Late last month the Bangalow CWA opened a Mothers and Babies Room and a Seniors Broadband Kiosk. President Sybil Johnson welcomed the many guests who included CWA Bangalow Patron, Mrs Emily Smith (a member for 43 years); Far North Coast President, Rita Nicholls; State Vice-President, Yvonne Scarabellotti; Byron Shire Mayor, Jan Barham and Lions Club representatives Robert Lotty and Michael Malloy.
The Bangalow branch of the CWA, formed in 1948, currently has 29 members and is very active in the community. They have raised over $23,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter over the years, recently sending them a cheque for $1000. The new Mothers and Babies facilities are designed to provide a changing room and quiet, private nursing area. Every Thursday, from 10am to 11am, the CWA will also host a morning tea for mums and bubs – a place to chat with other mothers or learn a craft and have a complimentary cup of tea. The Seniors Broadband Kiosk has a computer, provided by the Australian Government, so that those over 50 can learn how to use computers for sending emails and accessing the Internet. The renovations were carried out by Lions Club volunteers who were happy to help and found the work very rewarding.
Mayor Jan Barham, herself a member of the branch, commended the members for maintaining the strength of country women and keeping craft skills alive for the younger generations.
Patron Emily Smith cut the ribbon to officially launch the new facilities and then all enjoyed a beautifully prepared and served morning tea.
Words and pics by Judy Baker