THE BANKSIA BULLETIN
Quairading’s monthly publication since 1991. Proudly produced and printed by the Quairading CRC.
of Quairading Parks & Gardens team for their hard work in looking after them.
The best way to spread festive cheer!
Regular happenings and contacts
Please contact the Quairading CRC to make updates: admin@quairadingcrc.com.au
GROUP
Every Tuesday, 10am 3pm @ CRC Art Space
CANTO CHOIR On hold
’S OP SHOP Thursdays @ Old Drive In
for transport to medical appointments
second Friday of each month.
Last 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
& 4th Mondays @ Community Building @ the Oval
JOHN AMBULANCE SUB CENTRE 1st & last Thursday - Training 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Once a month on Mondays at 10am @ CRC
TIDY TOWNS COMMITTEE Monthly meeting 3rd Monday 9:30am @ Railway Station
2nd Saturday 10am
VOLUNTEER FIRE & RESCUE
First Tuesday of the month, 4:30pm at the Station Saskia Korzonek qfiresecretary@gmail.com YOUTH CENTRE
Monday & Wednesday, 3pm 4:30pm
From the Editor
If you’re ready to get in the festive spirit, come along for a singalong at the CRC next Thursday 4th December from 1:30pm! Similar to the very popular Singalong Lunch we held back in May, we’ll provide lyrics in booklet-form and big-screen-form for a range of Christmas classics. Let us know if you’d like to come along, and if you have any song requests!
We’ve got a few random opening hours over December and January as we juggle being slightly short staffed and providing a decent break for our team over the holidays.
• We’ll be closing at 3pm on Mondays in December
• We’ll be closing at 12:30pm on Friday 19th December for our team end of year celebration
• Our last day pre-Christmas will be Tuesday 23rd December, we’ll then be closed from Christmas Eve for 1.5 weeks—open again on Tuesday 6th January
• We’ll be closed on Mondays in January
As well as planning all the days we won’t be here (sorry), we’ve also been busy planning a few events for the new year, here’s some save the dates and sneak peek at details!
• Let’s Roll for Beyond Blue Sunday 1st February. We’re stoked to be supporting fundraising event Queen, Tracey Ellis with this fun bowling event. See more on page 21 and get your team registered!
• Evening on the Green Saturday 7th February. A super low key, free and easy to attend evening of live music and socialising. More details to come!
• Quairading Car Rally, in collaboration with Quairading Rainmakers Inc Saturday 21st March. That’s right, we’re bringing back the car rally, again! And what better way to do it than team up with the best and funniest party planners in town!
• Understanding Financials Workshop for small businesses date TBC but the fabulous Enrika Grogan is on standby for us to book her in next quarter!
Next Banksia Bulletin deadlines are Tuesday 16th December at 12pm for the January 2026 edition (will only be produced if there’s sufficient content received) and Thursday 27th January for the February edition.
Stay safe out there.
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
CRCEARLYCLOSEONMONDAYS
For the month of December, the Quairading CRC will close at 3pm on a Monday, instead of 4:30pm. Apologies for any inconvenience, please direct any feedback to Jill via admin@quairadingcrc.com.au
RELIEFPOSTIEWANTED
Quairading Post Office are looking for a relief Town mail delivery person and mail sorter. One day a week to start, with the possibility of more hours later. Must have current motorcycle license. Apply in person at the Post Office or call Mick 0447 751 239.
WORKWANTED
Hello, my name is Johanna. I live in Quairading and I’m looking for paid farm or shed work. I’m reliable, available immediately and can be contacted at +61477 977 569 or +491706553428.
HOUSETORENTWANTED
Quairading or surrounds. Two income family with good references including current owner (house was sold in February and now owners are ready to move in). Bond and rent ready. Farmhouse or outside Quairading Shire ok. Contact Nat Logan 0472 531 301.
QUAIRADINGAQUATICCLUB
We are fundraising to enable the purchase of new flippers and to also help with running costs of our upcoming Swim Meet. We are taking pre-orders of Cadbury Boxes of Chocolates. There are three options 1-The Natural Confectionery Co. Lolly Box 2- Fun Pack Carry Box 3- Freddo & Friends
Carry Box. Boxes are $60 each. Orders need to be in by Friday 28 November (boxes will arrive Tuesday 9 December). Orders to Meagan Hall 0438 960 360. Payment to - Quairading Aquatic Club, BSB 036 172 Acc 760 019, Reference: First & Last Name.
CITIZENOFTHEYEAR NOMINATIONSNOWOPEN!
Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond to make Quairading a great place to live? Nominate them for the Citizen of the Year Award! The Citizen of the Year award celebrates the positive contribution of people within our local community. Download a Nomination Pack on our website: https://www.quairading.wa.gov.au/ news/coty-2/ or pick up a hard copy from the Shire Administration or CRC front desk. Nominations must be received by 4.30pm, 28th of November, 2025. The Citizen of the Year award will be presented at our annual Australia Day celebration on January 26, 2026.
