Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

personally i think you are trying to do too much, particularly for a starter/newbie system.

i suggest maybe just focusing on a simple AP setup with a small dwc to start off with that will take you some time to get working (probably 12 months). run your wicking beds on the side as normal 'unconnected' wicking beds.

once you figure all that out then design your mega-setup with the experience you learnt.

I know that is not the advice you would like but the simple answer is - to build an advanced system you will already be aware of what is required, what works and what doesn't.

very few people succeed with building a super system first up and most that do end up back at the start in twelve months (next season) anyway. Many that make these sorts of posts never get a system running for 6 months anyway because they are always planning and redesigning it.

A good example is Petes set up in Melbourne. He was much further along after 6-12 months because he started first and learnt to expand his subsequent systems properly. Like all newbies he had a lot of learning expereinces that he has addressed in subsequent builds/setups.

First setup > viewtopic.php?t=27800
Second Setup > viewtopic.php?f=18&t=27965
Vegie Patch System > viewtopic.php?f=18&t=28231

thanks i was planning to do the same but just gathering information for future proofing. due you have any recommendations for a place to buy a pond liner from?

>> thanks i was planning to do the same but just gathering information for future proofing

don't have to worry too much. Everything is reusable and and easily added to.
Even if you set your system up one way it can easily be changed to another at a later date. The only really permanent features are standpipe holes in the grow bed and bulkhead points (if you use them for drain points).

I definitely agree with having wicking beds but for first 12 months they will be fine as manual ones and can easily be hooked up later. In many cases you can easily turn them out at the end of season anyway.