the country woman

Volume 61 No 03 June 2020

Keeping Connected—Staying at Home

The

CounTry Woman

For all Women of NSW and the ACT

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2 June 2020 The Country Woman

Cover: Crochet shopping bag by Dinah Jopson; Banana, Orange and Date Health Loaf by Susan Shearwood; Rainbow Ripple Baby Blanket by Carol Mcintyre; Broken Hill members meeting via Zoom; Narrandera Evening members meeting via Zoom.

State OfficeLevel 2, 244 Coward StMascot NSW 2020PO Box 222Mascot NSW 1460Ph: 02 8337 0200Fax: 02 8338 [email protected]

Honorary Editor Sue-Ellen HoganPO Box 1070Tamworth NSW [email protected]

Communications and advertisingLeah GaskellPh: 02 8337 [email protected]

Association PatronHer Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales

Journal PatronMrs Libby Fairfax

State PresidentStephanie StanhopePh: 0429 161 [email protected]

State Honorary SecretaryTo be announced

State Honorary TreasurerAnne Kotz Ph: 0428 511 [email protected]

State International OfficerLyn BraicoPh: 02 9487 [email protected]

State Agricultural & Environmental OfficerTanya JollyPh: 02 6975 [email protected]

State Social Issues OfficerBronwyn DunstonPh: 02 6576 4070 [email protected]

State Vice PresidentAnn AdamsPh: 0428 387 [email protected]

State Vice PresidentJudy HoughtonPh: 02 6342 [email protected] Executive OfficerDanica LeysCultural Committee SecretaryYvonne Davis31 Tripoli WayAlbion Park NSW 2527Ph: 02 4256 [email protected] Catering Committee SecretaryMargaret BreustPh: 0424 685 [email protected] Committee SecretaryPam WrightPh: 02 6767 [email protected]

Hospital Support Committee SecretarySusan HutchisonPh: 02 6554 [email protected]

Agricultural & Environmental Committee SecretaryRobin GodwinPh: 02 6888 [email protected]

“The Land” Cookery Committee SecretaryTo be announced

Social Issues Committee SecretaryElizabeth O’DwyerPh: 0421 452 [email protected]

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MottoHonour to God

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Through Country WomenFor Country WomenBy Country Women

Country Women’s Association of NSW Contacts

► The Country Woman is the official publication of the Country Women’s Association of New South Wales.

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The Country Woman June 2020 3

Contents

There’s not much to thank the Coronavirus for; however, my cupboards have been cleaned, shutters wiped, windows cleaned, clothes sorted from those that fit and those that don’t, gardening tasks undertaken, a walk each morning before the sun is up and to top all that up—I haven’t filled the car with petrol since January!

I miss having lunch or coffee with friends, hugs and kisses from family including grandchildren, the weekly art class and monthly meetings with local members. However, I’m grateful for healthy

family members, kind neighbours, online grocery shopping, home delivery of medications and library books.

This is my last editorial for the Journal and I am happy to say we have a new editor taking my place. I do hope Sue-Ellen Hogan will enjoy the journey as editor as much as I have over the past four years.

It has been my pleasure to work with all the State Office staff including Luisa Deacon, Jackie Camiller and especially Leah Gaskell Communications Coordinator. These ladies are always helpful,

friendly and efficient.

It has been a pleasure to interact with the Journal Patron, Libby Fairfax and over the past four years she has written the guest editorial for the December issue very willingly. Her words of wisdom have been much appreciated.

Finally, thank you to all the contributors who have supplied interesting and inspirational material for our journal. Lastly but not least, thank you to the readers of “The Country Woman”.

Noelene Grainger, Hon Editor

From the Editor

State President’s Letter 4CEO’s Report 5Staying at Home 6Virtual Branch Q & A 8Advocacy update 105 steps for making your mental health a priority 10Committee Reports 12Winning Short Story 17Competition and Raffle Winners 18Cultural Competition Results 18Judges reports 20The Land Cookery New Recipes 21Food for these Interesting times 23Financial update 24State Treasurer’s Report 25Sudoku 26Telstra Update 27Garry Prize Winning Essay 28Welcome New Members 29Story of the Month 30From our Branches 30From our Groups 33ACWW SPA President letter 33 28

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Greetings from isolation! I hope, in this troubling time, that you are all staying safe and healthy, and that this journal will find you all at home COVID-19 free. I know that it has been a trying time for us all and I encourage all of you to remember the principles of self-care and the importance of the connections that we promoted through our “Sconversation” project whilst we all battle with the negative mental health impacts of social isolation in our own ways. I know that maintaining connections has been difficult while in isolation but I hope you all have been utilising contact-free methods of remaining in contact with each other. I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the Mental Health hotline: 1800 011 511 has people on call 24 hours a day and is available should any of you feel the need to talk to someone. Also, if you are worried about yourself or someone you know and think that they will require emergency mental health intervention please call 000. With all the media attention on COVID-19 we, at CWA of NSW, are still pursuing governments for assistance for those impacted by drought and bushfires.

A positive to come out of this situation is that we, as an organisation, have progressed more into the technological age than we have ever before! It has been encouraging to see how you have all embraced these necessary changes and persevered through the difficulties of learning a new skill on such short notice. I have also had difficulties with utilising these technologies and as such I would like to offer my immense thanks to those who have worked patiently with myself and others as

we try to navigate the wonderful world of Zoom meetings.

We have also been in high demand with regards to media outlets looking for interviews and guest appearances on local and national radio stations and on national TV stations. You may have seen Danica represent us on The Drum; she was amazing, and I would like to offer her many congratulations on representing us all so well.

One of the many aspects of Conference that needs to be addressed is the acknowledgement of those office bearers and representatives who have finished their term of office. Any organisation needs the input of all members, and for those members to work together. Be that washing dishes after a function, cooking, organising functions or advocating to business and government. The list is endless.

State President’s LetterThere are those members who give their time to direct the path of CWA of NSW. I would like to thank Ann Adams, State Secretary; Annie Kiefer, State Vice President; and Annette Turner, Immediate Past State President, for the support and encouragement that they have given me, and all that they have given to our organisation. And to the Executive Committee Members, Virginia Stuart, Helana Donaldson, Sally Torr, Tina Billing, Wendy Morris and Christine O’Rourke. Thank you for the time and effort you have given to your groups and to the organisation.

Take care everyone and thank you once again for the support that I have received over the past months. It has made the process of recovery so much easier.

StephanieOnline Branch MeetingsWhile physical meetings had to be cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, many branches are been able to meet online via Zoom.

Narrandera Evening BranchBroken Hill Branch

Jindabyne Evening Branch East Maitland Branch

Gloucester Evening BranchSouthern Highlands Evening Branch

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CEO’s Report

Usually I would be providing this report to you straight after the conclusion of the Annual Conference. I certainly missed the opportunity to meet with you all at this yearly event and see all the work and preparations that we collectively put into the event come to life. The Hunter River Group had gone to great lengths to ensure that the Newcastle Conference was going to be fabulous and I know we all share in their disappointment at this current time.

That said, like many organisations in the current climate, we look to find other ways of doing things. As I write, Conference Delegates have received their voting papers and they are making their way back into the office for collation and counting and we are, as much as we are able, endeavouring to keep the organisation’s agenda and important decisions on track as a result. I know we all look forward to the opportunity to again see each other face-to-face in Bega next year.

In good news, the cladding upgrade and foyer/level 5 improvement project at Mascot is nearly finished and by the time you receive this journal it should be 100% complete. I look forward to welcoming committees and members back into CWA House soon and you can see for yourself the great work that has been done here.

Almost all staff have been working offsite and that has been going quite well with all of our usual functions able to be maintained. We transitioned quickly to this

arrangement and I’d like to thank the operational team for their resilience and flexibility in how we approach our work. We’ve taken the opportunity also, at this time, to execute a couple of projects that we have been exploring for a while. The biggest of these is a new database (also referred to as a CRM customer relationship management system). The new database will also come with a new website and increased services and functionality for you, the member. We will also look to upgrade our accounting software and move to a cloud-based solution that has some efficiencies embedded within it.

The organisation has taken a financial hit, mainly through a combination of decreased rental income in Mascot, the lack of the Easter Show proceeds and the loss in sponsorship from the Conference. We’ve applied for JobKeeper as a result, which if deemed eligible, will be a very welcome assistance measure at this time. That said, I’d like to assure members that overall, we are a very financially stable organisation with significant assets, minimal liabilities and a structure that will enable us to get back to normal very quickly after this time of uncertainty passes.

Webinars on various topics such as public relations, finance and a guest chat from GIVIT have been a great success and we will continue to run these on various topics of interest. Previously aired webinars are recorded and available for any member to view at a time that suits them. They are available on the Downloads section of the website.

A reminder that Procedures Manual updates will be out in July. This years updates will contain information about the member scholarship, a crowdfunding policy and the updated merchandising policy. All updated material will be uploaded to the Downloads section of the website.

Going forward, we will still have

many issues to work on coming out of our postal voting process. We look forward to keeping you informed of progress against these policies throughout the year.

Kind regards,

Danica Leys,Chief Executive Officer

State Office Bearers 2020-2021

State PresidentStephanie Stanhope

State Honorary TreasurerAnne Kotz

State Honorary SecretaryMargaret Breust

State Agricultural & Environmental OfficerTanya Jolly

State International OfficerLyn Braico

State Social Issues OfficerBronwyn Dunston

State Vice PresidentAnn Adams OAM

State Vice PresidentJudy Houghton

State Hon EditorSue-Ellen HoganPO Box 1070Tamworth NSW 2340

[email protected]

2021 Conference—BegaThe 2021 Conference will held from 3–7 May 2021 in the Bega Showground with registration and church service on Sunday, 2nd May 2021. More information will be available in the December journal.

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These are some of the things members have made while staying at home.

Why not try one of these yourself?

Apple TartPhoto by Jocelyn Parker. Recipe from 365 CWA Favourites.

Serves 8

Ingredients

60 g caster sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling 115 g butter, softened 1 egg 250 g (1 ⅔ cups) self-raising flour 2 large granny smith apples, peeled and finely chopped.

Method

Preheat oven to 180°C. Lightly grease a 23 cm tart tin.

Using an electric beater, beat 60 g of the sugar with butter in a bowl until light and creamy. Add egg and beat well. Add the flour and stir to form a soft dough. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Divide the dough in two pieces, with one piece slightly larger than the other. Using your hands, press the larger piece over the base and side of the tart tin. Scatter apples and remaining sugar over pastry.

Press the remaining pastry out on a lightly floured surface into a round, large enough to cover the tart. Place pastry round over the apples and press edges together to seal.

Sprinkle top with extra sugar.

Bake for 40 minutes, or until pastry is golden and cooked through and filling is bubbling.

Dinah’s crochet shopping bag

By Dinah Jopson

Base: Using a 4 or 4.5mm hook (old number 9) and cotton crochet thread (single thread or double) make 82 chain loosely, then 1 double crochet (DC) in each chain to the end then 2 DC in turning chain.Repeat on other side.

Work 12 rows of DC. Remembering 2 DC at each corner. The base of the bag can be made wider if desired.

Body of Bag: Row 13, 4 chain into 1st DC then 1 treble. 1 chain into 2nd DC from hook. Continue across the row, 2 treble no chain into corners. Continue in this manner for 40 rows or length desired.

Next 6 rows of DC then 1 row of slip stitch to finish off.

Make 2 handles—6 DC for 23 inches or desired length (remembering that they will be a little stretchy) Slip stitch along the edges to neaten.

Staying at HomeBanana, Orange and Date Health Loaf (1981)Photo by Susan Shearwood. Recipe from Jam Drops & Marble Cake.

Ingredients

90 g butter, softened 2 teaspoons finely grated orange zest 110 g (1 cup) raw sugar 2 eggs 240 g (1 cup) mashed ripe banana 120 g (¾ cup) chopped dates 300 g (2 cups) wholemeal self-raising flour 125ml (½ cup) orange juice

Method

1. Preheat oven to moderate (180°C, 160°C fan forced). Grease a 9 x 19 cm loaf tin and line the base and sides with baking paper.

2. Cream butter, orange zest and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy, beat in eggs one at a time, add banana, beat until combined.

3. Transfer mixture to a large bowl, stir in dates. In a separate bowl, sift the flour (returning the husks to the flour). Add half the flour to the mixture, then half the orange juice, then stir in the remaining flour and orange juice; stir until smooth.

