Q&A with ambidextrous British comedy fan, science student and Cambooya parishioner, Katie Free
Spotlight Q&A
Meet Katie Free and find out about her faith, favourite scripture, plans and goals, best childhood memory and what she does in her free time
Where do you currently live and where do you worship?
I currently live in my childhood home at Felton and worship at All Saints’ Church at Cambooya.
How long have you been involved in the Anglican Church and in what roles?
I have been serving in church for three years.
How does your faith inspire you and shape your outlook, life choices and character?
I try to live my life in the faith of the Church, doing what I know is right. I also remember I will always be looked after by the God who created the universe.
What are your plans and goals for the next 12 months or so?
Now I’ve finished school, I’m planning on training to be a Liturgical Assistant in our parish and I am studying Science at university.
“Dad and me before my school formal in 2022” (Katie Free)
Can you tell us a little about your personal faith journey?
I used to think that church was so boring, that you had to be at least 50 to be a Christian, but then I started to listen. As I grew older, I realised that other people have a similar story to me.
What is your favourite scripture and why?
Luke 15.11-32, the story of the Prodigal Son, is special to me. It reminds me of the overwhelming love God has for me.
What person of faith inspires you the most and why?
The Rev’d Rick Gummow has not only encouraged me in my spiritual journey, but has been there for me if ever I have needed to talk to anyone.
What are some practical ways that we can celebrate the way differences help to make us whole and the importance of diversity in our unity?
Differences between people are how we stand out. By listening to other people’s interests and beliefs, we can embrace their differences and accept them.
What are the primary strengths of the Church and what is the best way to make the most of these for the benefit of our communities?
The Church has the power to show people the strength and goodness of God. By showing people the benefit of the Church, we will show them the power of God.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received and who gave you this advice?
My legal studies teacher, Ms Celeste White, once told me that the decisions I made as I transitioned out of school will not necessarily affect the rest of my life.
“Ms Celeste White and me at my school formal in 2022” (Katie Free)
What is the kindest gesture you have ever received or witnessed?
All of my teachers took time out of their days to help me at some point in my senior schooling.
What do you do in your free time to recharge and relax?
I love going for a long ride, especially at sunset when there are great views.
“I love going for a long ride, especially at sunset when there are great views” (Katie Free)
If you found yourself on a deserted island, what three things would you choose to have with you?
A box of fireworks, a dictaphone and a pair of hairdresser scissors, because you never know.
What day would you like to re-live and why?
My confirmation day. I created so many memories that day that I’ll probably have for the rest of my life.
Katie Free holding Bishop Cam’s crozier on her confirmation day at All Saints’, Cambooya on 1 May 2022
If you could have a billboard with any text on it, what would it say and why?
“If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re in a car, which means you might be driving – keep your eyes on the road!”
What is your earliest memory?
When I was three, the car ran out of battery at the coast and we had to wait for the RACQ van to come.
Seven-year-old Katie Free enjoying a holiday at Bribie Island
If you are having a bad day, what do you do to cheer yourself up?
British comedy always makes me feel better.
What is your secret skill?
I’m pretty good at writing with my left hand even though I’m right-handed.
What’s your best childhood memory?
In August 2022 we had a 16-hour HPV (human powered vehicle) race, which was probably the most challenging but enjoyable thing I’ve done in a long time.
“In August 2022 we had a 16-hour HPV (human powered vehicle) race, which was probably the most challenging but enjoyable thing I’ve done in a long time” (Katie Free)