EVENTS
GARAGESALE
30 Dall Street, 29th November 8am – 12pm. Some furniture, lots sundries, everything must go. Small block splitter $100, near new air compressor $250, 12/24 volt jump starter / charger $500. Phone Colin 0428 451 078.
ADVENTSUNDAYSERVICE
St Faith’s Church, Sunday, 30th November: At the special time of 10 am there will be a service devoted to highlighting domestic and family violence in our
society. Members of the Parishes of York, Beverley-Brookton and Northam will be in attendance also. A ‘bring and share” lunch to follow.
QARRAS
Monday 8th December, 12pm at
The Quairading for our wind-up lunch. Members, if you would like to join us at the Hotel, please contact Sue Anderson 0428 455 228. We need numbers and menu choices asap. Thankyou
CHRISTMASPHOTOS
The Quairading Co-op is delighted to offer free family Christmas Photographs for the 2025 Year. We will be establishing a Christmas photography setting within the store, complete with Santa. Our very own Arun Thongjaj, a staff member with the Quairading Co-op, is a qualified and experienced portrait photographer. He will be taking photographs for us and Renee Faltyn will be our chief portrait organizer. All photographs taken will be forwarded, without editing and free of charge, via email to the nominated member of each family group. This means the family will have electronic copies of the photographs to send to friends and extended family members. The family can choose to have them printed, framed, given as Christmas gifts etc. All the options will be yours as you will have the electronic copies. Once we receive confirmation of receipt of the photographs from you via email, the family's photographs will be deleted so no copy is retained by the store for privacy reasons. Photography sessions are limited to the following times. For privacy reasons these photo sessions will
be held after the store closes at 12.00p.m. on weekends only. The waiting area will be in the office area of the store and will open at 12.15p.m.
Saturday 29th of November, 2025 from 12.15p.m. to 1.15p.m.
Saturday 6th of December, 2025 from 12.15p.m. to 1.15p.m.
Sunday 7th of December, 2025 from 12.15p.m. to 1.15p.m.
Saturday 13th of December, 2025 from 12.15p.m. to 1.15p.m.
Sunday 14th of December, 2025 from 12.15p.m. to 1.15p.m. Bookings must be made in advance. This can be arranged with either Paula, Tanya or Renee at the Co-op. Multiple group photographs can be taken during the photo shoot based on the family’s wishes. For example, children with Santa, Family Christmas Portrait, with or without Santa, Grandparents with Grandchildren etc. We trust this provides a valuable opportunity for our Quairading Community. If successful, we would like to offer this opportunity every year. The Quairading Co-op wishes you and your family a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
QUAIRADINGGARDEN LOVERSGROUP
Our next meeting is on November 28th, which is our Christmas Lunch. We will start with our meeting at 11am, having lunch after. Looking forward to it. All enquiries to Lyn on 0447 450 170 or Carmela on 0403 153 661.
CHRISTMASPOPUPSHOP
By The Maker’s Keep and Feet with Flair. Friday 28th November, 10am 4pm at the Quairading Tennis Club. Featuring a selection of Denise’s beautiful summer shoe range, bags, Christmas decorations, gift ideas, art and more. Queries to Janine 0400 085 235.
CHRISTMASSINGALONG
Thursday 4th December, 1:30pm at the Quairading CRC. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Come and get in the spirit with an afternoon of singing along to all
your festive favourites! Expect a combination of traditional carols and some more modern pop hits. Please let us know if you’d like to come along (and if you have any song requests!) admin@quairadingcrc.com.au / 9645 0096. Free to attend, Christmas Cookies & Cuppa provided!
HEARTSUPPORTAUSTRALIA
The second Heart Support Australia meeting was held Wednesday 12th November. Only 2 people attended. Would love to see more attend these gatherings next year. There will be no meeting in December due to busy time of the year. Next meeting will be on Wednesday 14th January 2026, 2.30pm at CRC. We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy 2026. May the new year be Kind to all.
LET’SROLLFORBEYONDBLUE
Sunday 1st February 2026, arrive 9:30am for 10am start. Register your team name and dress up theme and get ready for a fun fundraising day out on the green! $100 per team of 4. All ability and experience levels welcome! BBQ lunch and arvo tea provided (local donations very welcome). Raffles, money sheets, chocolate wheel and great fun guaranteed. For more info, donations or to register, contact event organiser Tracey Ellis on 0438 857 147. Let’s roll!
BUSINESS
BEYOUNAILS&BEAUTY
Next in Quairading on 19th December for tinting, waxing and massage only. Book online, call or message 0408 172 611.
RELYONMEHOMECLEANING
Are pleased to announce that our cleaning services are now available in Quairading and neighbouring areas. Our team is NDIS and DVA accredited, fully insured, and all cleaners hold current national police clearances for your peace of mind. For more information please feel free to contact
relyonmebm@gmail.com
Bev McDonald : 0466 973 836
Sam Smith : 0422 985 905
REGIONALPROPERTYMANAGER
June Tilley Getz Stuff Done 0419 764 454
PINKLAKESONAIRBNB
Sleeps 6. $150 per night. STRA6383RVKQ7EVP.
REDGUMCOTTAGEONAIRBNB Sleeps 6. $120 per night. STRA6383G6S95XM0.
