In the heart of Hobart, a revolutionary movement is underway, as Food Not Bombs Hobart works tirelessly to combat food waste and feed the community, one delicious and nutritious meal at a time.
The Story Behind Food Not Bombs Hobart: Our Mission and Vision
We are a social political organisation. We exist because of the amount of food waste in the world. All major decisions are by consensus (all agree). Everyone who comes has a say. We cook a vegetarian meal every week and serve it to the public every Saturday afternoon.
Anyone can be co-ordinator, cook, helper, food and clothes distributor, cleaner, kitchen hand or social support person to the vulnerable. The opportunity to co-ordinate secures the rights of all our participants that we belong to a democratic community organisation. In this way we are an experimental organisation.
We support diversity and equality in all our days activities. We are all volunteers. We have no funding arrangements. We provide a meal, takeaways, and continue with donating long after the event. We provide an open supply of goods called The Free Market including clothes and shoes. We had co-existed with Orange Sky Mobile Laundry, now with Pets In The Park who care for animals owned by people who are homeless. We are on the trail of free eats in Hobart – people tell us so.
Volunteer Spotlight: Highlighting the Heroes Behind the Scenes
Dinner Characters
In our volunteer spotlight, we celebrate the diverse cast of heroes who work behind the scenes to make a real difference.
Victor entertains with his infectious energy, while Penny’s two trusty monkey teddies bring joy to those around her. Karen selflessly cooks up a storm, Glen tirelessly collects food for those in need, and Paul offers a listening ear to those who need someone to talk to. His favourite topic is love. Karl scrubs away at dishes with a cheeky smile, while Pete’s versatility and event leadership skills make him a jack-of-all-trades. Christiaan passionately coordinates the efforts of our dedicated team, supported by Cil’s delicious cookie-baking skills and her invaluable assistance.
And let’s not forget the many others who contribute in countless ways, big and small – together, they weave a tapestry of kindness and compassion that warms hearts and changes lives.
Recipe Corner: Sharing Our Favorite Soup Kitchen Recipes
Roast Vegetables
Roast Vegetable Mix for Soup Kitchen
Vegetables:
- 4kg medium-sized potatoes (always included!)
- 3-4 medium-sized carrots
- 2-3 medium-sized beetroot
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1 bunch of broccoli
- 2-3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- (Other vegetables as available, e.g. onions, garlic, parsnips, etc.)
Seasonings:
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (e.g. peanut, vegetable, or canola oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh or dried herbs (e.g. thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder
- 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- Vegetable stock
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 180°C.
- Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces (aware of dental issues).
- In multiple baking trays, toss vegetables with oil, salt, herbs, curry powder, hot sauce (if using), and lime/lemon juice until well coated.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 3 hours.
- Remove from oven and place in Tupperware ready for immediate transport to venue.
- After arriving at soup kitchen, remove and place on decorative serving plates.
- Serve hot in your soup kitchen!
Client Stories: The Impact of Food Not Bombs on Our Community
Rob
We have many stories of improving outcomes for Food Not Bombers. One case was Rob who did his mandatory community hours while on parole at Food Not Bombs Hobart. He was a cook for us and a good one. He averaged seven plates an event. The magistrate at the courts discussed our event every fortnight with him because Rob was in a diversion court program where the magistrate came down from the bench to have that conversation with him. It was relayed to us by the justice department that we were a legitimate social justice agency. Once Rob completed his 100 hours he started a job as a cook at a board house for people who were homeless, Flint House.
DoggieD
Dougie was another case that emphasises what possibilities communities like ours can have. Doug had been socially isolated. He/She is a transvestite and gay. He was also army trained we found out and highly capable. Doug was co-ordinating in no time. He likes the central position which Food Not Bombs gives him. He has really shined over the period of events he co-ordinated this year. I mean he loves the spot light. Moreover, as we provide a safe space for gender diversity, Doug could come out as queer. His frocks have become more extravagant at each event since the beginning of 2022.
Food Waste and Sustainability: Our Efforts to Reduce and Reuse
Glen’s Van
Glen’s Food Van is a beacon of hope for many in our community, thanks to the tireless efforts of Glen and Tim. Most weekdays, they collect surplus food from a local supermarket’s storage bin and distribute it to those in need, including Food Not Bombs. What started as a response to the organization’s food refuge needs and internal power struggles has blossomed into a vital service. By redirecting their energy towards this initiative, Glen and Tim have found a productive outlet for their passion and expertise. A Food Not Bombs strategy has been instrumental in channeling their efforts into a force for good. Today, Glen’s Food Van is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that can be made when we work together towards a common goal: feeding our community and reducing food waste.
Community Partnerships: Collaborating with Local Organizations
City Organics
We are forever grateful to City Organics for their unwavering support over the years. Their generosity has provided our soup kitchen with an abundance of health food, fresh fruit, and vegetables, which we have been able to share with those in need. Their commitment to nourishing our community has not gone unnoticed, and we are thankful for their dedication to helping us provide wholesome meals and groceries to those who require them most. Through their kindness, we have been able to make a tangible difference in the lives of many, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the years to come.
