292: How A Chance Encounter With Alpacas Changed Michelle Hamilton’s Life & Helped Her Find Joy Again

Michelle Hamilton lives on a farm in Central Queensland with her husband Pete and son Wiley. Growing up on the land, she thought she was ready for rural life — but motherhood brought challenges she never saw coming including post natal depression. But Michelle’s turning point came unexpectedly at a local agricultural show, where she encountered alpacas! What began as a simple encounter grew into something much bigger. Breeding alpacas and growing her business helped Michelle rediscover purpose, energy and connection, and re-engage with motherhood, her family and herself. Then a near-fatal farming accident involving her husband forced their family to pause and rethink what truly mattered, including their marriage.Today, with more joy, a paddock full of alpacas, and a clearer perspective, Michelle is living life very differently. Gidget Foundation: PANDA Helpline: 1300 726 30 CABLE's new Heritage 365 collection features timeless wardrobe pieces crafted from luxurious 100% Australian Merino Wool — designed to be worn and cherished season after season. Explore the latest arrivals in Cable stores or online HERE. Hogans Family Jewellers is a family-owned business with over 80 years of craftsmanship. From engagements to life’s special milestones, their timeless pieces are designed to be treasured for generations. Discover their ready-to-wear collection online HERE or in-store at 241 Margaret Street, Toowoomba.

You can listen to 292: How A Chance Encounter With Alpacas Changed Michelle Hamilton’s Life & Helped Her Find Joy Again online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

292: How A Chance Encounter With Alpacas Changed Michelle Hamilton’s Life & Helped Her Find Joy Again is an episode from Motherland Australia by Stephanie Trethewey.

This episode is 57:14 long.

This episode was published on Mar 15, 2026.

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