Facilitator Spotlight

Roslyn Reen, Middle Ridge Branch

This month we sit down and have a chat to Roslyn Reen, one of our Fabulous Facilitators from QCWA Middle Ridge Branch in Darling Downs Division. Ros joined the Country Kitchens team in 2022 and was jointly awarded the Country Kitchens Rising Star award at the 2023 QCWA State Conference.

Ros got involved with Country Kitchens as an avenue to practically address unhealthy lifestyles that she sees in the young people within her community, and to help curb the burden this may bring for future generations. Having worked in Agricultural Science Research for many years, it is no surprise that she is also a member of the QCWA State Agriculture and Environment Committee, noting how well it fits with the Country Kitchens ethos.

A recent program highlight for Ros includes helping to run several Hands On Nutrition Workshops at Emu Creek State School, offering practical skills and nutrition knowledge to 23 enthusiastic children from Prep through to Grade 3. Prior to these workshops, she has assisted in the delivery of workshops and demonstrations with migrant communities residing in Toowoomba. Ros makes herself readily available to assist with other Country Kitchens showcases around the Darling Downs Division, helping at Farm Fest, the Highfields Fashion Parade, as well as frequently preparing recipes for branch meetings, QCWA Associates, and other interactive displays including participating in demonstration showcases at the local Bunnings.

In her downtime, Ros lets her creative juices flow through up-cycling furniture and playing with acrylic paints and canvas. Gardening is a high priority for her week along with keeping active through walking, Zumba classes and a weekly weights session.

When asked why people should get involved in the Country Kitchens program, Ros said:

“The Country Kitchens program is a wonderful avenue and opportunity to help educate people about a healthier lifestyle through nutritious cooking. This will contribute to making a difference to the health of our future generation. The added benefit is working with likeminded ladies and meeting an array of interesting people while promoting the Country Kitchens 5 key messages.”

We could not have said it better! Thank you, Ros, for all that you do for both the QCWA and the Country Kitchens program. It’s such a pleasure to have you as a part of our team.

If you or someone you know is keen to work with the QCWA Country Kitchens program, we are always looking to boost 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

Lydia Woods, Middle Ridge Branch

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...

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...

Colleen Dunn, Glenmorgan Branch

Colleen Dunn, Glenmorgan Branch

This month we would like to highlight Colleen from Glenmorgan Branch in Maranoa Division. Here are a few words from Colleen about why she decided to become a Country Kitchens facilitator: I have been a part of the Country Kitchens program for 2 years now and decided...

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...

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,...