NEWS Of The Area joined more than 600 delegates and another 200 observers at the Country Women’s Association’s 103rd State Conference in Wagga Wagga last week.
In a statement to media ahead of the conference, CWA of NSW president Joy Beames said, “The high number of motions delegates will be asked to vote on this year reflects the commitment from our members to their communities and the importance of highlighting issues impacting the lives of those in remote, rural and regional NSW communities.”
The theme for this year’s conference, “From isolation to innovation – the threads that bind”, aptly highlighted how women from all over NSW came together to discuss over 40 motions regarding education, health, the environment, agriculture, transport and telecommunications.
These motions ranged from calling on the state government to prioritise feral pig control, to reopening the regional seniors travel card program, to urgently calling for a review of ambulance services.
“Advocacy has always been at the heart of our association and that has certainly come to the fore this year,” Ms Beames said.
Belinda Williams and Robyn Jones from Nambucca Valley Evening Branch sat down with News Of The Area during the conference for a quick Q&A .
What are the biggest issues in your community?
“The biggest concern in the Nambucca Valley is the lack of access to GPs, which puts further pressure on A&E at local hospitals,” they said.
“Domestic violence and the lack of housing are also pressing issues.
“Due to the current flood disaster, the most important issue is the recovery of all those affected.
“We will be making ourselves available to support our community in whatever capacity we can.”
How is your branch unique demographically?
“The best things about our branch are inclusiveness, friendship, kindness and a willingness to support activities so we can help those in our community.”
By Pauline CAIN
