Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I have started cycling but when I asked the local fish shop if I could get some of their dirty filter media/squeeze they tried to sell me a bottle of bacteria which I don't particularly believe will do anything.

They swear by it saying they used it to cycle their systems but they have large established ponds and were using old media(they have some AP beds) so not exactly convinced the bottled bacteria did anything.

Anyways anyone around Brookvale or up to Belrose or Mona Vale way that has an established system that could give me some sort of bacterial culture? Either water or some dirty media or a filter squeeze? I can come and pick up evenings and on weekends.

Dont buy the crap they are pushing on you. I would ask Rup he probably has contact in northan NSW

I wasn't intending on it... if anything I'd buy 5 goldfish and get them to fill up the bag with as much water as would fit. It'd cost me less and probably have more of an effect...

I've been cycling water through one growbed for about 3 days now and I've added some pure ammonia but I just want to give the bacterial colony a bit of a kick especially since it's so damn cold... getting to about 5 degrees overnight.

I'm in blacktown. As I said before, if you can make the trip I'll give you plenty of filter sludge. If you can only make it to north ryde I might bring a bag full of water and filter gunk on the train for you. PM if you are interested or can't find something closer.

yep I might give you a yell if I don't find someone closer. I haven't forgotten but with petrol being the price it is nowadays I'm trying local first

Cheers