First Nations-owned and operated toilet paper start-up Yarn’n is now accessible to even more Australians, with Woolworths exclusively stocking Yarn’n in all of its supermarkets nationwide, as well as online.
The launch marks a significant milestone for the company, which was founded with a mission to provide not just a high-quality, environmentally friendly product but also a platform for positive social change.
Giving Back
A key aspect of Yarn’n’s mission is giving back. 50% of the profits from every single roll of Yarn’n sold goes to The Yalari Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides full boarding scholarships to Indigenous children from regional and remote communities around Australia.
“When I started Yarn’n, I wanted to make a real difference in Indigenous communities. The toilet paper market in Australia is almost a $2 billion industry, largely dominated by global players. I saw an opportunity to create something that would give back while providing a product that aligns with my values—supporting education and opportunities for Indigenous children, especially those in remote areas,” explains Yarn’n CEO and founder, Lane Stockton. “Our goal is to combine business with purpose, using Yarn’n to drive change and ensure that our success helps those who need it most.”
Artists Behind the Art
Each roll of Yarn’n is individually wrapped in recycled paper adorned with original artwork from emerging and established First Nations artists. This not only provides a unique touch but also amplifies Indigenous culture within everyday products.
Ambrose Killian, a proud Eastern Arrernte and Western Bundjalung man, is the artist featured for Yarn’n’s Woolworths distribution. His artwork, titled “Beneath the Surface,” captures the deep connection between water, knowledge, and survival, a powerful reflection of ancient stories and the importance of understanding terrain in harmony with nature.
“When I first met Ambrose, we were both just 10 years old. We’ve been close friends ever since, and I knew his artwork would be the perfect fit for Yarn’n,” says Stockton. “His piece, ‘Beneath the Surface,’ speaks volumes about our heritage and mission. It’s more than just beautiful art, it opens up conversations about our culture and connects people with the history and values that drive our work.”
A Commitment to Sustainability
What sets Yarn’n apart from other toilet paper brands in Australia is not just its unique cultural impact but its commitment to sustainability. “We’re the only Indigenous-owned and Australian-made toilet paper brand in a market dominated by large players,” says Stockton. “When you buy Yarn’n, you’re not only getting a quality product, but you’re also contributing to something greater. Our manufacturing process supports local jobs and reduces transportation emissions, which is a key part of our environmental strategy.”
Yarn’n’s approach isn’t only about business; it’s about doing good. The inclusion of Indigenous art on the packaging further emphasizes the company’s dedication to cultural awareness. As Stockton put it “By showcasing Indigenous art, we aim to raise awareness and create appreciation for First Nations cultures. Ambrose’s work is a beautiful way to highlight those values.”
The Yalari Foundation Partnership
Yarn’n’s partnership with the Yalari Foundation was a natural choice, as both organisations share a common mission: to empower Indigenous children through education. “Yalari has an incredible track record of providing scholarships and support to Indigenous students. Their work aligns perfectly with what we’re trying to achieve at Yarn’n, and by partnering with them, we can have a bigger impact on these kids’ futures,” Stockton explains.
The Deeper Meaning of ‘Beneath the Surface’
The artwork “Beneath the Surface” is a visual representation of the values at the heart of Yarn’n’s business. It showcases the deep, underground water sources in Ambrose’s homeland, reflecting the sustainable practices of Indigenous cultures that have existed for thousands of years.
“We strive to mirror that sustainability in our own operations,” says the CEO. “The artwork’s depiction of water beneath the surface resonates with us because it reflects how we aim to go beyond just providing a product. We want to highlight the pressing issues Indigenous communities face, raise awareness, and create more opportunities for future generations. Our mission is to foster understanding and support, and ultimately, a brighter future for all.”
Did you enjoy this First Nations feature on Yarn’n? Check out more IndigenousAus stories here.
