THE Nelson Bay Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) will host a Christmas Market on November 25.

Offering a range of items from scones and tea to plants grown by CWA members, the market will raise money for different local charities, one of which is Hope Cottage, where the money raised will provide food and other groceries.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

“At the end of each year we also use our funds to provide books for the local schools and help further students’ education,” said Dorothy Kelso, Publicity Officer for the Nelson Bay CWA day branch.

The CWA was formed in 1922 at a time when country women were fighting isolation and a lack of health facilities.

Founder Ruth Fairfax introduced CWA in New South Wales with the goal to improve conditions for country women and children.

Within the first year, the Association was a unified, resourceful group that was going from strength to strength.

The members worked tirelessly to set up baby health care centres, fund bush nurses, build and staff maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest homes, seaside and mountain holiday cottages – and much more.

“We focus on providing a space for women to meet up each first Monday morning of every month for tea, coffee, cake and a good chat,” Dorothy said of the local branch’s activities.

In the Monday catch ups and annual meetings, guest speakers teach skills and share experiences with members.
“Last year we had a guest who taught us all about Latvia, then another guest taught us how to sow, knit, crochet and other forms of arts and crafts,” said Dorothy.

“Anyone is welcome to join our monthly meet ups.

“Try it for a few weeks and see how you like it,” said Dorothy.

There are two CWA branches in Nelson Bay.

The Nelson Bay Branch meets and arranges activities in the daylight hours.

The formal meeting is the first Monday of the month at 9:30am at the CWA Hall, and meets every other Monday at the same time for a social meet up plus other activities.

Nelson Bay Evening Branch meets and arranges most of their activities in the evening or weekends.

Their formal monthly meeting is every second Wednesday evening at 7pm, social events and other activities are as planned.

The Christmas Market will be held on November 25 from 8:30am to 12:30pm at the CWA Hall, corner Gowrie Ave and Achilles St, Nelson Bay.

By Pat JENSEN