Shannida has a degree in Ecological Agriculture from The University of Sydney, with a focus on Ecological Production Systems, one of which was Aquaponics. Several research projects were carried out while completing the degree using the home Aquaponics system set up in the backyard. Prior to completing the degree, Shannida had been interested in Organics and Permaculture for many years, attending several short courses and open days throughout NSW and Victoria, and found that the University degree was a good mix of all ecological production systems, including Organics, Permaculture and Biodynamics. Shannida also has a Certificate in Horticulture (Organic Plant Growing).

Matt's experience lies as a qualified electrician for 18 years within water pumping and control systems. This work has included systems using water resources supplied by the Sydney Water Catchment Authority, servicing the Sydney, Illawarra and Blue Mountains region in NSW. He also has a Certificate in Advanced Industrial Electronics. For the last few years, Matt has been working within the renewable energies sector, installing solar water pumping and power systems to properties throughout NSW.

When Matt and Shannida moved to Mudgee during the drought of 2002, their main aim was to use the principles of Permaculture to grow their fruit and vegetables in an organic manner. This proved next to impossible, with little water resources to work with, and soil that was far less than fertile. The amount of time and money that would need to be put into building up the soil was not worthwhile, or sustainable. During summer, watering of the small vegetable garden was done on a daily basis, with the soil drying out by the end of each day, causing many of the plants to wilt daily. Aquaponics seemed the way to go; with its minimal water use, yet still tying in with the principles of organics.

Matt and Shannida have 9 separate Aquaponics systems currently running, 6 located in a greenhouse (14m x 8m) and another 3 located in an adjacent outdoor area. Total fish tank water capacity for all systems is 12000Lt with a total plant growing area of 55m2.

All the systems are powered by solar power, using low energy use pumps and aeration equipment. Water is supplied by rainwater catchment off the house, shed and greenhouse and stored in tanks with a total storage capacity of 65000Lt. There is also a 6 megalitre (6 000 000Lt) dam located on the property, which has a clean catchment area. This water has too much suspended clay to be used in the Aquaponics systems. The dam is currently at 65% capacity.

Matt and Shannida started Aquaponics Pty Ltd in May 2006 and created their website www.aquaponics.com.au shortly thereafter. They saw there was great potential in using Aquaponics within Australia, and wanted to become part of the growing trend towards using sustainable growing systems in Australia. Matt and Shannida are experienced in business, both having completed a Certificate in Small Business Management, with Shannida working in administration for 15 years. They are enjoying working towards a sustainable future, and hope that you too will become an avid Aquaponic grower!!