Irene on outreach

Irene arrives at the Caboolture train station carpark on a chilly September night in her car, her home for the past few years. The passenger seat was reclined for sleep, with makeshift curtains drawn for privacy. Yet despite the harsh reality of living without a house, Irene stepped out with grace, dressed in a lovely red blouse and long skirt, carrying a fruit platter she’d collected from another community service to share with others that night. 

In Caboolture, Irene has become a familiar face and a source of comfort. She moves through the group like a mother hen, speaking gently and offering hugs to those who need them most. From her car, she hands out noodles, blankets, cookware, and jackets to patrons who have even less. Her care for others is endless, even when she herself has so little. 

Irene at the Rosies Long Lunch 2024

Many of you might remember meeting Irene through our 2023 Christmas Newsletter, where she shared her story of resilience and finding friendship through Rosies. In 2024, Irene also joined us at the first Rosies Long Lunch in March, where she spoke about how far she’s come and the community that continues to walk beside her. For those hearing her story for the first time, Irene’s journey is a beautiful reminder of how connection and care can truly change a life.

Irene has been attending Rosies Caboolture outreach for several years now. Through the friendship and consistency of volunteers, she has found a sense of belonging that no fine or eviction notice can take away. And in the past year, Irene has transformed her pain into purpose, becoming a passionate advocate for people experiencing homelessness across the Moreton Bay Region. 

Earlier this year, Irene was shocked to discover that the local council had passed new laws penalising people for sleeping in cars or camping in public spaces. “One night I was feeling unwell and parked at a local park to rest,” she recalled.

“I woke to find twelve officers surrounding my car. I was fined and told to move on, but they had no suggestions for where I could go.” 

Just days later, a cyclone struck the region. Irene quickly rallied others sleeping rough, helping them find safety at the local evacuation centre. “During those four days, I became a friend, a mother and a counsellor,” she said. “When it was time to leave, many had nowhere to go. We had lost so much.” 

Irene, the Rosies Team and Sarah Pothecary from Ostelin

When the temporary shelter closed, Irene began speaking out. She joined rallies in Brisbane and Strathpine, was interviewed by the Courier Mail, and began working with the advocacy group Street Up. “My life took on new meaning,” she said. “I wasn’t just standing up for myself anymore, I was standing up for everyone doing it tough.” 

Through her advocacy, Irene continues to highlight the daily realities many Queenslanders face: the exhaustion of constant movement, the danger of sleeping outside, and the lack of access to showers, meals, and safety. “Homelessness is survival,” she said. “You get tired, hungry, scared. Many lose hope. But without community support, many more would simply give up.”

And that’s why Irene still shows up every Friday night at Rosies.

“Rosies has been a lifeline,” she said. “Their kindness, their care, their consistency, that’s what keeps people going. The volunteers don’t judge. They listen, they smile, they remind us that we matter.” 

As Christmas approaches, Irene’s message to the community is simple: “We can all make a difference. Like a light bulb, one small act can brighten someone’s world. The more of us who care, the more hope there is for change.” 

For Irene, Rosies is not just a place to share a meal or a chat, it’s a reminder that compassion can outshine even the darkest nights.