4. Spread into the prepared tin. Bake for about 1 hour. Stand 10 minutes before turning out to cool.

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CWA Face WasherBy Merrie Hunt

Cast on 40 stitches and Knit rows 1 to 5Row 6 and every even row until row 50—Knit 5, Purl 30, Knit 5Row 7—KnitRow 9—K21, P3, K3, P3, K10Row 11—K21, P3, K3, P3, K10Row 13—K21, P3, K3, P3, K10Row 15—K21, P9, K10Row 17—K21, P9, K10Row 19—K21, P3, K3, P3, K10Row 21—K21, P3, K3, P3, K10Row 23—K9, P3, K3, P3, K3, P9, K10Row 25—K9, P3, K3, P3, K3, P9, K10Row 27—K9, P4, K1, P4, Knit to endRow 29—K9, P9, Knit to endRow 31—K9, P9, K5, P9, K8Row 33—K9, P4, K1, P4, K5, P9, K8Row 35—K9, P3, K3, P3, K11, P3, K8Row 37—K9, P3, K3, P3, K11, P3, K8Row 39—K9, P3, K3, P3, K11, P3, K8Row 41—K29, P3, K8Row 43—K29, P3, K8Row 45—K23, P9, K8Row 47—K23, P9, K8Row 49—KnitKnit rows 51 to 55Cast off Row 56.

Date LoafPhoto by Tracey Phillips. Recipe from 365 CWA Favourites.

Ingredients

450 g (3 cups) plain flour 1 tablespoon butter 2 teaspoons baking powder 165g (¾ cup) caster sugar 120g (¾ cup) pitted dates, chopped 1 egg 250ml (1 cup) milk

Method

Preheat over to 170°C. Grease and flour a 24cm x 13 cm x 6 cm loaf tin.

Place flour in a bowl then, using your fingertips, rub in the butter. Stir in the baking powder and sugar. Add the dates, eggs and milk, and stir to mix well. Spoon the batter into the tin, smoothing the top even.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes our clean.

Cool the loaf in the tin, then turn out onto a covered rack to cool completely

Rainbow Ripple Baby Blanket.

Photos by Carol McIntyre.

Unfortunately, the pattern cannot be printed here due to copyright restrictions; however, it is available for free at www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rainbow-ripple-baby-blanket

Banana CakePhoto by Susan Shearwood. Recipe from CWA Cook Book.

Cream 2 tablespoons butter and 220g (1 cup) sugar in a bowl. Add 1 beaten egg and then add 3 whole mashed very ripe bananas, one at a time, beating well. Mix in 225g (1½ cups) plain flour, 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Add 2 tablespoons milk. Spoon into greased cake tin and bake in a 180°C oven for 35-45 minutes.

Make an icing by melting 2 teaspoons butter and stirring in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of strong coffee and ½ teaspoon vanilla essence. Add enough icing sugar to make a smooth, even spread. Decorate with walnuts.

Note: Always remember to preheat your oven and if using fan-forced, set at 160°C. For the coffee in the icing, Susan used used 1 teaspoon instant coffee in 2 tablespoons water.

Lacy Shawl

Photo by Robyn Chapman.

Unfortunately, the pattern cannot be printed here due to copyright restrictions; however, it is available for free at /www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lacy-shawl-34

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Virtual Branch Q & AMembers of the CWA of NSW Virtual Branch have shared answers to common questions they get asked.Do you conduct your meetings in the same way physical branches do?Our meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month via Zoom, an online meeting site, for which we pay a monthly subscription. Our meetings follow the same format as a physical branch’s meeting with office bearers, agendas and minutes like any other branch. After the official part of our meetings concludes we can stay online to chat and enjoy a cuppa together—we just can’t share food!How do you know who is at the meeting?During the Zoom meeting all who are attending the meeting can be seen in individual boxes on each member’s screen. When a member speaks a yellow border surrounds her box on the screen, so we all know who is speaking at that time.What difficulties do members face living so far apart? Because we are not all in the same room new members may sometimes feel isolated from the group but our members strive to welcome everyone and make them feel part of the group. We have instigated a mentoring program, where new members are offered an experienced member as a mentor for a few weeks to help them settle in and feel comfortable joining in.Other difficulties we encounter are fundraising, attending group events (very few of us live within easy travelling distance of our group) and attending celebration events.Are you able to get to know one another socially? We have overcome the physical distance between members through introducing monthly social meetings which is a less formal get-together than our general meetings. Social meetings often have a guest speaker or theme to be discussed.

We have i n t r o d u c e d Virtual Cuppas—an informal chat session held several times a month with no theme or agenda. Virtual Cuppas are the Virtual Branch’s version of dropping in for morning or afternoon tea and a chat. One member hosts the chat and all members are invited to join in.Members have also participated in a Virtual Walk where members who like to walk for exercise were able to chat with each other using their mobile phones and Zoom while walking.Members also arrange to volunteer and work together on the same day at the Sydney Royal Easter Show CWA Tea Room.How are you able to fundraise when you all live so far apart? So far our fundraising activities have been held individually. Two of our members have held bake stalls to raise money for the Disaster Relief Fund and for our branch. These ladies, cooked, packed and worked on their stalls by themselves. Last year members held individual fundraisers in June, such as afternoon teas, wine and cheese nights or donated money to raise funds. We also participate in CWA raffles, and purchasing and selling CWA merchandise.How do you participate in cooking, handicraft and International Days? Members who wish to participate in competitions enter items in their local physical CWA branch competitions. We held a “Learn to Knit” night via Zoom at one of our Social Meetings last year which proved to be great fun and full of laughs!Celebration Days are observed at our Social Meetings and via our Facebook and Instagram pages

where we share photos and run challenges such as photography, cooking tips and recipes, craft tips and patterns and quizzes.Do you ever meet up in person? There are limited opportunities for us to meet in person but we have members who have met each other at State Conference and at The Sydney Royal Easter Show CWA Tea Room.Which branch/group are you affiliated with? The Virtual Branch is a CWA branch in its own right. It is a member of the Mid North Coast Group. Members of the Mid North Coast Group under the direction of the State Executive Committee convened the initial meet and greet of prospective members until the branch was officially formed in December 2018.How do you participate in the wider community? To date members of our branch have held cake stalls, sent drought care packages to other branches in NSW, provided morning tea to the branches in the Barwon Group, knitted or sewn beanies and gloves for the homeless and sewn joey pouches for animals affected by the recent bushfires.Why did your members choose to join the Virtual Branch instead of a physical branch near where they live?Our members chose to join the Virtual Branch for several reasons, including flexibility of attending from home, work or while travelling, balancing meetings with other commitments and socialisation outside of existing friendship groups.

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Much of our advocacy focus is currently on COVID-19, and ensuring regional communities are supported and issues are raised at the highest level of the NSW Government. In May we met (virtually) with the Deputy Premier and the Minister for Regional NSW, Industry and Trade. The focus of the meeting was the brand new Department of Regional NSW, and we also took the opportunity to discuss issues of importance to our members, such as bushfire recovery, water and drought, regional health, and inland rail. The Deputy Premier has offered an “open door” policy for the CWA of NSW, and we are developing a close relationship with the new Department of Regional NSW which we are hopeful will further elevate our advocacy concerns and positioning.Thank you to the members who have sent in feedback relating to the issues around seeking COVID-19 related support or services, including perhaps in conjunction with seeking bushfire recovery and drought support. The main issues regional people and businesses are facing in seeking COVID-19 support are to do with proving a drop in income during a very specific time period, where drought and other natural disasters has already impacted income. We have relayed all of the concerns to the NSW

Government. Thank you to all delegates who have sent their postal voting package back to state office, we are hopeful to commence advocacy on those policy motions which are clearly passed. We will be required to ratify any vote at the next AGM of the Association. Thank you to all members who sent in feedback on the CWA of NSW submission to the NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry, and to the Social Issues and Agricultural & Environmental Committees who put forward members’ concerns. The Submission was lodged in April and the inquiry is ongoing, holding virtual community meetings to hear from impacted people and businesses. We are a member of a number of government reference groups which have specifically been set up in response to COVID-19 and/or drought and bushfires including the NSW Department of Primary Industries, the National Broadband Network, Agriculture and Wellness Support Providers, the National Farmers Federation, and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. These groups although broad in nature are an excellent opportunity to directly provide input to policy makers. Please stay in touch with the Association so

Advocacy updatethat we can ensure our members’ concerns are heard. We are currently seeking information as to the new arrangements for the Senate Inquiry into the Management of the Inland Rail project, given the restriction on community meetings. We have put forward our position to the Chair of the Inquiry Committee, being that we support virtual hearings given the pressing nature of this Inquiry. We have also written to a number of NSW Ministers with responsibility for NSW Planning approvals because many sections of the route will now need state government approval. Many of our questions about route selection remain unanswered. If any members have any specific concerns please be in touch with the Policy Manager. The status of the Independent Planning Commission approach to assessing the Narrabri Gas Project has not yet been announced, and we have placed our position on the record—being that we support a pause of the inquiry, until face-to-face consultation is permitted. The CWA of NSW is a member of the NSW Government and SafeWork Quad Bike Safety Group. Keep an eye out for our campaign on “keeping kids off quads”, which is currently rolling out across social media and regional print media.

Many of us hope that each year we’ll be feeling healthier and happier than the year before. We make

fitness goals and promises to eat better, plan to work smarter and spend more time with family or friends. Now is a good time to think about making your mental health a priority.

Follow these steps to invest in your mental wellbeing.

1. Understand what mental health actually isIf you’re still a bit unsure about

5 steps for making your mental health a prioritywhat “mental health” means, make this the year you find out.

Just like physical health, everyone “has” mental health, not just people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness or condition.

Your mental health is your psychological and emotional wellbeing. The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her

Your mental health is your psychological and emotional wellbeing.

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own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

Being mentally well doesn’t mean you don’t experience “negative” emotions or reactions, like sadness, anger, grief or frustration. Similarly, being mentally unwell doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t experience emotions like happiness or excitement, go to work or school, or have relationships.

Having mental wellbeing means being able to experience all the ups and downs of life and cope with them in a psychologically and emotionally healthy way.

Mental health and mental illness

Some people experience mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety or schizophrenia, which impact on their mental health. Mental illness is very common: 20% of Australians will experience a mental health condition each year.

We often only hear about mental health in the media in stories about mental illness. But mental health isn’t only about mental illness; it’s about your overall wellbeing.

Learning to be aware of your mental health may help you identify what helps you feel mentally well, times when you are not well, and when you might need to seek further help.

2. Cultivate mental wellnessJust like you eat your veggies and exercise to keep your body well, there are things you can do to promote mental health (handily, they also include eating well and exercising!).

Look after your body and mind

Exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep can all play a role in your mental health as well as your physical health. Cutting down on smoking, alcohol and drug use can also help improve your mental wellbeing.

Build meaningful relationships

Feeling connected to other people can play an important part in feeling and staying mentally well. Everyone will have different ways that they find meaningful connections with people. You might do this by developing relationships with family and friends, connecting with co-workers or classmates, joining a team or club where you spend time with likeminded people, or volunteering for a charity or community organisation.

Find your purpose

Feeling like you have purpose can help you feel motivated and build your self-esteem. You might find purpose by working at a job where you get to use your strengths and talents, by looking after a person or a pet, or by engaging in hobbies that are meaningful to you. What gives you purpose is very personal, and might change throughout your life.

Give your mind a workout

Mindfulness or meditation techniques can help you learn to quiet your mind and stay present in the moment. Practising these might help you learn how to deal with stress and help you relax.

Tools like the Your Mental Wellbeing building blocks (https://mentalwellbeing.initiatives.qld.gov.au/buildingblocks) can help you to map out the different aspects of life that impact on your health, and what you can do in each area to look after your health and happiness.

You can find more resources about looking after your mental health on the Head to Health website (www.headtohealth.gov.au). This Australian Government website focuses on four broad aspects of life that can impact your mental wellbeing: physical health, connectedness, purposeful activity, and feeling safe, stable and secure.

3. Find ways to decrease stressStress can impact anyone and can affect your mental and physical wellbeing. While a little bit of stress

can be a good thing, helping you to focus and perform well under pressure, ongoing stress is not healthy for your body or mind.

Some strategies for decreasing stress are knowing what triggers your stress, practising relaxation techniques, setting achievable goals, making time for activities you enjoy, and using tools like to-do lists to help you set priorities.

4. Take time outSometimes you just need to take a break and allow yourself to rest and relax. You might find it helpful to schedule some “you” time each day or week, or take the occasional day off to help you relax and reset. Put the to-do list away, switch your phone to silent and do something that makes you feel good, whether that’s going for a run, practising meditation or watching your favourite TV show.

5. Get help when neededIt’s important to know that there are professionals and resources to help you if you’re not feeling mentally well.

Signs it’s time to seek professional help include:

▪ you’ve been feeling sad, down, angry, depressed, numb or generally “not yourself” all the time, for two weeks or more

▪ the way you’re feeling is affecting your ability to cope at work, school or in your relationships.

You can start by talking to your GP, a trusted friend or family member who is a good listener, or by calling a helpline like beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline: 13 11 14. If it’s an emergency and you think your life or someone else’s life is in danger, always call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.

Remember that only a trained health professional can diagnose you with a mental illness and offer treatment services

© The State of Queensland (Queensland Health) 1996-2020. Printed with permission.

