Kangaroo Jack’s masks make a difference

A TORQUAY-BASED business recently made a considerable donation to a program supporting and empowering disadvantaged Indigenous youth.

When Stage 3 restrictions were reintroduced, Kangaroo Jack owner David Zaffina found his business in a precarious position.

With the business unable to operate its usual tours, Mr Zaffina focused on apparel and made the decision sell masks featuring Indigenous.

“I have been partnering with the (Narana) Aboriginal Cultural Centre for almost a year-and-a-half now, initially with my tours. Just before masks became mandatory I broke the idea with them as there was nothing really in the market and they were really supportive,” Mr Zaffina said.

The masks proved incredibly popular, with Kangaroo Jack having to quickly call for more stock.

Mr Zaffina said he wanted others to benefit from the sales of the masks, in addition to assist in community safety.

“I wanted to be able to give back to the community. I spoke to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre about a new start-up that they had that was specifically tailored towards disadvantaged youth,” he said.

“The funding from the government was knocked back as they had been inundated with grants. So, I thought this was the perfect opportunity to create a product to support the program to get it off the ground.”

Kangaroo Jack subsequently committed 15 per cent of their profits to Delama Mok-Borriyn Education and Leadership Program, with Mr Zafina recently handing over a check for $5,000 to Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

He said he was delighted to make the contribution.

“To be able to donate $5,000 to the program is amazing and hopefully it goes a long way.”

Kangaroo Jack will now be donating 10 per cent of its sales from online face masks to the program.

For more information head to www.kangaroojack.com.au