Doris with her CWA 20 years’ service medal
Like most Country Women’s Association members, Banksia Village resident Doris Harrison doesn’t seek the limelight. So, we were both surprised and thrilled to discover that Doris had recently been awarded her 20 years’ CWA Service Medal by her local Batemans Bay Branch.
Doris joined the Batemans Bay CWA in 1994 when she and husband Pat moved to the Eurobodalla, and has been an active member of her local branch. Until recently, when her health has prevented her from attending more regularly, Doris went to meetings every week and supported their local fundraising events and activities.
During her 20+ years with the Batemans Bay Branch, Doris served in a variety of roles including Vice President and also Catering Officer, with responsibility for coordinating and cooking for countless fundraising dinners, stalls and other events.
While most of us know how good a CWA scone is, we probably know much less about the organisation’s history and the incredible impact it has had in rural and regional areas across Australia.
Dot and Pat
The CWA was formed in 1922, with the purpose to “improve conditions for women and children and make life better for families, especially those living in rural and remote Australia”. As individual branches grew across the country the Association raised funds and set about establishing baby health centres, bush nursing services, maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest and holiday homes, and much more.
With around 44,000 members today across 1855 branches, the CWA has become an active and highly respected advocate for rural communities on social, educational, recreational and medical issues. Individual branches also play an important role in providing education, friendship and support for their members.
Among its many achievements, the Batemans Bay CWA Branch has supported the SouthCare emergency rescue helicopter service, donated books to local schools, and raised funds to support outback communities here at home and to establish wells in drought affected areas of Africa.
Doris received her 20 years’ Service Medal in August, with husband Pat proudly watching on. We’re very proud of her too!
We have a lot to thank Doris and all the other wonderful CWA members for – many of our communities just wouldn’t be what they are without these dedicated people.