The Eungai/Stuarts Point CWA branch, which also celebrated its 60th birthday, hosted the 88th annual conference at the Stuarts Point Community Hall by treating guests to lunch and cake.

Stuarts Point Primary School students performed two songs before Oxley MP Melinda Pavey welcomed visitors by voicing an issue close to the CWA’s heart.

“20 years ago we had 5000 kids in out-of-home care and that has increased by 20 percent,” Ms Pavey said. “We now have over 700 kids in out-of-home care on the Mid North Coast.”

“We have some big challenges as a society but I know that, as a grass roots movement, we can have a big impact.”

Kempsey Shire Councillor Dean Saul praised the Stuarts Point community and the impact of the local CWA branch.

“I delight in coming to Stuarts Point on Anzac day because you can see how much of a warm, close, good community it is, “ Mr Saul said. “The Eungai/Stuarts Point CWA is a powerful group because you all come together and your voices are heard.”

CWA Honorary State Secretary Annie Kiefer officially opened the meeting after an entertaining speech about her adventurous life – which included working for The Beatles and babysitting John Lennon’s child – and speaking about the CWA’s modern relevance.

“We are not just tea and scones,” Ms Kiefer said. “We are about helping others. As volunteers we are not paid – not because we’re worthless, but because we’re priceless.”

“The CWA was formed by the desire for friendship and companionship and I think, as women, we still need that face-to-face contact.”

Guest speakers Gary and Colleen Waterson then presented information about Blaize Aid before lunch was served and new office bearers were elected.

The CWA is still the largest women's organisation in Australia and aims to improve conditions for country women and children by lobbying for change, aiding the local community and creating a network of support for women in rural areas. The organisation also promotes intercultural goodwill and its members regularly study other nations and cultures.