Quairading’s monthly publication since 1991. Proudly produced and printed by the Quairading CRC.
LOCAL SUPER STARS!
The Quairading Curtain Raisers have just wrapped their 202 production of “& Juliet” - and what a magnificent production it was! Read more and check out a few photos on page 27.
REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE
Tuesday 11th November, 11am
WE’RE HIRING
The Quairading CRC is on the hunt for an Accounts & Finance Officer!
MELBOURNE CUP ATTHE QUAIRADING
Great excuse for a day out!
CHRISTMAS POP UP SHOP
Friday 28th November at the Tennis Club
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.
Friday of the month 9:30am @ CRC
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
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
I write to you this month as one wildly exhausted and incredibly proud showgirl. If you have no idea why tut tut (go read page 27).
For real, being involved in a Curtain Raisers production is the most all consuming, challenging, but deeply rewarding activity one can do in our fabulous community. It’s a true labour of love, and one that surely does not exist anywhere else in the world. We commit endless hours, we trauma bond through the tough bits and we get to go out on stage night after night and sing our little hearts out cherry on top is when our audiences sing our praises right back.
Alright, back to day job! We expect our regular foot traffic through the doors of the CRC to drop off over the next couple of months as harvest and end of term activities engulf much of our community which means it’s a great time to test us with any jobs you’ve been putting off, or to book in for some Tech Help! Jazz is eagerly awaiting your queries at the reception desk!
We’re once again on the hunt for a new Accounts & Finance Officer as Jill Glass has finished up with us, accepting a full time role in a CRC closer to home for her. If you are or know someone with a knack for bookkeeping and governance, and fancies spending a day/ day and a half with us here at the CRC please pass on the details on page 13! We’re a pretty cruisy workplace, we work hard and morning tea hard and we pay award rates :)
As for down the street news, big congrats to The Quairading and Soluna on their recent business openings! I’m a proud repeat customer of both and so excited for what they bring to our main street and community not only as purveyors of great food and beverages but for even more places we can come together with friends, families, committees and community members. Perhaps they’ll both soon offer gift vouchers to help you kick off your local Christmas shopping!
8 weeks til Christmas!
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
THANKYOU
Sincere thanks to all who have expressed their support following my accident with the cattle at the Perth Royal Show. The support of our community is such a good reason to live in it. May I also give a massive congratulations to everyone involved in & Juliet. A massive commitment of talent and time, but it has brought together people who would not normally be associated with one another. Be proud of your achievements. Murray Williams.
QUILTERS/CRAFTERSMATERIAL SCRAPBAGS&REMNANTS
On sale now at the CWA Op Shop. Great value - all new materials. Large and small pieces to add to your stash or finish a project.
EVENTS HALLOWEEN
Friday the 31st of October. We are looking for Halloween friendly houses - this involves your house being put on the map, and you just need to have treats available for Trick or Treaters (we average anything from 80 onwards). This year we want Trick or Treating to be late afternoon/early evening, as it tends to be too warm straight after school. We also only want supervised Halloween friendly houses, so no leaving a bowl unattended. This ends up being unfair to kids who get there to find it has all been taken. The kids in town love Halloween, so please consider being Halloween friendly. You can pop into Post Office and leave your name and address for Peta or leave your name in comments on www.facebook com/ Halloweentown Please have your details to us by October 25th or you
will miss being put on map. Once again, Halloween is not American, it originates in Celtic areas such as Ireland, Scotland and England.
GARDENLOVERSOFQUAIRADING
Our next meeting is October 31st. We are having an excursion to the Lake House Lilly Fam in Beverley. We are meeting outside the CRC at 9am to carpool, we all go together. BYO lunch. Our meeting will be held in the cottage. If you have a fold chair, bring it but not essential, for all information phone Lyn on 0447 450 170 or Carmela on 0403 153 661.
COMBINEDGARAGESALE
Saturday 1st November 8am –12pm at 5 McLennan Street. Sandra Bracher and Ellen Watts.
QUAIRADINGNATIONALPARTY
is holding a meeting in the back bar of the new Quairading Pub on Wednesday November 5th. We will be showing a webinar on the Federal Governments compensation package for the phase out of the live sheep trade. Grant applications close on 1st December. Meeting start time is 7.00 pm with the webinar showing time at 7.30 pm. More information Peter West 0427 454204. P.S. There will be a cook on at the pub that night so come along, get a meal and join in the discussion.
GARAGESALE
73 McLennan St, 8th & 9th November, 8am to 2pm. Household goods , plants, garden equipment and more Contact Dee 0438 606 997 or Sandra 0429 370 540.
