THE BANKSIA BULLETIN
Quairading’s monthly publication since 1991. Proudly produced and printed by the Quairading CRC.
Regular happenings and contacts
Please contact the Quairading CRC to make updates: admin@quairadingcrc.com.au ART GROUP
Every Tuesday, 10am 3pm @ CRC Art Space
BEL CANTO CHOIR On hold
BETTY’S OP SHOP
Thursdays @ Old Drive In
CAR & DRIVER
for transport to medical appointments
second Friday of each month @ CRC
LOVERS GROUP
Friday of the month 9:30am @ CRC
STITCHES Tuesdays, 9:30am-3:30pm @ CRC
CLUB
SecondTuesdayofeachmonth,7pm@CRC.
9:00am - 10:30am @ Day Care Centre
QARRAS (Quairading Aged and Retired Residents and Seniors) 2nd & 4th Mondays @ Community Building @ the Oval
EXERCISE GROUP
9:30am @ Town Hall
ST JOHN AMBULANCE SUB CENTRE 1st & last Thursday - Training 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Once a month on Mondays at 10am @ CRC
TIDY TOWNS COMMITTEE
meeting 3rd Monday 9:30am @ Railway Station
at CRC
VINTAGE CLUB
meeting 2nd Saturday 10am @ Vintage Club
VOLUNTEER FIRE & RESCUE
First Tuesday of the month, 4:30pm at the Fire Station
YOUTH CENTRE
Tuesdays & Thursdays, after school
From the Editor
After a very well attended Advance Health Directive info session held last year with Palliative Care WA, we’ve been working with them again to provide some follow up help to those ready to create their AHD documents. While they don’t have the resources to deliver this help in person in Quairading, they can provide either small group or one-onone sessions via video conference which you can attend here at the CRC. If you’d like to know more about this process, or book in for some help, please get in touch. If you know nothing about Advance Health Directives, feel free to join in the info session being held next Thursday 6th August (info on page 11).
We’re having another crack at the 2026 Car Rally, this time in the much more desirable time of year spring! We’re putting together a hopefully very fun afternoon of cryptic clues, team (maybe solo?) challenges, and unique travel routes designed to get you out and about visiting places of interest in and around Quairading. Round up a team, pack an esky of snacks and refreshments (lemonade only for the desi driver of course) and gear up for an ideal Sunday sesh / croppy / bonding activity. The 2022 event featured archery at Wamenusking, a mock wedding ceremony at the Mt Stirling Church and a real life search for a (giant knitting) needle in a haystack at the North Quairading fire shed so prepare for anything! Registrations are essential as we’ll cap it at 20 cars. Details on page 25.
Plans are gearing up for the Quairading Arts Showcase, and simultaneous Quairading Vintage Club Open Day on Saturday 17th October—mark it on your calendars for now, we’ll share more details as we add to the event over the next month!
We’re getting to the pointy end of the winter sports season, and it’s not too late to get on the Bulls, Belles and Bullettes bandwagon! With three games to go, the Belles remain undefeated and are in incredible form. The Ressies are out to enjoy the rest of their season while finals are out of reach, they’ve got nothing to lose and are sure to throw everything they’ve got at the chance for another win or two. The League footballers should have a few good games ahead as they strive to land #2 on the ladder come finals time, though finishing third or fourth will keep them in the mix anyway. And the Bullettes are as always, in pretty good form, looking to finish first or second, keeping their back to back premiership dream alive!
Jill Hayes Editor | Banksia Bulletin Coordinator | Quairading CRC
1 Parker Street
Quairading WA 6383
Phone: 08 9645 0096
Email: admin@quairadingcrc.com.au
Website: www.quairadingcrc.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/QuairadingCRC
Instagram: @quairadingcrc
THE PASSION SHEET
COMMUNITY
2026 CENSUS
Want a paper form? You can request one online. Pop into the CRC if you’d like us to help you get your Census number and request the paper form.
2027 QDHS SCHOOL CAMP FUNDRAISER
We are seeking support for the 2027 School Camp by selling Cadbury boxes. Please help support QDHS kids make it to their primary school camp in 2027 https://www.fundraising.com.au/ products We are selling: Good Box Carry Box, $60, Fun Pack Carry Box, $60, Freddo and Friends Carry Box, $60, The Natural Confectionary Co Lolly Box, $60. Orders are due by Tuesday 11 August. Pick up from the school office on Wednesday 19th August (afternoon only).
EFT
QDHS P&C
BSB 036172
ACC 760326
REF: Name and Camp
Cash: labelled envelope with name and Camp to School front office. Orders and enquiries to Stacey Harris 0417 834 487 or haydon.stacey@bigpond.com
KEEP IT COVERED, KEEP QUAIRADING
TIDY
The Shire, on behalf of our dedicated Tidy Towns volunteers, is reminding residents to secure and cover ute and trailer loads to prevent rubbish and green waste from ending up on our roadsides. A few extra moments tying down your
load helps keep Quairading clean, safe and looking its best.
