Within 24 hours of its establishment on April 20, 1922, Country Women’s Association (CWA) members began lobbying relevant government ministers for better services for women and children, and that has been their mission ever since.
One hundred years ago, when government help was not forthcoming, members got to work themselves setting up baby health centres, funding bush nurses, building and staffing maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest homes and holiday getaways for rural and remote families.
Inspirational foundation members
The CWA today continues this great work in communities across the country, the legacy of those inspirational foundation members.
Bangalow CWA President, Rebecca Dickson, says, ‘We’re so proud to be part of the largest women’s organisation in Australia’.
‘As a branch, we work hard to raise funds to support those organisations working with women and children living in vulnerable circumstances. We are a wonderful bunch of ladies from very diverse backgrounds. It’s just great to meet new friends.’
The Bangalow CWA provided great support with donations and funds to several local groups during, and after the floods.
And alongside fundraising activities, the CWA has taken on an active lobbying role, especially around homelessness, affordable housing and women’s safety.
Aug 13 celebration
‘Our branch played an important role in the banning of sexist advertising on camper vans’, said Rebecca.
The Bangalow CWA Branch invites members of the community to celebrate the Centenary with them at their rooms, 31 Byron St, Bangalow, any time between 10am and 2pm on Saturday August 13.
There will be scones!
To join the CWA and meet interesting, community-minded women, contact Barbara on 0415 166 754.
I like country women. I married one. I’m raising one.
Pity your name is sexist and possibly trans-exclusionary. Sorry to have to get you banned ladies but that’s what ‘banning of sexist advertising’ leads too.