STORYTIME
Monday 10th November and 1st December. 10am at the CRC.
REMEMBRANCEDAY2025
The Quairading RSL Sub Branch will be holding a Remembrance Day Service at the Shire Memorial at 11am on Tuesday the 11th of November. As always, we will remember those that served in all conflicts. We encourage any Veterans living in Quairading to attend the service and a late morning tea, at the Golden Grain Bakery and Café. All welcome.
REMEMBRANCEDAYSCONES
Quairading Tidy Town & Museum invite locals into the Museum for a cuppa and scones on Remembrance Day.
QUAIRADINGGARAGESALETRAIL
Saturday 15th November, 2025. If you would like to have your own garage sale, start now, by decluttering and putting your items aside. On the 15th, if you are going to have a sale, paste a sign to your bin and wheel your bin out on the verge. Let’s have lots of garage sales around Quairading. Please send in address to Sue Anderson 0428 455 228
For more ideas check out, https:// www.garagesaletrail.com.au/
WEEKLYARTGROUP
Every Tuesday 10am 3pm at the CRC Art Space. Newbies very welcome to come along for a sticky beak. BYO art supplies, or you might be able to borrow from someone on the day.
COMEANDLISTEN
Ryder Bradey will be performing live at the Quairading CRC on Thursday, 21st November at 4pm. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy an afternoon of live music.
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.
SPORTS
JUNIORTENNIS
Will run for the first 4 weeks of term. Cost is $20 per child. Please see Quairading Tennis Club Facebook page for EFT details. Beginners 3:15 - 3:55
Intermediate 3:15 - 4:05 Advanced 3:15 - 4:05 Any queries please contact Bec Wilson on 0400 076 049.
JUNIORCRICKET
Please head to the Quairading Junior Cricket Club Facebook page for more details and the link for rego, or contact Renee Anderson on 0427 042 036.
JOBS BOARD
ACCOUNTS&FINANCEOFFICER ROLEATTHECRC
We are seeking an experienced Accounts & Finance Officer to join our team at the Quairading Community Resource Centre on a part-time basis, one day per week. In this critical role, you will be responsible for managing the organisation's financial records, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with all relevant accounting standards and regulations. The position is based in Quairading, WA 6383. We’re looking for someone with suitable experience in a similar role, strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and compliance requirements, proficient in using Xero accounting software, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with
different stakeholders, highly organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines. About us: The Quairading Community Resource Centre is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the local community. We provide a range of services and programs that contribute to the wellbeing and development of our residents. Our team is passionate about making a positive impact, and we are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture. If this sounds like the perfect opportunity for you, apply now and join our team! Apply by emailing a copy of your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you’re keen to join our team – to Jill Hayes, Coordinator, Quairading CRC: admin@quairadingcrc.com.au by Thursday 13th November 2025.
EXCITINGOPPORTUNITY–CERTIFICATEIIIINLOCAL GOVERNMENT
Join the Shire of Quairading and kickstart your career in Local Government! Are you looking to gain hands-on experience while earning a nationally recognised qualification? The Shire of Quairading is offering an exciting 15-month traineeship, including a 12-month Certificate III in Local Government, with the opportunity to specialise in Finance or Business. Application closes 4pm, 7 November 2025!
Please visit www.quairading.wa.gov.au for more information.
BUSINESS
MOHAULSERVICES
As of January, we have liquid services available call mosses for booking 0439 516 405
CHURCH
CATHOLICCHURCH
Saturday 1st November, 6pm. J O’Hare.
UNITINGCHURCH
Sunday 2nd November 10:30 am led by Mark Beadle - followed by the AGM
STFAITH’SANGLICANCHURCH
Sunday, 2nd November 9am Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving - Eucharist
STFAITH’SANGLICANCHURCH
A Service of Thanksgiving & Remembrance: At 9am. on Sunday, 2nd November, a Service of Thanksgiving & Remembrance will be conducted at St Faith’s Church, giving thanks for the lives of the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day) and those killed in war (Remembrance Day) as we look forward with anticipation and thankfulness for the fruits of the forthcoming harvest (Lammastide). During the service, the names of those who died in active service will be read aloud, as will the names of any people who have died otherwise and for whom we have been asked to pray.
FOR SALE
FURNITUREFORSALE
73 McLennan St. Please call Sandra on 0429 370 540 to arrange to view.
FORSALE
2016 Mazda CX 5 for sale - Driven 125, 000. Recently serviced, full service history, kept in excellent condition. Call Phoebe for more info 0476 034 852
FORSALE
Holden Colorado XTraCab tray back ute. V6 5spd. New heavy-duty clutch. $4500 ono. 0447 988 892.