QUAIRADING CWA OP SHOP
Urgent relocation sale, all current stock must go! Most items to be sold for $1 unless otherwise marked and you can make an offer on any marked stock! Last day at 1 Heal Street Quairading will be 31st July 2026.
EVENTS
QARRAS
Monday 10th August – 2pm, Jenny Brandis will be talking with us about Hand Made Lace Making. Monday 24th August -2pm at the Community Building , surprise Games Day.
GARDEN LOVERS OF QUAIRADING
Next meeting is Friday 31st July at 9:30am at the CRC. We will be creating Christmas Wreaths or any other types. Bring along plants you think would make good wreaths, such as Camelia leaves, bay leaf etc. All enquiries to Lyn on 0447 450 170 or Carmela on 0403 153 661.
MEN’S GOLF OPEN DAY: DOLIN CUP & MOHAUL 4BBB
Saturday 1st August 2026. Two comps in one big day! Dolin Cup 27 holes Stableford. 9am register for 9:30am shot gun start. Cost: $40 includes lunch, arvo savouries and hamburger tea. 4ball comb Stableford. 11:30am register and rolling start. Cost: $60 per pair includes arvo savouries and hamburger tea. Dolin Cup starters –9 Holes then lunch, following lunch
the afternoon 18 hole score goes towards both the 4BBB & Dolin Cup. Can organise own group of 4 for the whole day, 4 ball only or play single in morning & join a 4 in arvo. Enquires/Entries to Simon Bell 0408 616 342 by Monday 27th July. Please provide Golf link # intended competitions & groupings. Late entries accepted.
ADVANCE HEALTH DIRECTIVE (DYING TO KNOW DAY)
On Thursday 6th August at 10am, the Quairading CRC will host an online information session to guide and give information to those wanting to know more about Advanced Health Directives. Bookings essential, phone 9645 0096 to secure your spot!
CATCH UP WITH COUNCIL
Residents are invited to join the Shire's Councillors and CEO on Friday 7th August at 5pm at the sportsground for a relaxed catch up outside the Football Changerooms. Come along for a free barbecue and a drink, meet your elected members, ask questions, share ideas, or simply have a chat about the future direction of Quairading. Everyone is welcome.
RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN COMMITTEE MEETING
The Reconciliation Action Plan Committee Meeting is scheduled to be held on Thursday, 13th August 2026, commencing at 10:00am at the Quairading Community Resource Centre. Should you have any enquiries or require further clarification regarding the meeting,
please do not hesitate to contact Cynthia Yarran 0439 362 820.
TIDY TOWN MEETING
Monday 17th August at 9:30am at the Museum, all welcome.
ELDERS GOLF DAY
Elders Quairading Golf Day, presented by the Quairading Golf Club, Thursday 20th August, Course opens @ 11:30am, $80.00 fee per pair, includes lunch. This event is a two Person Ambrose, pick your partners, prizes for everyone.
STORY TIME
Monday August 31, 10am at the CRC. An hour of rhymes, songs, stories and craft for young children and their parents / caregivers followed by Toy Library Play & Swap
QUAIRADING ARTS SHOWCASE
16th – 18th October 2026 at the Quairading CRC. Explore a collection of works from our local Photo Club, Hot Stitches Sewing Group and the Weekly Art Group. Official Opening Morning Tea, Friday 16th at 10:30am. After Hours Wine & Cheese Viewing, Friday 16th from 5pm – 6:30pm. Showcase open Friday 16th: 9am - 6:30pm, Saturday 17th: 9am - 2pm and Sunday 18th: 9am - 12pm.
VINTAGE CLUB OPEN DAY
Saturday 17th October 2026. Come and check out our collection of vintage tractors, cars, engines, machinery and memorabilia. Sausage sizzle, tea & coffee available from 8:30am - 12pm. Christmas markets, more details to follow!
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
Save the date! Friday 4th December from 7pm on the lawn area between the pub and Soluna/Co-op. Live performances and plenty of singing along! For more info or to get involved contact Lyn Whyte 0447 450 170.
STAY ON YOUR FEET
Exercise for seniors (mixed) held every Thursday morning 9:30am –10:30am in the Town Hall. Wear safe footwear and casual clothes. Just join in at your own pace. No cost. Everyone welcome. Then join us for coffee afterwards.
CHURCH
ST FAITH’S ANGLICAN
Sunday 2 August, 10.00am, Feast of the Transfiguration Eucharist.
UNITING CHURCH
Sunday 2nd August 10:30 am Communion led by Mark Beadle (congregational meeting following)
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Saturday 1 August, 6pm, volunteer.
