Pictured: Jarrod with his greyhound Angel. Photo: Supplied.
For years, Jarrod has slept in the back of his car on quiet Wynnum streets, with his greyhound Angel curled beside him for comfort. The heat of summer and the cold of winter press in each night, but Angel’s gentle presence and unwavering loyalty have kept him going.
Jarrod’s story is one of quiet resilience. Originally from Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand, he moved to Australia fourteen years ago, hoping to build a better life for himself and his children. But without Australian citizenship, he couldn’t access Centrelink or a safety net when life unravelled.
“What a lot of people don’t realise,” Jarrod said, “is that Kiwis living here, unless you’re a citizen, you get nothing. No welfare, no support. That’s why you see so many of us on the street. We fall through the cracks.”
Over the years, Jarrod has worked as an arborist, furniture maker, martial arts instructor, cook, and more. Yet the instability of short-term work and the strain of physically demanding jobs took a toll. When his long-term relationship ended and rent became unmanageable, he was left with nowhere to go.
Despite the hardships, Jarrod’s compassion has never wavered. He writes poetry, checks in on others doing it tough, and offers kindness to people who feel invisible. “When I meet someone who’s scared or lonely, I tell them, ‘Come here, brother, I love you.’ Because I know what it feels like to have no one.”
Rosies – Friends on the Street has been a lifeline in his journey. Through shared cups of tea, conversations and connection, Jarrod found a community that reminded him he mattered.
“I wouldn’t have met half the amazing people I know today without Rosies,” he said. “They make you feel human again, like you’re seen.”
Recently, after 14 long years of uncertainty, Jarrod received news that changed everything. He is now officially an Australian citizen.
“It feels unreal,” he said. “Now I feel like I belong. I finally feel like I have a home, this country.”
For Jarrod, that small, long-awaited piece of paper means stability, access to healthcare, and a sense of safety he hasn’t felt in years. Through it all, Angel has stayed by his side. “She saved me as much as I saved her,” he said.
As Christmas approaches, Jarrod hopes people will remember those who are still struggling.
“People think it takes a lot to help someone,” he said. “But sometimes all it takes is listening, showing love. That’s what Rosies does. That’s what keeps people going.”
Rosies offers friendship and connection to people who are homeless, lonely, or isolated across Queensland. Through the dedication of its volunteers, Rosies provides outreach, companionship, and practical care to thousands of Queenslanders every year. Find out more at rosies.org.au.