FORSALE
Mistral multi-function pressure cooker for $30, a pop-up tent for $100, and a 500GB PS4 with two controllers, a charging base dock, and three games Spider-Man, Spider-Man Miles Morales, and Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End for $275, negotiable. For more information contact Connor on 0459 268 540.
Remembrance Day 2025
The Quairading RSL Sub Branch will be holding a Remembrance Day Service at the Shire Memorial at 11am on Tuesday the 11th of November.
As always, we will remember those that served in all conflicts.
We encourage any Veterans living in Quairading to attend the service and a late morning tea, at the Golden Grain Bakery and Café. All welcome.
Quairading Garage Sale Trail
Saturday 15th November 2025
If you would like to have your own garage sale, start now, by decluttering and putting your items aside. On the 15th, if you are going to have a sale, stick a sign to your bin and wheel your bin out on the verge.
Let’s have lots of garage sales around Quairading!
For more ideas check out, https://www.garagesaletrail.com.au/
22nd Colin Stacey, Lester Bennell, Alysha Marsh, Caleb Passmore
24th Damian Priest
25th Jessica Hayes, Geoff Pritchard
26th Kelly Wells, Nicole Squiers
27th Kristy Colbung, Emma Berry
28th Lauren Hayes
30th Joshua Cosgrove
Heart Support Australia
The first meeting in Quairading was held in the afternoon on Wednesday 15th October at the Quairading CRC. This meeting was the first of its kind in the Wheatbelt area. It was a small gathering of only four, but we all enjoyed talking about our unique heart health and support. We all learned a couple of new things from each other, and enjoyed our time together. A pamphlet regarding sleep and your heart health was given out, along with medication list card. Did you know good sleep is essential for your physical and mental wellbeing? It helps with healing and repair of tissues and cells, improves heart health, blood sugar levels, reduce risk of chronic disease and many more. Heart Support Australia’s next meeting will be held on Wednesday 12th November 2025 2.304.30pm at Quairading CRC. So if you have heart health problems, or you have a family member with heart health problems, you are most welcome to attend.
Damaged playground equipment
I recently got to play with some of my little friends in Quairading’s lovely playground. I was very sad to see that the equipment has been intentionally damaged. When I checked to see what it would cost to repair the damage, I found out this is the third time the infant seat has been abused. The cost is $420 each time. Plus now the tether to the pommel swing seat has also been damaged. As a community we waited a very long time to have this amazing park. Our community has eyes and ears. Let s start using them. Accidents do happen and thats ok. Any of us can allow for accidents, but malicious damage should not be tolerated. Report it.
Mary Stacey.
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 AIreceptionistHelen. When you call our practice, please choose option1tospeaktoHelen for standard face to face appointment booking with Dr Jack if you are an existing patient or option2tospeaktoourstaff 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 of our phone system after the change, the recent upgrade of our phone system as well as occasional internet connection issues. We are working hard to improve, please keep giving us feedback so we can serve you better!
HeartsupportAustralia has successfully launched their first peer support group meeting in October aiming to support you and your relatives on heart disease recovery journey. The next meeting is scheduled on 12th November 1430-1630pm in CRC, anyone with heart problems and relatives are welcome, afternoon tea provided. Please contact Ms Kelli Turton in our practice for attendance.
ChristmasClosureandLeaveNotice
Our practice will close during Christmas holiday from 24 December 1200 to 4th January and open on 5th January. Dr Jack and Dr Min will be away during the holiday period.
Dr Min will be away from the practice from 24th to 28th November.
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.
Afewfriendlyreminders:
• 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.
2026 LEAGUE COACH
We are beyond stoked to announce the appointment of country footy legend, Kane Benson as QFNC League Coach for 2026!
“After being around the club as a spectator for the last few years and helping out a bit late last year I can’t wait to take on this unbelievable opportunity. Quairading Football and Netball have such a great history and with my family involvement (through my In-Laws) over many years, I am really proud to be entrusted with this honour.
I’m looking forward to continuing on what Rhys, Tet and Kane have been building. We have some great young blokes that have been getting minutes under their belts over the past few years and I’m looking forward to seeing what they can bring as they mature”
St Faith’s Anglican Church
22 Harris Street
October 31, 2025
4:00pm—6:30pm
St Faith’s Anglican Church will be participating in Quairading’s Halloween event, All Hallows Eve. We will have treats, a cold drink and a rest stop available. The last two years we have had about EIGHTY children come through, each year. So we are expecting you!!!