ST FAITH’S CHURCH
Visit of Bishop Kate to St Faith's Church, Quairading: Regional Bishop Kate Wilmot will conduct the 10am Service on Sunday, 2nd August at St Faith's Church, Quairading. During the service we will celebrate the significance of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ before three of his disciples. After the service there will be a "bring and share" meal. All are welcome.
QUAIRADING GOSPEL CONCERT
Join us for the Quairading Gospel Concert on Saturday 15th August 2026, at the Quairading Town Hall, commencing at 6:30pm. Come along as we gather to celebrate Jesus through worship, fellowship, testimonies, and music. Everyone is welcome to share a testimony or a song, and we encourage you to invite your family and friends to this special evening. Light supper will be provided. Please note that this is strictly alcohol free event. For further information please contact Garry Taylor on 0499 512 764.
BUSINESS
MIDGE’S GARDENING SERVICE
Available for all your gardening needs, experienced team, give us a call on 0419 586 914.
SHORT TERM HOLIDAY RENTAL AVAILABLE
Cervantes: 4 x 1 home with fenced yard and lawn area. Walking distance to beach, shops, Club, Tavern, Lobster Shack and kids playground. Opposite caravan park and cafe. Two separate lounge areas, well equipped kitchen. Outdoor pets only, on request. Balcony with views. From $160 per night, max 6 people. For further info and availability phone Sue 0419 442 608.
PINK LAKES ON AIRBNB Sleeps 6. $150 per night. STRA6383RVKQ7EVP.
REDGUM COTTAGE ON AIRBNB Sleeps 6. $120 per night.
NUYTSIA ON AIRBNB Sleeps 4-6. $150 per night. STRA638363LJFE8
JOBS WORKERS WANTED
Wanting people to work 2026 country run of shows. This includes working sideshow equipment and food vans. Male or female with or without licenses. Must be ready to start on the 19th of August. Please ring Margaret on 0427 474 440.
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
2 Wooden back bench stools, $10.00 each, phone 0435 583 761
FOR SALE
“As new” record player and AM/FM radio. Built in speakers, portable, under warranty. Selling half price, $30. Call 9645 1350.
DIGGING DOCKER
Stephen Bartlett
Mobile: 0407 755 239
• Paving
• Limestone
• Pool Fencing
• Colourbond Fencing
• Artificial Turf
• 4 in 1 Bucket
• Trencher
• Post hole Digger
• 3.5 Tonne Tip Truck
• Yard Clean Ups
Checkoutsomeofourworkonour Facebookpage“DiggingDocker”
Dr Ryohei Tanaka MD, FRACGP registrar
PRACTICE HOURS
MONDAY - THURSDAY
8:30am 12:30pm
1:30pm—5:00pm
FRIDAY
8:30am 12:00pm
After hours please present to Quairading Health Service
Emergency Department
VISITING HEALTH
PROFESSIONAL
Female GP
Dr Irene Dolan 13th &14th August 10th & 11th September
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED
• Health Assessments
• Skin Checks
• Flu Clinics
• Immunisations/Vaccinations
• Diabetes Management
• Pathology
• Preventative Medicine
• Chronic Illness Care Plans
• Antenatal Care
• Health Checks/Medical Reports
• Iron infusions
• Skin cancer removal procedures
• Heart Health Clinic
• Diabetes Management Clinic
In the event of a medical emergency, call 000
Quairading Medical Practice
19 Harris Street
PO Box 125 Quairading WA 6383
PHONE: 9645 1210
warm welcome to our new GP registrar Dr Ryohei Tanaka to start working with us from 3rd August. Dr Ryo grew up in Canada, studied medicine in Sydney. He calls Western Australia home now since he has been working in various metro and rural hospitals here with extensive clinical experience and diverse skillset. He is passionate to serve our community for a patientcentred care. Please give him a warm welcome as you have given us before to help him settle in our friendly town.
Welcome to use our new website to check our latest news, services, policies or book your appointment on line www.qmpwa.com.au
Thanks for using our AI receptionist Helen. Please remember to dial 1 to use Helen for standard face to face appointment booking with Dr Jack, dial 2 if you wish to talk to our staff for queries or any other appointment booking.
Flu Clinic is still open. Please call our practice to book for a flu vaccination.
Heart Support Australia. Anyone with heart problems and relatives are welcome and encouraged to contact Ms Kelli Turton in our practice for future attendance, afternoon tea will be provided at the meeting.
If you are experiencing Cold or Flu symptoms (sore throat, runny nose, fevers etc) please advise our Admin team prior to arriving for your appointment.
A few friendly reminders:
• Please bring your Medicare card to appointments.
• If hearing impaired, please wear your hearing aid device when attending appointments.
• Please bring Drivers Licence renewal paperwork, and your Drivers Licence with you when attending an appointment for a Drivers Licence Medical.
