Namoi Group CWA reflects on year of community service

The Namoi Group Country Women’s Association has celebrated a year of community service, recognised branch achievements and elected its leadership team at its annual general meeting in Curlewis.

Hosted by the Gunnedah and Curlewis branches, the meeting welcomed distinguished guests, including representatives from neighbouring groups and state international officer Carolyn McMullane.

Keynote speaker Hayley Hausfeld, a long-serving paramedic working in Gunnedah and a member of the Gunnedah branch, shared insights into her career and her trip to Nepal before officially opening the meeting.

Reports from office bearers highlighted the wide variety of activities undertaken throughout the year, with the group’s efforts at AgQuip its major focus.

The group also expressed its gratitude to the supporters and volunteers who contributed to its work.

Quirindi took out several honours, with Ronda Hatch winning the international doll award and the branch receiving first place for its branch report. Tambar Springs placed first in the culture report, while Goolhi won the handicraft report and best attendance for branches with fewer than 15 members.

Manilla Evening won the best attendance award for branches with more than 15 members, while its publicity report placed first, ahead of Curlewis in second place.

Quirindi and Manilla Evening shared the award for most new members, while Tambar Springs placed second and Bellata third in the best branch report category. Manilla Evening received a highly commended award.

The meeting also recognised the group’s financial support for the community, with the grants coordinator reporting that two medical grants and seven Namoi Group grants had been awarded during the year, totalling $6500.

Several motions and advocacy matters were raised during the meeting, including a Manilla Evening motion concerning increased wages for apprentices and a Maules Creek motion regarding air pollution monitoring.

Quirindi also requested letters be sent to state member Kevin Anderson supporting continued government funding for independent preschools in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

A further request was made for a letter to be sent to federal member Barnaby Joyce seeking a review of legislation allowing aged care providers to charge residents additional fees for extras such as televisions in their rooms and hot breakfasts.

The branch argued that these basic amenities should be included in aged care fees rather than attracting additional charges.

The meeting concluded with the election of the group’s office bearers, with Jo-Ann Little elected group president, Rebecca Beattie appointed group secretary and state executive representative, and Bette Langton elected group treasurer.