Facilitator Spotlight

Fiona Owens, Longreach Branch

This month we would like to highlight Fiona Owens from QCWA Longreach Branch in Central Western Division. Here are a few words from Fiona about being a Country Kitchens facilitator:

I have been a QCWA Country Kitchens facilitator for five years now, joining the program back in 2017. I registered to learn more about healthy eating and nutrition myself, with the goal to then be able to pass on the knowledge in my community.

I have formed partnerships with a range of organisations and groups in Longreach, such as schools, the local library, and council. Through these partnerships I have facilitated a number of activities, including showcase displays at community events, and cooking workshops. Earlier this year, I delivered two hands on nutrition workshops with a total of 30 students as part of the Longreach School of Distance Education’s cluster week. The students enjoyed learning about the Country Kitchens 5 key messages, as well as how to make healthy sausage rolls and apple crumble.

Outside of Country Kitchens, I am an avid gardener. I also enjoy crafts, sewing and poetry writing. Everyone should get involved with Country Kitchens as it is a great way to learn skills for a healthier lifestyle, and to positively influence the health of others in your community.

If you or someone you know is keen to work with the QCWA Country Kitchens program, we are always looking to increase our volunteer workforce. To learn all about what we do, please get in touch with the team on 0417 539 663, or head to our website: qcwacountrykitchens.com.au

Other Country Kitchens Facilitators

Su Ranson, Charleville Branch

Su Ranson, Charleville Branch

Su has been a Country Kitchens Facilitator for Charleville branch, since 2017.Su enjoys cooking new recipes, reading, gardening, and sharing meals with friends and family. Her interest in the program began after attending a Country Kitchens workshop, where she had a...

Margaret Gallagher, Middle Ridge Branch

Margaret Gallagher, Middle Ridge Branch

Published in the August 2023 edition of the Monthly Munch. Here are a few words from Margaret Gallagher at Middle Ridge Branch in Darling Downs Division about her journey as a Country Kitchens facilitator. I joined Country Kitchens as a facilitator in 2018. Country...

Chaille Twine, Gayndah Branch

Chaille Twine, Gayndah Branch

Chaille Twine from QCWA Gayndah Branch recently reflected on her journey with Country Kitchens. She said “good intentions are never enough; we need some action. I’m glad now that I was given that impetus to get going. It has been so rewarding on so many different...

Dianne Tonkin-Taylor, Beerwah Branch

Dianne Tonkin-Taylor, Beerwah Branch

Published in the May 2024 edition of the Monthly Munch Here are a few words from Dianne at Beerwah Branch in Nambour and North Coast Division about why she decided to become a Country Kitchens facilitator:I had been to a Country Kitchens friendship afternoon organised...

Judy Fysh, Nelia Branch

Judy Fysh, Nelia Branch

Judy Fysh from Nelia branch has been a facilitator for 7 years. Judy has worn many hats within the QCWA at a branch and division level over the years, demonstrating her dedication to the association. In addition to being a Country Kitchens facilitator, she is also the...