• We are continuing to register patients for SMS reminders and My Medicare. If you would like to receive clinical and appointment reminders, please bring your mobile phone to your appointment so our Admin team can process the set up for you.
• A Pathology request form is required for all pathology appointments. Please kindly drop your form off to our practice one day prior to the blood test if your form is requested by a doctor working outside of our practice so we can prepare it better before your arrival.
Invitation extended to the ladies of the Quairading Football and Netball Club Inc
VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
A Memorial Service will be held at the Quairading War Memorial on the 18th August 2026, commencing at 10am.
All welcome.
• Great seed dressing range, expert application gets superior results.
• Double gravity table grades at up to 35 tonnes an hour.
• Grading wheat, barley, oats, lupins, canola and more.
• All seconds bought at excellent prices.
• Weekend appointments available.
Meet a local business
This Month, we sat down with Rio, the Bar Manager at The Quairading to learn more about her and the business, what inspired her family to take on The Quairading, what she thinks makes country pubs special and more.
Q: Introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your background.
Hi, I’m Rio Brown, I’m the Bar Manger here at The Quairading, I’ve worked at pubs a lot in Perth and when Dad [Mal] opened the pub here in Quairading, I started working here with our amazing team.
Q: What inspired your family to take on The Quairading? Dad is a builder by trade, he was working in Northam and realised there wasn’t any houses for essential workers out in Quairading, so he came out and had a look and realised the pub was shut down, and decided that he wanted a pub!
Q: What do you think makes country pubs special? The people and our bubbly staff make it a lot more inviting.
Q: What’s the most popular item on the menu? Chicken Parmi!
Q: What’s been the biggest challenge so far?
A: Figuring out the different seasons, we didn’t have a timeline of when seeding and harvest and all the busy periods of the year happens in a farming town because we’re from Perth.
Q: Any future for the pub? We’re wanting to do more special nights, we want to plan a pool competition, themed nights, and parties.
Rio and her dad have done a great job at The Quairading so far and we’re so excited to see what’s next for our local pub! Thank you to Rio for taking the time to sit down and have a chat about herself and her family’s journey opening The Quairading.
Follow “The Quairading Quairading Hotel” on Facebook and @thequairading_pub on Instagram for more updates!
Visit www.thequairading.com to view and book rooms—and download their brand new app to order food for dine in or takeaway!
43 Heal Street, Quairading
Open from 5pm to 9pm Monday - Tuesday and 12pm to late Wednesday - Sunday
7th August 2026
14th August 2026
Quairading Football & Netball Club Inc
BUDGET NOTES FOR 2/8/26
Old Timers! Another weekend and another bye, so it's time to dust off the DeLorean and take trip back to Round 13 against Railways in the Bullring. It was one of those picturesque winter days where the sun lulls you into thinking you've overdressed, only for the breeze to remind you that you're still in the Wheatbelt in mid July. It set the scene for a ripper day of grit, triumph, heartbreak, and a few elevated blood pressures.
The Belles went into the game thinking Railways only had seven players... but they just kept coming. Eight. Nine. Ten. By the start of the game we'd counted twelve and started wondering if they were emerging from a portal behind the changerooms. A few unfamiliar faces had us momentarily nervous, but the girls never let it distract them. They stayed composed, trusted each other, and worked tirelessly. As always, the Railways defence was strong, keeping our attackers on their toes and forcing them to work hard, keep moving and create every opportunity. Every player contributed when it mattered, proving once again the depth in this Belles side is frightening. It was a tough, competitive game, but the girls dug deep, worked together and came away with a well-earned win. Another fantastic team effort from the Belles! However securing a 50-18 win over the Fast Tarts was only the entrée. Coach Kelsie and Team Manager Hallie rolled out a post-game picnic complete with bubbles and matching Belles jumpers, ensuring morale remained dangerously high. By League bounce-down the girls had seamlessly transitioned into their second role for the day: professional boundary-line woo girls. Safe to say the decibel meter got a workout.
The Ressies started with all the confidence of a side that had nothing to lose and everything to prove against second -placed Railways. By quarter time only two goals separated the sides before Desi Williams decided enough was enough, casually helping himself to five majors and dragging the Bulls to an eight-point lead at half time. From there it became an absolute scrap, with Railways clawing back into the contest. However the final score of 7.1 (43) to Railways 6.17 (53) was loaded with positives. Not only did it prove that our defensive pressure was peak, making the Railways boys contract a severe case of set shot yips as they peppered the little sticks 17 times, two of our Bulls in their first games back after injury, Kaiden Johnston and Declan Mills, were able to both put a major score on the board, proving muscle memory survives even lengthy stints on the sidelines!
