The latest 2021 Census revealed Australia has almost 3 million voluntary workers in organisations and groups. 

Palmwoods CWA Branch has made its contribution to the Australian volunteer total for over 90 years and continues today. More recently the local branch has seen a hike in members joining. Thirteen new members joined from the sewing group alone.

Sewing instructor Georgea Rule, freely gives her time to teach sewing and patternmaking and has recently taken over as the Palmwoods Branch President. She said the new committee is very active.

“The 12 month to June total of volunteer hours for Palmwoods CWA was well over 6,000 hours including work in the edible garden, and planning of the next big event, an Open Day on Saturday 13th of August,” said Ms Rule.

“Planning and thinking of what to do next, then answering texts and emails is often not included in the calculations. The QCWA head office keeps a state record of hours. We use our recorded hours to help gain grant funding for community focused events and workshops.”

This year the QCWA is celebrating the one hundred year milestone. The Queensland Chapter was formed on 11 August 1922 at Albert Hall, Brisbane. Ruth Beatrice Fairfax was elected the first President.

As part of the celebrations for this special date, Palmwoods CWA is holding an Open Day on Saturday 13 August. Doors open to this free event from 9.30 am with the offical opening by President Ms Rule and cutting of the centenary cake.

Amongst the festivities will be historian Tony Millroy, presenting a pictorial and narration of the QCWA history at 11am. The Country Kitchens display includes giveaways with a free light lunch showcasing Australian foods at 12 pm.

As well, there will be a sewing display from members, and craft and quilt displays. The childrens’ International Day competition art entries will be available for viewing on a powerpoint display, and more.

“We invite everyone to come along and enjoy this momentous occasion,” said Ms Rule. “It will be a wonderful celebration of the history and work of the CWA.”

To find out more, contact email palmwoodscwa@gmail.com or find them on Facebook @PalmwoodsCWA for updates.