The rich history of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) has been marked locally with the installation of a uniquely-designed hand-crafted seat in the Baradine Lions Park.

The commemorative seat was unveiled by members of the Baradine branch to celebrate 100 years of the CWA of NSW during the organizations Awareness Week on Tuesday, 6 September with Wendy Baldock, Castlereagh Country Group president also in attendance. 

Baradine branch vice-president, Irene Worrell said that the bench turned out exactly as the members had hoped.

“Our thanks go to Bernie Collison for donating the timber and Stephen Bennett for creating this distinctive bench seat for us,” Mrs Worrell said. “Made from Pilliga ironbark this bespoke seat reflects our forest and the natural environment beautifully. 

“More seating was needed in our local park and what better way to visible celebrate the achievements of CWA.”

Warrumbungle Shire Council contributed $500 towards the purchase of the seat from the community financial donations fund, with the Baradine branch contributing the remainder of the costs.

“Our thanks go to the Council for their help with this project,” Mrs Worrell added. “We appreciate their contribution and the valued assistance of their staff installing the seat.

“I believe that the CWA has successfully remained relevant throughout its 100-year history. It was started to help women in isolated rural communities; it was about helping each other and it still is doing just that today.

“I feel the future of the Association is strong; there is a lot more to the CWA than many people realise."