Our League boys had a point to prove. Twice already this season we had rattled the Railways cage up until three quarter time, and twice already this season we had let them get off easy in the final term. Today was the day to bring some fourth quarter effort! And as if the boys didn't need another reason to bring home a victory, it was a big milestone game for our local lad in Yick Hadlow. 150 games for the Old Timer who is an absolute stalwart of the club, and one of the toughest, throw-your-body-around-like-bones-don't-exist defender to don the red and white! From the first centre bounce it was clear this game would require both teams to throw everything at each other, including the kitchen sink, with the margin in our favour by only a single point at quarter time. As the sun shone down, and temperatures rose, it was only natural that tempers did as well, with a enough off ball spice to attract some card waving from the umpires. Jock Nicholls in particular demonstrated once again his qualification in Advanced Opposition Agitation, getting under their skins and receiving plenty of heat from the Railways boys. But he was more than capable of holding his own, and is showing clear signs of completing an aggression apprenticeship under Braydo Andrews. Come three quarter time, it was a severe case of deja vu, with the margin being only 1 point in Railways favour. Unfortunately, it seemed that Coach Benno's rev-up at three quarter time took the scenic route through a few ears, with the boys ultimately falling at the last hurdle and relinquishing a chance at a win. Railways took it home 16.10 (106) to our 10.5 (65). Plenty to reflect on, and plenty to make the boys even more hungry to go for the jugular should we cross paths again come finals time.
Over the bye weekend, we sent Tet Lee and Ben Rushforth across the Nullabor as part of the WA State Country team to take on the SA State Country team on their home turf. By all reports the centre square had all the consistency of chocolate mousse, making clean footy about as likely as finding a dry pair of socks afterwards. Although the boys in the black swan went down by 9 points at day's end, we couldn't be more proud of the team. But particularly our Tet and Rushy, who continue to prove time and again, that they are the cream of the crop. We're pretty lucky they're wearing Bulls colours the other twenty weekends of the year!
This weekend marks our last dance in the Bullring for the home-and-away season as we welcome Federals. So dust off the red and white, line the fence, make plenty of noise, and let's send the regular season out the only way we know how: loud, proud, and preferably having sung a few songs by about five o'clock.
Games Arvo with Tracey
On Thursday 25th June we had a lovely turnout to come and play some games. The most popular proved to be Bocce Ball. Val Hayes showed she had a bit of skill playing this game by picking the Joule up a few times (I think she might have played Bowls before!) but Arthur's team won on a score of 13. Arthur had Dorothy Rogers, Dorothy Bloom and Helen Rogers in his team.
Golf Ladder was found to be a bit more difficult and the putting game I invented with the help of Graeme was enjoyed by everyone. Overall it was a great afternoon and we had a lot of laughs. We even had Kirsty (from CRC reception) come have a look and had a go at practicing some putting.
Anyone interested in starting to practice for the LiveLighter Games next March, we will start practicing soon so watch this space for a date and time or just give me a call on 0438 857 147.
Next month we will have a sing-a-long so call me for any suggestions on what you might like to come and sing and I will do my best to make it happen.
Quairading Sub Centre Update
The Quairading Sub Centre are holding a training motor vehicle accident on the 1st of August 2026. If you see us out and about, feel free to come and watch what we do, you might even learn something new!
The Quairading St John Ambulance Benefit Fund gives you cover for all types of ambulance transport - including services that your private health insurance may not cover. Costs per year have slightly increased;
• $75 single membership
• $124 couple or family membership
Please email quairading.subcentre@stjohnwa.com.au to sign up or check your renewal!
We're on the lookout for more volunteers to join the team! While we have an amazing group of volunteers, we could always do with some more.
Whether you'd like to help out as a committee member behind the scenes or you're keen to get involved driving our ambulances, we'd love to have you. Every bit of help makes a huge difference, and it's a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and give back to the community. If you've been thinking about getting involved, now's the perfect time!
Please contact Janet Hall on 0429 454 214, Peter West on 0427 454 204 or Liz in the office to get involved!
Gardening in the Wheatbelt
Written by Carmela Kriszyk of Eaglewood
Farm
Everyone and everywhere in WA is reporting low winter rainfall and we are definitely in that mix. July has been particularly disappointing. Let’s hope August is more generous. But onto something we can control and that is establishing native trees and shrubs while the weather is cool and also controlling weeds in our gardens which, if left to grow, will take up moisture that should be benefitting our valued garden plants.
The August meeting of the QGLG is on Friday the 28th at the Quairading CRC starting at 9:30am. For this meeting we will be sharing information on lawn care for spring and summer. This is a chance to be envy of neighbours with the best lawn in the street. If you have any skills in these areas please come along and share them with us. Joining our group will always be interesting and informative, so do join.
