OYSTER-ology
OYSTER-ology is a podcast about all things Oysters, Aquaculture and everything from spat to shuck. We dive into this watery world with those who know best – the people doing it everyday – and through lively, unfiltered conversations we learn their stories, challenges and opportunities. In each episode we’ll cover different aspects of oyster farming, restoration, ecology and, of course, eating. For those in the business it’s a chance to learn what others in today’s oyster industry are doing and make new contacts. And for the millions of eaters who love to slurp oysters or want to feel like experts at the raw bar -- this is the podcast for you!
OYSTER-ology
Episode 37: Move Over Henry Ford; Aaron Pannell revolutionizes oyster farming
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin talks to Aaron Pinnell, the innovative mind behind FlipFarm, his semi-automated oyster farming system which is changing the way oysters are grown. Aaron shares his journey from sheep and dairy farming to aquaculture, detailing how a serendipitous encounter led him to oyster farming. He discusses the creation of Marlboro Oysters with his wife, Debbie Pannell, and their development of a revolutionary oyster farming system that enhances efficiency and productivity. Aaron explains the unique features of FlipFarm, including the specialized machinery and how it is transforming the oyster industry globally. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of implementing the system, its impact on the oyster quality, and the future potential for scalability and international expansion.
00:00 Introduction to Flip Farm
00:20 Meet Aaron Pinnell: The Man Behind Marlboro Oysters
01:35 Aaron's Journey from Sheep to Oysters
06:38 The Birth of Marlboro Oysters
12:14 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming
16:09 The Eureka Moment: Birth of Flip Farm
20:07 Developing the Flip Farm System
24:08 Understanding Flip Farm Line Lengths and Spacing
25:53 Innovative Loading and Unloading Efficiencies
28:08 Sorting and Grading Oysters on the Water
29:19 Revolutionizing Oyster Farming with Flip Farm
31:31 Adapting to Challenges and Continuous Improvement
32:50 Global Expansion and Scalability
33:10 Handling Storms and Site Considerations
34:22 Flip Farm's Versatility in Different Environments
35:59 The Journey of Developing Flip Farm
39:00 Team Dynamics and Growth
41:10 Work-Life Balance and Retention
41:49 Investment and Adoption of Flip Farm System
42:59 Scalability and Contracting Opportunities
45:14 Quality and Consistency of Oysters
48:30 Global Adoption and Future Prospects
50:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Links:
https://www.flipfarm.co.nz/ (FlipFarm website)
https://cdn.slp.nz/flipfarmtour/ First FlipFarm farm tour videos (a must-see)
https://www.marlboroughoysters.co.nz/ (Marlborough Oysters website)
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