Anyone in Walgett looking for an office space to work from, short or long-term, need look no further than the CWA Hall where the co-working space was opened this week.

One of five halls given a make-over thanks to funding received by the CWA of NSW and Women NSW through the ‘Investing in Women’ program, the new space features the installation of high-speed internet connections, security access systems and office equipment with four dedicated working spaces.

Walgett CWA secretary, Christine Ford, said the celebration to open the building was well attended and featured some dignitaries to do the opening honours. These included Danica Leys, CEO of the CWA in this state, Jodie Harrison MP, Minister for Women and State CWA President, Joy Beames.

"This community space is amazing," Ms Ford said. "Our room hire has always been our primary means of covering costs like insurance and ongoing maintenance. Prior to this, we didn’t have any internet, so to be able to provide this now means our rooms are more attractive to people wanting to hire them.

When it comes to accessing the new co-working spaces, Ms Ford said the CWA committee is "flexible" to requests.

"We are happy to cater for long or short term hire," she said. "I'm excited to say that after the opening, we have already secured our first booking!"

The 45 people attending the opening were impressed with the facilities and the upgrade has also bought positive feedback on social media, many congratulating the group on bringing these resources to Walgett.

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.”

Canowindra and Dorrigo CWA Rooms have also had a makeover and their grand opening.

The local CWA building at Trangie only came on board as a location late into the project but will soon be opened as another co-working space catering for the rising demand for flexible working.