This month I would like to explore with you vegetables which some of the readers may not be familiar with. These four vegetables are staples in our garden mainly because they are tasty, versatile, and easy to grow. Whilst many may have heard of English Spinach, how many have tried growing it instead of Silver beet or Swiss Chard? In our winter salad bed English Spinach thrives and requires no extra care, its young leaves are a great addition to salads and the bigger leaves have a much more subtle taste than Silver beet. They can be added to soups, casseroles and quiches. It is also easy to blanch, squeeze into handfuls then freeze for later use. The next vegetable is going a little further into anonymity, although most vegetarians will have heard of and have maybe eaten Spaghetti Squash. I must admit that I came to this vegetable rather recently because through lack of available water we limit what we grow in summer. However, once tasted it is certainly one which we grow most years. And in fact, it is quite easily grown as part of the pumpkin bed. It is actually part of the Cucurbita family so could be grown with the cucumbers too. We grow the orange ones although there are yellow ones as well. They shouldn’t be left on the vine too long just until they lose their glossy hue. To cook, cut in half long ways add seasoning, oil and bake until soft. Pull its centre apart with a fork. Serve with a tasty sauce just like the usual spaghetti.
Now having taken you a little left of centre let’s go right out to the edge. Many will have heard of Cardoons, those big architectural purple flower heads found in English borders. But how many would know that those same flowers before they are allowed to bloom are simply divine as artichoke hearts on a charcuterie board, or simply steamed and served with a vinegarette or for a full meal they are stuffed with bread crumbs, parmesan, parsley and chopped ham or bacon and then steamed in a little chicken stock. The Globe Artichoke is a herbaceous perennial and therefore supremely suited to the Wheatbelt. It grows in winter, fruits in early spring, dies down in summer and comes back to life after the first rains. How wonderful! Another vegetable we grow every winter is Florence fennel, this is not the wild fennel grown for its seeds, this has a white fleshy bulb which grows readily from seed and makes a refreshing salad with slices of orange and seasoned simply with salt, cracked pepper oil and white wine vinegar. Its wispy leaves smell a little like dill and can be used as a substitute for dill to garnish fish dishes. Try one or all these plants and you will enjoy them for their taste and the interesting addition they will make to your diet.
August in the Garden
It’s time to – start preparing your soil for the summer crop, take out any spent winter flowers or vegetables remove weeds, spread 3 to 5cms of compost, no need to dig in, allow the worms to do that for you; if the bed will be growing what are known as gross feeders for example the vines pumpkins and cucumbers or solanaceae plants like tomatoes, capsicum and eggplant, then we have found that digging a trench about 30cms deep and filling it with aged manure, blood and bone and topping it with compost and some soil from the bed then leaving to mature during August and September and depending on soil temperatures in late September planting into these trenches gives the plants the best chance of success; in the flower garden some early bulbs will have finished flowering they can be dead headed but do not cut them back, fertilize them and let them die back normally; grape vines will be fully dormant in August so now is the time to prune them; chrysanthemum clumps can be divided now; cut back clumping plants like lomandra, dianella and fountain grass, feed roses towards the end of the month, feed and prune camelias after they have finished blooming; indoor house plants will need a pick me up at the end of winter, pinch out the soft growing tips of broad beans this will help them flower and prevent aphids from attacking them; feed orchard trees as they come out of dormancy;
Sow – this is the best time to sow summer vegetable seeds, among many there are tomatoes, pumpkin, eggplant, cucumber, zucchini, capsicum; these are all larger seeds and are quite easily sown into small recycled punnets; keep them in a warm spot maybe a window sill until they reach to two leaf stage when they can be gently lifted and transplanted into small pots; sow another row of carrots they love the cooler temperatures to germinate; if you like growing lettuce from seed this is also a good time to scatter lettuce seeds on moist soil and just cover with a fine sprinkling compost; many flowering plants can be sown now too
Plant – this is the last chance to plant bare rooted trees and other potted dormant trees both fruiting and flowering; extra seedlings of winter flowers and vegetables can still be planted in early August;
Harvest – in the vegetable garden the beds are brimming with winter goodness we are harvesting five types of lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, English spinach, celery, capsicum, silver beet, carrots, parsnip, turnip, snow peas spring onions, rocquette, parsley, sage, coriander and in the next two weeks potatoes, swede and fennel; being citrus season we have navel oranges, mandarins and lemons
The last word –“Gardening is the art that uses flowers and plants as paint, and the soil and sky as canvas.” Elizabeth Murray
Warrior Wellbeing Article
Bowel Health—It’s Worth Giving a Shit!
The bowel is an important part of our digestive system, but what is it, and what should we be aware of when weighing up our overall bowel health?
The bowel is made up of 3 parts:
1. The small intestine is around 6 meters in length and is the narrower (small) section of the bowel. It absorbs the nutrients in the food we digest.
2. The colon and rectum make up the larger intestine, it is much shorter but thicker. Its role is to reabsorb fluid and process the waste material.