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Social Issues ReportThe Social Issues Committee began the year running, then the year turned upside down with the drought and bushfires. We battled and survived these and then came the Coronavirus. This changed the world overnight and brought the world to a screeching halt. Zoom meetings, webinars, teleconferences became the normal. Not having family drop-in or catch up with friends, having to stay at home and isolate, etc, was very hard to do but we did, and we have survived but I think our outlook on life has changed—time will tell.We were scheduled to host a workshop at State Conference in Newcastle as well as our display. The State Conference was cancelled due to the Coronavirus. Hopefully we will be able to use our topic—Domestic Violence, next year for our workshop. We continue to have input in policies and make recommendations on motions passed at State Conferences.We received a wide range of issues from members for discussion:

▪ Safety of coloured corn starch used for fun runs, etc

▪ juvenile justice

▪ paramedics ▪ school hats ▪ mixed gender wards ▪ Awareness of AEDs and signage ▪ Birth registrations ▪ Homelessness ▪ Royal Far West Invisible Children Report, to name a few.

We are still following with great interest in:

▪ Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

▪ Review of the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 (this was released early in September and the Committee is reading it currently. At a glance, it looks good and in line with some of CWA of NSW recommendations that were used in our submission)

▪ Offensive language on vehicles ▪ Review of Fair Trading Amendment (Cash Loan Machines) Bill 2019

▪ Review of Government response to Final Report of the Inquiry into the Support for New Parents and Babies in New South Wales

▪ Special Commission of Inquiry into Drug “Ice” submission

▪ Cannabis Medicines Prescribing Guidance submission.

Our first meeting in July 2019, we set

our priorities for the coming year. The introduction of the Palliative Care Nurse Grant, over three years, was successful with three applicants. I would like to thank Mary and Melanie for the wealth of knowledge you have given this Committee over the past twelve months, we are sad to see you go but wish you all the best. I would also like to thank Stephanie, Danica, Jackie, Adair and all the staff at State Office for all your assistance over the past 12 months. The Committee held their AGM on Tuesday 5 May via Zoom. Our State President, Stephanie, oversaw the election of our Committee Secretary.I would like to welcome the Committee for 2020/2021: Secretary: Elizabeth O’Dwyer. Committee members: Leonie Fish, Karen Pavey, Maggie Kyle, Narelle Sargent, Tina Billing and Annie Kiefer.Our next meeting will be on Friday 3rd July via Zoom. Please keep the Committee informed if there is any issue in your area.Stay safe,Bronwyn Dunston,State Social Issues Officer

Hospital Support ReportThe Hospital Support Committee held their AGM by teleconference on Monday 4th May. The election of office bearers was chaired by State Executive member, Susan Vassie. The office bearers for 2020-2021 are Chairperson: Elisabeth Hodgson, Secretary: Susan Hutchison, Treasurer: Kerrie Tomlins.While a lot of hospitals are currently in lockdown, Committee members have still been able to make some deliveries to hospitals where requested. Kerrie Tomlins has delivered toiletry packs to Westmead Hospital and Mount Druitt Hospital while Maureen DeBrincat delivered toiletry packs to Royal North Shore Hospital. Some of these toiletry

packs are for the use of Health Care Workers to enable them to shower after treating COVID-19 patients. The Committee is also working with the GIVIT team to assist families in need. Contact is made through the relevant social worker and we have been able to mail premmie babywear for mothers in crisis and also toys, books, games and puzzles to Westmead Children’s Hospital for the social worker to use with special needs children. A lot of very sick children are isolated at the moment and are unable to have visitors, and need the books and toys to entertain them during this time. Kerrie Tomlins was able to receive permission to deliver a large box of toys, books and teddies direct to the social worker at

Westmead Children’s Hospital. The social worker said she was “over the moon” to receive these items.The Committee continue to sponsor a Family Room at Ronald McDonald House at the John Hunter Hospital. Unfortunately, with the cancellation of Conference our fundraising efforts have been reduced and we will struggle to continue this very worthwhile project. We were only able to sell a small amount of raffle tickets and the winners are listed in this journal. The Committee thanks the members for their continued support as we endeavour to assist families in crisis.Elisabeth Hodgson,Chairperson

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Thank you to everyone for your amazing entries in the 2019 International Competitions for Papua New Guinea. The Books, Postcards and PowerPoints have been judged and will be on display at the International Seminar in Dubbo. The Dolls, Bilums and International Needlecraft will be judged on Friday, 7 August, 2020 between 5.00 pm and 7.00 pm at Dubbo and then also displayed at the event. All prizes will be awarded during the Seminar on Saturday, 8 August, 2020.The 2020 Registration Coupon is in this Journal and on the CWA of NSW website. Please note that as I write this article, the Government is relaxing the COVID-19 restrictions, yet we are still unsure of what guidelines will be in place in August. Having said this, the International Committee still propose to host the Seminar in Dubbo 8th August, 2020; however, there may be number limitations on our event. We are steaming ahead in the hope that we can offer an opportunity to have a break from our isolation, a chance to catch up with friends and hear interesting speakers on Ecuador. We hope to have permission to gather at least 100 attendees and still ensure the safety of our members. As always, we will be guided by the government and should we have to further postpone the Seminar, we will make the call mid-July. Dubbo RSL has more than enough space to responsibly distance all attendees and are really hopeful to have visitors to their town in the wake of COVID-19.

All registrations will be logged in, in order of Coupon receipt and payment, and a waitlist will be created. Should anyone cancel, then the next on the waitlist will be registered for the Seminar. With restricted numbers in mind, we will have an innovative process to ensure state-wide equity of attendees for all Groups. i.e. One space will be reserved for each Group International Officer (or their representative, with confirmation of this appointment from their Group International Officer) and one additional person per Group, then in order of registration as received. I know this may disappoint some members, but it is the only way to enable all Groups to attend. As some Groups do not send members, and once the Registrations close on 30th June, 2020, we will open up the Registrations to the waitlisted members. If the “100 person restrictions” ease, then we will advise more members on the waitlist of their ability to attend. Members who have registered, paid, been confirmed yet not actually arrive to Seminar, sorry, there will be no refunds this year. Please ensure you have email contact on your Coupons so we can keep you up-to-date with all Seminar news. Those not wishing, or able, to attend Seminar can pre-order the Seminar Booklet/Pack and there is space on the coupon to order and pay for your order. We will post out all pre-ordered books prior to the Seminar to avoid any confusion at the event. We thank you in advance for your

International Reportunderstanding and hope that we can enjoy a wonderful, if not a bit more intimate and informal, International Seminar on Ecuador in 2020. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have any queries: 0422 580 922.Thanks,

Lyn Braico,State International Officer

Ecuador Seminar Registration

Saturday 8 August, 2020Name _________________________________

_________________________________________

Branch: _______________________________

Group: ________________________________

Email: _________________________________

_________________________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Day Seminar $80.00

Saturday Dinner:

No. of persons @$50.00 __________

Names:_________________________________

_________________________________________

Total (GST inclusive) $ ___________

State any dietary needs_________________________________________

Pre-Order Seminar Booklets

No. of books @$20.00 ____________Please post with cheque made payable to “CWA of NSW International Seminar” to

Lyn Braico, PO Box 2182, Normanhurst NSW 2076

orDirect Debit and send as above

Account name: CWA of NSW International SeminarBSB: 012823 A/c No. 191599617Please ensure your name is referenced on your deposit.

Country of Study 2020: Ecuador

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The Land Cookery Reportloaf tin.

▪ The Jam Drops should be 5cm ▪ The Gluten Free Caramel Walnut Slice, to be cooked in a slice tin. Six Pieces to be presented cut approx. 5 cm x 3 cm.

These have been corrected now in both the schedule and recipes online.The Orange and Tarragon Jelly has 2 small sprigs of Tarragon. I have been talking to a nursey man and he said get the perennial French Tarragon, at this time of year cut all your sprigs off then whether it be in a pot or the ground cover with a light mulch, let it sleep for the winter, with some occasional water and it will burst to life come spring. During spring it should be plentiful to buy fresh sprigs from the supermarkets. Dried Tarragon doesn`t work.Our Section 6 Cake Decorations and

By now Conference would have been over. I really missed the whole occasion, catching up with members that you only see once a year. We will have to make next year bigger than ever.We have introduced a special cake for our 70th year of The Land Cookery Competition. It’s a Cherry Blush Cake. We have had some fun making this so I hope you all enjoy it. The use of red glacé cherries is required for this recipe.Please note, a couple of corrections have been made to the schedule so take another look at the website (www.cwaofnsw.org.au/cookery) and maybe print it out for some members that don’ have a computer, as there will no glossy schedule this year.Corrections include:

▪ The Carrot Gingerbread Loaf is to be cooked in approx. 24 x 13cm

Sugar Art has had a revamp thanks to Jo Holt so I hope everyone gets inspired by this whole section.I see there has been a lot of fabulous cooking coming up in the Closed Facebook Group so I am hoping we get a lot more entries from our schedule. We should all encourage everyone to have a go.I am putting out a challenge to see how many can make the Banana Bread in your Branch Cooking competition. It’s very cost effective (about $4.00 to make). You could help some of your new members with loaning them a loaf tin if they don’t have one to make this. At Conference when I get all the group forms in I will acknowledge the Branch that achieved the highest number of Banana Bread loaves cooked.Denise Hawdon,Chairperson

Handicraft Reportmeeting held on 5th April we discussed next year’s competition regarding what items are eligible to be entered. The following decision was made:All this year’s entries, even though eligible to go to state, which was cancelled for this year, will need to be entered in the Group Competition next year and to be judged with all the other articles produced during this lockdown. However, each Group is autonomous and if they want to send this year’s entries to state without having another Group Judging, it is up to them. They can, however, only send the same number of items as usual. Unfortunately, it will be bad luck if an item picked for state this year does not get picked again next year—blame the virus. Some people are of the opinion that items judged for this year will not have to be judged again next year but that is only the case if the Group decides not to have another Group

We have certainly been living in difficult times over the last few months. I sincerely hope that everyone has been able to stay safe and in good health.It was very difficult and disappointing for me to have to cancel this year’s competition; however, I am satisfied now that the right decision was made in view of all the restrictions that the government had to put into place to stop the spread of this devastating virus.With everyone spending a lot of time at home I am sure many of you have been able to complete all the UFOs (unfinished objects) that have been lying around in cupboards for a long time or have started a new project that you may have been wanting to do.The Committee has met twice during this time via Zoom which proved to be very different than meeting face-to-face. At our

Competition Day.If anyone has any questions in relation to this, please do not hesitate to contact myself or our Secretary, Pam Wright. It was also decided at the meeting that as from next year’s competition (2020/2021) there will be no painting, pottery or scrapbooking accepted in the Handicraft Competition.The Committee did have another 2-day workshop planned to be held in Wagga Wagga in September. It was decided to cancel this as well, as everything is still uncertain at this time. Hopefully we will be able to start afresh next year and run some very interesting workshops for members to attend.Keep smiling and enjoying whatever it is you are doing.Diana Frost,Chairperson

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The Agricultural & Environmental Committee members are Robin Godwin (secretary), Joy Beames, Alexandra Bunton, Cate Hardy, Toni Nugent, Margaret Muspratt, Margaret Rolph and Karen Weller.

Congratulations to all the winners of our Competitions, we really enjoy judging these and would like to commend you all for the time and effort taken in all the categories.

Like many of you we are using Zoom; this was used for our AGM and are looking at holding our July meeting this way too. Some great motions were set for this year’s Conference so looking forward to hearing the results.

94.9% of NSW is still classified as being in drought. We have seen

some great rain falls in parts of NSW and this has put down some good sub-moisture for planting for our summer crops.

News of the Chinese government’s decision to impose a tariff of up to 80% on Australian barley will be another huge kick in the guts for grain producers if the Australian government cannot stop this. A lot could be said of the timing of this.

According to Sunrice there will be no Australian rice on our supermarket shelves by December. They are reporting it’s the cost of water and the Murray Darling Plan which is affecting rice growers.

Tanya Jolly, Agricultural & Environmental Officer

Agricultural & EnvironmentalAgricultural &

Environmental SeminarLeeton, NSW

14th & 15th September 2020

Name(s) __________________________________Name of partner if attending ____________________Address: _________________________________________ Post Code: _____Phone: _______________Mobile: _______________Email: ____________________________________Branch _______________Group: _______________

Emergency contact detailsName: _______________Phone: _______________

I have enclosed a cheque/money order for $150 per person for the seminar. Total:__________

Cheques or money orders to be made payable to “CWA of NSW”.

I have paid by direct deposit for $150 per person for the seminar.

Total:__________

Date:___________

The account details for direct deposit are:BSB: 062 014 A/C: 00901538Name: Country Women’s Association of New South WalesReference: Your last name followed by AAENotify when sent: [email protected] coupon with payment by 31st August to: Joy Beames, PO Box 92, Dunedoo 2844Ph: 02 6375 1173Email: [email protected]

Leeton seminar, 14th & 15th September, 2020

Join CWA members and friends for the Agricultural & Environmental Seminar in Leeton, NSW.

Registrations are to be posted to Joy Beames using the form on this page or can be emailed if preferred. Please remember to check vacancies before paying.