Pets In The Park
One more example occurs with our collaborative arrangements with Pets In The Park. We see political fusion of diverse views, via the context of professional staff who volunteer, and provide veterinarian services for participants of Food Not Bombs who are also homeless with mental health issues and can have surprising political opinions. In these instances usually both groups learn from the other. Given the time, like the duration of our event, and the critical space which Criterion House belongs, as a public square, we think something happens which can only be explained in a political context.
Event Recaps: Fundraisers, Food Drives, and Other Activities
On a recent day, our organization was fortunate enough to receive a generous donation from Guildford Young College’s food class. The students had prepared a plethora of wraps and meringues as part of their culinary training, and the catering teacher sought out local organizations to share the bounty with. Thanks to a suggestion from the city council, we were connected and able to collect the donations in the morning. We promptly distributed the wraps to those in need, visiting the Day Space homeless shelter, The Salvos, and the high intensity Psych ward. The following day, we prepared the meringues at our soup kitchen and were thrilled to share their sweet delight with our community. The gratitude from each group was palpable, and we are deeply thankful for the kindness and efforts of the students and staff at Guildford Young College.”
The Importance of Food Security: Why Soup Kitchens Matter
Security, Belonging, Health
Food security is a fundamental human right, yet millions struggle to access nutritious meals every day. That’s where soup kitchens come in – providing a vital lifeline to those in need. More than just a meal, soup kitchens offer a sense of community, dignity, and hope. They bridge the gap for individuals and families facing food insecurity, providing sustenance and support during difficult times. By serving warm, nutritious meals, soup kitchens like ours help to nourish bodies and souls, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. As we continue to serve our community, we’re reminded that food security is not just a basic need, but a foundation for building stronger, healthier, and more resilient individuals and communities.”
Meet Our Chefs: The Creative Minds Behind Our Menus
Karen
Priscilla
Meet Priscilla, the talented cook behind our soup kitchen’s scrumptious homemade cookies and occasional pasta dishes. This kind-hearted Christian is driven by a desire to give back to her community, and her culinary skills are just the beginning. Priscilla’s warm spirit has also brought her best friend, a vibrant and outgoing individual known for her larger-than-life personality, into the fold. Together, these two women are making a meaningful impact, proving that even the shyest among us can conquer our fears and achieve great things. Priscilla’s cookies are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a symbol of her dedication, compassion, and the power of friendship. We’re grateful to have her on our team, spreading joy and warmth one delicious cookie at a time!
Donor Appreciation: Thanking Those Who Support Our Cause
Expanding Our Reach: New Initiatives and Programs
StreetWork
My two projects, Food Not Bombs (FNBs) and StreetWork, are intricately linked, with FNBs serving as a community hub for my social work practice. StreetWork, in turn, acts as a binding force, uniting a range of interconnected projects under a shared vision. This ecosystem of initiatives – which includes food sharing, housing, employment, charity work (Bread Basket), and education – forms a comprehensive support system for individuals in need. By addressing multiple aspects of well-being, these projects work together to create a transformative journey for those involved. At the heart of this network is StreetWork, which weaves together the threads of community, support, and empowerment, ultimately fostering a culture of care and inclusivity that extends far beyond any one project alone.
Hobart Weekend Bread Basket
The Hobart Weekend Bread Basket project has a rich history that’s deeply intertwined with Food Not Bombs (FNBs) Hobart. In fact, the two initiatives were once one and the same, with the Bread Basket project being an integral part of FNBs Hobart’s food rescue and sharing efforts.
However, as the Bread Basket project grew and evolved, it became clear that it could reach even more homes and communities as a standalone initiative. Over time, the project was gradually spun off from FNBs Hobart, with the latest development being Priscilla taking the reins and running it independently after I had led it for six years with support.
This transition has enabled the Bread Basket project to shift its focus from feeding individuals to nourishing families and communities, a change that has only been possible due to the strong foundations laid by FNBs Hobart. Despite the division, the two projects remain closely linked, sharing a common goal of reducing food waste and building a more compassionate and sustainable food system.
StreetShelter
StreetShelter, is a project that builds on the spirit of community and support that defines Food Not Bombs. While FNBs focuses on food rescue and sharing, StreetShelter provides a safe and welcoming space for those experiencing homelessness to rest, recharge, and connect with resources.
The two projects are deeply intertwined, as many individuals who cook and share meals at FNBs can also find shelter and support at StreetShelter. This synergy has already borne fruit, with individuals like Pete and Rob achieving remarkable progress. Pete, who once lived in the bush under a tarp, now works night shifts across the state, while Rob completed his community hours and found safe haven at StreetShelter, paving the way for new experiences and opportunities.
While not all participants are part of FNBs, StreetShelter’s doors are open to anyone seeking refuge and support, fostering a sense of community and belonging that’s essential for growth and transformation.
Microenterprise Builder
Food Not Bombs Hobart has long been a catalyst for personal growth and development, and our partnership with Microenterprise Builder (MB) has only strengthened this impact. Many individuals have utilized MB to hone their skills in charity work, political leadership, and even legal practice.