3. Finally, the rectum is where the waste material is stored until we go and drop a log so to speak.
What comes out and the frequency of our bowel movement is something else we should take note of. Our poo or stool should be soft, sausage shaped and should not require too much effort to pass. The frequency can depend on individual habits, changes to our diet, but the main thing to remember here is a sudden change in your poo routine could indicate other issues.
What’s not normal?
Signs of Blood: Bright or fresh signs of blood on the toilet paper could be the result of haemorrhoids (usually a result of constipation or straining too hard) or wiping too hard and frequently can cause small cuts/tears on the anus. Blood in the poo (especially darker blood) could mean bleeding further up the bowel and should be discussed with a doctor immediately.
Constipation: Dry or hard poo sometimes associated with cramping or bloating in our lower abdomen (something we have all probably experienced) can often be resolved with some lifestyle changes i.e. drinking plenty of water, eating a diet high in soluble fibre (fruit/vegies/oat bran/lentils/ beans) and an increase in physical activity.
Diarrhoea: We have all probably had a mean curry that has caused us to frequent the loo, but diarrhoea is usually caused by our intestine becoming inflamed and irritated affecting the reabsorption of water from the waste material. This can be caused by numerous factors such as: illness/infection, food poisoning, drinking contaminated water, ulcers, stress and certain food intolerances.
Leakage: Accidental leakage or incontinence can be associated with severe diarrhoea but can also be caused by weakness or damage to the muscles around our bowel and anus. The Continence Foundation of Australia is a great resource to get assistance, advice and support if you are affected by incontinence.
If any of these issues are having an effect for more than 2-3 days, a visit to the doctor is recommended. A prominent cancer is bowel cancer and can remain undetected until well advanced. Participate in the free bowel cancer screening test from the age 45 onwards – it saves lives!
Remember good bowel health and our digestive system is often compared to being just as important as brain function, just at the other end of the body. Remember it is worth giving a shit about!
Anglican Church (St Faith’s)
Harris Street
August in the Parish of St Faith’s, Quairading
The Transfiguration
St Faith’s Church, Quairading
Sunday, 2nd August
Sunday, 9th August
Saturday, 15th August
Sunday, 23rd August
Sunday, 30th August
Thursday, 13th August
10.00 a.m.
Feast of the Transfiguration -Eucharist
9.00 a.m. Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost – Morning Prayer
5.30 p.m. Feast of Ss Priscilla & Aquila - – Eucharist
9.00 a.m. Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost – Morning Prayer
10.00 a.m. Combined Service – St Mary’s Church, Beverley Holy Trinity Church, York
6.00 p.m. Mary, Mother of our Lord - Eucharist
Bishop Kate will visit the Parish to preside and preach at a service at the later time of 10.00 a.m. at Quairading on Sunday, 2nd August. A “bring and share” lunch will follow.
The Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord services on Sunday, 2nd August will commemorate the revelation of the eternal glory of the Second Person of the Trinity. Jesus Christ took Peter, James, and John, up on a mountain; Moses and Elijah appeared, and Jesus was transfigured, his face and clothes becoming dazzlingly bright.
St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School: The School’s Patronal Festival, The Feast of Mary, Mother of our Lord, will be celebrated at 6.00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church, York on Thursday, 13th August. Those with associations with the school are most welcome to join local congregants at the service..
Rural Gathering: A Rural Gathering for Fellowship, Training & Encouragement is to be held on Saturday 22 August 2026, 10.00am to 3.00pm at the Mocardy Centre, Wongan Hills. All are welcome.
Baptism and Welcome to Holy Communion, Quairading: During August final preparations for a group of children to be baptised and Welcomed to Holy Communion with continue; the service at which they will be baptised and welcomed will be at 9.00 a.m. on Sunday, 6th September.
Ss Priscilla and Aquila: Ss Priscilla and Aquila are the patron saints of marriage. All couples are invited to attend services on the 15th, 16th & 23rd August, giving thanks for their married life. Fifth Sunday Service in the Month: The Combined Anglican Churches’ Service will take place at St Mary’s Church, Beverley on Sunday 30th August at 10 a.m. with a “bring and share” lunch to follow. The Service will commemorate “The Martyrs of New Guinea”.
OPEN HOUSE – Our annual OPEN HOUSE event where community members are invited to enjoy each other’s company over refreshments will be held between 5.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. on Friday, 11th September – St Faith’s Church, Quairading.
Financial Support for the Ministry of the Parish
To support financially the ministry and mission of the Anglican Church in Quairading you are welcome to contribute, regularly or as a one-off offering, by direct debit to the following account: St Faith’s Church, Quairading – BSB 036-172 Acc No 2500 86 – Westpac
Catholic Church (St Francis Xavier)
Heggerty Street
Reading + Psalm & General Intercession
FatherMatthewHodgson
Phone: 9061 1094
Email: bruce.rock@perthcatholic.org.au *new*
Facebook: Francis Mary Concepta Sacrament
The first Sunday Mass is live-streamed every weekend on the parish’s Facebook profile. Please contact Father at any time regarding Confession/Reconciliation. Grain donations are very welcome. The CBH grower number for St Francis Xavier church is 72840317.
