It’s not every day you turn 70.
An afternoon of high tea and arts and crafts were in order recently when the Werribee branch of the Country Women’s Association celebrated seven decades in operation.
The club hosted lunch for 80 people at the Wyndham Park Community Centre, reflecting on 70 years of milestones and handing out awards to its longest serving members.
The Werribee branch came to fruition when men returned after the war and the women of Werribee found themselves no longer working in farms or factories but were still itching for something to do.
Today, the Werribee branch has about 30 members on its books, with its youngest member five years old, and its oldest 105-year-old Edna Fisher, who was a founding member. Also among its membership is Daphne Womersley, who was recently awarded Wyndham council’s citizen of the year.
Among some of this year’s achievements, the club has donated nearly 400 beanies, scarves, pamper bags and gloves to the homelessness program at Werribee’s Christ the Redeemer Church, donated 54 chemo bottle bags to Western Private Oncology, and supplied nearly 100 blankets, mats, dog coats and cat cradles to the Lost Dogs Home.
For president Nancy Brennan, the CWA has become a family affair. Her mother-in-law was her reason for joining and now, her daughter and two granddaughters are also members.
Mrs Brennan said she loved the social aspect of the club and giving back to the community.
Pam Willox, who made a birthday cake for the event, also celebrated a personal milestone on the day, notching up 40 years of service.
Mrs Willox, who has been president twice, joined the CWA as a way to meet her neighbours. Now, her granddaughter is also a junior member.
Pat Lane, who has been a member for 18 years, added: “I’ve made a lot of friends …anyone who comes along to join the CWA is nice and kind and willing to do anything to help anybody.”