Cost $150 (includes morning and afternoon tea, and lunch on both days).

Visits include DPI Yanco, a citrus and hazelnut orchard, wetlands and cotton facility.

Some accommodation options include:

▪ Motel Riverina 6953 2955

▪ Leeton Heritage Motor Inn 6953 4100

▪ Historic Hydro Motor Inn 6953 4555

▪ Leeton Caravan Park 6953 3323

Please check with Joy Beames (6375 1173, 0428 751 173 or [email protected]) to ensure that there are places available for the seminar before booking your accommodation.

Numbers are limited.

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State Culturalin the vital roles of Secretary and Treasurer, and for their enthusiasm and organisational skills. Thanks also to the other Committee members for accepting nomination to the Committee: Mary Bowman, Janet Klepatzki, Liz Lazzaroni, Norma Power and Pam Simcoe. With the varied interests, talents and expertise of these women we are assured that all things cultural will thrive in 2020/2021. Best wishes and thanks to our Representative, Sally Torr, who is retiring from Executive. Sally’s presence and support at the wonderful workshop at Kandos-Rylstone last November was greatly appreciated.

Unfortunately, the China Painting and Art Competitions had to be cancelled. Fortunately, the photography and literary works sections, which were submitted prior to the pandemic restrictions, were able to be judged. The standard of entries was again pleasing and the Cultural Books were absolutely outstanding. The judge had great difficulty separating the winning entries; only the narrowest of margins existed between them. As these books catalogue cultural endeavours, they indicate that there are some truly amazing activities

The cancellation of State Conference really brought restrictions around “social distancing” to the forefront of living through the COVID-19 pandemic for members of the extended CWA family. From mental health and cultural perspectives attaching the word “social” to the distancing we need to place between ourselves and others is somewhat of an oxymoron. While “physically distancing” is required, social connections are even more essential to our wellbeing than when things are chugging along in a more “normal” manner. Friendships and contacts; speaking to each other via telephone, sending a card, writing a letter or texting and, for the technologically savvy, Skype or programs like Zoom, are critically important. ‘The Country Woman’ is another means of maintaining our relationships, and our sanity, through this viral outbreak.

For her leadership, all-encompassing love of life and genuinely authentic, iconic sense of humour, I wish to thank, Lynne Dunn for the past three years she has served as Committee Chairperson. My gratitude to Yvonne Davis and Alison McKenzie for their willingness to continue

taking place. Simply preparing a competition entry is worthy of note and deserves congratulations.

Retrieval of the “not-drawn-at-the-Conference raffle” books was a mammoth effort for our Treasurer; special thanks to Alison for successfully coordinating this challenging task. The possum-wool silk poncho and stunning evening purse both went to Chris Ford, Walgett Branch, and the Inspire jewellery to Helen Galton OAM, Bega Branch. Two prizes from five tickets are exceptional odds; Chris should take a lottery ticket for a chance at a winning trifecta! Thank you everyone who supported this fundraiser.

After being Executive Representative to the Cultural Committee, an application to continue, as a Committee member, became inevitable. Accepting the Chairperson’s role is a privilege, a challenge and a pleasure. With your support, we can explore the fascinating facets of our national culture, while having a great deal of fun too.Eva Campbell,Chairperson

Show CateringThe new Committee is as follows: Kae Anforth, Tracey Bonfante, Margaret Breust, Judy Buist, Julie Deer, Alison Fiddy, Merrie Hunt, Lyn Jacobsen, Jenny Le Gros, Cheryl Mayberry, Donna Robertson, Lynne White and myself, a total of 13. We can have up to 17 so would be grateful if a few more members would consider joining this Committee. Whilst we work hard at the Show Tea Room, we do have a lot of fun and there is good camaraderie. We are a tight band!

We thank those who have retired: Carol Vincent, Zara White, Lynette

Buck, Alison Christie and Helen Pegler, for their fantastic efforts over the past few years. We especially thank Carol Vincent who has been on the Committee for many years and was most recently the Chairman. Carol’s husband Tom has also been a familiar face at the Tea Room doing a sterling job behind the scenes. There is nothing much this pair don’t know about the running of the CWA Tea Room and we thank both of them for their enormous contribution to CWA.

We will be holding our AGM via Zoom on 1st July and will then not

meet again until early next year to plan for the 2021 Royal Easter Show.

We thank those of you who had cooked for the promotions table and who have been able to sell some of your cakes and jams. We are grateful for the donations that have been sent to the Committee. I made up a number of hampers for Mother’s Day and these made a few hundred dollars which was very pleasing.

Rowena Casey,Chairperson

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A Knock at the DoorBy Faye Owner; Bellingen Branch

I’m barely awake, and thinking about getting out of bed, when I hear a loud knock at the door, and a deep, official-sounding voice calling, “Hello? Anyone home?”

“Hang on—I’m coming”, I reply, pulling on my gown and slippers. I glance, in passing, at the clock. Six a.m.! Someone’s got to be kidding! Two earnest young police constables are on the doorstep, one brandishing a pen and notebook. They apologise for the early visit, but explain that a house across the street has been broken into some time last night. Have I seen or heard anything suspicious during the early hours? I have not. They depart and head next door.

It’s not worth returning to bed, so I make an early breakfast. I’m just clearing the table when I hear another knock at the door, and a faint voice asks,

“Hello? Is anyone home?” A frail, elderly man with wild, uncombed hair’ clad in striped pyjamas and well worn felt slippers, is standing outside, gazing about uncertainly. In a quivery voice, he demands a cup of tea. And the morning newspaper. And a bowl of porridge with honey and a dusting of cinnamon. Before I can think of a suitable reply, a car pulls up at the gate and a flustered, embarrassed young woman rushes up the path. She gently ushers the old fellow out, firing apologies over her shoulder, and quickly drives off.

What a novel start to my day! But I’ve hardly sat down when the door reverberates again, and a familiar voice calls, “Yoo-hoo! Hello! Are you up yet?”

It’s my neighbour, wanting to borrow a cup of sugar. She can’t get to the shops until her son returns with the car. I happily oblige. As she leaves, she tells me she saw a white budgerigar fly into the magnolia tree in my front yard. I can hear it

chattering.

Half an hour later, it’s still there, and I am pondering if there’s anything I can do, when I hear another knock on the door, accompanied by an anxious enquiry, “Hello? Is anyone home?”. A slim, tanned, fit-looking young woman in a stylish designer jogging outfit and running shoes, is nervously pacing the path, clutching a birdcage and a fish-landing net. My dear neighbour has shown her the location of her pet, and she seeks my permission to try to lure it back into the cage. Luckily, the little creature is very tame and extremely hungry. In no time it has flown down to the cage, clambered inside, and is munching away at its food bowl. A very happy and relieved owner bears it away, and I close the door yet again.

The phone rings. I am in the middle of a pleasant conversation with my youngest daughter when, to my intense annoyance, there is another knock on the door, and the usual “Hello? Is anyone home?” I promise to ring my daughter back shortly. Two pink-cheeked, clean-shaven suits, wearing Harry Potter spectacles and clutching pamphlets and small books, try to convert me to their select brand of Christianity, and, with a fixed smile, I try to dissuade them politely as possible—no easy task. They eventually give up and I am able to call my daughter back.

By now it is almost lunchtime and my usual daily routine has been thoroughly shattered. I am just getting organised when I am summoned again. Knock! Knock! “Hello? Is anyone home?” It’s a couple of enthusiastic volunteers seeking money for the Red Shield Appeal, I fossick in my purse for a suitable donation, and they’re soon on their way.

The disruptions continue unabated all afternoon—a hopeful Greens candidate seeking votes in the upcoming election; a trio of noisy small girls in Brownie uniforms

Winning Short Storyraising money for their organisation by selling home-baked scones; a very persistent salesman trying to persuade me to install more solar panels and a storage system; a pizza delivery guy who has come to the wrong address; two fellow members of my CWA branch wanting to discuss (over tea and the scones I just bought) our upcoming street stall; and two tearful youngsters looking for a lost terrier.

Finally, just as I’m hoping I might at last get a break, my neighbour’s son returns with the sugar his mother had borrowed this morning. “Looks like we’re in for a corker of a storm”, he remarks, inspecting a darkening sky. Sure enough, within twenty minutes, the heavens open and deposit a deluge, accompanied by roaring winds. The temperature drops by at least ten degrees, and I am absolutely ecstatic! I am utterly exhausted and longing for an uninterrupted nanny nap. Surely no fool would venture out in this!

I sigh contentedly as I stretch out on the sofa, and am blissfully drifting off to sleep when I hear it! Above the howl of the storm, a knock on the door—and a voice yelling “Hello? Is anyone home?” In sheer disbelief I get up and stagger down the hall. It must be important for someone to be out in such violent weather. The gale almost knocks me off my feet as I open the door, and I am drenched as the rain drives in almost horizontally. But no-one is there! I am furious! What moron would pull pranks at a time like this? I give voice to a few choice expletives, knowing the downpour will drown out my words.

The hall carpet is sodden and I will have to fetch the wet-vac. I am still seething when suddenly the door-knock sounds again—but from the sunroom! A raucous voice yells, “Hello? Is anyone home?”

My son’s smart-arse parrot has added to his already extensive repertoire!

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Moore Agricultural & Environmental AwardWinner Ilford-Running Stream

Branch

Agricultural & Environmental Award report award 1st Exeter Branch

Past State Presidents’ AwardWinner Pleasant Hills Branch

Wagga Daily Advertiser AwardWinner Michelle Eggins, Manilla

BranchWinner Lyn Jacobsen, Pleasant Hills

Branch

Garry Prize1st Robyn Sykes, Binalong Branch2nd Fiona McCormack, Walcha

Branch

Australian Event Services AwardFor the biggest increase in membership from 2016/17 to 2018/191st Harden Branch2nd Bulahdelah Branch3rd Murrurundi Branch

State Raffle1st Fran Walker2nd Gwen Norwood3rd Yvonne Barnhill4th Cathy Sanderson5th Elynne Sparks

Hospital Support Committee Raffle1st Richard Hamberger2nd Samantha Berkla3rd Colleen Burn4th Karen Hutchison

Competition and Raffle WinnersState Cultural Committee Raffle1st Chris Ford2nd Chris Ford3rd Helen Galton

State Handicraft Committee Raffle1st Barbara Danson2nd Gay Holland3rd Joan Bradshaw

The Land Cookery Committee Raffle1st Susan Ireland2nd Helana Donaldson3rd Janet Twohill

Handicraft ResultBest Group Handicraft Report

Southern Tablelands

Senior Photography—Section A1st Maya Bonganzoni, Nowra

Branch, Wollondilly Group2nd Judi Swain, Somerton Branch,

Wanthella Group3rd Carol Johnstone, Dungog-

Clarence Town Branch, Hunter River Group

Senior Photography—Section B1st Deidre Woodward, Tambar

Springs Branch, Namoi Group2nd Joy Holmes, Moree Branch,

Gwydir Group3rd Janice Peasnell, Forster Branch,

Mid North Coast Group

Temorva TrophyMaya Bonganzoni, Nowra Branch, Wollondilly Group

Junior Photography8 Years and Under1st Sophie Pollard, Broken Hill

Branch, Darling River Group1st Samantha Davis, Albion Park

Evening Branch, Illawarra Group

13 to 18 Years1st Claudia Taylor, Collector

Branch, Southern Tablelands Group

2nd Jessie Gerits, Gloucester Evening Branch, Mid North Coast Group

Bush Ballad1st Lorraine Sheldon, Manly

Branch, Phillip Group2nd Judy Findlay, Barellan Branch,

Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

Senior Poem1st Faye Owner, Bellingen Branch,

North Coast Group2nd Jill Byrne, Nowra Branch,

Wollondilly Group3rd Catherine Milander, Stanwell

Park Branch, Illawarra Group

Senior Short Story1st Faye Owner, Bellingen Branch,

North Coast Group

Junior Short Story8 Years and Under1st Abbie Lewis, Tullibigeal Branch,

Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group2nd Millie Helyar, Tullibigeal

Branch, Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

9-12 Years1st Eva Bonganzoni, Nowra

Branch, Wollondilly Group2nd Claire Barclay, The Glen-

Mannus Branch, Murray Group

State Cultural Competition Results1


3rd Joanna O’Reilly, Tullibigeal Branch, Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

Junior Poster8 Years and Under1st Charlie Tyack, Tullibigeal


2nd Jackson Payne, Tullibigeal Branch, Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

3rd Chelsea Bendall, Tullibigeal Branch, Murrumbidgee-

Lachlan Group9-12 Years1st Brianna Praestin, Barellan


2nd Tom Curran, Barellan Branch, Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

3rd Tristan Peacock, Tullibigeal Branch, Murrumbidgee-Lachlan Group

Digital1st Poppy Bell, Broken Hill Branch,

Darling River Group

p “Orange” by Deidre Woodward. Photography Section B, 1st place

t “Reflections” by Maya Bonganzoni. Photography Section A, 1st place and Temorva Trophy winner

“Me and My Shadow” by Sophie Pollard, 8 Years and under, equal 1st; Samantha Davis, 8 Years and under, equal 1st; Claudia Taylor, 13-18 years, 1st place

Group Cultural Reports

1st Macquarie Group

2nd Oxley Group

3rd Far South Coast Group

Group Cultural Books

1st Jamberoo Branch, Wollondilly Group

2nd Bellarwi Branch, Hume Group

3rd Kootingal Branch, Wanthella Group

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Judges reportsPast State President’s AwardThis year Ruth Shanks and I had the privilege of judging the four entries in the Past State President’s Award. The number of entries was disappointing, but the four Branches which did submit their forms proved to us that the depth and involvement of CWA activities in communities, large and small, across the state are indicative of the value a voluntary organisation can make to the welfare of individuals and communities is inestimable.

