Innovative local products powered by the flavours of native plants

Tara Croker is the founder of Yaala Sparkling – a beverage company that embraces product innovation with a twist.

Tara is a trailblazing entrepreneur who seamlessly merges her Indigenous heritage with the dynamic world of business.

Her entrepreneurial journey began when she noticed products using native Australian plants and flavours growing in the market. She also found that Indigenous representation in the native food supply chain was less than 2%.

This lit a fire in Tara to start her own business – one that would be collective, sustainable, and that takes a community driven approach.

She was determined to increase First Nations representation in the native food industry and to authentically connect people to native Australian plants.

The pathway to innovation is collaborative

Tara's journey is marked by milestones made possible through her collaborative spirit. She has drawn on the expertise of the right people, capabilities and facilities to develop and perfect her innovative products.

"Taking on the beverage and manufacturing industry was definitely something I didn't have any experience in. I’ve been fortunate enough to surround myself with people who have the expertise, and are so willing to help and collaborate," Tara said.

In the early days, Tara worked with our department's Food Innovation team at the Food Pilot Plant research facilities for industry to develop her products. The team conducted extensive consumer panels to gather insights and guide product development. More than 40 native food ingredients, sourced from Indigenous wild harvesters and local farmers, were incorporated and assessed.

Tara worked with a local manufacturer to scale-up the production of the product range. And later, she worked with Indigenous artists to tell the authentic story of the plants she uses.

This collaborative product development process, combined with respect for traditional knowledge, resulted in beverages that meet the highest quality standards, and preserve the authentic flavours of the land.

"We have created a successful business that is making a positive impact on the environment and the community by helping to preserve and share Indigenous culture and knowledge. I am passionate about our purpose, and I am committed to contributing to a more connected Australia," Tara said.

Contact

Email DPIAgTech@daf.qld.gov.au