Christiaan McCann | Risks and Solutions for the Vulnerable | Socialwork Projects in Hobart

Notes from the field: 5th April 2026 No.8 – Weekly Newsletter of Small Breakthroughs, Growing Momentum

Christiaan

This week felt full—of people, ideas, and those quiet moments that remind you why we keep showing up.

At Food Not Bombs, the numbers were up again. There’s an energy when it gets like that—busy, unpredictable, and at times, right on the edge of tipping either way. But in the middle of it, something shifted.

The “man with the white hair” was there again. In the past, it hasn’t been easy. This time, though, there was a breakthrough. A bit of rapport. Even a half-laugh right at the end. It may seem small, but moments like that are hard-won—and they matter.

There was also a meaningful connection with an Aboriginal man who came through. Not many words exchanged, but a genuine sense of kindness toward each other. One of those reminders that connection doesn’t always need language.

Priscilla joined us at the food bank this week, which was a real gift. Her practical wisdom around food—what’s simple, what works, how to eat well without overcomplicating things—added something valuable to the space. It’s one thing to hand out food, another to help people feel confident using it.

In a completely unexpected moment, a man passing by—an Indian gentleman who noticed our sign—stopped and made a donation on the spot. No build-up, no big story. Just generosity, freely given. Those moments catch you off guard in the best way.

There are also new ideas beginning to stir. Eamonn shared a vision of “the poor serving the poor”—taking food into a public park and creating something led from within the community itself. It’s early days, and we’ll see what unfolds, but there’s something powerful in the idea. We’ll be there to support it as it grows.

Pete is stepping into something new as well—he’s heading to a night shelter this week and has agreed to video his experience. That could open up an honest window into what those spaces are really like.

On the Woodcraft Adventures front, we’ve had a call from Richmond—they’re asking for a batch of echidnas, Tassie devils, and Tassie tigers. It’s a great opportunity, and a big one. We’re stepping into it with a mix of excitement and “let’s see how this goes.” Wish us luck.

And in the midst of everything, a small personal discovery—just a sip of wine before singing seems to loosen the voice. Not a grand insight, but a helpful one all the same.

From carving wood to serving meals, from conversations on the street to new ideas taking shape—it all feels connected right now. Different expressions of the same thing: showing up, staying open, and trusting that even the smallest moments can carry weight.

Thanks for being part of the journey.

— Christiaan

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