Published in the October 2024 edition of the Monthly Munch.
Here are a few words from Mary-Therese Watson from Sarina Branch in Pioneer Division about why she decided to become a Country Kitchens facilitator:
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 her local QCWA branch in Sarina, located in the Mackay Region in North Queensland. Since stepping up as the Country Kitchens Division Convenor for the QCWA Pioneer Division in 2023, she has been a fierce advocate for spreading the 5 key messages out across the region. She has encouraged members and branches to get involved by
facilitating meetings to discuss and plan Country Kitchens activities, and look for ways to collaborate and work together across branches.
Mary-Therese has formed a range of community partnerships to deliver health promotion activities in her community. One of her most notable collaborations has been with Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, where she organised a Back to Basics: Food Literacy cooking workshop series. She has also been involved in a number of Country Kitchens showcases, coordinating a static display at the local Bendigo Bank branch, and hosting health promotion stalls at the Sarina and Mackay Shows. She is currently working with the local council to explore opportunities to host Country Kitchens displays in libraries across the region, and is also looking to facilitate a Hands on Nutrition workshop with a local community group.
In her free time, Mary-Therese enjoys spending time with her family, reading, gardening, travelling, and exploring nature. She also has a keen interest in cooking healthy meals and snacks. When asked why others should get involved with the Country Kitchens program, she said it is a great way to give back to the community, made easy by the support provided from the Country Kitchens team.
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.
