In rural Australia, the Country Women’s Association (CWA) has always been a powerful force for change, quietly shaping communities for over a century. Founded in New South Wales in 1922, the CWA quickly expanded its influence across the nation, uniting women with shared interests and a passion for making a difference.
Originating from a small gathering of women, the CWA grew into a national movement by the mid-1930s, with associations and branches established in every corner of the country.
Its members advocated for reduced train fares, secured funding for essential infrastructure, and championed causes that improved the lives of rural families.
Today, the CWA remains a vibrant voice for philanthropy and community support, with branches spanning across Victoria.
Its members, numbering over 4,000, are committed to friendship, personal development, and advocacy.
The CWA of Victoria, formed in 1928, boasts nearly 250 branches in the state. In addition to regular meetings, members enjoy social gatherings, cooking workshops, and ‘crafternoons’. They actively participate in local communities, selling handmade goods and donating the proceeds to support various causes, generating an incredible $30 million per year to benefit those facing disadvantage or vulnerability. As stated in their mission, they aim to support women, children and families who are facing disadvantage or vulnerability, throughout metropolitan, regional, rural and remote areas in Victoria.
Lynne Jordan, Executive Director of CWA Victoria, highlights the importance of the organisation’s partnership with a prestigious club such as the VRC. “We have had a great relationship with the VRC for many years, beginning with the distribution of our iconic Anzac biscuits on Anzac Day. Thousands of biscuits have since been purchased by VRC members, and we have expanded our presence to include the Autumn Carnival.”
Coordinating the goods required from their head office in Toorak, Lynne and her small team rely on the generosity of volunteers.
“We work with the VRC to determine how many baked goods are required, as well as how to package them and point-of-sale details. Some are then cooked in our commercial kitchen, but around 90% are made at home by volunteers.
“Quality control is paramount, and volunteers will only use the CWA recipes, of course! But we love that the food then comes straight from the kitchens and the hearts of the CWA members.”
The dedication of these members knows no bounds, with contributions delivered from Colac to Seymour, at their own expense.
During the recent Flemington Racing Spectacular, the CWA set up shop in The Atrium, a position that Lynne says felt “special”.
“We’ve loved being down in The Elms in previous years because of the community feel, but being among the VRC members was a really warming experience. VRC members have fond memories of what the CWA has done in communities over the decades, so it is a mutually respectful relationship. And of course, it is hard for anyone to pass up a CWA yo-yo or slice of passionfruit sponge. Even the restaurant chefs were asking us to put some aside for them!” she laughed.
The CWA is also a lifeline for communities facing hardship and adversity.
In times of need CWA members rally together, working behind the scenes to provide support and relief. From making endless sandwiches and refreshments to organising events and donating to worthy causes, the CWA’s commitment to serving its communities knows no bounds.
Despite challenges, the CWA remains steadfast, evolving with the times while preserving its core values of community service, camaraderie, and compassion. Its legacy is woven into the fabric of Australian life, ensuring that its impact will be felt for generations to come.
