The Hawkesbury-Blue Mountains Region of NSW covers an area from Galston to Broken Bay to Lithgow in the west and almost to Camden in the south. It is predominately to the west of Sydney.

The region is spread across the Hawkesbury which historically was the original "food bowl" for Sydney. It still has an important agricultural (including horticulture) role responsible for some 12% of the State's annual agricultural production. A wide range of agricultural enterprises operate in the region, including poultry, vegetables, cut flowers, mushrooms, turf, fruit, horses and dairy cattle.

Alpaca farms form a growing industry in the Hawkesbury-Blue Mountains area with a value exceeding $15m. Herd numbers currently stand at 3,290 registered animals (approximately 7% of the national herd), and include 158 certified stud males. The annual fleece clip is in excess of  4 tonnes and alpacas are farmed in an area of about 530ha. There are currently 135 financial members of the Hawkesbury-Blue Mountains region of the Australian Alpaca Association.

The region is within a one hour drive from the Sydney CBD and thus offers easy access to people who work and live in the city. It provides excellent opportunities for city based breeders to agist their animals and have easy access to them.

The local membership is very active and provides local industry support  through the following initiatives:

• Regional meetings with keynote speakers, education & social functions. Visitors are always welcome. (see the 'Upcoming Events' link for the local regional calendar).

• Shows - participation in local Autumn & Spring Shows and other events. The region provides expertise and labour to ensure the success of the Sydney Royal Easter Show. (check out the 'Show Results' page for the latest results).

• Education Programmes - held throughout the year according to demand and in the past have included fleece production, fleece pre-classing and chemical safety. A New Breeder's Seminar is held annually.

• Local TAFE Alpaca Production Course.

• Support network - contact with local breeders to assist with any queries and even lend a hand at shearing time! (click on the 'Members' link for contact details).

• Veterinary support - a number of local veterinarians now have extensive camelid experience. (see the 'Links' page for contact details)

• Spits & Pieces - our local newsletter, produced on a quarterly basis. (click on the 'Spits & Pieces' link for more the current and past issues).

• TeePee - a list of alpacas offered for sale by H-BM members. (see 'Teepee' link for all the details).