.png)
Reading list
Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation (CHAC) represents Aboriginal people in Circular Head, delivering holistic services that support individuals, families, and the wider Aboriginal community across North West Tasmania.
Over the years, CHAC has been primarily funded through Federal Government sources. While this funding is essential, it has also introduced limitations and additional responsibilities, including extensive consultation requirements and significant administrative demands that can impact service delivery:
While this support is essential, relying on Government funding also comes with significant limitations. Short-term funding cycles, extensive reporting, application processes, and acquittal requirements place a heavy administrative burden on our staff, which can quickly drain resources that might otherwise go directly to programs and servicing our Community…A clear example of this shortfall is the consultation expectations placed on Aboriginal organisations. Governments often ask CHAC to engage with community, provide advice, or contribute to policy discussions. These consultations are important, but current funding models do not acknowledge the substantial workload involved. This creates a gap that falls squarely on our organisation to fill—one that is a direct consequence of Government models in an Aboriginal space.
– Rochelle Godwin, Community & Engagement Manager CHAC
In response to these challenges, CHAC established its business arm, tarkiner, to create self-determined funding streams, with 70% of profits reinvested into cultural programs and community self-determination.
Tarkiner operates with an independent board aligned with CHAC’s vision and governance, enabling access to specialist skills and business expertise while remaining grounded in community and cultural values. Established to support self-determination, tarkiner links economic development with cultural strength.
Its eco kelp range includes the tarkiner Indoor Plant Spray, sold exclusively at Bunnings through a partnership with Seasol and Wesfarmers, all sharing a commitment to Aboriginal enterprise. This partnership has supported team upskilling, with plans to establish a bottling plant on Country to create jobs and strengthen community ownership.
Funding from Wesfarmers and the BOAB Foundation supported product development, which was Aboriginal-led and prioritised engagement with Aboriginal-owned businesses across production, marketing, and legal services.2 Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation, Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation & tarkiner Annual Report 2024-25, 27 [link]
Tarkiner is also trialling an outdoor kelp fertiliser on CHAC’s own Trawmanna grounds, with plans to supply local and commercial markets, expand online sales, and explore tourism opportunities.
.. tarkiner is not just a bottle of kelp spray on a shelf—it’s a statement of self-determination. It’s about reclaiming agency, building economic strength, and creating a future where our Community is no longer solely reliant on Government funding that too often fails to meet our needs…
– Rochelle Godwin, Community & Engagement Manager CHAC
