‘Vibrant community spirit’ at Hobart Christmas Lunch
By Michelle Mizzen, Communications and Corporate Partnerships Manager
In 2025, CatholicCare Tasmania proudly became the new custodian of the Hobart Community Christmas Lunch, an event that has brought warmth, dignity, and companionship to Tasmanians for more than forty years.
What began as a modest gathering has grown into a much-loved tradition, uniting hundreds of people and helping to ease the financial burden and effects of social isolation during the festive season.
Reflecting on CatholicCare Tasmania’s first year hosting the event, CEO Julia Mangan said they felt privileged to continue such an important community tradition.
“As the new custodians of the Community Christmas Lunch, we were delighted to host the 2025 event,” Ms Mangan said.
“This gathering reflects our mission to uplift and strengthen communities, offering a moment of shared joy, compassion, and connection for those who may be experiencing life’s challenges, social isolation or simply wishing to come together with others.”
This year’s lunch was a vibrant expression of community spirit, made possible through the combined efforts of CatholicCare Tasmania staff, local businesses, generous sponsors, and an extraordinary network of volunteers. Corporate sponsors played a vital role in sustaining the event, contributing food, goods, financial support, and access to facilities.
CatholicCare Tasmania expressed particular gratitude for the partnership with FLINT Kitchen and In The Hanging Garden, whose catering, venue provision, and hands-on assistance were instrumental in bringing the celebration to life. Their support, along with contributions from many other businesses, helped provide everything from fresh produce to Christmas treats, product giveaways, and essential logistics on assistance were instrumental in bringing the celebration to life.
Volunteers were the beating heart of the event. More than sixty volunteers joined the Corporate Gift Wrapping Day in the week before Christmas, preparing gifts and adding festive touches. Others worked behind the scenes to set up the venue, arrange tables, organise activity stations, and prepare Santa’s stage.
On Christmas Day itself, volunteers welcomed guests, served meals, offered companionship, and helped create a joyful atmosphere alongside Santa and the kitchen teams. After the final plates were cleared, they stayed to restore the venue with the same care and generosity that marked the entire event.
The wider Tasmanian community also played a significant part. Donations of gifts and contributions to the “Buy a Plate” campaign ensured that every guest received a gift. Local businesses added to the celebration by donating food items and goods for distribution.
Thanks to this collective generosity, the 2025 Community Christmas Lunch served more than 550 meals, distributed over 350 children’s gifts, and provided 415 gift cards to teenagers and adults. Beyond the numbers, the day was filled with connection, gratitude, and the unmistakable spirit of Christmas.
As CatholicCare Tasmania reflects on its first year as host, we are deeply thankful for the trust and support of the Hobart community. The event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people come together in compassion and solidarity. It is a celebration not only of Christmas, but of the enduring strength of community.