Merchandise for gag AFL team Tasmania TurboChooks pulled by Redbubble

When the state’s comedy community decided to sell gag Tasmania TurboChooks footy merch to raise funds for homeless organisations, they never expected the design to be pulled down. WHAT HAPPENED >

The edited and now re-uploaded TurboChooks merchandise design that is on Redbubble.

When the state’s comedy community decided to sell gag Tasmania TurboChooks footy merch to raise funds for homeless organisations, they never expected the design to be pulled down.

Designer Ash Wayling uploaded the Tasmania TurboChooks design to online merchandise marketplace, Redbubble, but he soon received a surprising email from the company.

“They said at this time they feel (the design) may have infringed on the intellectual property of the AFL,” Mr Wayling said.

“While we don’t push ownership towards (the name) we can prove there is no team called the TurboChooks, mainly because there is no team in Tassie at this time.”

The designs were able to be printed on a range of products including short and long-sleeved shirts, stickers, hats, phone cases, posters and coasters, and more.

The email Ash Wayling – designer of the TurboChooks merchandise – received from Redbubble.

In the email, the company said they had to remove the artwork because “it may contain material that violates someone’s rights”.

“Redbubble has detected potential similarity between your removed work and one or more words, phrases or images included in the rights holder’s removal guidance,” it stated.

The rights holder was listed as the Australian Football League.

All funds raised through the sale of the products is to be donated to either Shelter Tas or Strike It Out – an organisation that provides meals, food packages and emergency support and supplies to people experiencing homelessness.

An example of the Tasmania TurboChooks merchandise uploaded to Redbubble that was removed.

“The core message of TurboChooks is a positive one that celebrates Tassie overall, and those close to the idea are very supportive of our state – so if this gag can benefit in need, it feels like a win for everyone involved,” he said.

“ … We wanted to make sure our impact is going to help people immediately.”

The design has since been edited slightly to remove the word ‘Tasmania’, and has been re-uploaded to Redbubble.

Despite the unexpected initial roadblock, Mr Wayling said the group could still see the funny side of the situation.

“The central thing of the TurboChooks is good vibes and having a laugh, and celebrating Tasmania,” he said.