NUYTSIAONAIRBNB
Sleeps 4-6. $150 per night. STRA638363LJFE8K.
BUY & SELL
FORSALE
Students computer desk $99, Single filing cabinet with extra draw $45 , Camping chair $55 , Telstra (ZTE) Blade A 31 mobile phone $65, Rechargeable massager $60 , Adjustable Manhole Frame (new) $20 , Bailey Harness with Lanyard $220. All in good or better condition and prices are are ONO. Items are no longer required. Graeme 0409 098 300 or Tracey 0438 857 147.
FORSALE
40 Dall Street Quairading WA 6383 1379M2 Residential Block. The most elevated block in Quairading! Just Listed. Enquire Now! Call My Realty WA – Sayed Aziz on 0413 860 165
FORSALE
Plants - YUKKA'S 4 x Healthy Variegated Drought Tolerant plants. 15 each or buy the 4 for $50. AGAVE - Mature, Well Established, Drought Tolerant plant $18. Pick up Quairading. Phone Christine 0429 466 222.
December Birthdays
Got a new addition or an edit? Let us know!
1
Dec Kate Minchin, Shauna Stone
Kieg Simpson, Maddelin Johnston, Libby Osborne 3rd Dec Judith Chandler, Michael Henry Jnr, Lachlan Berry, Cam Fraser 4
Dec Leah Atkinson, Zieluneta Stacey
6
Dec Brett Hayes, Elizabeth Priest, Kelsie Squiers 7
Ryan Wells, Mark Haythornthwaite
Barb Stewart, Murray Yarran, Scarlett Woodcock
Dene White, Hayley Richards, Lachlan Pritchard, Don Woodcock
th Dec Sophie Heal, David Chandler (Jnr), Hunter Bavin
18th Dec Carol Dall, Zoe Simpson
19th Dec Bim White, P.J. Morgan
20
Greg Robinson, Greg Richards, Johnathon Bubb
Claire Walker (Gelmi?)
Dear reader. Please note, we plan to retire the monthly birthday list from the Banksia Bulletin in 2026. We rarely receive new additions to the list therefore we don’t believe it’s an accurate enough list for our community. If you have any thoughts or feelings about this decision, please reach out. If you would like a copy of the full current list, please let us know. Thanks, Jill.
Our Mother’s Legacy and by Cheryl Smith
Dr Sing Jack Yap MBBS, FRACGP, DIP DERM DCH
PRACTICE HOURS
MONDAY - THURSDAY
8:30am—12:30pm 1:30pm 5:00pm
FRIDAY
8:30am 12:00pm
VISITING HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
Female GP
Dr Irene Dolan 2nd December
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
• PATS Patient Assisted Travel Scheme Applications
• Iron infusions
• Skin cancer removal procedures
• Heart Health 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
Welcome to use our new website to check our latest news, services, policies or book your appointment on line www.qmpwa.com.au
Welcome to use our new AI receptionist Helen. When you call our practice, please choose option 1 to speak to Helen for only standard face to face appointment booking with Dr Jack if you are an existing patient and choose option 2 to speak to our staff if you are a new patient or wish to book with another practitioner, or any other appointments ,queries or long appointment and telephone consult with Dr Jack. Sincere apologies for any inconvenience experienced by some residents due to the disruptions and upgrade of our phone system, as well as occasional internet connection problem that have been dealt with recently. We are working hard to improve, please keep giving us feedback so we can serve you better!
We are hiring!
A new medical receptionist part-time position will be available in our practice from March 2026. If you have desire to serve the community with compassion and love by working with a friendly supportive team like us, please contact our practice or email Dr Min your expression of interest and CV via manager@qmpwa.com.au
Heart support Australia has successfully launched their first two peer support group meetings since October aiming to support you and your relatives on heart disease recovery journey. The next meeting is scheduled on 14th January 2026 at 1430pm in CRC, anyone with heart problems and relatives are welcome, afternoon tea provided. Please contact Ms Kelli Turton in our practice for attendance.
Christmas Closure and Leave Notice
Our practice will close during Christmas holiday from 24th December 1200 to 4th January and open on 5th January. Dr Jack and Dr Min will be away during the holiday period.
Dr Jack will also be away from 5th to 9th January, Dr Jenny Lugovskaya will cover from 6th to 9th January.
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 appts. We are unable to perform Pathology testing without a request form. Patients who arrive without a form will be rescheduled and advised to book an appt. with the Dr to obtain the required pathology request form.
DO YOU ENJOY SINGING CHRISTMAS CAROLS?
Come and join in Carol Singing! Quairading Shire Combined Churches’ Christmas Carols’ Service
5 p.m., Sunday, 14th December
Uniting Church, 67 Coraling Street, Quairading “Bring and share” refreshments to follow.
St Faith’s Anglican Church, 22 Harris Street, invites you to bring your children
Children’s Nativity Rehearsal
Tuesday 2nd December, after school
Afternoon tea provided.
Children’s Christmas Service
Saturday 20th December, 5:30pm
All children are welcome to participate in the Nativity.
