ALPACA farmers are craning their necks for overseas shores, as fleece production volumes reach the tipping point that will allow them to break into the world market.

Julie Hockings' alpaca flock began with two, but 20 years later she now runs more than 150 of these long-lashed animals over multiple properties in Dalveen.

As one of the country's most established alpaca farmers, Ms Hockings is excited to see the industry on the cusp of something big.

"For the past two decades we focused on breeding better quality fleeces but now we are looking to grow our herd so that we can get enough volume of alpaca fleece to be able to compete on the export market,” she said.

Countries like China and Italy hold alpaca wool in high esteem.

But despite having the biggest alpaca flock outside South America, Australian farmers have been unable to produce enough volume to attract these markets, which has been a struggle for Australian alpaca farmers.

"Our greatest challenge has been to get enough numbers of animals to be able to develop the industry.

"We're just at a turning point now and we've had small quantities go to South Korea.”

Ms Hockings is Queensland's only fleece classer and one of few around the country.

She said the wide variety in fleeces has made for a lengthy breeding process.

"Alpacas come in so many varieties of colours that to get a line of fleece in one particular colour and grade of fibre can be difficult.”

Alpaca wool is prized for its soft handle and impressive thermal properties, acting as an excellent insulator.

With cool, dry conditions, the Southern Downs and Granite Belt region offers the perfect conditions for growing alpaca wool, and local growers have formed a cooperative, Alpaca Artisans.

"A lot of people with established alpaca farms have actually been moving into the region in the last couple of years because of the good conditions.”