About Coconut Grove Members Association
A private not-for-profit mutual association focused on aquaponics education and community innovation
Our Purpose
Coconut Grove Members Association (CGMA) is a not-for-profit, non-government, self-assessing, community-focused unincorporated association.
We operate under the ATO mutuality principle and exist solely for the mutual benefit of our affirmed members. This is not a business, not an enterprise, and we do not sell to the public.
Our Articles
CGMA exists to advance education and innovation in aquaponics, aquaculture, and sustainable food systems. We support members in developing practical skills for self-sufficiency and sovereign health.
Our focus areas include:
- Aquaponics system design and implementation
- Sustainable aquaculture practices
- Natural health and wellness education
- Community resilience and self-sufficiency
- Innovation in sustainable food production
Membership is by invitation only and requires quarterly affirmation. This ensures our community remains aligned with our values and maintains the private, mutual nature of our association.
Members participate in:
- Private learning resources and workshops
- Mutual knowledge exchange and skill sharing
- Community projects and innovation initiatives
- Quarterly affirmation of shared purpose
All activities are conducted on a private, non-commercial basis for mutual benefit only.
While our primary focus is mutual benefit for affirmed members, we recognize the value of community service and educational outreach.
Member-led projects may include community education initiatives, demonstration systems, and knowledge sharing with aligned organizations - always maintaining our not-for-profit, mutual structure.
External activities are educational in nature and do not constitute commercial services or public trading.
CGMA is governed by affirmed members through mutual agreement. We operate as an unincorporated association with stewards (not administrators) who facilitate coordination and communication.
Key principles:
- Self-assessing and self-governing
- Not-for-profit with no commercial objectives
- Aligned with ATO mutuality principles
- Private and invitation-only membership
- Quarterly affirmation requirement
Members may engage in community service activities that align with our educational purpose, including:
- Educational workshops and demonstrations
- Community garden initiatives
- Knowledge sharing with schools and community groups
- Sustainable food system advocacy
All community activities are voluntary, educational, and not-for-profit in nature.
What We Are NOT
✗Not a business - We do not engage in commercial trading or enterprise activities
✗Not a public enterprise - All programs and resources are exclusively for affirmed members
✗Not GST registered - We operate under the mutuality principle per ATO guidance
✗Not offering public services - No services, advice, or goods are available to the public
Interested in learning more about membership?