Jinta Sport

Stop and think before you buy this Father's Day, is the message from ethical sporting goods manufacturer Jinta Sport. As the makers of Australia's only Fairtrade sports balls, the company is urging buyers to consider the conditions of factory workers before buying a gift for Dad this year.

"Consumers need to be aware that many sports balls in the marketplace are made in developing countries under poor working conditions. Many manufacturers continue to use child labour or exploit their workers in order to increase their profit margins, while still charging a premium price on their product," said Nick Savaidis, founder of Jinta Sport.

Jinta Sport carries genuine Fairtrade certification, meaning that every ball is free of child labour, and adult workers enjoy good work conditions, including healthcare, safe conditions and a decent wage.

"Jinta Sport is the sports brand for people who want good quality, ethically produced and well priced sports gear," Nick said.

"Our balls are more environmentally friendly through the use of polyurethane and rubber, instead of toxic PVC often used in cheaper sports balls, and except for the basketball, are all hand stitched by adults."

In addition, each purchase of Jinta Sport balls helps give back to the local community. Five per cent of each direct sale of goes to the Mount Theo Program - a successful youth diversion and development program aimed to help young people in remote communities in the Northern Territory. The money raised from the sales of the balls is used to fund sports programs for school-aged Warlpiri children, including sports equipment, uniforms and a regular sports carnival.

Jinta Sport's range includes balls for soccer, Aussie Rules football, netball, basketball, rugby union and cricket. The company also produces a range of Fairtrade sportswear.

Prices for adult-sized Jinta soccer balls start at $39.50.

For more information visit www.jintasport.com.au.