THE Yarrahapinni Branch of the Country Women’s Association NSW (CWA) last Thursday celebrated 100 years of the organisation improving conditions for women on the land.

The Country Women’s Association of NSW was formed in 1922, with 22 branches.

Over the last 100 years that number has grown to 370 branches and 8,323 members across NSW and the ACT.

The Mid North Coast has 20 CWA Branches, and within the Kempsey and Nambucca LGAs sit six operating branches with long and varied histories.

Yarrahapinni CWA were also launching their recent name change at last Thursday’s celebration.

The Eungai/Stuarts Point branch has been operating since 1956, and does not own their own rooms, yet comprises members from many smaller villages and towns along the coast and around the mountain.

The Eungai/Stuarts Point branch name has been changed to Yarrahapinni branch to be more inclusive of those smaller regional areas.

“The decision to change the branch name to Yarrahapinni was to be more inclusive of all our members, as the Yarrahapinni Mountain looks over our whole region,” said Margaret Breust, President.

Margaret Breust opened the morning tea with an address about the history and vision of CWA NSW.

Over the last 100 years CWA has run baby health centres, supported nurses in their towns, and fundraised for a variety of causes.

Branches have provided networks of support, and improved conditions and welfare for women and families of regional areas.

Fundraising continues today as well as lobbying for better healthcare transport, agricultural and environmental concerns.

Margaret said, “CWA is about supporting each other, and advocating on concerns that affect regional and rural areas.

“We encourage development and increased viability of rural communities, providing a voice at all levels of State and Federal government.

“CWA is more than just tea and scones.”

CWA may not just be about tea and scones, but it’s not all work either, and members can take part in cooking, handicrafts, art and creative writing competitions, as well as teaching skills to each other.

Patron Pam Rogers is 85 years old and has been a life member since 1980.

Over the years Pam has held the positions of President, Secretary and Treasurer.

“I enjoy the companionship, and giving back to the community,” she said.

Pam is famous for her mushroom biscuits and has been a Tea Room volunteer at the Royal Easter Show.

New member Yvonne Chegwidden said, “I joined to become more involved with our community, I enjoy getting to know people.”

Diana Oakes, a member for the last four-to-five years said, “Originally I joined for my Mum who had been a State Vice President, but once I retired it was more about meeting new women in the community.”

CWA Yarrahapinni meetings are held every second Thursday of the month at 9:30 am for a cup of tea and a chat.

Meetings rotate around Stuarts Point, Scotts Head and Eungai.

For more information contact 02 65693145.

 

By Karen GRIBBIN