GNOWANGERUP COUNTRY WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION

The Gnowangerup branch of the Country Women's Association was first formed on 27th June 1930, but for some unknown reason it lapsed. It was later re-formed in May 1932 and then it's active life began. Forty women attended the first meeting.

The first President was Mrs. Ruby Herbert, who held the position for three years, the Secretary was Mrs. Eva Rowe, who gave seven years to that office and the Treasurer was Mrs. E. L,Wellstead who also held that position for seven years.

THE C.W.A. ROOMS IN  McDONALD STREET           #1
 

Meetings were held in the R.S.L. room in the Memorial Hall at a rental of two shillings and sixpence (25 cents) per meeting. In early 1938 a block of land was purchased in the main street at a cost of 120 pounds ($240). A block of land was later bought in McDonald Street at a cost of 50 pounds ($100). The previous block was sold for 250 Pounds ($500). Plans were drawn up for a new building by a Mr. Walters of Fremantle. After a great deal of fundraising by holding stalls and catering for sheep sales, tenders were called for the building. A local builder, Mr. Ernie Bennett, who tendered a quote of 2000 pounds ($4000), was accepted. The timber was carted from a timber mill in the south west by voluntary labour. On 17th December 1953 the rest room became a reality. The room and a small cottage known as "Wirrina" as now valued at about $40,000 (1993), an achievement of which all past and present members are proud

GNOWANGERUP COUNTRY WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION  MAY 1938           #
A GROUP OF C.W.A. MEMBERS INSPECTING THE CURRENT REST ROOMS SITE PRIOR TO BUILDING IN 1939
L - R:   Mrs GIBBON, H. BLUNDY, Mrs J. SHIELDS, Mrs A.J. BLUNDY, Mrs J. FIRTH, Mrs BRETT, Mrs MARSHALL,
State President Mrs L. CRAIG, Mrs JURY, Mrs HOWELL, RITA PROSSER
 

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Copyright : Gordon Freegard 2024