The most recent meeting of Gilgandra CWA heard of the pioneering work of its early members in the 1920s and 1930s who worked tirelessly setting up branches and opening child welfare centres throughout NSW.

The subject came up following the donation of two antique cookbooks from the organisation’s early days, that were donated by Mrs Pat Foran.

The meeting started with President Jess Reed reflecting on the success of their Gilgandra Show kiosk, with funds raised going towards helping people in need in the local community.

A local volunteer day held at 'The Hub' was also well-attended, with Jess thanking CWA Members Emily and Vivienne for participating and organising a CWA stall on the day.

“The CWA rooms on Warren Road also continue to be rented out on a regular basis for parties and other events, providing much-needed funds to enable the upkeep and improvements to these rooms whilst providing services to the Gilgandra Community,” Gilgandra CWA Evening Branch Publicity Officer Hilda Newstead said.

“Local groups able to meet weekly at the venue include the CWA Windmill Yarners and the Gilgandra Quilters; these groups provide a valuable opportunity for residents to meet weekly and enhance their skills, provide completed quilts, rugs, and baby items to the needy, and enjoy friendships and morning tea,” she added.

A highlight for many at the meeting, however, was Mrs Foran’s donation of two fabulous pre-loved CWA recipe books from the 1930s.

The First CWA Cookbook edition was published in 1931, with this recipe book belonging to Pat's grandmother, Tess Power, Mrs Newstead revealed.

“We are very grateful to inherit such CWA cookbooks, they will be treasured in our rooms in a glass cabinet.

“Amongst the many amazing recipes were from Mrs Grace Munro, co-founder and first CWA of NSW State President in 1922; Mrs J Sawyer, also one of the earliest state president (1928–1938); five local CWA Members within Macquarie Group also featured in the recipe books,” Mrs Newstead explained.

These members included Mrs McKellar, first elected President of the Gilgandra CWA Day Branch; Mrs CM Stewart from the Collie Day Branch; Mrs M Johnson from the Eumungerie Branch; Mrs A Buckly from the Mendooran Branch; and Mrs T Beasley from the Dubbo Branch.

Vexing issue of the biological threat, red imported fire ants (solenopsis invicta), was also subject of a motion presented by the Macquarie Group at this year's conference in Wagga Wagga.

“Most of NSW has been free from fire ants,” Mrs Newstead said.

"Nests found in South Murwillumbah in 2023 and Wardell in 2024 were destroyed, and surveillance and treatment are ongoing in partnership with the national eradication program.”

This year for the handicraft competition, members are encouraged to do a plate of food, all done in a “craft” style. The four pinchions in a shoe-box competition was also a great success, as there were 29 entries at this year's conference, Mrs Newstead said.

“The International Report also heard of the study of Korea; home to a diverse range of mammals with a total of 125 identified including both land and marine species,” Mrs Newstead said.

“Some notable examples include the Asiatic black bear, the Korean hare, the Siberian musk deer, and various species of seals and whales,” she concluded.