Hephner, the dapper alpaca, delights residents

Residents and staff were thrilled to welcome Hephner to Eloura recently.

On an 18-day tour of New South Wales country towns, Hephner, the celebrity alpaca, looked very distinguished as he strutted through the community, pausing for cuddles and posing for photographs.

The quirky fellow seemed to enjoy the interaction as much as the residents, relishing the pats and cheerful comments. Resident, Frank, thought Hephner would make a great pet. Bill agreed. “He was good value!” he laughed.

Manager, Kim, says the benefits of animal therapy are extensive.

“Animals bring out something special in the residents. It’s wonderful to watch the magic happen as they connect and the animal instinctively responds.”

— Kim Riley