Big win at CWA State Conference

CWA of Woy Woy Secretary, Pam Clifton, with her winning cake

One member from the CWA of Woy Woy has made the Peninsula proud after winning first place for her cherry blush cake at the CWA of NSW State Conference on May 4.

CWA members from across the state gathered for the annual conference from May 3 to 6 in Bega NSW, where 400 members discussed and debated essential motions including education, health, environment, and transport.

CWA of Woy Woy President Jane Bowtell said along with the serious subjects and topics of debate, the women took part in some more light-hearted activities.

“Amidst spirited debate around a diverse range of topics including voluntary euthanasia, medical cannabis, bank closures, climate change, organ donation, aged care, suicide prevention, and unemployment—we also managed to find some time to sample some cake,” Bowtell said.

“Well done to our very own secretary, Pam, for winning first place for her cherry blush cake—to say we are proud is an understatement.

“Congratulations also to our (CWA) Northumberland Group sisters from other branches who also placed this year and the rest of the wonderful entrants from around NSW who took home ribbons!”

CWA of NSW President Stephanie Stanhope said after the forced postponement of last year’s annual conference, this year’s anticipation was at an all-time high, with many important topics addressed.

“The range of motions, across many different areas, reflects the diversity of our membership and the issues of concern to their communities,” Stanhope said.

“We take the advocacy role very seriously, and once motions are formally endorsed by the membership, they will become part of our lobbying platform for the next 12 months.”

With more than 400 branches and almost 8,000 members, the CWA is the largest women’s organisation in Australia.

Next year will celebrate the centenary of its formation in 1922, focusing on improving the welfare and living conditions of women and families in rural and regional NSW.

Hayley McMahon