Kids Fun Day
Monday 22nd December, 10am—4pm
Come and go to suit your schedule.
Morning Tea & Sausage Sizzle lunch provided. For more information contact Mary Stacey 0428 455 226.
Quairading Seed Cleaners
• Great
•
• All seconds
• Weekend appointments
Date for your diary Friday March 6, 2026 10:00 am St Faith’s Church 22 Harris Street Quairading
Program at 10:00 followed by morning tea For more information: www.worlddayofprayeraustralia.org/wdp World Day of Prayer is run under the motto “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action,” and is celebrated annually in over 170 countries on the first Friday in March. The movement aims to bring together people of various races, cultures and traditions in a yearly common Day of Prayer, as well as in closer fellowship, understanding and action throughout the year.
One ride can change everything. Even experienced riders can be caught off guard. Get home safe with a helmet, rollover protection and no children on adult quad bikes. Find out more at productsafety.gov.au/quadbikes
Quairading Sub Centre Update
On Saturday 8th November we had our Annual Appreciation Dinner for our Sub Centre. We can't thank each of our Volunteers enough for the work they do to help our community and are so proud of them!
Congratulations to Carol for being our Quairading Volunteer of the Year 2025 and to Lyndsey & Lynette Greenwood for their Outstanding Service Awards!
A big thank you to Wendy from Flavour Town Catering for catering the dinner, it was a wonderful meal as always!
Please keep your paths and entryways clear - it could make all the difference in an emergency! First responders need quick access to your home or property, so clearing excess stuff or overgrown bushes helps us get to you faster and without damaging our equipment or risking our volunteers!
Did you know that St John Ambulance WA can store your key lock box or access code information safely in case of an emergency? This simple step ensures that if you cannot open the door yourself like if you've had a fall we can still get to you quickly and safely. To register, simply fill out the form on the St John Ambulance website or give the Head Office a call on 9334 1222 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
https://stjohnwa.com.au/amb.../register-your-property-access
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to our wonderful Quairading community! We hope you have a happy, safe & fun festive season! The sub-centre office will be closed from 22nd Dec 2025 and will reopen on 2nd Jan 2026.
Quairading Ladies Bowls Gala Day 2025
Our annual Ladies Gala Day was held on Friday 7th November with 20 teams including one Quairading team. The weather gods were kind to us this year and we were able to enjoy lovely bowls and comradery all day.
The winner of the day was the team from Corrigin with the runner up being from Merredin. Third was Goomalling, fourth was from York and 5th was Cunderdin. Congratulations to these ladies.
Congratulations to Janice Sinclair and Christine Hadlow on a very well run event. Special thanks to Paul O’Hare for Umpiring the day and of course our merry band of kitchen/catering helpers, bar staff, raffle ticket sellers and everyone who helped out in any way around the club before, during and after the event.
Our Gala day could not be held without the very generous support of our many sponsors which is very much appreciated. Please remember to give your support to them in return whenever possible. A HUGE THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS: Elders Quairading, Quairading Afgri, Purslowe Tinnetti Funerals, Aviso Insurance Brokers, Nutrien Agrisource Agencies, Hutton & Northey Sales, Farmarama, Quairading Tyre & Battery Supplies, Rest A While Coffee, RSM Australia, Seed Cleaners of WA, Quairading Co-op, Quairading Earthmoving, JA & CT Gimbel, Quairading Seed Cleaners, Quairading Book Post, Quairading Club Inc, and Westpac Quairading.
Journey of the Dangin Dancer –Harrison Woodcock
This will be an update for some, and an introduction for others!
Harrison’s dance journey began in the Quairading Town Hall (or more likely in the loungeroom and kitchen out at Dangin), with classes in Acro, Jazz and Ballet delivered by the Toodyay Ballet School as part of their rural outreach, when he was six years old, along with his sister, Scarlett, and many other talented young folk in Quairading and surrounds. Which led to him being granted a Scholarship to support travelling twice a week to Toodyay for more classes, and more training, doing ballet exams, and partaking in competitions in Northam and Perth; in the ensuing years two days travelling to Toodyay became three days, became four days, until we were travelling 15 hours a week, plus weekends and holidays, and there were 17 hours or more of waiting for me, whilst those classes and training took place. Harrison always worked very hard and was always packed and ready for class. He learnt early to sew his own elastics on his ballet shoes and to wash all his own ballet clothes, and to help prepare the healthy food that he needed to fuel a body that was training so much. He was always successful in his ballet exams, receiving Honours. He mostly won the competitions he was in, often as part of troupes, or trios, and he thrived in the environment of learning and constantly being challenged to learn more. There were definitely tough times, but we will always be grateful for the community support he received in Dangin and Quairading, and for the parental and peer support in the carpark of the dance school as well as the foyers and dressing rooms of town halls and community centres!
I also remember a radio interview with the ‘Ballerino from the Bush’, when one of the local radio stations heard about him!
