As part of its centenary celebrations, the Narromine branch of the NSW Country Women’s Association (CWA) took locals on a trip down memory lane late last month at a special screening of historic photos at the Narromine Library. 

About 20 people enjoyed the event on April 29, which screened the presentation showcasing 125 photos sourced by the Narromine Local History Group. The photos were part of a rolling powerpoint presentation that had featured at the CWA’s centenary dinner in early March. 

So many guests at the centenary dinner commented on the photos – and recognised themselves in the photos – that the branch decided to hold a special screening for other local residents who were not able to attend. 

“This is the CWA’s history, but it’s also your history,” Narromine Library Coordinator and CWA member, Gabrielle Teale-McEvoy, told those attending the screening. 

The photos charted the history of Narromine’s CWA branch, which formed in late 1923. From photos of the first meeting places through to events and the many strong stalwarts who powered the association through the decades, the screening brought back many memories for those present. 

A selection of photos from the screening have been provided to the Western Plains App for this story.  

Photo: Violet McKillop spearheaded local CWA wartime support.

Our first photo features Mrs Violet McKillop, who spearheaded local CWA efforts to assist during World War II. CWA members were busy collecting comforts, knitting socks, pullovers and balaclavas, making camouflage nets and collecting sheep skin pelts to make into vests. Mrs McKillop was in charge of this activity, holding a meeting each week to gather and pack the articles. 

Photo: Miss Laura Rawson (now Forrest) and Mr Bob Crawford at the CWA Period Ball, July 1951, representing the 1926 period. Mrs Forrest was present at the centenary function

Some of those attending the screening remembered the CWA Period Ball which was held in July, 1951, in the Soldier's Memorial Hall. The hall was decorated with streamers of blue and gold, the Association’s colours, and baskets of flowers were arranged on the stage. The ball featured a parade showcasing costumes worn from 1905 to 1951 and a waltzing competition. 

The President of Trangie CWA, Mrs N.L. Ryrie, officially opened the ball, which raised £140. The parade was compered by Mr Val Butler, and the waltzing competition was won by Mr Auld and Miss Leader of Dubbo. In our photo, Miss Laura Rawson, now Forrest and a spritely nonagenarian, was present at the CWA centenary function on March 10. 

In 1985, a surprise birthday luncheon was held to celebrate the 90th birthday of one of the best known and most respected women in Narromine – Mrs Maisie Ballhausen, BEM. 

Although involved in many organisations, Mrs Ballhausen found her real love in CWA and the Red Cross. After 60 years of faithful service, she was made a life member of both organisations.  

Photo: Super fundraiser, Shirley Allison.

Our final photo also hails from 1985. Mrs Shirley Allison, a President of Narromine CWA and Narromine Country Woman of the Year, was declared the Far West Group winner at a gala dinner held in Nyngan. In a fundraising campaign, Mrs Allison had raised more than a quarter of a million dollars – an exceptional effort by anyone’s standards. 

Sourcing the photos and planning the presentation for the CWA centenary was a labour of love for the hardworking volunteers from the Narromine Local History Group, including Norma Meadley, Mary Morris, Sally Anderson, Shirley Alderton and Geoff Smith. 

“Some 125 photos were sourced in less than six weeks thanks to Norma and her team,” said Ms Teale-McEvoy. 

“Going through 100 years of papers has been a mammoth job. The press were extraordinary back then. There was so much to read in those old papers,” said Mrs Meadley 

Julie Davis was one of the locals who attended the presentation on April 29. “I think this has been great. I’ve met some of those in the photos since I’ve been living here. The photos bring back happy memories, start conversations and help with socialisation.” 

Anne Harmer also enjoyed the presentation. “So many memories of days gone by, and lots of beautiful people who did a lot of work for the community,” she said. 

Sarah Ballhausen attended the presentation at the library after seeing her grandmother, Maisie Ballhausen, and mother Jacqui Ballhausen, in the photos screened at the centenary function. 

“I burst into tears. Happy tears. We all grew up with the CWA playing a major role in our lives,” Ms Ballhausen said.  

“What a great pictorial across the years and the work the CWA has done in the community,” said Narromine CWA Treasurer, Lyn Newton. 

The presentation was followed by a delicious morning tea provided by the Narromine CWA members. The CWA will continue its centenary reflections through the year.