What made me feel proud of our CWA, and I’m sure Ruth would agree, was that as Past State Presidents we are aware that these beneficial efforts of our members are replicated throughout the state. It also made us hopeful that next year there will many more entries.

Three Highly Commended certificates are awarded to North Star Branch in Gwydir Group, Quirindi Branch in Namoi Group and Woy Woy Branch in Northumberland Group who shared their activities with us. Their efforts within their particular areas were many and varied and encompassed all manners of activities and interests.

Congratulations to Pleasant Hills Branch in Riverina Group for their mighty involvements locally and in the wider sphere with assistance at an organisational and demonstrative level in the Henty Field Days. Despite losing three of their members during the year, the nine remaining members soldiered on and carried out any number of fun and fundraising commitments. Well done!

Ruth and I wish you all well during the current health crisis and we look forward to seeing you in Bega in 2021. Keep safe!

Margaret Smith AOPast State President

Wagga Daily Advertiser AwardThere was a significant improvement in the numbers of entries this year in The Wagga Daily Advertiser Publicity Officers’ Award for the NSW Country Women’s Association and the quality of the 17 entries was superb, easily the overall best in any year that I have been given the privilege of judging.The efforts of the 17 publicity officers who entered are to be applauded; some of them have done the job for many years while some relative newcomers made their mark this year. When affairs of regional Australia in recent years and particularly in the last year as the drought continued and bushfires ravaged our state, publicity officers have never been under greater stress and from the entries I was able to examine, they did not let your members down.Before announcing the winner I have awarded two Highly Commended entries; this was difficult too because of the extremely high standard of each entry. These two awards went to Rhonda Widdows of the Bellarwi Branch for a comprehensive record of the branch’s year of activities and the consistency of having

its news reported in the West Wyalong Advocate each and every month while the second Highly Commended Award went to Hilda Newstead of the Gilgandra Evening Branch for excellent reporting of a varied program of events and social activities by the branch.Now to the winner of The Daily Advertiser Publicity Officers Award for this year and for the first time in the many years I have been the judge I have declared a tie, although I understand a previous judge once did the same, and I can only conclude that he, like me, could not split the entries. Michelle Eggins, Secretary and Publicity Officer of the Manilla Branch, is the first recipient for a very professional entry that covered many of the rural matters that greatly concerned the families of all CWA members and Lyn Jacobsen, Publicity Officer for the Pleasant Hills branch, for her outstanding reporting of the many successes the branch had at the Riverina Group’s Handicaft and Land Cookery Day but also for the branch’s contribution to the Henty Field Days.CWA can be proud of the total efforts of all 17 Publicity Officers.Graham Gorrel,Competition Judge

Postal Voting ResultsThe results of the recent postal voting that was undertaken with registered conference delegates are as follows:

1. Confirmation that the Associations Auditor for the 2020/2021 be David McDonald of McIntosh Bishop: CONFIRMED

2. State Honorary Secretary for 2020/2021: MARGARET BREUST

3. Medical Research Project for 2020/2021: ENDOMETRIOSIS

The results of the policy motions votes will be forward to State Executive Committee members for a discussion on next steps at their July meeting. Members will be advised of the outcome of the policy motion vote and subsequent State Executive Committee directives soon after this meeting.

The vote counting took place 22nd May 2020 at CWA House, Mascot, under the supervision of Danica Leys, CEO, who confirms integrity of the voting process and verifies that the voting, counting of ballot papers and result is correct.

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Plain Butter Cake—Section 2, Class ASuggested recipe; your own recipe may be used.To be presented as baked, not iced.Ingredients125g butter 1 teaspoon vanilla essence ¾ cup castor sugar 2 eggs 1 ½ cups self-raising flour ½ cup milkMethodPreheat oven to Moderate temperature: 180°C (160°C fan forced). Prepare 20cm round tin.Cream butter, essence and sugar in bowl until light and fluffy; beat in eggs, one at a time, until combined. Stir in half the sifted flour and half the milk, and then stir in remaining flour and milk. Pour mixture into prepared pan.Cook for approx 50 minutes or until done.

Carrot & Ginger Loaf—Section 3Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredientsLoaf185g butter ½ cup golden syrup ½ cup brown sugar, firmly packed 125 ml water 1 cup grated carrot, firmly packed 1 teaspoon bi-carb soda 1 ½ cups plain flour ¾ cup self-raising flour 1 tablespoon ground gingerLemon Icing1 cup sifted icing sugar ½ tablespoon melted butter Lemon juice to mixMethodLoafPreheat Moderate oven: 160°C–180°CCombine butter, golden syrup and sugar in saucepan with the water. Stir over medium heat until butter melted and sugar is dissolved, bring

to boil, remove from heat and stir in carrot and bicarbonate of soda. Set aside for about 30 minutes.Sift in flours and ground ginger, beat until smooth. Pour mixture into prepared loaf tin (approx. 24 x 13 cm) and bake for about 45 minutes or until cooked when tested.Lemon IcingSift icing sugar into small bowl, add melted butter, and add lemon juice until spreading consistency is reached. Spread on top of loaf only leave in a cool place until set.

Banana Bread—Section 4Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredients120g butter 1 ¼ cups brown sugar 2 average sized bananas mashed 2 eggs 1 ½ cups plain flour 1 teaspoon vanilla essence pinch salt 1 teaspoon bi-carb sodaMethodPreheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan forced). Prepare a 24cm x 13cm loaf tin. Beat butter, vanilla and sugar for two minutes until creamy. Add mashed banana and eggs, beat together until well combined. Sift in flour, salt and bi-carb soda, stir well.Pour into a prepared tin. Bake 1 hour or until done.

Wagon Wheel Slice—Section 5Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredientsBase60g butter melted ⅓ cup castor sugar 1 egg beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 175g plain flour (1 cup + 2 tablespoons) ¼ teaspoon baking powder pinch salt ⅓ cup raspberry jamMarshmallow6g gelatine

The Land Cookery New Recipes½ cup water ½ cup castor sugar ½ cup sifted icing sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla essenceChocolate topping185 g dark chocolate 50 g butterMethod BasePreheat Moderate oven: 180°C (160°C fan forced).Grease 18cm x 28cm slice tin. Line base and sides with baking paper, allow paper to extend 2 cm beyond the sides of the tin.In a medium saucepan melt butter over a low heat and allow butter to become frothy stirring constantly until butter starts to brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.Pour cooled butter into a large mixing bowl, add sugar, egg and vanilla essence. Mix well. Add flour, baking powder and salt, and stir until dough comes together. Press mixture evenly into prepared tin. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Spread warm base with jam.MarshmallowPlace water in medium saucepan and sprinkle with gelatine powder. Allow to sit for 10 minutes to bloom, without stirring. After 10 minutes whisk gelatine mixture with a fork.Add castor sugar and dissolve gently over a low heat. Increase to a medium heat and boil for 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and pour into large deep bowl. Cool to room temperatureStir in sifted icing sugar. Beat with electric mixer until thick and white, Add vanilla essence and mix until combined. Spread mixture over cooked base and refrigerate until set.Chocolate ToppingMelt chocolate and butter together, either in heat proof bowl over hot water or in 10 second bursts in microwave. Stir gently until both are melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over marshmallow and spread with

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knife. Refrigerate until set.Stand at room temperature, for 5 minutes, before cutting.Recipe tip: Once butter has started to brown, it will burn quite quickly, so be careful to remove it immediately after it has changed colour.

Tomato Relish—Section 8, Class ASuggested recipe; your own recipe may be usedIngredients1.5 kg tomatoes 500 g onions 2 tablespoons salt 2 cups brown vinegar extra 2 tablespoons vinegar 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 ½ tablespoons cornflour 1 tablespoon mustard powder ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 cups sugarMethodCut tomatoes and onions into thin slices, sprinkle in a large bowl with the salt and leave for at least 12 hours, or overnight.Drain off liquid and place tomatoes and onions in large pan. Add the vinegar and sugar, simmer for 60 minutes. Mix curry, mustard, cornflour and pepper with the extra vinegar and add to the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened, stirring regularly to avoid relish catching on bottom of pan.Bottle and seal relish while hot.Store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate once opened. Keeps for 12 months, but can be used as soon as it’s made.

Orange & Tarragon Jelly—Section 8, Class BRecipe supplied here must be usedIngredients750 g sweet oranges (Navel are the best for this recipe) 175 g lemons 1.2 litre water 2 small sprigs fresh tarragon, plus 1.5 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon (or to taste)MethodSlice citrus and add to water, with

two sprigs of tarragon. Bring to the boil and simmer for about 1 ¾ hours. Pour in to jelly bag and let drain overnight.Measure resulting juices for every 570ml add 450gm sugar. Bring to fast boil and boil until setting point is reached.Remove from heat and stir in finely chopped tarragon. Allow to settle and bottle when tarragon remains suspended in jelly.Bottle and seal in 375ml jars.Makes approx 1.25L.Note: fresh tarragon may be finely chopped and frozen in a little orange juice for this recipe

Spiced Fruit Chutney— Section 8, Class CRecipe supplied here must be usedIngredients500g pears 500g green apples 375g dried apricots 500g onions 80g sultanas 700g raw sugar 500ml white vinegar 125ml brown vinegar 125g garlic 4 tablespoons grated green ginger 1 tablespoons salt 2 teaspoons garam marsala 4 teaspoons cumin seedMethodChop all together and place in large pot. Bring to boil stirring until sugar has dissolved. Reduce heat and simmer slowly, uncovered, until thick and pulpy—about 1 hour. Stir regularly to avoid chutney catching on bottom of pan. Allow to stand for 10-20 minutes stir and bottle into sterilised hot jars and seal.

Gluten Free Caramel Walnut Slice—Section 9Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredients1 cup gluten free self-raising flour 1 cup coconut ½ cup castor sugar 125g butter, meltedTopping2 eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla essence 1 cup coconut ¾ cup brown sugar, firmly packed ½ cup chopped walnutsMethodGrease a 18cm x 28cm slice tin Combine sifted flour, coconut and sugar in bowl, stir in butter.Press mixture into prepared tin. Bake in moderate oven 180°C (160°C fan forced) for 15 minutes, spread with topping, bake further 35 minutes. Cool in tin before cutting.ToppingCombine eggs and essence in bowl, stir in coconut, sugar and walnuts; mix well.

Butterfly Cakes —Section 11, Class A (18 years and under as of 31 March 2021)Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredients125g butter, room temperature 1 cup caster sugar 2 eggs 2 cups self- raising flour ½ cup milk ¼ teaspoon vanilla essence Berry jam Mock cream 100g butter (room temperature) 100g caster sugar 4 tablespoons boiling water 1 tablespoon cold waterMethodBeat the butter and sugar until sugar dissolved. Add eggs, beat, add vanilla. Stir in flour and milk alternately.Three-quarter fill each well-greased patty pan tins, 4–4½ cm base measurement (not muffin tins) no patty liners to be used. Cook 160°C for 10-15 mins When cool cut a shallow round from each cake using a sharp knife, then cut in half put ½ teaspoon. of jam in cake then mock cream, position two halves of cake on top.Mock cream Put butter and caster sugar in mixing bowl. Add 4 tablespoons boiling water. Beat on high 5 mins. Add 1 tablespoon cold water Beat until combined.

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Jam Drops —Section 11, Class B (12 years and under as of 31 March 2021)Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredients125g butter, room temperature 110g (½ cup) caster sugar 1 egg 225g (1 ½ cups) self-raising flour ½-1 teaspoon Vanilla Essence Berry jamPreheat oven 180°C (160°C fan forced). Grease large baking trayMethodBeat the butter and sugar until creamy, light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and beat again until well blended. Fold in sifted flour and salt. Form into small balls the size of a walnut and place on prepared trays, allowing room to spread. Make an indentation in the centre of each ball and place a small amount of jam in each.

Bake for 20 minutes until biscuits are light golden brown. Remove from oven, move positions of biscuits on tray and allow cooling on the tray and becoming crisp.The biscuits should be 5cm across.

