Christmas is a time for connection, kindness, and sharing—and nowhere was this more evident than at HBNC’s annual Christmas Day Lunch.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Hervey Bay RSL and the incredible dedication of volunteers, more than 100 community members in need of company and a hearty festive meal were treated to a day full of warmth, laughter, and delicious food.

Held at the Hervey Bay Community Centre, the event provided guests with a beautifully prepared meal complete with all the festive trimmings, as well as the most important ingredient: community spirit.

HBNC CEO Tanya Stevenson said the event captured the true essence of Christmas.

“Christmas is about sharing, caring, and reminding people they’re not alone,” Tanya said.

“Our Christmas Day Lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a big, warm hug from the community. This year, with the help of our amazing volunteers and the Hervey Bay RSL, we made sure no one missed out on feeling part of the festive magic.”

This annual event is just one example of the Hervey Bay RSL’s enduring commitment to supporting HBNC and the Fraser Coast community.

In addition to funding the Christmas Day Lunch every year, the RSL is a long-term sponsor of Comfort Kitchen, HBNC’s weekly free community meal.

Together, these initiatives ensure that those facing hardship or loneliness have a space to connect and enjoy nutritious food.

RSL Community Engagement Officer Kerrie Alexander said the club’s grants program celebrates and supports individual achievements and those charities and not-for-profit organisations doing incredible work on the Fraser Coast.

“We are very proud to support the Neighbourhood Centre and their efforts to break down the barriers of isolation through this very special Christmas lunch and the popular Comfort Kitchen initiative.

“There’s something very special about members of the community coming together to connect and share over a meal and we’re thrilled to play a big part in that.”

The event was made even more special thanks to the tireless efforts of HBNC’s volunteers, who gave up their Christmas mornings to serve meals, share smiles and help spread festive cheer.

“Our volunteers are the real heroes,” Tanya said.

“Not only do they give their time and energy, but they bring their hearts into everything they do. Without them, events like this wouldn’t be possible.”

The lunch was a celebration of togetherness, with laughter echoing through the room, carols in the background, and new friendships formed over festive conversation and Christmas food.

HBNC is proud to host this event each year and is grateful for the continued support of the Hervey Bay RSL, which makes it all possible.

Together, we are ensuring no one is left behind, not just at Christmas but throughout the year.