Joanna Beard
Local Country Women’s Association of Victoria branches are on the lookout for new members, but first, they want to set the story straight about who they are and what they do.
Established in 1928, the CWA of Vic Inc. was formed to support and connect rural women and children experiencing isolation and disadvantage.
Since those early days, the association has become known for their advocacy, fundraising, and of course, their much-loved baking stalls.
But what does it mean to be a member of the CWA in today’s world?
Victorian CWA state vice-president and founder of the Kyneton Twilighters, Peg Higginbottom, said it was about “caring, empowering and contributing”.
“The CWA of Vic Inc. has always been vision inspired and purpose driven,” Ms Higginbottom said.
“We are a very strong women’s advocacy organisation and we care about our community, we care about women, children and families.”
Ms Higginbottom said the association was about “much more than just scones,” though they were a good way to draw people in.
“People think we’re all about scones, and well, scones are a great conversation starter,” she said.
“We want to help to empower women and we want to make a contribution to our communities.
“For example, the three pillars we’re looking at this year are homelessness, food security and youth engagement.”
There are 13 CWA of Vic Inc. branches in the Macedon Ranges area, with some meeting during the day and others meeting at night to suit different schedules.
Sharon McNamara-Youl, president and treasurer of the Kyneton Twilighters, doesn’t want misconceptions about the association to prevent new members from joining.
“The important thing is you don’t have to be good at anything in particular to be a member. People think they need to be bakers or craftspeople to join, but that’s not true at all,” she said.
“All you need to be a member of the CWA of Vic Inc. is to be a woman, or identify as a woman and be a nice person. That’s it.”
Ms McNamara-Youl said a commitment to a local branch involved attending the monthly meetings, raising funds for the community and exchanging skills with other members.
“The friendship and the connection to a group, and therefore to the broader community, is definitely the main reason we find our members join us,” she said.
“If you’re driven by social justice, there’s a role for you. If you like making cakes, there’s also a role for you.”
As for the association’s future, Ms McNamara-Youl said young people are encouraged to join.
“We’re not all 70 years old with white hair and making scones, there’s definitely younger generations involved too.”
“Yes, I think the future is bright.”
You can visit cwaofvic.org.au to find out more about joining a local branch.
