Hundreds of Tasmanians experiencing hardship will come together today for Community Christmas lunches in Hobart and Launceston, continuing a decades-long tradition of bringing holiday cheer to those less fortunate.
In Hobart, the event marks a significant transition as Home Base (formerly Colony 47) hands over responsibility for the much-loved lunch to CatholicCare Tasmania after 43 years.
The Hobart lunch will be held at In The Hanging Garden, with catering provided by Flint Kitchen.
Around 600 people are expected to enjoy the lunch, with organisers expecting it to be the biggest yet.
CatholicCare Tasmania has been working closely with Home Base to ensure the transition preserves the spirit of the event that has become a Christmas Day staple in Hobart.
Meanwhile, the Launceston Community Christmas lunch, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has reached capacity, with organisers announcing the event is now sold out.
The Launceston lunch will take place at the Exhibition Hall in the Launceston Conference Centre, with doors opening at 10:30 am and lunch being served from midday.
Both events rely heavily on community support, with opportunities having been available for Tasmanians to donate funds to “buy a plate” for individuals or families, or to donate gifts for attendees.
