New book outlines history of CWA on Coast

As NSW Country Women’s Association (CWA) members all over the state celebrated 100 years of serving their communities last year, Woy Woy branch member Johanna Reygersberg was working on a history of the CWA on the Central Coast.

There are 13 branches in the Northumberland Group, incorporating the Central Coast, Hornsby and Morisset branches.

Some branches are small, with just over 10 members; others have more than 50 members.

As branches throughout the region celebrated the 100-year milestone, Lisarow/Ourimbah, Somersby, Tuggerah Lakes and Woy Woy branches also celebrated their 90th bithdays. Terrigal Branch is the oldest in the group and celebrated its 92nd birthday.

To celebrate the special centenary year Reygersberg researched and collated the history of all the Northumberland branches; 26 in total, of which 13 branches are still blooming and growing.

“I became quite intrigued when I started reading about the beginning of some branches,” she said.

“There was so much going on in the early years.

“So I wanted to know more about the other branches’ beginnings.

“How did they start, and why?

“Who were those women who cooked and knitted, held craft or cooking demonstrations and card games afternoons, all raising money to start the branches?

“They often started Rest Rooms and Baby Health Centres as well.

“Ninety years ago there was … no help with baby care.

“Here on the Coast, transport was limited and women had to travel by foot or by boat to get to the CWA Rest and Baby Health Centres.

“Women were often very isolated and thus enjoyed the friendship of other members very much on these occasions.

“The mothers were taught baby health care and also learned from each other, sharing crafts and cookery skills.

“They liked social gatherings and knew how to throw a big party.

“Their stories are fascinating and my appreciation of what these women did over the years grew and grew.

“So, I began a two-year journey of research and writing.

“I do hope that reading the CWA branches’ history will bring insight and as much enjoyment as it did me.”

This group history book is available by ordering online at thejo@optusnet.com.au for $15 plus postage.

Delivery or pick-up could be arranged.

Source: Northumberland Group CWA apartments now open