Country Women’s Association
This plaque is located on the front wall of the Cobden Civic Hall, Victoria St.
Cobden’s Country Women’s Association branch was formed more than 80 years ago. Our aim is to improve conditions in the country especially as they affect health, welfare and education of women and children. We have supported community appeals throughout all those years – schools, our hospital, scouts, palliative care, our airstrip and our pool to name a few.
Statewide, we have raised money for floods, fires, street kids, care and pamper packs for both men and women after disasters or for palliative care. The Government gave CWA the task of distributing money raised by the public for disaster relief. We also provide a scholarship fund for disadvantaged children.
CWA began in Victoria in 1928. Cobden membership in 2023 sits at a healthy and active 15 with Doreen Sullivan a member for about 70 years, beginning with the younger-set days.
Our members are a talented group with skills in cooking and handcrafts, and have been successful in both local and state exhibitions. Delegates go to the state conference each year when over 800 women attend and many and varied resolutions are discussed and voted on.
CWA has a seat on many committees, both state and federal, ensuring that a voice on women’s issues is heard.
Looking back:
- Concerts at the Cooriemungle Prison Camp
- Beginning the Cobden Kindergarten group
- Baby showers: Profit-Three pounds, ten shillings
- Teaching children to knit at school friendship teas
- After recent bushfires, helping with catering at the Blaze Aid camp
Today:
• We cater for senior citizens, make trauma dolls, sew for palliative care, knit for premature babies, make pamper packs and give support for overseas relief • We always have lots of social time, and put on items for social days, have trips and speakers, and study a different overseas country each year
• We support a district project every year
• Membership is open to all, and our meetings are held at the Uniting Church meeting room at 1pm on the first Monday of each month
• Please come and join us for fun, fellowship and helping the community. Women working together with a wide range of interests – for great causes