Cherry Blush Cake —Section 12Recipe supplied here must be usedIngredients180g butter, softened 1 teaspoon almond essence ¾ cup castor sugar 3 eggs pink colouring either 1 teaspoon cochineal or ½ teaspoon rose pink 2 cups self-raising flour 2 tablespoon ground almonds ⅓ cup milk ½ cup sour cream 150g cherries, reserve 24 halves for decoration, cut the remaining cherries into quarters 30g glace ginger finely chopped

25g slivered almonds (for topping)MethodPreheat moderate oven 180°C (160°C fan forced).Prepare 20cm deep round tin.Cream butter, sugar and essence until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and pink colouring. Beat well.Stir in sifted flour and ground almonds in 2 batches with milk and sour cream.Stir in cherries and chopped ginger.Spread mixture in prepared pan. Arrange 24 reserved cherry halves around edge of batter and sprinkle with the chopped almonds. Bake for about 1 ¼ hours. Depending on your oven, check after 50 minutes. Cover top of cake with foil if getting too dark.Cool in pan for 5 minutes before turning out to complete cooling.

Food for these “Interesting” timesThe Chinese proverb “may you live in interesting times” is an apt description of 2020. There are some important aspects of your diet you need to consider if you want to maintain your health. Here are my top five tips:1. Remember the protein: Protein foods build muscle strength. If you are not that active, your body can eat away at the protein in your muscles. Protein rich foods will sustain your muscle mass and ensure you keep up your strength. Long term protein foods like legumes or eggs are ideal. Consider lentil soups as a meal or add legumes or add boiled eggs to a salad.2. Tinned food helps: Tinned food lasts for a long time and is a convenient way to sustain energy. Trying baked beans or tinned fish for breakfast or lunch. They are ideal sources of protein. Tinned fruit (eg peaches, pears) and vegetables (e.g. corn, carrot, tomato etc.) are a good source of a range of vitamins and minerals including fibre.

3. Fish for fish: Make sure you purchase plenty of fish. It is a great source of protein but also provides omega-3 which are good for heart health, immunity and also for lowering blood pressure. Bony fish like salmon or sardines are an excellent source of calcium which is important for bone health and muscle strength. Purchase frozen fish as an ideal meal. Tinned fish such as tuna, salmon, sardines can also be an easy to store protein source which provides a range of additional health benefits. 4. Frozen vegetables: Frozen vegetables offer virtually all the vitamins and mineral we need (except vitamin C and folate). Best frozen vegetables packs include broccoli, cauliflower and carrots as the mix of colours provides the widest range of vitamins and minerals. They are easy to store and simple to add into a stir fry, a curry, a casserole or just serve with your protein in a main meal.5. Beware the booze: In Australia, sales of alcohol in March were

up 22%. The week to 27th March, spending at liquor stores in Australia was up 86% and in UK 88% of British households visited a supermarket in the four days at the end of March. People were stocking up with fear of limited supply or further restrictions. So, with extra alcohol at home, people may drink more. Remember the importance of alcohol-free days to give your liver a rest. Alcohol stimulates an appetite and people tend to eat more. So, everything in moderation. Try drinking water between your drinks and putting your glass down. These things slow your intake down. Things are improving in Australia. Let’s keep some of these tips in mind to flatten all the curves!

Peter Clark,Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist, Healthier You Dietetics, Port MacquarieEmail: [email protected] information in this article is general advice. Individual response may vary. For specific advice relevant to you, please consult a medical practitioner.

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On Tuesday 5 May I presented, as part of the CWA Finance Webinar, by Zoom which was very different to the presentation at Conference I have been doing for the last 15 or so years.

In this presentation I outlined the position of the CWA of NSW investments for the year ending 30 September and what had changed since.

CWA of NSW AssetsProperty makes up more than 60% of the assets of the organisation, with the next largest asset being cash (28%)—which is held mainly in term deposits and a diversified investment portfolio (8.6%).

Asset returns The returns on cash and the investment portfolio vary from year to year. Interest rates on cash have continued to fall, and are likely to stay low for the near term. The investment portfolio did well to September 2019—with a return of more than 10%—strong considering our conservative strategy. However, the events of 2020 have seen the portfolio lose 4% since Sept 2019. Despite the pullback, the conservative investment strategy remains intact.

A birds-eye view of the assetsThe assets of the CWA can be considered in three groups.

Firstly, proceeds from the Potts Point sale purchased the Mascot Office with the balance held in cash. Recently, some of these funds were used to fund upgrades to the external cladding.

Secondly we have Special Funds—mostly bequests, that have a specific purpose or objective that is funded by interest from the cash held. Low interest rates have reduced the ability for these funds to distribute earnings.

The remaining funds to support the viability of the CWA of NSW over time. Presently, these funds consist of a half and half mix between cash and the investment portfolio.

Special Funds—Stories to tellElizabeth Jarque, ran a quick quiz on some interesting Special funds. These funds tell great stories about the history of the CWA of NSW and I hope to hear more.

Investment Spotlight: Ethical InvestingI always take the opportunity to remind members of the CWA of NSW Investment Policy Statement (IPS). This document is vital for the continuity and smooth running of the Finance Committee. The IPS directs a prudent and well considered approach to managing assets of the organisation.

The IPS includes consideration of Ethical Investing; how to approach it and how the CWA of NSW might reflect the views of the organisation in their investment approach.

The Finance Committee is currently on a “watching brief”, as services that enable efficient “ethical investing” become available and demonstrate suitability.

Other impacts Danica Leys, CWA of NSW CEO, summarised recent impacts including cash flow issues re tenants in the Mascot building. The impact has also affected State Office and branches.

These challenges present changes that need to be addressed. The CWA of NSW is well positioned to respond to these challenges.

Brendan Ryan,Advise and Assist

Financial update

Vitural Scone CampaignFollowing the cancellation of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, CWA of NSW lauched its Virtual Scone Campaign, where people could donate to CWA of NSW by buying a “virtual scone” online and download a recipe to make their own scones at home. On offer was a plate of virtual scones for $5, a virtual Devonshire Tea for $10, a dozen plain virtual scones for $20 and a whole batch for $50. The campaign raised a total of $15,425 for the Association Fund.

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Membership for 2020/2021 will remain the same as the previous year.Please note that $42.50 is payable to State Office. Many branches charge fees on top of the base membership fee. Other branches might subsidise membership.

Membership fees for 2020/21

Subscription for 2019/2020 42.50

Recommended increase 0.00

Subscription for 2020/2021 36.00

Conference Fee 5.50

TSP 1.00

Inclusive fee for 2020/2021 $42.50

Full time students (aged 18-25) $27.00

Full time students inclusive fee $33.50

3 Year membership inclusive fee $127.50

Special FundsThe Disaster Relief Fund continued to distribute $11,872,179 to drought affected areas of NSW during 2019/2020. The Disaster Relief Fund received $9,093,408 during the financial year plus the balance of $3,232,279 from 2017/2018 was also distributed.As at the 30th Sept 2019 there remained $794,021 available to be spent on Drought Relief.Emergency FundPayments from the Emergency Fund included $10,558 plus $50,000 which was donated to Foodbank. The Emergency Fund was formed in 1961 after a successful response to an appeal for relief work after various floods, bushfires, cyclones etc, (sounds like the last 9 months). There was 3,363 pounds leftover which was ear-marked for the branches, should there be a disaster in their district. Today the Emergency Fund is also used for donations overseas, e.g. the earthquake in New Zealand and more recently Nepal.Other ItemsIncome from State Office for the year ending September 2019 was $570,922. After costs, net profit was $411,847. It is pleasing to see that the Mascot building is providing income support for CWA of NSW and the Association Fund.Projects including the pre-schools at Nundle and Coraki, as well as the other committees—Handicraft, Hospital Visiting, Cultural, Show Catering and Land Cookery—continued to perform well. In relation to the impact of COVID-19, State Office has applied for Job Keeper for the staff at the pre-schools.

Operating profit for groups and branches increased by $426,191 from last year, primarily thanks to the increased donations to branches for drought relief, and grants to improve the rooms.GrantsMany branches are successfully applying for FRRR Grants and the Remote Regional Seniors’ Grants to engage local communities in initiatives such as Oral History recordings with assistance from the local library. Another branch is using the grant to inspire the creation of music or other art forms via an emotional response from a word or letter from the alphabet. If you have any query re grant applications, please contact Elizabeth Jarque, the Accounting Manager at [email protected] FundsSpecial fund income was $111,470. This includes donations for some of the various education grants plus the Emergency Fund, International as well as the Rural Doctors’ Bursary and the General Education Fund. The above figure excludes interest earned, drought donations and the proceeds from the estate of Jean Mercer.There will be an article hopefully in the next Journal about Special Funds and how they originated.Finally, to my counterpart, Ann Adams, State Honorary Secretary, thank you for your patience and wisdom. I have enjoyed our times together and will miss you as a roommate. Enjoy your time as a State Vice-President without the pressure of Secretary. God bless.

Anne Kotz,State Honorary Treasurer

State Treasurer’s Report

Thank you messageThank you to all CWA of NSW members for the lovely watch given to me as I complete my three years as State Honorary Secretary and to my Oura Branch for the lovely flowers. Thank you one and all—it is really very much appreciated. I have really enjoyed the role and have made such great friendships, and thank you for all the courtesy and support given to me.

Ann AdamsOutgoing State Honorary Secretary

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SudokuHow to Play Sudoku:

Every row must have the numbers 1–9 appear once. Every column must have the numbers 1–9 appear once. Every 3x3 box must have the numbers 1–9 appear once. Solution in the next edition.

Tip: you can start by looking for the numbers that are missing in a row and see if you can eliminate any of those numbers by looking at the other numbers in the columns or squares around it.

April’s SolutionsPuzzle R

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Puzzle R

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Country Womens Association

Sudoku 9x9 - Puzzle 4 of 5 - Easy

9 2

6 9 5 8

3 8 7 6

1 3 4 8

9 3

3 1 7 5

2 9 3 4

5 6 1 2

7 6www.sudoku-puzzles.net


Sudoku 9x9 - Puzzle 4 of 5 - Medium

2 3 8 7

8 5 2 6

1 6 3

6 1 2

8 4

6 5 3

7 2 9

2 1 9 5

9 4 1 7www.sudoku-puzzles.net


Sudoku 9x9 - Puzzle 5 of 5 - Hard

4 3

9 8 7

3 7 8 1

2 3 9 6

2 5

7 6 4 8

9 6 5 8

5 1 4

1 8www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Puzzle R

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: Med

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Puzzle R

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: Hard

Puzzle R

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: Very Hard

The Country Woman

Sudoku 9x9 - Solution 2 of 5 - Medium

6 4 3 2 1 8 7 5 9

5 8 1 9 3 7 4 2 6

9 2 7 4 5 6 1 3 8

3 6 5 7 4 1 8 9 2

7 1 8 3 9 2 5 6 4

4 9 2 6 8 5 3 1 7

1 5 6 8 2 4 9 7 3

2 3 4 1 7 9 6 8 5

8 7 9 5 6 3 2 4 1www.sudoku-puzzles.net


Sudoku 9x9 - Solution 4 of 5 - Hard

5 4 2 3 7 1 9 6 8

1 9 6 4 8 5 3 7 2

7 3 8 9 2 6 1 4 5

2 6 3 5 9 7 4 8 1

8 5 1 6 4 2 7 3 9

9 7 4 1 3 8 5 2 6

3 8 5 2 1 4 6 9 7

6 2 9 7 5 3 8 1 4



Sudoku 9x9 - Solution 2 of 5 - Very Hard

5 8 3 4 2 6 9 1 7

9 7 1 8 3 5 6 2 4

4 6 2 9 7 1 8 3 5

7 2 6 1 5 3 4 9 8

8 5 9 2 6 4 3 7 1

1 3 4 7 9 8 5 6 2

3 9 7 5 4 2 1 8 6

2 4 8 6 1 9 7 5 3


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Telehealth services on the rise in rural and regional Australia

Now all Australians have access to telehealth services after the removal of related restrictions and introduction of new Medicare Benefit Scheme (MBS) items on 30 March. This is one of the most fundamental changes to Medicare in over 30 years and is especially beneficial for rural and regional Australians.

The MBS changes enable communications technologies for telehealth to be more widely available, such as heart monitors for cardiac patients, remote provision of official prescriptions and secure online sharing of medical information. Also covered are diagnostic technologies to enable specialists like ophthalmologists to determine a patient’s eye condition via video.

Telehealth describes the way health services are provided to patients who can’t be physically present with their health practitioners. It takes place remotely by phone, video conferencing or other communication technologies.

Such services do more than just make it easier for regional patients and clinicians, they reduce pressure on hospital services, which is particularly important during isolation.

According to the CEO of the Southern Forests Blackwood Valley Tourism Association, Wendy Duncan, telehealth and the recent changes to Medicare to open up this service have made a huge difference to people in the regions.

“It means we can now access a specialist without needing to be physically present,” Wendy said. “I recently had my specialist appointment via telehealth, which saved me two days of travel and costs for a 30 minute consultation with a doctor.”

