Strong number of alpaca entrants despite the drought

Unsure if numbers would even match those of last year because of struggles with the drought, they were pleasantly surprised to see an increase in entrants.

Fleece competition entrants matched last year's numbers while halter entrants are up on 2018.

Convener of the alpaca competition, Keryn Burns said these numbers were very exciting.

"To have an increase in numbers after the year the state has had is very promising," Ms Burns said.

"We have 275 halter entrants.

"It is not just the increase in numbers, but the quality which is pleasing also.

"A lot of people are doing it very tough with the drought, so to see this support for our event is very satisfying."

Ms Burns believes the breed is in a strong position with growth expected in all areas.

"The breed is definitely on the rise which is great," she said.

"Both the meat and fleece industries continue to grow, especially fleece, and we have the herd guards as well.

"Fleece is really an epic thing last year and this year with a couple of new co-ops and fleece companies starting up to market the fibre overseas.

"So that is really on the increase.

"The meat industry, both local and export markets, continues to grow.

"It is an industry which we need to continue to grow."

Ms Burns said the breed has strong goals in place for the future.

"We definitely need to double the national herd," she said.

"The goal is to achieve this within the next five or 10 years."

Coolawarra Alpacas have the largest contingent of entrants with 38 animals entered in the halter competitions.

Co-owner of the family run business, Rubey Williams, said the stud had made a big commitment to the show.

"We love the Sydney Royal Show and we really want to support it," Miss Williams said.

"We have 38 animals entered in competitions, have supplied 20 for the shearing competition and provided 20 for the Little Hands On The Land."