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

Donna Formosa, Freshwater Branch

Donna Formosa, Freshwater Branch

This month we would like to highlight Donna Formosa from QCWA Freshwater Branch in Far Northern Division. Here are a few words from Donna about being a Country Kitchens facilitator:My name is Donna Formosa and I have been a QCWA Country Kitchens facilitator for three...

Michele Connors, Emu Park Branch

Michele Connors, Emu Park Branch

Published in the September 2024 edition of the Monthly Munch. Here are a few words from Michele Connors at 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...

Belinda Thorburn, Gracemere Branch

Belinda Thorburn, Gracemere Branch

This month we would like to highlight Belinda Thorburn from QCWA Gracemere Branch in Capricornia Division. Here are a few words from Belinda about being a Country Kitchens facilitator: I joined the Country Kitchens program almost two years ago. I am a wife and mother...

Roslyn Reen, Middle Ridge Branch

Roslyn Reen, Middle Ridge Branch

Published in the June 2024 edition of the Monthly Munch.  Here are a few words from Roslyn Reen, one of our Fabulous Facilitators from QCWA Middle Ridge Branch in Darling Downs Division. Ros joined the Country Kitchens team in 2022 and was jointly awarded the Country...

Tara McGrath, Dimbulah Branch

Tara McGrath, Dimbulah Branch

Published in the April 2022 edition of the Monthly Munch.  Here are a few words from Tara McGrath at Dimbulah Branch in the Atherton Tableland Division of the QCWA.  I joined the QCWA Country Kitchens program as a facilitator in July 2021. I am currently studying a...