australia wide, and numbers of alpacas estimated at 250,000 - 300,000 animals.
Alpacas are now a world-wide market with breeders not only in Australia but internationally enjoying the financial and lifestyle choices that this animal brings.
Alpacas are truly special, magical beings.
“Once upon a time” is a catchphrase that, according to the Oxford Dictionary, has been used as the opening lines for storytelling since the 1380s. These stories to end with “they all lived happily ever after” – and Storybook Alpacas is such a tale.
So...
Once upon a time there was a family who shared a love and belief in the notion of Carpe Diem – Seize the Day – make your life extraordinary. This has lead them into a life of adventures (Martial Arts - Just for Kicks Taekwondo, Olives, Donkeys, Agritourism, Café ownership, retail sales and Co-operative farming.
Our initial involvement with Alpacas commenced prior to our daughter's arrival - but gained momentum in 2003 when she was but 3 years of age – height wise, cria size. Rubey’s first childhood recollections are walking amongst alpacas in the paddocks and holding pens at Coolaroo when we were selecting our preliminary herd.
Fast forward now almost 30 years and we are not only fortunate to have called Coolaroo home, but used it as a platform to expand. Our herd is on the move to its new home - central west in 2025 to a large 2,000 acre property. From a humble beginning of 2 alpacas - Storybook Alpacas - is now one of the largest studs in Australia.
We operate a fully commercial operation now with our herd always growing. 2025 predictions indicate we are on track to meet that 2,000 head target. Our Alpacas will continue to call home the Southern Highlands and the Central West - the best of both worlds. We are blessed to work with these truly incredible animals.
Our export business - Alpaca Exports International continues to provide the most amazing opportunities for both business and clients. The Courtyard Cafe in Berrima has established itself as a great spot for locals and tourists and we delighted to be expanding in July 2025 with the opening of another venue in Berrima - Storybook Cafe/restaurant - main street near the pub!
Alpacas have enriched our lives, provided opportunities and experiences that have surpassed our wildest expectations - indeed fulfilling our prophecy of Carpe Diem
For us, - Storybook Alpacas, our commitment is to the entirety of the Alpaca, the sustainability of Australian Agriculture, and to the passion for the development of genetically bred champions.
Storybook Alpacas are excited to be a part of this wonderful industry, now and happily ever after!
© 2014 – 2025 Storybook Alpacas.
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