Crookwell CWA celebrates centenary

That's how deputy president and councillor Susan Reynolds described the Country Women's Association, and that's what they have been doing for 100 years.

One of the oldest branches in Australia, Crookwell CWA, held a luncheon to celebrate the occasion.

April 20 marked the CWA's official birthday with many other celebrations taking place around the country throughout the year.

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The 100-year luncheon was held at Crookwell Services Club and attended by local members, visiting CWA branch members, relatives of past members and presidents.

Deputy president and councillor Susan Reynolds said Crookwell CWA had contributed much to the community over the past 100 years, including the purchase of equipment for the Cottage Hospital, heating the operating theatre and raising funds for their first x-ray machine.

"More recently our Branch has contributed funds toward the purchase of patient beds at Crookwell and continues to support and encourage the Rural Nurses and Doctors programme during their training," Ms Reynolds said.

The branch deputy president reflected on the war years, and how members knit socks, scarves, fleecy wool vests and camouflage nets.

"Our members had 19 of their family members serving during the War, some never returned, and others were taken as prisoners," Ms Reynolds said.

"Diggers serving received gifts, biscuits and much-loved letters from home.

"Each Anzac Day, we provide morning tea and raise funds to Soldier On."

Catering remains one of the CWA's major fundraising activities and has allowed them to support bushfire, drought, flood and storm victims.

With members gathering to celebrate and reflect upon the CWA's achievements so far, it's clear despite its age members of the CWA have no intention of slowing down now.

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