A percentage of the proceeds from sales of the ‘TactiCOOL Dad’ nappy bags will go directly to Mates4Mates, which provides support and rehabilitation services to all current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel impacted by service-related injuries, and their families.

Burke, founder of TactiCOOL Dad, said the idea to develop the products came after he struggled to find a bag to suit his style following the birth of his son.

“I served in the Australian Army for over four years, including in Afghanistan. After discharging in 2018 I found that you can lose your path a bit and your sense of purpose,” Burke said.

“My newborn son helped give me purpose, but I still felt I needed some direction.

“I wanted to do something that would motivate me and also help other people – designing and selling nappy bags that support an important cause has given me that direction back.”

Burke said the products have proven to be popular after just two months in the market, and that the support had been incredible.

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“We’ve had a lot more support than we anticipated with people from around Australia and internationally buying a bag and supporting veterans,” he said.

“The more support we get, the more products we can create and the more we can donate.

“This is a great way to raise important awareness of Mates4Mates so that more veterans know what support is available to them.”

The veteran currently works as a close protection officer, leading security details for high profile Australians, but is hoping to transition to work full-time on TactiCOOL Dad.

 Mates4Mates’ fundraising manager, Lynsey Green, thanked Burke for his support.

“Through the generosity of fundraisers, like Ash, we can continue to support veterans and their families in need,” Green said.

 “We provide a range of support services and provide a safe space for veterans to connect with like-minded people to assist with their recovery.”

[Related: Veterans deliver new Australian War Memorial car park]

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