Aussie beachgoers can protect themselves and the ocean at the same time this summer, thanks to a vibrant new partnership between Ugly Xmas Rashie (UXR) and Griffith University.
Founded by the partners of Rumble Strategic Creative advertising agency, together with Griffith Master of Marketing alumnus David Graham, Ugly Xmas Rashie has partnered with the Whales and Climate Research Program (WCRP), co-led by Griffith’s Dr Olaf Meynecke, to launch a new whale-inspired design just in time for summer.
Proceeds from every rashie sold will directly contribute to the Whales and Climate Research Program and support the team’s ongoing research and conservation of the magnificent marine mammals that visit the Australian coastline every year.
“Whales are the gentle guardians of our seas, keeping the ocean full of life,” Dr Meynecke said.
“We are now at the peak of the southern whale migration with thousands of whales coming close to our Australian shore.
“The whales are heading to Antarctica to find food, but times are challenging for our ocean guardians with warming waters, shifting currents and melting sea ice.
“We are here to provide the best solutions for their future protection with our research on whales and climate.
“You can show your love for whales and their home by sporting the all-new Whale rashie.”
“The Ugly Xmas Rashie was created to do good,” UXR Co-founder David Graham said.
“It was a creative idea we knew could make a difference, so we pulled out all stops to make it happen, using our collective marketing skills and contacts to bring it to life.”
Since 2016, Ugly Xmas Rashie has sold tens of thousands of rashies in 26 countries, raising close to half a million dollars for charitable causes, with previous partners including Cancer Council, Surf Life Saving, and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
They have also been worn by Aussie icons such as Chris Hemsworth and Hugh Jackman.
“Ugly Xmas Rashie is Australia’s answer to the Northern Hemisphere’s ugly Christmas sweater tradition,” Mr Graham said.
“Ugly Xmas Rashie celebrates Australia’s beach lifestyle, sense of humour and is a fun way to stay sun safe and support worthwhile causes.
“That’s why this year we are proud to be partnering with the Whales and Climate Research Program and Griffith University, supporting the incredible work of Dr Olaf Meynecke and his team.”
With a UPF 50+ rating and a luxe feel, the Ugly Xmas Rashie offers lasting quality, fabricated from 85 per cent recycled polyester and 15 per cent spandex, with the polyester fibres made from 100 per cent textile waste or PET bottles, and is manufactured by Brisbane sportswear company Scody.
You can find the new, limited-edition Whale rashie at uglyxmasrashie.com.au and more info about the whales and climate program on www.whalesandclimate.org
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Olaf Meynecke
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