Halloween is the celebration of All Hallows Eve. It is the evening before All Saints Day. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honour saints. In the tenth century All Souls Day was added on November 2. These days we generally commemorate all Christians on All Saint’s Day. The lighting of a memorial candle serves as a way to honour and pay tribute to the life of someone who has died. It symbolizes the continuation of the life of the deceased in spirit.
St Faith’s Anglican Church will be open and candles will be available for anyone, big or little, that would like to light a candle in memory of those people that you remember with love.
Quairading Seed Cleaners
• Great seed dressing
• Double
• Grading wheat, barley, oats, lupins, canola and
• All seconds
• Weekend appointments available.
& JULIET—a smashing success!
The incredible local Quairading Curtain Raisers have just finished another amazingly successful production. Over 46 people spent three months rehearsing, costuming, making backdrops, choreographing, promoting, selling tickets, and so much more, to put on four huge shows over two weekends in the Quairading Town Hall to 690 paying audience members.
The reviews have been a flood of positivity, here’s some of our favourites from Facebook:
“Was a truly fabulous night! My fave Curtain Raisers production and I’ve been to many. Congratulations to all involved. So much time and commitment by wonderful community volunteers” Marie Walker
“Still smiling after your show last night. Well done on definitely an ambitious project. You guys always deliver” Michelle Gethin
“We had soooo much fun! Thank you for the joy and congratulations to everyone involved for such a wonderful production” Lorna Hurst
Kudos to Director Jill Hayes, who shares the following votes of thanks:
• Huge thanks to Kelli Brown for taking on some of the choreography, directing some scenes, teaching us all what to sing and when and lots of extra help across the board.
• Thank you Megan & Scott, two of our most important first timers running the lights and sound - with zero training.
• Thank you Mary, Anita and Wendy the costumes they pull together are always spot on and so much time and detail have gone into so many this year. Extra thanks to Wendy (Carter) for the constant supply of sweet treats to get us through rehearsals.
• A huge thanks to Janine Anderson for stepping into the role of sets and props this year with a band of helpers, including Graeme who has also been our dedicated prompt.
• Lyall, Bill, LJ and Lawerence—for what they do in the shadows changing sets and helping tell everyone to shush backstage.
• Our band, Alex, Andrew, Greg, Jo & Ash - we absolutely take them for granted, it’s insane what they can do, on demand. And I don’t think I’ve ever heard them complain, to our faces. They can take the credit for probably 90% of our production value.
• Thank you to Arun for capturing our magic through our official cast photo and Aaron for filming our last two shows for us to watch back in the new year.
• Wendy, Trevor and committee for their support. The Shire of Quairading for allowing us pretty free rein of the hall. My CRC team for ticketing and printing, and dealing with me through the tired days following rehearsals and sleepness nights.
• Lastly, to our cast, who show insane dedication despite how busy so many of them are with their day jobs, families and lives. It’s been real fun and I’m genuinely devastated it’s all over.
Planning for the next production will begin in early 2027 with performances scheduled for October 2027. To get involved, follow “Curtain Raisers—Quairading” on Facebook.
COMMUNITY NOTICE:
If your organisation has a CBH Grower ID number, please check to make sure your number is ACTIVE.
St Faith’s Anglican Church found that the Grower number we have, became inactive. Vast thanks to those people who made us aware of this fact. If this coming harvest season blesses you with grain, you can donate through CBH, your gift would be most appreciated.
In 2015 the Quairading branch of CWA celebrated their 90th birthday and gifted to the town a water fountain with dog bowl attached. This fountain sits on the footpath opposite Foodworks and is used quite frequently by visitors and pet owners. This year, with a little pressure applied, the Quairading Shire has finally installed the plaque which was promised ten years ago. Thanks go to Sarah Caporn for her help in this matter. As we have just celebrated 100 years of CWA in Quairading we would like to commemorate our 100th by doing something within the community but we don’t exactly know what? If anyone in the community can come up with some useful ideas please let us know. You can contact our President Elaine Johnson on 0448 475 597or myself, Heather Wheeler on 0449 569 285. Beverley CWA have also celebrated their 100th year and four of our members attended their celebrations. Thank you to Joy for being Mrs Cole’s chauffeur. I think it was a day enjoyed by all who attended.
The CWA Op Shop is going really well at the moment. Remember we are open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday morning from 9am to 12pm. We have tables outside with a variety of plants and these have proved to be very popular. We do keep trying to provide a variety of plants and change them often as possible. We are always looking for small empty pots and cuttings, so if you have any please drop them into the Op Shop.