As Australia’s largest e-health company, Telstra Health has always worked hand-in-glove with hospitals and healthcare professionals to help digitise their systems. Since the pandemic, we’ve accelerated our work delivering the connectivity required for telehealth appointments, and helping large public hospitals and emergency departments to support low-risk COVID-19 patients in their homes.

Telehealth services have been increasing in Australia for a number of years, especially in regional and remote areas but demand has grown significantly since COVID-19.

Director of the Queensland Ocular Oncology Service and member of Telstra’s Queensland Regional Advisory Council, Dr Bill Glasson AO, confirms that COVID-19 has led to a marked increase in the use of telehealth consultations.

“The government has put in place item numbers to support this new model of care, which provides convenience for both patients and doctors. Telstra has responded by enhancing the provision of data capabilities to support the various online platforms to allow high quality and real time consultations to occur.

“Moving forward, this will remain very much part of our medical landscape and it’s only through the support of companies like Telstra that we are able to drive this new model of care as part of the mainstream health provisions.”

Call volumes to Telstra Health’s telehealth service have recently tripled, and this increase is expected to continue as the Medicare changes come into effect.

To manage increasing demand, Telstra Health is investing even more in digital technologies that support telehealth, as well as electronic prescriptions, electronic medical records in hospitals and aged care, and developing national registries crucial to disease management.

Telstra is CWA of NSW’s Community Partner.

Telstra Update

Wendy Duncan, Co-Chair of Telstra’s WA Advisory Council and the CEO of the Southern Forests Blackwood Valley Tourism Association

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Unleashing the power of gender equity!

The world will never realise 100 per cent of its goals if 50 per cent of its people cannot realise their full potential. When we unleash the power of women, we can secure the future for all. Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General, 2015.

Is this statement relevant today?

by Robyn SykesAre women in 2020 restricted from realising their full potential in greater numbers and to a greater degree than men? If the answer is yes, Ban-Ki Moon’s statement is relevant today.Globally, many women find gender discrimination restricts their ability to achieve their dreams. In Saudi Arabia, women’s lives are controlled by their male guardian. Countries such Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Sudan tolerate female genital mutilation. In Pakistan, Malala Yousafzai was shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education.In many societies, wealth brings power and social status. Money buys opportunity. Although many women have better education, more opportunities and wider choices than their mothers, women on average still earn less than men. In Australia, as at September 2019, only 12 women head top 200 companies1. While 64 per cent of teachers are female, only 40 per cent of principals2. Average remuneration in female-dominated workplaces is lower than in male-dominated workplaces3. Less money means the pathway to progress narrows more quickly.What about creative endeavours? Is there equal opportunity for women who dream of careers as artists, poets, musicians, novelists? Sadly, no. Blind auditions and male pseudonyms still increase women’s chances of success. And the name Harvey Weinstein rings all sorts of alarms about the sexual behaviour of cultural “gatekeepers”.

What about family? Consider the acceptance speeches at awards ceremonies: most successful individuals acknowledge that without the love and support of their family, they would never have scaled the mountains in academia, the arts, sciences, sport… Many women make economic sacrifices for family reasons. To build a strong family takes love, time, sweat and skill.Unfortunately, sometimes all that is not enough. Some men come to believe they possess their partner—body, mind and spirit. They isolate, disempower and indoctrinate “their” women: you’re nothing without me… I’m the only one who loves you… it’s all your fault… if only you’d be good… And when those men discover that, despite their physical dominance, they can’t control her thoughts, about 60 men per year in Australia4

kill their partner/ex-partner. Or kill the children to punish her. Or both, as the tragic case of Hannah Clarke and her children shows. As a society, it is our collective responsibility to challenge and condemn the belief in male superiority and associated attitudes that lead to such murders.

Garry Prize Winning EssayGender equity will remain a dream until we educate boys to respect the talents, rights and aspirations of women. Respect celebrates growth, facilitates achievement and nurtures dreams. It allows people to thrive. It forms the basis of a successful society, one in which men and women can each develop the talents, ideas and insights that allow us to chip away at the world’s problems and so secure our future.We can safely conclude that, although the social, economic and cultural advantages of more equitable and respectful societies remain clear, gender equity across the world continues to be elusive. Ban Ki-Moon’s statement, therefore, remains relevant. Gender equity matters: yesterday, today and tomorrow.References:1. The OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 20182. The Chief Executive Women (CEW) ASX200 Senior Executive Census 20193. Workplace Gender Equality Agency’s (WGEA) 4. Destroy the Joint www.facebook.com/DestroyTheJoint/

Winning Cultural BalladAre we there yet by Lorraine SheldonIf you’ve travelled with children for hours by car

It doesn’t matter how long or how farOr whether there’s something to see

There’s a limit however to what I can takeBut there’s one thing on which you can betWith apples and lollies and biscuits and cakeThey’ll ask if we’re nearly there yet.

Just say that again and I’ll sayIn this family I am the bossI’ve thought of a game that we all can playAnd it’s simply called tick and cross.

Four faces lit up and asked how to playI told them the rule that I’ve setYou can read and write and there’s lots you can sayBut don’t ask if we’re nearly there yet

I’ll count up each tick and each crossTo find out who wins the grand prizeRemember however that I am the bossAnd not one or more of you guys

We now can travel for hours and hoursAnd there’s one thing on which you can betWe can point out the kangaroos, emus and flowersWith no mention of are we there yet

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Tabulam BranchOn 14th March, the members hosted a Women’s Community Forum—an event for women working, living, and helping in our community. With three incredible community women speakers: Mary Torrens Bell (Tabulam CYFS Worker), Janelle Saffin (Member for Lismore), and Danielle Mulholland (Kyogle Shire Mayor); morning tea baked by our members; lunch catered by the local women-owned and operated CK Catering; and musical entertainment from Janelle & Therese and Maree & Daryl, it was a wonderful day of connection, networking and community spirit. The event was supported by the Red Cross as part of its Bushfire Recovery Program, Bonalbo Upper Clarence Lions Club and Kyogle Council.The event also included the official public Opening of our Rooms, which are much updated after a long road

of renovations. We started off with no hot water, no stove; in fact, not much work at all had been done since the 1950s. We now have a fully functioning kitchen and equipment, hot water, an accessibility ramp and new front entrance built to code, new interior walls that were necessary to replace the existing asbestos, new windows and screens, new rear stairs, and a fresh coat of paint—inside and out. We were lucky to secure grants in order to achieve these necessary improvements and are incredibly grateful to the CWA of NSW (Potts Point Grant), state government, Kyogle Council, Public Reserve Management Fund and the FRRR for providing them. There is still more work to do and we look forward to further improving and updating our Rooms and the surrounding space this year.Members are following

all government directions and practicing social distancing in a commitment to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our members and our community in the face of COVID-19. Our branch will continue to meet monthly but online instead of all together in our rooms which so far has been an interesting experience! The next few months will be challenging, but an opportunity to plan and think outside the box in terms of connecting, helping and fundraising. May we all stay safe and well, and community-minded in these difficult times.

Story of the Month

Dapto Branch

Members have been busy making pouches for native animals at the Native Animal Rescue Group. This group rescue, rehabilitate and release the wildlife in Braidwood and surrounding areas in southern NSW.

Eurongilly BranchEurongilly Branch took truckloads of food to Tarcutta and Tumut for

the Duns Road firefighters then food for volunteers working with Blaze Aid.

Evans Head BranchMembers presented a cheque for $500 to the Broadwater Koala Reserve Trust to help with costs for erecting a suitable wildlife fence on the side of the park near the road.

Grafton BranchMembers have been engaged in assisting local farmers in the Clarence and Mount Jackadgery area, by obtaining the appropriate forms from State Office, for farmers to make application for assistance from the CWA of NSW Relief Disaster funding.

The farmers from the Jackadgery

From our Branches

Gail Commens with a carload of food to take to Tumut. Helping to load is John Ford from Aus

Harvest.

L to R: Rodney Sommerville, Roz Redwood, Betty Archer, Kevin Boyd, Jocelyn Grant and Lyn

Thomson

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area were dealt a double jeopardy. Not only did the drought effect the farmers but bushfires ravaged the farms, stockyards, fencing and machinery was destroyed. Thankfully, their homes were saved from this carnage.

Cheques were received from the Disaster Relief Fund by the farmers and were gratefully received and appreciated.

Blaze Aid have also assisted re-building the lives of these folk by helping to clean the property of debris, re-building stockyards and several kilometres of fencing around the properties. Norco also generously donated and supplied equipment and materials to help rebuild.

Hornsby Branch

Members were asked and delighted to bake 320 Anzac biscuits by Bendigo Bank, Turramurra Branch for delivery on Friday to Meals on Wheels residents for Anzac Day.

We also baked 180 Anzac biscuits and 30 cotton face masks were sewn to fundraise for NSW Disaster Relief Fund in Turramurra and Berowra Branches. Happy to be serving the community again.

Jindabyne Branch

Preparing and serving the traditional Anzac Day morning tea is a highlight of the year for members of the Jindabyne Day Branch.

It’s also a highlight for the hundreds of people who turn out for the main service of commemoration in Banjo Patterson Park, many of whom cross the road to the Memorial Hall for their share of the goodies on offer. But not this year of course.

As Jindabyne resident and businesswoman Diana McInnes put it: “It just won’t be the same without the parade, the last post, the flyover by the local aero club, the horse riders from the Snowy Mountains Horse Riding Association and of course the CWA ladies who put on a huge spread in the Memorial Hall straight after the morning service with undoubtedly the best Anzac biscuits around.”

The Day Branch was contacted and a scheme to make their homemade Anzac biscuits available for this year eventuated! The deal was this: the bakers in the branch made Anzac biscuits and delivered them to Diana’s shop on the morning of 24th April where they were sorted into packs of 6 and 12, to be either sold at the shop from midday or to fill the online orders. Diana donated 100 percent of the proceeds back to the Jindabyne Day Branch.

Keiraville Branch

Our amazing team have knitted so far 19 beanies, 15 scarves and a rug to go to Picton CWA Branch to distribute to fire-ravaged Balmoral and surrounding areas.

Maitland BranchMaitland Branch celebrated International Women’s Day with a morning tea, wore Happy Women’s day pins and posed for photo

showing the theme “Each for Equal”.

Earlier in the year, the branch also held a juniors’ cookery and craft day where the children learned how to cook scones and made some craft items. Members also got together for a day to make birthing kits for PNG.

Manilla Evening Branch

Member Delma Sneesby and her husband Allen considered it “an absolute honour” to be presented with Patron badges at Manilla Show Society Inc’s 2020 exhibition.

Delma, raised on a dairy farm at Casino before becoming a school teacher in Manilla for 35 years, has been actively involved in the small town’s annual show since 1960 (hubby Allen since 1951) as an exhibitor, pavilion steward and Girl Friday in any area where help was needed. Allen also served three years as president.

Show officials approached the Sneesbys because of their dedication to the event according to show secretary/treasurer LouEllen Overton.

“Delma takes it very seriously, is enthusiastic about keeping the standard of the show at a certain level and is very passionate about

Delma and Allen Sneesby, proud recipients of Manilla Show Society Inc’s Patron badges. Photo

courtesy Manilla Express.

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Do you have a news item to share?

Please send your news item with a high quality photo to the Honorary Editor, Sue-Ellen Hogan via email: [email protected] or post: PO Box 1070, Tamworth NSW 2340.

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Send your own photo or a digital photo obtained from a journalist with permission to have it printed in the journal.

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▪ Capturing a good “in the moment” shot can be difficult. Photos often turn out better if people know their photo is being taken and are smiling (whether or not they are looking at the camera).

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▪ Smart phones and tablets can be a convenient way of taking photos but they often don’t have optical zoom or a good flash so get close and take the photo in good light.

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Your photos should be no less than 200kb (ideally over 1,000kb/1 mb).

the younger generation coming through,” LouEllen said.

For their long-time involvement in Manilla Show, Delma and Allen were made Honorary Life Members last year and were recipients of the 1997 Certificate of Service.

Manly Branch

Members recently donated more than 800 face masks to Brewarrina Hospital.

Many former residents have returned to Brewarrina to be with their family during the coronavirus crisis and the hospital had no masks to spare for the community.

Members have become involved with Brewarrina through the Bush2Beach program and received a call for help.

They were able to source commercial masks and member Judy LeGras made fabric masks. We dropped them to Angel Flight for delivery to Brewarrina.

Pambula-Merimbula Branch

Members have been cooking up a storm. We have delivered food to Cobargo and to the Towamba area. We are donating the food to the Blaze Aid organisation which helps communities rebuild after natural disasters. At the time of writing this, all areas are in lockdown. As soon as we are able, we will cook and deliver more food to Towamba.

Picton Branch

Member, Marjo Hallowel, was recently recognised for her many years of serving the local community with a Community Patron Award plus the Woman of the Year at the inaugural Wollondilly Women in Excellence Awards hosted by the WWIB in conjunction with this year’s International Women’s Day.

