Published in the September 2023 edition of the Monthly Munch.
Here are a few words from Gabriella Field from QCWA Tin Can Bay Branch in Gympie and South Burnett Division about being a Country Kitchens facilitator:
I became a Country Kitchens facilitator in April 2022 and in August this year I became the Gympie and
South Burnett Division Country Kitchens Convenor.
I come from an Italian background and I thoroughly enjoy cooking, eating and talking, what a great fit!. However, the main reason I chose to become a Country Kitchens facilitator is because of my concern that the unhealthy meals and drinks promoted by the fast food industry is causing an upsurge in the negative impact upon the mental and physical health of adults and children alike. The QCWA’s Country Kitchens program is not solely focused on a “diet”, but the promotion of healthier lifestyle choices and changes which is very important to me as a mother, grandmother and a concerned member of the community.
I must admit, I hit the ground running. I started with Country Kitchens recipe promotions at our branch meetings and expanded from there to promote the recipes with various organisations within our community. Thanks to the support of my fellow branch members and the CK team, I have promoted the five key messages with interactive displays at our local RSL, the Rainbow Beach Learning Community, Probus, Local Markets and the Tin Can Bay State School. As I gained more knowledge through my progression within the Country Kitchens training pathway, I found my public speaking skills and confidence improving dramatically. I am currently presenting Hands on Nutrition Workshops and Back to Basics 5 Key Messages Series Workshops. With the support of our Branch President and fellow facilitator Wendy Ritchie, I have formed partnerships with the Tin Can Bay P-10 State School, the Tin Can Bay RSL SubBranch, the Rainbow Beach Learning Community, the Cooloola Waters Retirement Village and the South Burnett Council (on behalf of the Wooroolin Branch).
In my spare time I enjoy traveling in our caravan with my dog, bird and of course my husband John. I like reading and computer gaming. Most of all, I especially enjoy cooking with the grandchildren, who now know how to make gnocchi, pasta and real pizzas (without pineapple) as was taught to me by my mother and my grandmother.
As facilitators we are the “boots on the ground” and by encouraging our members to become involved in the program, we pass on the message about the importance of a well balanced lifestyle within our communities.
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