To all Quilters and Patchwork ladies, we have squares of different sizes and bundles of scraps (new material) that would come in very useful for some of your projects. All are reasonably priced.
Ladies, if you are looking for nightwear we have a rack full which we would like to move on. We have begun to put away the winter clothes and all summer stock are on the racks now. Most items are priced at $3 or under and multiple of the 1st November.
Any ladies in the community that can sew, knit or crochet and have time on their hands, we are always looking for dementia items which are in great demand by Nursing Homes. The number of patients in nursing homes has increased a lot in the past few years. The fiddle rugs are in great demand and if you do think about making one or two they need to be 76cm X 50cm, have at least seven sensory items to fiddle with, a variety of materials e.g. silk, cotton, fleece, fur, denim, lace and ribbon to make them interesting. You can also add buttons and beads or whatever your imagination can come up with. Little bags of netting or similar with small objects inside can be attached inside a pocket or securely attached to the material. Any fiddle rugs made can be dropped into the CWA Op Shop so that they can be forwarded to the appropriate nursing home.
TIME
Time cannot steal the treasures that we carry in our hearts. Nor ever dim the shing thoughts our cherished past imprarts. For the memories of the ones we loved still cast a gentle glow, To grace our days and light our paths, wherever we may go.
Quairading Junior Golf 2025
This season we were fortunate to have 24 keen young golfers at junior golf. Our golf program ran every Tuesday afternoon of Term 3.
Thank you to the Quairading Golf Club for making us welcome and allowing the juniors to use the golf course and facilities. The course looked spectacular! Also, for their strong support and assistance with mentoring our players and teaching skills, rules and good golf habits.
PGA Coach Mr Rob Farley travelled to Quairading to take the juniors for three sessions of coaching. Setting up good foundations and developing their swing is a great way to start their golfing careers. We thank Rob for his commitment to Quairading Junior Golf.
We were successful in securing funding through the Shire of Quairading Community Grants which allowed us to purchase two complete sets of clubs and bags, three new buggies and a top up supply of tees. Thank you, Shire of Quairading. We are proud to be able to supply equipment for out members to use.
Thank you to the parents and carers who come along every week to walk with the juniors. This is an important part of junior golf, and we could not run with out your support. It’s also a fun way to spend the afternoon walking in the sunshine (mostly!) and enjoying the beautiful golf course. And watching you children play golf, of course!
Quairading Junior Golf Championship Results
High School 6 Holes: Winner -Ruby Duncan, Runner Up- Mia Hall
Primary 6 Holes: Winner- Kody Anderson, Runner Up- Raph Wilson
6 Holes Short: Winner- Archie Johnston, Runner Up- Walt Green
3 Holes Short: Winner- Matilda Caporn, Runner Up- Brexton Bell
3 Holes Super Short: Winner- Gracie Hall, Runner Up- Indi Richards
QDHS News...
Term 4 has begun with wonderful energy and enthusiasm across our school community. Our students have returned ready to learn, and it is inspiring to see their engagement and curiosity as we move into this final term of the year. There is a genuine buzz in our classrooms and playgrounds that reminds us why we do what we do.
Our dedicated staff team has embraced the term with focus and commitment, working collaboratively to ensure every student receives the support and challenge they need to succeed. Behind the scenes, teachers are deeply engaged in assessment and reporting processes, tracking student progress, and celebrating growth. This term also sees us preparing for our Public School Review in Week 9—an important opportunity to reflect on our achievements and plan for our future. Alongside this, we are updating our business plan, operational plans, and policies to ensure we continue to provide the best educational experience for Quairading children and young people.
Despite the busy schedule, our staff remain committed to making learning joyful and meaningful. Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we work together to ensure every student finishes the year with confidence and achievement. There is much to celebrate, and we are excited to share this journey with you.
Term 4 in focus:
• Last Friday, we celebrated and honoured the remarkable career of our past Principal, Mrs Pauline Wray, as she moves into a well-deserved retirement.
• Mia Lula, Mia Hall and I attended the Quairading Tidy Towns and Tourist Committee meeting to discuss ways we can work together embracing our rich history and finding opportunities to keep Quairading beautiful and promote our town as a wonderful place to live and visit.
• A wonderful reunion of the class of 1975 was held on Saturday, 18 October.
• E-safety – social media changes are coming. From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms will not be allowed to let Australians under 16 create or keep an account.
• QDHS NAIDOC event 18 November.
• Building Our School Spirit Values review and refresh.
• In Term Swimming lessons.
• Student Council elections.