When Harrison was accepted into the Interstate Training Programme of the Australian Ballet School at age 9, some wonderful people in Quairading organised a raffle and donations to support him travelling to Melbourne for classes (Rowlie Mellor, Alison Caporn, Garol Geddes, Peta West, Bery Stacey, Kelly Seitz and Luke Howlett (Post Office)). The Shire of Quairading allowed him to use the Town Hall for extra dance time/training space. Chatfields Tree Nursery in Tammin donated tree seedlings for us to sell to help raise money for travel for dance. The encouragement, support and joy we were all given was just amazing and continued, with Quairading folk travelling to Perth to see Harrison dance with WA Ballet as a Child Guest Artist, dancing at His Majesty’s Theatre in The Nutcracker twice (at age 8 and !0) and also in Dracula (at age 10).
We made the decision to move to Perth 2018, when he was 11, so that he could begin full time training at Charlesworth Ballet School (now Youth Ballet WA), and whilst there he added Spanish Dancing to his repertoire, complete with castanets, which he loved! He got to dance on stage at the Crown Theatre, in some huge productions, and his dad Don made props and scenery, Scarlett and I sewed and made costumes, and supported back stage; and Quairading people continued to travel to Perth to see him on stage and continue to support him. During this time he received two Variety Grant Scholarships, which were a huge help toward the cost of his training.
After two years he made the move to The Graduate College of Dance, a smaller school, but with excellent training that suited him very well, and for the last five years he has trained under Nathan Coppen, Milos Mutadevic and Claire Hill, all former Principal Ballet Dancers, and two wonderful Contemporary teachers. We have travelled to New Zealand for the Alaina Haines Australasian Awards in Wellington two years ago, which was another extraordinary experience, and more recently to Sydney for The Youth America Grand Prix (which had over five hundred dancers). Harrison placed third in the Senior Men’s division. He performed at The Regal Theatre in Subiaco, and The Quarry Amphitheatre in City Beach. And people have continued to travel to watch him perform, and to support him – Mary Stacey, Alison Caporn, Murry Williams, Becky Cowcill, Carol Geddes, Dot Hayes, Ann Coombes, Peter West; and if I have left your name out, I am so sorry – there is a lot to hold in my very full brain!
During this time he received scholarships through the Grad, based on his work ethic and skill set, that have hugely helped us in being able to support his dream of becoming a full time dancer. Ballet is his absolute love – the technicality of ballet, balanced with its artistry is absolutely inspiring to him.
The next part of the Journey is taking him to Vienna, Austria – he was accepted into the Balletakademie der Wien Staatsoper, and he will be flying there to begin classes in January; no doubt leaving 40 degree plus days, for temperatures in the minus! This is such a wonderful and prestigious opportunity for him – to get to dance
and train in a place of such artistic culture and history (Google the Balletakademie der Wien Staatsoper! It looks amazing!) is such an extraordinary and privileged opportunity, for a child of the Wheatbelt.
But before that, his end of year performance will be at The Quarry, on Wednesday 3rd December, should you wish to join us! ‘Paquita, with Divertissements’. https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1475288
Harrison does have a FB page –‘The Journey of the Dangin Dancer’, if you wish to look at some videos of him dancing, or to follow the journey as it continues.
Our family wish to thank everyone who has ever helped him, or offered kind words, or travelled to see him dance. We have all been supported so well by the rural community, and I think it was a brilliant underpinning for his forward launch on this path he has chosen, and that he works hard every day to travel. We are all so proud of him, and he is such a gentle and humble and oh so talented human being, please join us in wishing him, and all the other 18 year olds out there as they head out into the world following dreams of study or vocation. How lucky we are to join them on their journeys!
Quairading CWA
Merry Christmas to the Quairading Community from all the members of the Quairading Country Women’s Association.
2025 has been a very good year for the CWA Op Shop and this is mainly due to the overhaul of the layout and set up within the building, as well as having more volunteers to work on opening days. As we have had a good financial year we have been able to help several Community clubs obtain new equipment and/or cover costs of programmes being implimented. The Quairading Ladies Hockey Club received a donation towards obtaining new protective equipment for their goalie. The CWA also subsidised Peta West in her endeavour to provide a safe envionment for the younger generation of Quairading in their Halloween jaunt around town. Two more substantial donations were made to two families experiencing financial hardship due to tragedy and ill health. Quairading CWA celebrated their 100th birthday in July this year and so did Beverley CWA in October and York CWA in November. Several of our members travelled to Beverley and York to attend a luncheon to join in celebrations for their 100th birthdays.
Quairading residents are proving to be very generous when it comes to the Op Shop. Our storeroom is very often overflowing with donations. As our Co-Ordinator sorts through the clothing, items that have been on the racks for several months get moved on to other Op Shops. We simply cannot keep all donations for any length of time. We do spread our donations throughout Northam, York, Perth and Byford. Para Quad, Salvation Army Welfare Department in Northam and the RSL Op Shop in Byford have received excess clothing. As CWA is a supporter of Grandparents Bringing up Grandchildren several bags of childrens clothing has been donated to them. We have also given womens clothing to the Womens Refuge (in the hope that no-one needs them) which would mean that no domestice violence was occurring. Bunnings is involved with a group called Share the Dignity – helping women and children who find themselves in Domestic Violence Shelters or Refuges. They provide essential items such a Period Products, Shampoo and Conditioner, Toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and soap. CWA have sent several toiletry bags of the above to assist them in their endeavours.
