Facilitator Spotlight

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 current division convenor for the Country Kitchens program in North Western Division, a role she has truly enjoyed.

On why she joined the Country Kitchens program, Judy said “I really like the idea of being a helping hand and working in my community. Previously, I was a child nurse for 35 years and feel that experience assists me in teaching the 5 key messages and the program’s goal of obtaining good health”.

In her spare time, Judy shares “I like cooking, creating recipes and patchwork.” She fondly recalled getting her grandkids involved in the kitchen during their visits, fostering a love of cooking that she hoped to pass on to the next generation.

Judy says she really loves working with children, allowing them in the kitchen, running cooking classes
with them and helping them to learn about healthy food. When asked about her favorite aspect of the program, Judy said, “The 5 key messages sell themselves because they are simple.”

Throughout her years with the Country Kitchens program, Judy has contributed numerous fantastic, vegetable-loaded recipes that have become staples in our recipe collections, social media, and website. Some of her well-loved recipes include pumpkin risotto, sweet potato, zucchini, and feta muffins, and salmon with tomato for two. These dishes continue to be loved by QCWA members and the public, highlighting some of Judy’s important contributions to the program.

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.

Other Country Kitchens Facilitators

Wendy Gordon, QCWA Oakey Branch

Wendy Gordon, QCWA Oakey Branch

This month we have a chat with Wendy from the Oakey Branch who started her Country Kitchens journey back in 2019. She was drawn to the program because she loves cooking, sharing new skills and helping her community. She took to the Facilitator role like a duck to...

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...

Michele Connors, Emu Park Branch

Michele Connors, Emu Park Branch

This month we would like to highlight Michele Connors from Emu Park Branch in Capricornia Division.Michele embarked on her journey as a facilitator in September 2022. With a background in teaching and a passion for cooking and education, she has seamlessly integrated...

Kaylene Adams, Malanda Branch

Kaylene Adams, Malanda Branch

This month we would like to highlight Kaylene Adams from Malanda Branch in Atherton Tableland Division of the QCWA. Here are a few words from Kaylene about being a Country Kitchens facilitator:My name is Kaylene and I have been a Country Kitchens facilitator for QCWA...

Mary-Therese Watson, Sarina Branch

Mary-Therese Watson, Sarina Branch

This month we would like to highlight Mary-Therese Watson from Sarina Branch in Pioneer Division. Mary-Therese began her journey as a Country Kitchens facilitator in 2022. As a passionate supporter of the program, she began by bringing Country Kitchens activities to...