THE Gippsland Hills Country Women’s Association (CWA) Group is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year with an upcoming exhibition on April 5-6 in Meeniyan.
The annual event will showcase the continued generosity of the CWA members from their 10 branches that make up the CWA Gippsland Hills Group, inclusive of Bena, Inverloch, Kardella, Korumburra, Leongatha Twilight, Meeniyan, Mirboo, Mirboo North Night Owls, Poowong & District, and Woorayl.
Heather Scott, a former group president and current treasurer of Meeniyan said that the annual event would exhibit a range of crafts, cooking, and preserves, as well as art in a range of mediums, and this year there will be contributions from neighbouring branches, including Fish Creek and Yarram.
“We started in 1954, but we had to have a gap for COVID in 2020 so that's why the 70th is in 2025,” said Heather. “We're very proud of that tradition and the fact that all our branches participate to display all their beautiful work.”
The CWA has long been dedicated to supporting women and children, through various initiatives, such as the "Hope in a Suitcase" project, which provides comfort items for foster children. “These children were provided with a suitcase full of clean pyjamas, a cuddle toy and clean clothing; this initiative was a way of giving those children a bit of dignity and hope,” said Heather.
“Our support could also be aiding communities affected by natural disasters, or preparing meals and delivering them to a family that's in difficult circumstances,” Heather explained.
“It could also extend to providing scholarships for children in need at school.”
The CWA Gippsland Hills Group is always welcoming new members; together they are providing an opportunity to combat isolation and help those in surrounding communities share their talents and passions, and their upcoming 70th exhibition is a chance to celebrate the group's history and ongoing community efforts.