SAVE THE DATE
On the 26th March 2026, the 2026 Senior West Australian of the Year and World leading Botonist Mr Kingsley Dixon AO will be giving a talk on Western Australian native flora. Kingsley Dixon is the Professor of Botany and Restoration at The University of Western Australia. With a passion for many plants, but orchids in particular, he discovered smoke germination of Australian plants which revolutionised native plant propagation, especially rare species such as the Corrigin Grevillea. Kingsley actively educates schools and communities across Western Australia with his
engaging ‘’Attenborough’’ style. He also works closely with Indigenous people n Broome and the Western Desert to establish native seed programmes. Kinsley has spearheaded Western Australia’s status as an international hub for mining environmental science, where he leads projects to lift mine rehabilitation standards and community conservation practices. Kingsley bridges research and action, advocating both scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship with a commitment to a nature positive world. As Foundation Director of Science at Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Kingsley shaped a small research unit into one of the world’s top five botanic garden-based science centres. He was the 2016 WA Scientist of the Year and was made an AO for services to education and science in 2023. His love of the Australian bush won him a Gold Medal in May (2025) at the Chelsea Flower Show.
This event will be held at the CRC beginning at 10.30 with a light luncheon provided by the CWA. As there will be limited seats available, a small charge of $10 to cover costs will secure you a seat. Watch this space in the New Year for when tickets will be available.
A quick quiz to fill in your hours over the Christmas Festive season. e.g. Grand Old Dukes Home = York (see if you can work out the following.)
1. Frozen Fish
2. Wishful community
3. Young lad in water
4. Big race day
5. Grandma out of bed yet
6. Twin tummies
7. Shining light
8. Elevated dough
9. Not keen to be seen
10. Princesses water
11. Changed boyfriends
12. Happy noise
13. Hurts when found
14. Fishy trees
15. Royal water
16. Silica pebble
Answers in next issue.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Christmas Stories From The Battlefield
The Christmas Truce of 1914 (WWI)
It’s that time of year again when we gather with family to exchange the gifts that keep giving. Christmas is finally here, and although so much of Christmas is about having a good time with family and friends, this isn’t always possible.
Many people don’t get to fully feel the spirit of Christmas with their families during war times, but we did have some moments in which the spirit of Christmas did rise on the battlefield and even in prison camps. It’s important to share how even during these dark and gritty times, Christmas was still able to shine through and provide a sense of hope and comfort to some soldiers.
The Christmas Truce
This war story truly emphasized the spirit of Christmas. It displays that even during a gritty war, there can still be a sense of peace and friendship. In December 1914, the first year of World War I, men from Allied and German sides called a truce to temporarily end the battle with hopes of celebrating Christmas together. The truce of began with German soldiers singing carols like "Silent Night" and patriotic songs and lanterns and small fir trees were put along the parapets of their trenches. Messages began to be shouted between the trenches. Opposing troops responded with their own carols, and calls were made across "no man's land" to cease fire. Soldiers from both sides ventured into no man's land to meet, shake hands, and exchange gifts like cigarettes, food, and souvenirs. They shared photos from home and helped one another bury their dead comrades and repaired trenches and dugouts. In some areas, impromptu football (soccer) matches were played, with helmets or bully-beef cans used for goalposts and balls. and repaired trenches and dugouts. The fact that their truce was so strong it resulted in no man’s land becoming a safe place to hang out is unfathomable After Boxing Day, meetings in no man's land dwindled out.
The truce was not observed everywhere along the Western Front. Elsewhere the fighting continued and casualties did occur on Christmas Day. Some officers were unhappy at the truce and worried that it would undermine fighting spirit.
After 1914, the High Commands on both sides tried to prevent any truces on a similar scale happening again. Despite this, there were some isolated incidents of soldiers holding brief truces later in the war, and not only at Christmas. In what was known as the 'Live and Let Live' system, in quiet sectors of the front line, brief pauses in the hostilities were sometimes tacitly agreed, allowing both sides to repair their trenches or gather their dead.
The importance of the story demonstrates how peace can still blossom even on the battlefield.
World War II (1944): - Battle of the Bulge
The Kriegie Christmas talks about the prisoners of war from the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. The POW (Prisoner-Of-War) camps were similar to concentration camps; they were incredibly unsanitary, overpopulated, and terrible to be in. Prisoners would spend Christmas alone in camps around Europe without being able to see their families. Some prisoners were fortunate enough to get a parcel sent to them by the American Red Cross if they were in a well-established camp.
The American Red Cross shipped and packed around 75,000 Christmas parcels. It would contain mixtures of food, tobacco, games, and Christmas decorations. Several camps would make alcohol by fermenting the raisins that were found within the parcels. During the Battle of the Bulge, a remarkable small-scale truce occurred in the Huertgen Forest. A German woman and her son, Fritz, took in three lost and wounded American soldiers on Christmas Eve. When two German soldiers later arrived, the woman insisted all men put down their
weapons in her home and share a Christmas meal of a roasted chicken and wine. The soldiers shared this brief moment of peace before parting ways, with the Germans providing the Americans with directions back to their lines.