• Secondary activities including: Cunderdin Ag visit, Try and Trade days, Armed for Life incursion
Best wishes to the farming community for a safe and prosperous harvest.
I look forward to ongoing success throughout term 4 as together we strive to achieve our school vision of Learning Forever – Kaadadjiny Kalyakoorl.
Kym Benson Principal
Congratulations on your retirement, Mrs Pauline Wray!
On Friday 24th October, we hosted an assembly and afternoon tea to celebrate the retirement of Mrs Pauline Wray.
Her long standing contribution to both Quairading District High School and the Department of Education was acknowledged by Ms Sarah Bates (representative of DOE) who presented Mrs Wray with her retirement certificate and medal of service. We had a large crowd of former and current staff, students, families, School Council members, P&C members and colleagues present who enjoyed several presentations including a ‘This is your Career’ speech from Mrs Kylie Squiers and a song by the pre-primary to year 4 students. Following this, Mrs Wray, assisted by the current Student Councillors, planted an olive tree as a symbol of peace, resilience, hope and prosperity.
With great thanks to the Quairading DHS P&C for catering the delicious afternoon tea, your spreads are the stuff of legend!
Congratulations Mrs Wray, enjoy your retirement.
With the upcoming Social Media ban for persons under 16 years of age, there is some uncertainty around the way that this change will be implemented.
As a way to prepare for this change, we recommend all young people (including those over 16) download their data if they wish to have further access to it.
Warrior Wellbeing Article
Testosterone and Wellbeing
We’ve all heard of the hormone testosterone, but we might not know just how important it is that we look after our testosterone levels for our physical and mental health and wellbeing. Hormones themselves are the chemical messengers that the glands in our body send through our blood to our organs. They are necessary for growth, reproduction and wellbeing. The ones that are particularly important to men are the male sex hormones called androgens. Testosterone is the most important androgen and effects everything from our metabolism, our recovery time after physical exertion, our mood and of course our sex drive, performance and health. All things that we care about, that help define us as men and that we don’t want to compromise on.
As testosterone is such a vital part of living a full and healthy life, it’s important to keep a lookout for signs of testosterone issues, most commonly testosterone deficiency. It is normal for men to have their testosterone peak between 20 and 30 years of age; and from there fall gradually as we get older to one third of our maximum amount. In fact, by 45 years of age 4 out of every 10 men have symptoms of male hypogonadism (lowering testosterone). Despite it being common it is still important to keep an eye on it as testosterone deficiency can have severe consequences.
In our youth it can present as failure to go through normal puberty, including not having our voice break, not getting a normal growth spurt or even developing breasts. This is all to be avoided if possible! In adults there are a range of potential symptoms including weight gain, mood changes, reduced strength, difficulty getting erections and a lower sex drive. These symptoms and others can have a detrimental impact on our health and quality of life so being aware of testosterones’ role in our lives and the difficulties we can have with it is important to all men.
If we find ourselves experiencing these issues we should go to the doctor and have a simple blood test that will check our testosterone levels. If we are suffering from a severe deficiency it is likely we will be administered Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) in the form of injections, gels, lotions, creams, patches and tablets; some of which can come with negative side effects. Fortunately, there are ways to increase our testosterone short of pharmaceutical help. Primarily through lifestyle choices. That is getting enough sleep, avoiding alcohol and drugs, staying active; especially through weightlifting, minimising stress levels and getting all our vitamins and minerals through a balanced diet, will all have a significant impact on our testosterone levels and general health.
Like with most aspects of our health the same fundamentals affecting everything else also affect testosterone levels. Good health is a holistic process and if we do these things to take care of our testosterone we will enjoy the benefits of healthy testosterone levels throughout our lives. As always if there is any doubt it’s important to speak to your GP, especially when something as important as testosterone is involved.
Gardening in the Wheatbelt
Written by Carmela Kriszyk of Eaglewood Farm
We have been blessed with wonderfully cool weather thus far, so that in October there has only been one warm day of 30 degrees. Although we know that the worst is yet to come it is best to be philosophical and enjoy the moment. The roses have not looked this good for many months and the gardens generally are brimming with flowering plants and trees. So go out and smell the roses!
The November meeting of the QGLG is on Friday the 28th at the CRC and is a member only Christmas lunch. Members, please check that you have paid and so we can look forward to ending the year on an enjoyable note. However, keep in mind that after a break in December, our meetings start up again in January on the last Friday of each month at 9:30 at the CRC and we would love to see new members join our very active and vibrant group.
