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

Fiona Owens, Longreach Branch

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...

Judy Tully, Mount Larcom Branch

Judy Tully, Mount Larcom Branch

Judy joined the Country Kitchens program five years ago. In addition to her role as a facilitator, she has held various positions within the QCWA, including Branch President, Branch Vice President, and previously, Capricornia Division Convenor. When asked why she...

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...

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...

Gabriella Field, Tin Can Bay Virtual Branch Member

Gabriella Field, Tin Can Bay Virtual Branch Member

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...