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

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...

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...

Su Ranson, Charleville Branch

Su Ranson, Charleville Branch

Su has been a Country Kitchens Facilitator for Charleville branch, since 2017.Su enjoys cooking new recipes, reading, gardening, and sharing meals with friends and family. Her interest in the program began after attending a Country Kitchens workshop, where she had a...

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...

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...