Facilitator Spotlight

Lydia Woods, Middle Ridge Branch

This month we would like to highlight Lydia from Middle Ridge Branch in Darling Downs Division. Here are a few words from Lydia about why she decided to become a Country Kitchens facilitator:

I have been a part of the QCWA Country Kitchens program for 4 months, and decided to become a facilitator to learn how to positively influence others on how they can better their health and wellbeing
through eating a healthy diet.

I have been involved in several Country Kitchens community activities across the Toowoomba region.
I have consistently volunteered alongside other facilitators to deliver hands on nutrition workshops for
local refugee groups, through St. Vincent de Paul Society and Range Allied Health. These workshops are a great way for participants to socialise and receive some inspiration for healthy and affordable meals to cook for their families. I have also been involved with events at Meringandan State School and Farmfest.

In the future, I am hoping to continue with the program and connect with the Pick of the Crop program
which is run at some local schools through Health and Wellbeing Queensland. I truly believe that there is something for everyone in the Country Kitchen program, and you can be involved at whatever capacity suits you and your lifestyle. It has a simple message, with a powerful impact on people’s health and wellbeing.

Outside of QCWA and Country Kitchens, I am a busy mother of a toddler with another on the way. I am currently studying interior design and decorating, and work within my family business.

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: qcwacountrykitchens.com.au

Other Country Kitchens Facilitators

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...

Margaret Laughton, Gracemere Branch

Margaret Laughton, Gracemere Branch

This month we would like to highlight Margaret Laughton from QCWA Gracemere Branch in Capricornia Division. Here are a few words from Margaret about being a Country Kitchens facilitator:I have been a Country Kitchens facilitator with the Gracemere branch since 2019,...

Sandy Machan, Emu Park Branch

Sandy Machan, Emu Park Branch

This month we would like to highlight one of our Fabulous Facilitators in Capricornia Division. Keep reading to find out what inspired Sandy to get involved in the Country Kitchens program. My name is Sandy Machan and I am a member of Emu Park branch in Capricornia...

Tara McGrath, Dimbulah Branch

Tara McGrath, Dimbulah Branch

This month we would like to highlight Tara McGrath from Dimbulah Branch in the Atherton Tableland Division of the QCWA. Here are a few words from Tara about her time as a facilitator:I am a new facilitator to the program, having only signed up in July last year. I am...

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...