Back in February, Walgett CWA Hall was chosen as a pilot branch to receive funding to transform their meeting hall into a co-working space.

At the time, Walgett CWA secretary, Christine Ford, said the group was excited about the planned transformation which would incorporate facilities allowing other community members to hire out office spaces.

Just over six months later and the group, which was established in 1924 are busy planning the opening of the new facility.

 "We had no internet in the hall at all previously, so to have that installed, as well as a new printer is fantastic. It is a great thing for the community, one hundred per cent," Ms Ford said.

Ms Ford said the committee hoped the new co-working space will attract local people and put the space to good use.

"We have four separate working spaces in the one room and we are particularly excited about the new AV set-up meaning things like zoom meetings will be able to be arranged."

Funded by CWA of NSW and Women NSW through the ‘Investing in Women’ program, the Co-Working Spaces Project involved CWA of NSW halls in Canowindra, Dorrigo, Walgett and Trangie and has enabled the installation of high-speed internet connections, security access systems and office equipment. Trangie only came on board as a location late into the project and so opening details are still to be arranged.

CWA of NSW President Joy Beames said, as well as providing a practical and functional work and study space equipped with fast and reliable connectivity, the intention of the project was also to promote socialisation across the community by presenting opportunities that may not have otherwise been accessible. 

“These halls are in small communities where similar facilities are limited, particularly when it comes to high-speed and reliable internet connections that are so vital in our society today. Building connections with other like-minded individuals is also so important, and again, in smaller towns there are often not the same opportunities as there are in bigger places for the likes of networking events and training sessions,” Ms Beames said. 

“Our CWA halls have always been important hubs in country communities, and we hope this co-working spaces project will add a further dimension to their significance and utilisation.”

Ms Ford said preparations for the facility's opening on 28th October are well underway

"We are planning a morning tea and have quite an impressive guest list including the NSW Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison and the President of NSW CWA, Joy Beames," she said.

The first launch of the co-working spaces project took place at Canowindra in late September followed by the Dorrigo launch. Plans for the Trangie launch will be announced in the weeks to come.

Walgett CWA look forward to hearing from any community member wishing to access their impressive new co-working space.