Tom and Roland, for instance, have emerged as prominent political figures, while Tim has leveraged the organization to exercise his professional influence in a court of law. Others have found that the cultural experience resonates with their values of labor, sustainability, and power.
Perhaps most inspiring is the journey of Pete, who went from homelessness to securing high-paying night shift work, engaging with all of our projects along the way.
Similarly, Priscilla has blossomed into a dedicated charity worker, taking the reins of the Bread Basket and successfully maintaining a microenterprise. These stories illustrate the profound potential of our collaborative efforts, empowering individuals to transform their lives and create positive change in their communities.
The Power of Food: Bringing People Together and Building Community
At the heart of Food Not Bombs Hobart lies a radical spirit that has defined our journey from the start. While some may have seen our collective approach as chaotic or disorganized, we’ve proven that our community-led model is not only effective but also resistant to the pitfalls of centralized power. By rejecting hierarchical structures and leadership roles, we’ve avoided the concentration of power that can lead to authoritarianism and instead embraced a truly democratic approach.
Our guiding principles of justice, equality, and solidarity have allowed us to navigate the challenges of direction and decision-making, ensuring that our actions remain accountable to the community we serve. In a world where top-down control is often the default, we’re proud to be a beacon of radical inclusivity, demonstrating that another way is not only possible but necessary for building a more just and compassionate society.
Overcoming Challenges: Lessons Learned and Success Stories
Food Not Bombs Hobart has faced its share of challenges over the years, particularly when it comes to power dynamics within our core group. We’ve had individuals attempt to consolidate control and impose their own visions, leading to conflicts and disputes that threatened the very fabric of our organization. But instead of succumbing to these attempts at domination, we’ve held firm to our radical principles of justice, equality, and solidarity. By refusing to concentrate power in the hands of a few, we’ve created a truly sustainable model that prioritizes collective decision-making and community leadership. This approach has not only resolved our power struggles but has also made us more resilient and adaptable, allowing us to continue serving our community with integrity and compassion. Our experience shows that another way is possible, one that prioritizes people over profit and empowerment over control.
Food Not Bombs Hobart’s History: Milestones and Achievements
Coming Soon!
Get Involved: Ways to Support Food Not Bombs Hobart
Want to be a part of the Food Not Bombs Hobart movement? We’d love to have you on board! There are many ways to get involved and make a difference.
Cook and Serve
On the day of our events, you can help us set up, prepare and share food, or assist with cleaning up afterwards. We also appreciate help with food collection, cooking, and distribution. If you have a particular skill or talent, consider sharing it with us – whether it’s photography, social media management, or event coordination. Every bit counts, and we welcome anyone who shares our passion for building community and reducing food waste. Simply show up at our next event, introduce yourself, and we’ll find a way to put your enthusiasm to good use. Together, let’s create a more compassionate and sustainable food system for all!
Food Refuge Diver
Talk to Glen.
Attendee
Come and eat. Come to town. If you drive find parking. Some use Hobart Central Carpark. First hour free. Note, closes at 5:30pm. Walk down Mathers Lane. Follow signs. Enter at Criterion House. Find a chair on a table, or get your own chair and/or table from the stack at the rear. Sit in a group or on your own.
Expect about 10 people at any one time at the event. The kitchen has chefs and generally people who can assist. Regulars are also helpful. Overall people are motivated to include anyone new.
Food is on the table outside kitchen door. The urn is also on that table and available for hot drinks. Set up doesn’t begin until 1pm, so when you arrive at 1pm obviously things will take a while to be done. Note, many are keen to help get the event swinging ea4lier these days.
Co-ordinator
Interested in getting involved with Food Not Bombs Hobart and contributing to our collective effort? We welcome individuals who share our values and want to make a difference! However, we challenge traditional notions of leadership and hierarchy. Instead of seeking coordinators or leaders, we encourage individuals to take ownership of tasks and projects that resonate with them.
Our events are truly community-driven, with decisions made through consensus and collaboration. To get involved, simply show up, introduce yourself, and express your interests and skills. You might find yourself helping with food collection, cooking, or distribution, or perhaps you’ll take the lead on a specific project or initiative. The beauty of our model lies in its flexibility and adaptability, so come with an open mind and a willingness to work together towards a common goal – building a more compassionate and sustainable food system for all.
Web Links
Tagline
Free meal! Saturday’s 1pm. Criterion House down Mathers Lane, Hobart CBD. Use’s waste food to feed the urban poor. All Welcome. Help cook! Help clean up! Or just come to eat!
Facebook Community Page
Current Facebook Page
Join us on Facebook. This is the official page!
Pirate Page
This site advertises incorrect basic information e.g. start time, end time and so on. As a result vulnerable people have missed out on food. Note: We respect the page for being original and historic. Moreover, if you know to help with this problem please do.
Where do you find us?
DIRECTIONS
What other services do we provide?
FREE MARKET
Each Saturday we do our best to lay out free items which have value to our participants. We have offered bathroom items, clothes, furniture, sneakers and so on! We can find an item for someone if they show a real need for something given a week or two to find it.
Here are News Media reports of Food Not Bombs
Here are two Documentary’s about Food Not Bombs
Here is a Documentary about Food Waste!
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