Notes from the field: Newsletter no. 7, 22nd March 2026 – Hands That Give, Hands That Receive

Dear friends,

This week felt like a living picture of something simple but powerful: hands giving, hands receiving—and somehow, both being changed in the process.

🍲 Food, Dignity, and a Story That Keeps Growing

It began with a story.

After reading about Pete, Claire quietly stepped in and sponsored him. No fuss, no spotlight—just generosity. What struck me most is what happened next: Pete didn’t keep it. He invested it straight back into Friday’s Foodbank.

That single act flowed directly into supporting Food Not Bombs Hobart and our Saturday gathering.

And here’s the remarkable part—Pete carried about 90% of the physical workload at the event. If you’ve ever been there, you’ll know that’s no small effort. Something has shifted in him. There’s a dedication now that’s hard to miss.

Claire’s initial gift didn’t just meet a need—it sparked leadership.

Sunday Visit

Today (Sunday), I visited Eamonn in his current accommodation and brought a food parcel. He chose to sit in the car and talk, which in itself said a lot.

He shared what it’s like living in a small room, surrounded by a commercial district, with very limited funds. The contrast is stark—life happening all around, yet feeling on the outside of it.

It’s not easy.

But he’s still showing up. Reaching out to people. Training for Human Library.

And that, to me, is the story of the week.

🎶 Singing in the Streets (and Standing Our Ground)

We took praise onto the streets of Glenorchy this week.

Yes—we got moved on.

But we didn’t stop.

We spoke with centre management, found a new spot, and continued that same day. There’s something about holding firm to the cause without creating conflict—just persistence and presence.

Huge thanks to:

  • Claire for leading from the front again
  • Karl and Suzie for working the street with heart and energy

A Breakthrough at Food Not Bombs

One of the biggest highlights? We brought full singing into the Food Not Bombs Hobart event.

Because Pete has stepped up into the labour role (and it’s a big one), I found myself freed up to connect more socially.

And I really sang.

Not quietly. Not cautiously.

We opened it up—and something happened.

People started to move. Some danced. Others swayed in their seats. Even those who stayed still were clearly feeling it.

It changed the atmosphere.

🪵 Woodcraft Adventures – From Beach to Wharf

This week I carved in two places:

  • Kingston Beach
  • Alongside a docked tourist ship on the Hobart wharf (a first—and a fascinating experience)

There’s something about carving in public spaces—people pause, watch, connect. It feels like more than craft; it becomes conversation.

What I’m Thinking Next:

  • A simple sign to tell the story
  • Having ready-made products on hand
  • Possibly printed t-shirts (so people instantly know what’s happening)

Subscriber-Only Offer 🎁

For those part of this community:

Hand-carved wooden spatula – $19 (posted same day)

Available in:

  • Myrtle
  • Huon Pine

This is a quiet little offering—practical, beautiful, and made with care.

👉 Visit: ChristiaanMcCann.com

👉 Explore more: WoodcraftAdventures.com.au

📱 Stay Connected

If you haven’t already, come join the journey more closely:

  • Follow my Facebook profile
  • Check out the Woodcraft Adventures page
  • Engage, comment, share—it genuinely helps these stories travel further

Final Thought

This week reminded me:

It’s not about scale.
It’s about movement.

One person gives.
Another steps up.
A community shifts.

And somewhere in the middle of it all—hope becomes visible.

With gratitude,

Christiaan

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