For Kristie Courtenay, taking over Wubin Trading has been about much more than running a business. It has been about starting a new chapter, becoming part of a regional community and creating a welcoming space where people can connect.
Kristie took over Wubin Trading in March 2026 after recently relocating to the area. As a new business owner, she saw joining the RRR Network as an opportunity to connect with other women, learn from their experiences and become more involved in the wider Wheatbelt community.
Since taking over Wubin Trading, Kristie has been busy expanding what the business offers while keeping community at its heart.
New product lines have included artisan foods, barista coffee, homewares and a mix of new and preloved clothing. The shop’s sourdough breads and pastries are even attracting customers from neighbouring communities.
For Kristie, however, the most important part is creating somewhere people feel welcome.
“Connection is so important in rural and regional communities. Sometimes it can be as simple as providing a welcoming place where people can stop for a coffee, have a conversation and feel part of their community.”
That philosophy extends well beyond the shop doors. Wubin Trading is a major sponsor of local football and hockey teams, while Kristie regularly supports school fundraisers, quiz nights and community events through donations of hampers and gift vouchers. She also has plans to introduce regular Paint and Sip events, creating another opportunity for locals to get together and connect.
Kristie describes being part of the RRR Network as being about “connection, support and belonging” and hopes her own experiences can encourage other regional women to take a chance on something new.
Having started again in a new town and taken on a new business, she is particularly passionate about showing women that adversity or geography does not have to define what comes next.
By sharing her journey, Kristie hopes to encourage other women to believe in what is possible, while building friendships and professional connections with women who understand the opportunities and challenges of living and working in regional WA.
Through her RRR Network membership, Kristie is also keen to connect with other business owners, producers and women across the Wheatbelt and regional WA. She would love to see Wubin Trading used as a space for guest speakers, workshops, information sessions and small networking events, as well as explore opportunities to stock products from other regional businesses and producers.
“I think there is so much value in sharing our knowledge, products, experiences and networks rather than trying to do everything individually,” Kristie said.
It is an approach that reflects what regional communities do best: backing each other, sharing opportunities and finding new ways to work together.
We’re delighted to welcome Kristie and Wubin Trading as a Small Business Member of the RRR Network and look forward to seeing the connections and collaborations that grow from here.