In 2019 she raised $5,000+ for the Leukaemia Foundation having her hair shaved on Studio 10 by Ron Moss and Angela Bishop in The World’s Greatest Shave.

Also, in October 2019 she rode 100 kms for the Children’s Medical Research Foundation raising $6,500 with her team of three young grandsons six, four and two. Marjo has ridden over 1000 kms and raised $13,000 over three years.

At the beginning of 2020 she started the Adopt a RFS Brigade website encouraging people to donate directly to brigades.

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Blue Mountains Group

The Blue Mountains Group recently held their Land Cookery and Handicraft Competitions. It was a

fun-filled day with many surprises. The photo features some of the First Place winners for the “Land” Cookery competition.

Far Western GroupWhile recent rain settled dust, replenished dams, lowered temperatures and inspired some green growth, it was not the drought-breaking amounts needed in Far Western NSW.

Branches in the Far Western Group spent the days prior to Christmas, sorting, packing and delivering donated goods to drought affected farmers in their area.

The goods, along with a number of monetary donations came from individuals and businesses in coastal areas and were intended to lift the spirits of people suffering the effects of drought. Monetary donations were used to purchase vouchers from local businesses.

Although the drought lingers on, many farmers view the recent falls with optimism. The generosity, care and concern shown by so many people has done much to restore confidence in the future and Western NSW sends a sincere thank you to all those who helped reduce the sense of hopelessness inflicted by drought.

From our Groups

L to R: Elane Morley (Penrith Branch), Alison Christie (Penrith Branch), Lorraine Wickert

(Blackheath Branch), Kathryn Hibbert (Blackheath Branch), Stephie Beseau (Glenbrook Branch), Dianne Louden (Leura Evening Branch)

and Carolyn Wong (Penrith Branch).

Dear members of CWA of NSW,

I write to update you on a few matters regarding the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) and also hope you enjoyed your “locked in” Easter and a little less locked in Mothers Day.

As with the rest of the world, ACWW Head Office has closed and all staff are working from their

homes. Committees are still meeting via Skype, Zoom or some other form of IT connection.

Women Walk the World, usually held on 29th April, was postponed till 15th October 2020 to coincide with International Day of Rural Women. This is a “one off” and God willing will be back to 29th April in 2021. You can walk any time that suits you—somewhere in the world someone will be walking.

The South Pacific Area Conference of ACWW that was to be held in Port Moresby, PNG in June 2020 has also been postponed to 12th to 15th March 2021. The pre and post tours will still run in March. All those who have registered will stay registered for 2021. If any further members now wish to register you will have until the end of December 2020 and the cost will be $390 for registration. Contact me if you wish to receive registration papers and information: [email protected] or [email protected] Ph: 0427 245 213.

I know many members who have registered to go to PNG

this June had gifts to take or were thinking of taking gifts for the Island women. These can be almost anything: cotton materials, sewing threads, wool/cotton and knitting needles as well as crochet cotton and hooks, children’s books, pencils etc, children’s clothing (boys and girls), baby clothing, toiletries, thongs—large sizes. The list is endless. Remember to pack scissors and sharps in your suitcase—not carry on luggage.

The team who pack the Mother & Baby Packs and Material Aid for the Islands do a fabulous job and I thank them on behalf of the Island societies.

Lyn Braico is working on an idea to transport gifts to PNG; however, she will keep you updated on that.

I emailed the members in Tonga and Fiji following the cyclones there in early March and heard back from Tonga to say there was no structural damage to homes; however, flooding happened again as it always does because the land is completely flat. To date I have not had a reply from Fiji.

All the Islands are in lockdown just as we are because of COVID-19.

Australia has had a good bashing—we are still in drought in many areas, we had the horrific bushfires, then flooding and now Covid-19. We are resilient and we will come through this.

I pray that you and yours all stay safe and well as we ride out this once in a lifetime pandemic.

Gail CommensACWW South Pacific Area President

ACWW South Pacific Area President letter

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67 years—aged 95.

CondobolinImelda Harris—ex Myamley where she held positions including President, Secretary, Delegate to State Conference and Councillor to Group; Life Member of ACWW; transferred to Condobolin where she twice held the position of President and was the Branch Patron; a supportive member who put her heart and soul into CWA; valued member for 52 years, sadly missed—aged 87.

GlenreaghJune McPherson—past President and Secretary; helped train the debutantes for CWA balls; renowned for her pikelets and caramel tarts; a cheerful and dedicated member for 56 years who lived on the family property for all of her 93 years.

GunnedahDorothy Barker—former member for 40 years; past President, Vice President and Cultural Officer; Patron for many years; remembered for her performances in plays and her sense of humour—aged 99 years and 10 months.

Jervis Bay DaySally Holland—ex Port Kembla, held many offices during her 31 years at Jervis Bay, including President, Secretary and Treasurer; awarded a Long Service Bar; instrumental in setting up the Jervis Bay Evening Branch; a keen cook and maker of jams and pickles; talented at handicraft; loved to perform on Cultural Days; missed for her mentoring skills; tragically taken at age 90 when she still had much more to give.

MerriwaRose Witney—past President on several occasions; a very good cook and efficient caterer who

worked hard for CWA and always shared her skills; a valued member for 24 years, fondly remembered and greatly missed.

NarromineWilma (Billee) Trethowan—Branch Patron since 2004; past President, Vice President plus several other roles; Councillor to Group for 34 years; a prize winning cook, talented at handicraft, and an adept potter; awarded a Long Service Bar; valued member for 40 years; a generous lady, sadly missed—aged 91.

Nelson BayJudith Lewis—loyal member for 11 years; Handicraft Committee member; always willing to help with a friendly smile.Peg Swan—former member for 23 years and past Branch Secretary; well respected by all; participated in all activities and much travelled—aged 91.Victoria (Vicki) Walker—former member for 3 years; a friend to all and well known for her wonderful pumpkin scones—aged 75.

Port MacquarieBarbara Toner—past Agricultural & Environmental Officer, participated in branch choir singing at nursing homes and special events; volunteered in the tea rooms for many years; she contributed to the branch in many areas and was always a voice at meetings; member for 13 years—aged 85.

SomertonPatricia Holyoake—new to the district and only joined last year; an enthusiastic and willing member in her short time, taken much too soon and sadly missed.Branch Secretaries please note: notifications should be mailed direct to State Office, or emailed to [email protected].

The following branches mourn the loss of valued members:

AdaminabyVal Henderson—past Treasurer and held various other positions; awarded a Long Service Bar and Life Membership; valued member for 41 years, remembered for her cheeky sense of humour—aged 90.

BallinaWilma Austin—ex Molong; past Secretary, Treasurer and International Officer, sharing her passion for travel and far-away places; inspired members with her reports and International Days; creative and gifted at handicraft and willing to help others; much loved member for 34 years—aged 85.

CanimblaDawn Imber—ex Broadwater, member for 66 years, rest in peace—aged 91.Hazel Seears—ex Cooma and Dalgety-Numbla Vale, awarded a 50 Year Medallion; member for 56 years—aged 92.

Carcoar-ManduramaValerie Munro—ex Lyndhurst, awarded a Long Service Bar, former Matron of the district hospital for many years, valued member for 24 years—aged 93.

Castle HillHelen Steffel—held a number of positions at Branch and Group; member of the State Handicraft Committee and Treasurer of the State Hospital Visiting Committee; made many friends and will be sorely missed; member for 21 years—aged 75.

CollectorBessie May—Branch Patron who held many positions; awarded a 50 Year Medallion; valued and much loved former member for

Garden of Remembrance

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Accommodation and Mini Ads

To advertise in the journal contact

Communications Coordinator, Leah

Gaskell, on 8337 0200 or [email protected]

Mini Ads are available on this page for Branches,

Groups or members’ businesses.

Larger ads are also available within the

journal.

Bermagui Seaside CottageThe CWA Bermagui Seaside Cottage comprises a family room off the kitchen and 2 bedrooms containing: queen bed and single bed, and twin beds. Cutlery supplied. Bring own linen. Enquires and applications to: The Secretary, PO Box 123, Bermagui [email protected]

CWA Members Outsourced Accommodation

The Metro Hotels Group has been chosen as the accommodation provider for the CWA of NSW. A 15% discount off the BAR (Best Available Rate) at the time of booking, when using the code, is available at Aspire Hotel Ultimo, Metro Hotel Sydney Marlow Central, Metro Hotel on Pitt, Metro Apartments on King and Metro Apartments Darling Harbour.

Booking should be made online via www.metrohotels.com.au or contact 1800 766 498 if you do not have access to the website.

The code must be entered (in the promotional code section when searching for rooms) or quoted over the phone to obtain the discount. The code can be obtained from the website (after logging in) or by calling CWA State Office. There is a new code starting from 1st February. The code can be obtained by calling State Office.

Please note: Peak season rates apply for City to Surf, NRL Grand Final, V8 Supercars and New Year’s Eve.

The Country Woman is produced on the instructions of Noelene Grainger the Honorary Editor of the Country Women’s Association of New South Wales, Level 2, 244 Coward St, Mascot, 2020. Typeset by Leah Gaskell, Country Women’s Association of New South Wales State Office and printed by Rural Press, North Richmond.

Epping (Sydney) Homestay Apartment

Lovely leafy short term/holiday fully self-contained furnished 2 bedroom apartment for rent – at the front

of our home (Separate entrance). Close to transport, hospitals

and unis. 2 night min stay. Linen and starter kit breakfast included.

From $90/night. Contact Kaye 0410 68 9915 or [email protected]

Mimosa CottageEnjoy our sunny Holiday House at

Scotts Head, near Macksville

Ocean and mountain views One double bedroom & one

twin, reverse cycle a/c, shops, club in village, great beaches, fishing. CWA discount out of

school holidays Ring owners for information

02 6247 0598, manager for bookings 02 6569 0447

Janet BurkhardtOld and Fine

BooksSpecialising in Australiana, Local and Rural History and

Australian Biography.Contact us for Mail Order

Catalogue.11 Larakia Street,

Waramanga ACT 2611Phone 02 6288 1939

CWA of NSW gratefully acknowledges your generosity

Community Partnership

Corporate Partner

Sponsors

Scott & Broad Insurance Brokers

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From lawn care to household repairs, Oak Tree takes care of all village maintenance, leaving you with less to worry about during isolation.

Rest easy

With all the maintenance taken care of, our residents don’t have to worry about relying on younger family members to look after the garden, fix things around the house or check on their welfare.

This is particularly comforting in the current environment, where family members are being advised to keep their distance from older relatives right now. We take care of all that for you, so you won’t have to go without or do it for yourself. There’s genuine comfort seeing the maintenance personnel arrive, knowing that things are just getting done, and our residents can simply focus on what’s most important.

At Oak Tree, it’s also reassuring to know that you can still have your own personal space, but that help from the village manager or a caring neighbour is never far away in times of need.

Never been a better time to decide

For anyone who has been weighing up retirement options, they’re finding that now is the time to take action and secure their future, and we’ve seen a steady rate of enquiries since the pandemic spread. The secure, community nature of our retirement villages is providing a welcome reprieve for residents.

Oak Tree Retirement Villages are committed to continuing our high-service standards for current and future residents, whilst also keeping our extended community safe. Our Village Managers are available to talk you through any questions or queries you have during this time and are hosting virtual property tours, private inspections and phone/video call meetings with interested buyers. Speak to our friendly team today, about the best solution for you.

To learn more about Oak Tree Retirement Villages or for a personal tour call 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au

Enjoy maintenance free living AT OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGES

Call 1300 367 155 oaktreegroup.com.au

From lawn care to household repairs, Oak Tree takes care of all village maintenance, leaving you with less to worry about during isolation.

Rest easy

With all the maintenance taken care of, our residents don’t have to worry about relying on younger family members to look after the garden, fix things around the house or check on their welfare.

This is particularly comforting in the current environment, where family members are being advised to keep their distance from older relatives right now. We take care of all that for you, so you won’t have to go without or do it for yourself. There’s genuine comfort seeing the maintenance personnel arrive, knowing that things are just getting done, and our residents can simply focus on what’s most important.

At Oak Tree, it’s also reassuring to know that you can still have your own personal space, but that help from the village manager or a caring neighbour is never far away in times of need.

Never been a better time to decide

For anyone who has been weighing up retirement options, they’re finding that now is the time to take action and secure their future, and we’ve seen a steady rate of enquiries since the pandemic spread. The secure, community nature of our retirement villages is providing a welcome reprieve for residents.

Oak Tree Retirement Villages are committed to continuing our high-service standards for current and future residents, whilst also keeping our extended community safe. Our Village Managers are available to talk you through any questions or queries you have during this time and are hosting virtual property tours, private inspections and phone/video call meetings with interested buyers. Speak to our friendly team today, about the best solution for you.

To learn more about Oak Tree Retirement Villages or for a personal tour call 1300 367 155 or visit www.oaktreegroup.com.au

Enjoy maintenance free living AT OAK TREE RETIREMENT VILLAGES

Call 1300 367 155 oaktreegroup.com.au

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the country woman

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