He made international headlines when he sneezed on King Charles during His Majesty’s visit to Canberra. 

He has met celebrities such as Guy Sebastian and Jimmy Barnes, politicians, and media personalities. 

More importantly, Hephner the alpaca brings comfort and joy to both young and old. 

He recently attracted plenty of pats and smiles during visits to two of Anglican Care’s residential aged care facilities – Jesmond Grove and Kilpatrick Court in Toronto. 

Kilpatrick Court Residential Care Manager Sam Sibley said Hephner had a positive impact on staff and residents. 

“He brought so much joy and calm,” she said. 

“Everyone loved meeting him and there were lots of photos and stories shared afterwards. 

“A huge thank you to Hephner and his handler for spending time with the people we support and making their day so special.” 

Hephner and his handler, Robert Fletcher, have been travelling across the country for almost nine years. 

Mr Fletcher said the duo attend weddings, functions, aged care and health facilities, schools, and community organisations.   

“I like to give back to the community,” he said. 

“With the nursing homes, a lot of residents don’t go out much or don’t get many visitors. 

“It’s a very personable thing to go into someone’s room and they can engage with Hephner the way they do. 

“Once you see the reaction [of the residents], it’s something that keeps you going. 

“We’ve gone to so many nursing homes, including Coonabarabran, from Dubbo to Parkes, Queensland, and all through Victoria. 

“It’s something I’ll continue to do for as long as I can.” 

Mr Fletcher said Hephner’s popularity had risen since the meeting with royalty that gained international attention in October 2024. 

“He’s always been out and about, but the sneezing incident with King Charles certainly kicked things off a bit more,” he said. 

“Weddings and functions picked up off the back of that.” 

You can follow Hephner the alpaca on Facebook or Instagram.