Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi
We have just joined and are a homeschool family in Busselton. We want to set up our own system using all the junk we have on our property. It includes old rainwater tanks, sinks and fridges, so we want to use all that. We would also love to visit anyone in the area who has set up a system from recycled material, to get some ideas and confidence! Any ideas would be very welcome.
Thedreamteam

hi dream team !!

I think there are a couple of systems down toward margs, don't know of any in busso. Junk is always a great place to start how bout a few pics if the major bits you think you might use

Tanks sinks yes fridges no to much work for little gain

i took two old fridges, gutted them then siliconed and rivited all holes and openings. the large one is 200 gal the small one is 60 gal. free so far, cept a half tube of silicon and a box of old rivets.

but i want to paint the inside with pool paint. so i will have one more cost. not real sure what pool paint is but i see home depot sells some. (i want the purty ocean blue!)

and the fridge doors will make great lids too!

barebones diy is all i can really afford, and recycling anything to meet an end makes me happy

Welcome TDT, once you start, you won't be able to stop.

I am using a old freezer on it's back (400 litres)and it's OK,I used it as a insulated tank when I had some fish that didn't like our winters.It might be a bit far for you to come to Narrogin but all mine is made from scrap material,it dosesn't look nice but it works.

Thanks for all that feedback. I will try to make the fridges work and let you know how I go. Our fish are going in an old rainwater tank that we have been using as a garden bed. We have dug it out and now need to get our carpet and liner in.
The fridges are going to be the planters, and as I need to make them possum proof, will have cages above them.
I will take up your offer of visiting Narrogin, as my sister lives out that way and we go there a few times a year. I'll contact you then!!
I'll work out how to add photos and keep you posted of our progress!
TDT

Well we have stripped the fridges, removed the rats nests (well my husband did it all.....bless him) and are letting the rain wash away the dust. I can't decide whether to use expanded clay for all or most of my medium, or to have a layer of pea gravel or blue metal on the bottom third or half.
Have decided to go with limestone blocks to put the fridges on, as they will be so heavy (thery are really old) once full. That way we can make sure they won't collapse!
We have done our pond structure, and I have decided to spend the money and get a decent pond liner rather than black plastic. Am hoping the investment will be worth it. it is hard balancing recycled/very cheap options with having a system that works well and will wear well. Hope to post the photos on Saturday!

The fridges and or freezers will not withstand gravel. They WILL bow or buckle then fail. Usually overnight when you are away from home

The fridges and or freezers will not withstand gravel. They WILL bow or buckle then fail. Usually overnight when you are away from home

You think its that important you have to say it twice

Hey Dream team, good to see you today, hope you manage to get all the bits together to make it work...