Uniting Church
Coraling Street
I was listening to Vision 88 FM a couple of weeks ago and they announced that the next speaker would be Greg Laurie. I was amazed because I had been reading about what Greg Laurie was doing about 50 years ago and he is still at it.
In case you don’t know, Vision 88 FM is a free to air Christian radio station. Since 2009 it has been rebroadcasting Vision’s national program in Quairading 24/7, including contemporary Christian music, Bible teaching, and inspiring interviews. It is a low power broadcast so it only covers the town-site but if you want to listen to it anywhere you can stream it on your mobile phone.
Back to Greg Laurie, in 1973 a church was looking for someone who could share the love of Jesus with teenagers and Greg Laurie was suggested. He was 21, could draw cartoon characters and was cheerful and friendly. People felt better just for talking with him. I read about what he did in 1973 and googled his name and I found that he was still doing it today.
In 2024 my 16 year old granddaughter asked for a Bible for her birthday. After looking at a dozen Bibles I chose the “New Believer’s Bible” – not because she was a new believer but because it had a lot of notes to help people understand the Bible and they were written in a way that teenagers could read it. When I googled Greg Laurie I discovered that he was the one who had written the notes for the New Believer’s Bible.
I was telling Arthur West about it and Vision 88 FM was playing in the background, when the announcer said that the next speaker would be Greg Laurie. I was amazed. Not many of us can do the same job for 50 years and do it well but Greg still likes to tell people that Jesus loves them and he likes to explain how to read the Bible in a way that even teenagers are comfortable with.
If you would like some help understanding the Bible you can give me a call. My number is down below. Or you can listen to Greg Laurie on Vision 88 FM radio or stream it on your phone.
Services for August:
Sunday 2nd August 10:30 am Communion led by Mark Beadle (congregational meeting following)
Sunday 9th August 10:30 am Café Church led by Arthur West
Sunday 16th August 10:30 am Kevin Tengval
Sunday 23rd August 10:30 am led by Peter West
Sunday 30th August 9:00 am Combined service at Cunderdin. (No service at QUC)
Enquiries: Mark Beadle 0435 698 655 or Arthur West 9645 0081 or Quairading.UC@Gmail.com
If you would like a visit please contact Mark Beadle. Check out our Facebook page: Quairading Church
Rural Aid Article
In every society there are beliefs and expectations of what defines success, what defines happiness and what defines achievement. In the majority of the modern world this results in believing that we will find happiness through materialism and accolades. But somehow there’s just something else, something we feel is missing.
Recently someone told me how they are ‘doing what they can with what they have got, they said,’ I’m making myself available a lot more for my wife and children, nothing amazing just the boring stuff’. “The Boring stuff”? What does that entail?” I asked. They replied, ‘Just being much more aware and there. Making more time in my life to include my children such as when I go to feed the sheep I take my children with me. Stepping up at home and helping in the house; giving my wife a break. I’m not taking my kids to Disneyland or going away to a resort on the weekend; I’m doing what I can do rather than feeling guilty about not doing the things I can’t do’.
The things I can’t do? boring stuff? Somehow along the way the majority believe that in order to ‘give’ properly entails material things such as going to the movies, a holiday to Disneyland or a new gift for that giving to be meaningful. What the person above is giving their family is far more precious. They are giving their family their time, their love from their heart, wanting to physically be present. This does not need their wallet.
Somehow we have been ill informed to feel that we are not successful in life because we can’t afford what we see others doing in the media, online and in our communities. Others seem to have everything, the nice car, nice house, regular overseas trips, their children have all the latest toys. But this is just Materialistic success. We look over the fence and feel that somehow our neighbours are somehow ‘doing better’ than ourselves? Are they Happier? Probably not; they too are keeping up appearances of material success. Is our neighbour looking back over the same fence thinking,’ I wish I had time to spend more regular time with my family like they do?
This is not to say that we don’t need to work and have money, we do. We have to eat. But what in our life gives you true personal meaning, what do you value personally above all else? Only you can answer this question, no one else can answer this for you. Once answered, how are you living your life to your true values and meaning? Make that first step and re focus on what really matters to you personally. Happiness and success redefined will naturally follow.
Roger Hitchcock
Counsellor & Community Representative West Australia based in Narrogin Rural Aid Australia
M: 0460 310 661 |P: 07 3153 4656 |E: roger.hitchcock@ruralaid.org.au Head Office : 1300 327 624 / Mental Health and Counselling Line 1300 175 594
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