In an effort to continue to enjoy our gardens even when the brutal heat of summer hits us, this month’s article includes some ideas on how we can do that. There are many plants which beat the heat, however, to be flowering during summer as well as surviving is an even greater achievement. Of course, to keep flowering plants at their best during our long hot summers does require having healthy fertile soil and an efficient watering system. All the plants listed below need to be well established before summer or they will need extra and more frequent watering during the summer months.
Some perennial flowering plants that do well with some supplementary water in our conditions are: Daylillies, Red and Blue Salvia, Lavender, Pelargoniums, Roses, Statice, Giant Catmint, Sicilian Chamomile, Sedum Sieboldii, Cannary Island Sage, Santolina, Verbena Polaris, Agapanthus and Erigeron quakeress. Some annuals which will brighten the summer garden are Vincas, Petunias Marigolds, Zinnias and Laurentia (Isotoma axillaris) this is an Australian native with pretty mauve star shaped flowers.
Whilst the above list of flowering plants which beat the heat is not extensive nor is it complete, they are at the very least reliable. But for absolute certainty you can not go past petunias and vincas as annuals and Pelargoniums from the perennial group.
November in the Garden
It’s time to – from now on remember your hat and gloves when going out into the garden, it is a time for vigilance when we can be caught with an unexpected really hot day, so have the shade cloth ready to go when needed, start a regular watering regime so as not to let the soil dry out between waterings but also keep an eye out for spring showers which may extend the time between watering days, tip prune hedges to shape, lift the lawn mower blades a little, prune the roses that only flower once and have now finished the spring blooms, prune flowering fruit trees to shape and increase next year’s flowers, feed, dead head and mulch roses, prune lightly spring flowering native shrubs like Thryptomene, Boronia, Acasia and Old Man Saltbush, check all indoor plants, repot if needed and fertilise, do the same for orchids and bring them into the shade, watch out for aphids on roses but wait at least a week or so before spraying with and oil spray because this will give the Lady Birds and Hover Flies a chance to build up numbers.
Sow – if you can sow seedlings for summer veggies in the shade then do so in early November because after that it will be too hot to do so, also sow a row or two of carrots which will take you through to autumn.
Plant – summer veggies and herbs can be put in now as can summer flowering plants.
Harvest – at Eaglewood Farm we are still harvesting mandarins, oranges, lemonades, lemons, limes, we have just had a lovely feed of red mulberries and should have the first of the loquats in a week or two. In the veggie garden we had the first of the broad beans, the last of the snow peas, we are still picking peas, asparagus, artichokes, carrots, parsnips, beetroot, fennel, kale, spinach, silver beet, lettuce, celery, rhubarb, spring onions and leeks.
The last word – It was not that long ago (1946) that there weren’t any supermarkets. If you’re wondering where all the food came from before that. It was from backyards and local farms. People growing and making their own, sharing and trading and buying from local artisans like bakers and butchers and candle stick makers
Anglican Church (St Faith’s)
Harris Street
November in the Parish of St Faith’s, Quairading
Remembrance Day
St Faith’s Church, Quairading
Sunday, 2nd November
Sunday, 9th November
Saturday, 15th November
Sunday, 23rd November
Sunday, 30th November
Sunday, 23rd November
9.00 a.m.
9.00 a.m.
5.30 p.m.
9.00 a.m.
10.00 a.m.
Service of Remembrance & Thanksgiving - Eucharist
Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost – Morning Prayer
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost – Eucharist
Christ the King – Morning Prayer
Advent Sunday - Eucharist
St Andrew’s Church, Greenhills
5.00 p.m.
Feast of St Andrew with Christ the King - Eucharist
On Leave: Philip Raymont will be on leave from Monday, 10th to Friday, 14th November.
Services of Thanksgiving & Remembrance: On the first two Sundays of November services of Thanksgiving & Remembrance will be conducted, giving thanks for the lives of the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day) and those killed in war (Remembrance Day) as we look forward with anticipation and thankfulness for the fruits of the forthcoming harvest (Lammastide).
St Hilda’s Day: will be celebrated at 6.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 18th November at St Mark’s Church, Brookton and at 6.00 p.m. on Thursday, 20th November at Holy Trinity Church, York.
All Saints’ Day – On Sunday, 16th November at 5.00 p.m. All Saints’ Day will be celebrated at St Paul’s Church, Edward’s Crossing. Following the service attendees will adjourn to a local hotel for a meal.
Christ the King: This celebration represents the last Sunday of the Christian Calendar.
St Andrew’s Day – The Patronal Festival of St Andrew’s Church, Greenhills, will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on Sunday, 23rd November. Following the service, attendees will adjourn to the White Gum Farm for a meal.
