An aluminium alloy metal matrix discontinuously reinforced with silicon carbide particulates, was synthesized using the spray atomization and co-deposition technique. Microstructural characterization studies were performed to provide an understanding of the intrinsic effects of carbide particulate co-injection into the aluminium alloy metal matrix. Results reveal the ageing kinetics to be altered by the reinforcing ceramic particulates. Ambient temperature tensile tests revealed that the presence of particulate reinforcement in the aluminium alloy metal matrix degrades both strength and ductility. The results obtained are discussed in relation to thermal conditions during spray co-deposition and contributions from reinforcement to intrinsic microstructural effects and mechanical response.