Latter-day Prisoner
This story contains a depressing timeline, but it has a happy ending. It’s a story by Gerald N. Lund about how Second Lieutenant Wendell B. Terry and his fellow inmates at a Prisoner-OfWar camp were struggling to survive in the extreme winter weather. They would try to keep their hopes up and celebrate Christmas to at least stay warm. While Terry and his inmates were keeping warm, the American Red Cross sent parcels to his prison, which brought hope.
Although the parcels were limited, they made a raffle to get one. Terry won one of the parcels and his friends were excited. Once Terry got the parcel he had won he and his friends didn’t expect much due to the size of the parcel. Inside the parcel was one small can of powdered milk, a packet of sugar, two squares of unsweetened chocolate, and some other non-foodrelated items like a toothbrush, gloves, etc. It was devastating to him because he wanted to share the gift among his friends. Soon they realize they can make chocolate with what was in the parcel. Although it would be an incredibly small amount to share, they created the chocolate anyway and shared an amount with each person, equal to the size of the tip of a pointer finger.
Korean War (1952):
This is an archived short Korean war story about a man named Charlie Nelson who served in the Air Force during December of 1952. This comes from a town archive that has been digitalized and posted on The Pioneer, the town’s website.
Nelson arrives at a communication site in Korea and works on malfunctioning radio equipment. After some time, he meets some Korean orphan children who beg for food. He wondered why his team wasn’t doing anything, or being sheepish about it. After Nelson fixes the radio equipment he asks the NCO about the situation. He is told that his team is unable to provide food because they already gave them as much as they possibly could. It would take 3 days for rations to appear at the Army supply point. On the day of Christmas Eve, his team took the two bottle of CC (liquor) and traded them for a Jeep full of rations. Nelson and his team invited the kids over and offered them food to spend Christmas Eve together.
Wayne “Doc” Bates –“Just Making myself count”
A Vietnamese Christmas Story
This is a very interesting story about a US Army medic named Wayne “Doc” Bates. According to the story, Bates would set up a Christmas tree in his trench and take care of it by dusting it off. Despite how depressing war was, he would share his water and rations with his fellow soldiers and help raise the spirits of other soldiers who barely slept well and felt homesick. Bates was set as a true example of Christmas spirit giving.
This individual was a selfless combat medic who was tragically killed in Vietnam. He was a Specialist Four in the U.S. Army, attached to the 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, B Company. He died on August 17, 1967, in the Binh Dinh province of South Vietnam from hostile action (multiple fragmentation wounds). His story is remembered for his acts of compassion and bravery tending to the wounded on the front lines, and his name is on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund's "Wall of Faces”.
Warrior Wellbeing Article
Progression Planning (Succession) – Relationships First
Progression Planning is about retaining family relationships in the progression/succession process by looking at the people issues before dealing with the financial and business aspects. It is often the unspoken expectations of family members that can lead to the difficulties experienced. If farming families looked at the relationship aspects and the people issues, of their business as part of the progression plan there would be less stress and misunderstanding.
Why Progression? Mixed messages are received and given using the word succession. For most it means the king is dead who is the next king? Progression is not just a business transaction; it is primarily about relationships. One of the greatest risks to a farming family’s viability, in the long term, is relationship breakdown that we often don’t see coming. Progression shifts the focus to how we move the family-owned business into the next era or generation and how the older generation can successfully make the transition to the next phase of their lives. Progression encapsulates these options.
Effective communication allows for awareness, understanding and a basis to reach agreement on issues. Communication must be maintained to both reduce distress and for our positive wellbeing. In fact, many people don’t talk about progression until it’s too late and/or put it off because it is too difficult.
The following key topics in progression planning need to be canvassed in detail:
• Family communication, it all starts here.
• What is the farm business? Allows understanding of the business the family are involved in.
• Stakeholders, who’s involved? It is important to empower all parties to have a role in the progression planning process.
• What do stakeholders want? Questions to ask our spouse/partner and children about progression and/or retirement and business development.
• Transition period. You must establish an agreement that is suitable to your requirements. It’s not going to happen overnight.
We need to make Progression Planning discussions part of normal conversation in our business. Only the minority, amongst family-owned businesses, have any documentation around farm and/ or business succession. Families must lead the way and own the process, no one can do it for us. Some simple rules that influence good progression planning are:
• Sort the relationships first.
• Debate the issues openly and with those that matter.
• Start planning early, when your kids leave school, the plan should be in place and understood.
• When children come to work on the farm and/or in the business, be clear on where it is going (sell the business not the land or building).
• Seek outside help for more than financial and legal matters (involve more than just the farm consultant, accountant and/or lawyer).
• Have a handover strategy and stick to it.
Remember not all businesses will be able to have a successful progression/succession outcome, for a variety of reasons. Maintain those relationships first, to give it the best shot. A quote from Warren Buffett that fits in well with progression/succession matters… Don’t do what others say, just listen to them, and do what you feel good with.