Fifth Sunday: All local parishes along with Northam will combine for worship at the regular Fifth Sunday of the Month service; this time at St Faith’s Church, Quairading with a “bring and share” meal to follow.
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
November 2025
Date Saturday 1st Sunday 9th Sunday 16th Sunday 23rd
Time 6pm No mass 10am No mass
Reading + Psalm & General Intercession
Father Matthew Hodgson
Phone: 9061 1094
Email: brucerockparish@gmail.com
Please contact Father at any time regarding Confession / Reconciliation.
Uniting Church
Coraling Street
A few people have asked me to explain the Bible to them. They want it to be simple and short so I have put together this outline. What you you think? Have I missed anything?
God made us to be His friends but We rebelled breaking God’s good creation. So God made a rescue plan. To start with, He gave us rules to live by but no-one could obey God’s law so God came to the earth as Jesus to show us how to be his friends. Jesus died on the cross to satisfy the justice of the law and rose from the dead proving that he is God and showing us that death is not the end for us either. God sent his Holy Spirit to live within us. People who love Jesus are his family and we are to love everyone but especially other Christians. Jesus will return as king, the dead will be raised to life and Jesus will judge the Earth. God’s friends will enjoy Heaven forever.
November is a busy month on the Christian calendar. It starts with All Saints Day when we remember all those who have worked to establish and continue the church over many year. A friend of mine lights a candle to remember friends and family who have died. It is a sad but joyful event. Sad because we miss them but joyful because we have a sure hope that we will see them again.
Sunday the 23rd is the feast of Christ the King. We don’t usually do anything to mark this Sunday but it is the last Sunday of the church’s year and the next Sunday (the 30th) is the beginning of Advent – the season of Christmas! This might take you by surprise if you haven’t already seen Christmas things for sale in Foodworks.
As the 30th is the 5th Sunday of the month we will be having a combined service in Cunderdin. The service starts at 9:00 am but there will be 15 minutes of singing before the service gets going so don’t worry if you are running a little late. I am told that Cunderdin are looking forward to hosting us. There will be no service at Quairading Uniting Church that Sunday.
Uniting Church services for September:
Sunday 2nd November 10:30 am led by Mark Beadle - followed by the AGM
Sunday 9th November 10:30 am Café Church led by Arthur West
Sunday 16th November 10:30 am led by Peter West
Sunday 23rd November 10:30 am Video Church led by Arthur West.
Sunday 30th November 9:00 am Combined service with 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
Sympathy versus Empathy
We hear a lot about how it’s better to use empathy rather than sympathy. Especially when we are supporting another who is struggling or experiencing hard times. But what is the difference between sympathy and empathy?
Empathy is to have the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. Sympathy is feeling sorrow or pity for another person or to agree or respond in support of a point of view. To me sympathy is a personal feeling that does not need to be shared with the person you are supporting. Empathy is an ability to connect with a similar feeling to the other and is shared with the person you are supporting.
Sympathy fuels disconnection. How? With sympathy we may say’ hey don’t worry you will get over this’ - not helpful. Sympathy when verbalised may create an uneven power dynamic and can lead to the other withdrawing. Further isolating themselves and not speaking out because to them your comment means you don’t understand or have no idea.’ Don’t worry you’ll get over this’, or worse ‘It’s time to move on now eh’.
Empathy = Connection. With Empathy we walk in the other’s shoes, we recognise the perspective of the other person. Using Empathy is a choice. I’ve stopped paused and will ensure I support rather than give a judgement. Empathy may make us vulnerable, because when we connect to the other it can bring up a similar feeling from our own past. With empathy it is OK and more powerful to admit when we don’t know how to help. ‘I don’t know what to say right now I’m just glad you have told me’.
Empathy - I’m here with you, I’m here to support you and walk beside you. Empathy can just be sitting with the other and just being there for them, listening without the need to comment unless asked.
Sympathy is a response which rarely makes something better, but it does have its place. Sympathy to me should be viewed as a personal thought, something which pops into our mind, is real, but does not have to be verbalised.
Sympathy as with all emotions the resulting feelings are important. Even the so-called negative emotions are there to prepare us. Be curious pause, step back and analyse why you have this feeling. Your brain is trying to help you. It is never a good idea to say, “I know how you feel”, because you don’t. (sympathy) But you may think this and be aware of the similarities which enables you to be empathic.
Thoughts generated from strong feelings can become our reality. It is very important to listen to your feelings both mentally and physically. That gut feeling that something is not OK. As the expert on yourself listen to yourself and be that good strong example to others, that it’s OK to not be OK, break your silence and seek help.
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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