GONE are the days when the Country Women’s Association (CWA) was all about baking scones in country kitchens and awarding prizes for the best fruit cakes and preserves.

The organisation goes back to 1922 when its aim was to improve the conditions of country women and children.

It took off like wildfire and by 1924 there were 120 branches with some 4500 members.

By 1937 it peaked at 345 branches with a membership of 17,000.

The local Tanilba Branch (now Tilligerry) was formed in 1979.

With changing gender roles, the CWA has also adapted to the modern era and they now act as a group giving social contact and organising activities and outings for its members.

Funds raised by their stalls are donated to worthy causes.

In the case of our local group, our three RFS brigades, Marine Rescue and the Westpac emergency helicopter service feature prominently.

They meet at the Uniting Church Hall on the first Thursday of each month and new members are most welcome.

Contact: 49825695 or visit their facebook page: ‘Tilligerry CWA’.

Their recent Mothers’ Day stall outside Coles Tanilba Bay was an outstanding success and, you guessed it, their home baked scones, cakes and pies were still the most popular items to attract attention.

By Geoff WALKER