​

Waratah Alpaca Fibre purchases both Huacaya and Suri fleece. All fleece is sorted and classed based on the Australian Alpaca Association Alpaca Fleece Classing Code of Practice. The Co-Op uses the following lines and growers fibre is valued accordingly :

​

Huacaya and Suri White and Light Fawn micron lines:

​​

• Sheer Ultra       < 16um

• Ultrafine           16-18.5um

• Superfine        18.6-20.5um

• Fine                 20.6-24.5um

• Medium          24.6-28.5um

• Strong2           8.6–36.5um

• Extra Strong and pieces   > 36.5um

​

Colour Lines

• Ultra and Super Fine     < 20.5um

• Fine and Medium          20.6-28.5um

• Strong and X Strong     >28.6um

• Mixed Coloured Pieces

​

Fleece Requirements

​

All fleece will be accepted by the Co-op subject to market availability. To obtain the best price for saddle fleece and good pieces, it is strongly recommended that these be adequately skirted to remove course fibres and vegetable matter.  Growers will be charged for additional skirting that may be required and could result in potential downgrade of fleece.​

​

Detailed and Summary Guidelines for Fleece Preparation is available for growers requiring further assistance in preparing fleece for delivery.  The Guidelines have been developed to assist producers in maximising the value of their fleece.

​

For enquiries concerning the Co-op's fleece preparation quality control requirements producers should email secretary@waratahalpacafibre.com.au