Facilitator Spotlight

Judy Stubbs, of Maleny Branch

This month we would like to highlight Judy Stubbs from Maleny Branch in the Nambour North Coast Division of the QCWA. Here are a few words from Judy about her time as a facilitator:

The Country Kitchens program offers a wonderful extension of the QCWA’s commitment to support the
health and well-being of Queensland families. I have enjoyed serving QCWA in a variety of branch committee positions since 2003. I have been a Country Kitchens facilitator for five years and have held a number of Division Convenor positions, all with the aim of supporting our members and the community in maintaining healthy, happy lives and reaching their full potential.

I have been able, with the support of the Country Kitchens team, and fellow members, to reinforce the 5 key messages of our program. I have done this through attending training days, supporting Hands on Nutrition Workshops and conducting showcases and demonstrations at branches, open days, agricultural shows, schools, community groups, Girl Guides, STEMM (Young Parents) and USC graduating students. Thanks to the combined effort of all, I was awarded Facilitator of the Year in the second year of the program. Our activities have been supported by the media including The Glasshouse and Maleny News, Hinterland Times and Sunshine Coast Daily. Support has also been received from community leaders, Sunshine Coast Councillors, and local MP’s.

As a former teacher, I enjoy sharing my skills in cooking, gardening, and all forms of handcraft, especially with young people. All our 5 key messages are important, sugary drinks and portion plate activities have been favourites with children.

My favourite “munch” is Arlene Robert’s snack time slice from our black and white Healthy Cookbook. I am looking forward to Country Kitchens new “Meet a Farmer” project, spotlighting the agriculture industry and holding demonstrations and tastings.

If you or someone you know are 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, join us for a quick 30 minute online information session on the 27th of October at 12:30 pm. Register on the events page of our website!

Other Country Kitchens Facilitators

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...

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...

Dianne Tonkin-Taylor, Beerwah Branch

Dianne Tonkin-Taylor, Beerwah Branch

This month we would like to highlight Dianne Tonkin-Taylor from Beerwah Branch in Nambour and North Coast Division. Here are a few words from Dianne about why she decided to become a Country Kitchens facilitator:I had been to a Country Kitchens friendship afternoon...

Michelle Donohue, Quilpie Branch

Michelle Donohue, Quilpie Branch

This month we would like to highlight Michelle Donohue from Quilpie Branch in the Warrego Division of the QCWA. Here are a few words from Michelle about her time as a facilitator:I have been a part of the wonderful Country Kitchens program as a facilitator for 4 years...

Jo Williams, Boonah Branch

Jo Williams, Boonah Branch

This month we would like to highlight Jo Williams from QCWA Boonah Branch in West Moreton Division. Here are a few words from Jo about being a Country Kitchens facilitator: There are a few things that influenced me to become a facilitator. The first was seeing my...