Anglican Church (St Faith’s)
December with Christmas in the Parish of St Faith’s, Quairading
Glory to God in the Highest – The Birth of Jesus St Faith’s Church, Quairading
Sunday, 7th December 9.00 a.m. Advent 2 - Eucharist
Sunday, 14th December 9.00 a.m. Advent 3 – Morning Prayer 5.00 p.m.
Saturday, 20th
Thursday, 25th December 9.00 a.m.
Sunday, 28th December 10.30 a.m.
– Uniting Church
Our local priest, Philip Raymont will be on leave from Friday, 26th December, 2025 until Thursday, 2nd January, 2026
CHRISTMAS SERVICES:
Combined Churches’ Service of Carols and Readings, Sunday, 14th December, 5 p.m. – Uniting Church
Children’s Christmas Service, Saturday, 20th December – 5.30 p.m.
Christmas Day Service, Thursday, 25th December – 9.00 a.m.
Catholic Church (St Francis Xavier)
Heggerty Street
December 2025
Date Saturday 6th Sunday 14th Sunday 21st Sunday 28th Thursday 25th
Time 6pm No Mass 10am No Mass 10am
Reading + Psalm & General
Intercession J O’Hare C Gimbel
Father Matthew Hodgson
Phone: 9061 1094
Email: brucerockparish@gmail.com
Christmas Day 10am Mass in Quairading
Please contact Father at any time regarding Confession / Reconciliation.
Uniting
Church
Coraling Street
At Christmas we remember the message of the angels “Peace on Earth! Good will to everyone.” We hear carols like “Away in a manger” and “Silent night” and if we can stop and listen we can feel the soft and comfortable message of peace that these songs contain.
But as the day approaches tensions rise. This year, with the cost of living crisis, there will not be enough money to go round for many people. Perhaps Christmas lunch won’t be so lavish and the presents may be a bit smaller or perhaps they will find the money somewhere else by skipping meals or not paying bills – this is not good. Most years January is marked by people getting into financial difficulty and this year it will probably be worse than usual.
There is a proverb – Better a dish of vegetables where there is love than a beef roast with hatred (or quarrels). (Prov 15:17)
If you need to, please scale back your Christmas celebrations, a few less beers, a smaller roast and perhaps cheaper presents.
Amy Grant sings a song “I need a silent night” about how the rush breaks her and she needs to stop and remember the angels words: “Peace on Earth! Good will to everyone.” Even good people can lose the Christmas spirit when financial pressures and the rush of Christmas get to much.
Please remember that some will be doing it tough this year so be gentle to them and be gentle to yourselves. When tempers flare, stop and breathe. Return good for evil if you can. Demonstrate the “goodwill to everyone” that the angels sang about.
Sunday 7th December 10:30 am led by Mark Beadle
Sunday 14th No Morning Service - 5:00 pm Combined Carol Service at the Uniting Church
The Combined Carol Service will be followed by a bring and share supper.
Sunday 21st December 10:30 am led by Peter West
Thursday 25th December 9:00 am combined Christmas Day service at St Faith’s Anglican
Sunday 28th December 10:30 am Café Church led by Arthur West
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
Creativity?
Many of us when we hear the word creative or creativity associate this with the artists, crafts or inventive people of our world. But creativity can be found in any idea or possibility, where someone sees an opportunity, fostering that idea and doing something. Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others.
Creative sharing of our experiences in our own unique way is very helpful to ourselves and to those in a similar situation.
To experience challenges and hard times in life is to be human, we all experience hard times, we also experience good times. Our past stories in the present give us clarity, meaning an ability to know we can get through challenges. Sharing experiences where appropriate to do so encourages others to ask for help when they are at an impasse.
The future? you never know if your yet to have the best day of your life.
In my travels I always meet people proud to tell me how they are doing their bit, using their personal skills, experiences and knowledge, to help make others aware that asking for help should be a natural reaction. These people are being creative. Telling others about a health issue and what they did rather than didn’t do and are now OK. Some share how they are forever grateful describing that something that made them stop when on the brink of suicide or self-harm. Some have seen the change in another they know, stepped up and asked RUOK. Each of these people openly share their experience to make others aware, especially those in similar situations that you can get through. They make themselves vulnerable, thinking that they may be judged, only to find that the majority see only strength, really appreciating their message and encouragement.
I’ve seen the salt of the earth types, with the biggest hearts, nervously get up in front of people and tell how they got through a serious health scare or challenging time. How they feared being judged by others. They are passionate, using words from their heart, being who they are, sometimes not politically correct, but their message is very clear. Just do it, get that help. None are professional speakers or professional therapists; they are just legends telling their story their way to help and encourage others.
Others arrange events just because they can and invite Rural Aid or another service to do a quick wellness talk. It does not matter if 5 people turn up or 50 people turn up, the message like a stone thrown into a pond ripples out into your community. I need more than two hands to count the number of people who have reached out for assistance after hearing about Rural Aid at the event or from someone who attended the event. You are not alone so be a legend.
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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