Country Women's Association

Part of the largest female lobby group in Australia, the Country Women’s Association of New South Wales, including ACT, is well represented with 430 branches and over 11,000 members.

Newly elected Country Women’s Association President, Mrs Elaine Armstrong, is asking NSW and ACT residents to take some time to gain a better understanding of what these groups of women achieve and the contribution they make to the state.

Throughout NSW and the ACT, Branches meet monthly to take on any number of initiatives – be it fundraising for medical research, lobbying for better services for families or helping out in times of emergency, as well as handicraft and cookery skills.

“After many years of just getting on with the jobs, we thought it high time to reflect on some of our achievements. We are encouraging women to join a CWA branch so that the great work can continue,” she said.

Starting from humble beginnings in 1922, the CWA of NSW now boasts some 430 branches throughout the state and over 11,000 members who are looking and listening for ways to improve the opportunities for women and their families in local communities. An official CWA Awareness Day is planned for the second Wednesday in September each year.

“On Wednesday, 8th September 2010, there are a number of initiatives planned across the state to celebrate the achievements of dedicated members of the local CWA branches as part of our state-wide activities,” said Mrs Armstrong.

The CWA not only provides an opportunity for women to share experiences and skills in cooking and handicrafts but also brings people together in friendship to solve problems that affect women and their families.

“In its 88 year history, some very significant changes have been made to government policies, roads, education, health and family living standards that can be attributed to the work of CWA members” said Mrs Armstrong.

CWA of NSW and ACT members have contributed to the following debates and outcomes:- 

            *Compulsory seat belts in cars

            *Breast prosthesis inclusion in the Medicare Rebate Scheme

*The use of school zone flashing lights

*Compulsory reflective triangle signs for trucks

*Speed indicator signs to be painted on roads

*Introduction of scholarship scheme to train dentists for country areas

*Veterinary Science Training at a country university

In an excerpt from Serving The Country, a CWA of NSW history book, author Helen Townsend writes, “sixty years ago, if a community needed a hospital, the CWA would roll up its sleeves and get one built. Now if a community needs a hospital, organisations such as the CWA must roll up their sleeves and go and ask the Government to build one. “

“And this is what we are doing today. The Association is evolving to work in new environments, but still under the same banner of improving conditions and life for women, children and families,” said Mrs Armstrong.

NSW and ACT will be encouraged to celebrate with local CWA branches on the second Wednesday of September. Information about local activities will be advised. For details about branch meeting times and places, please go to www.cwaofnsw.org.au or call (02) 9358 2923 for local contact details for this area.