The CWA Bungendore BRANCH
Bungendore Branch — 1939 to Today
The Bungendore branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) was officially formed on 10 June 1939. Prior to its establishment, a local town committee had overseen the operation of a Baby Health Centre, founded in 1936, under the leadership of Mrs P. Osborne, who served as president. She had welcomed Sister Muir as the first baby health sister in the district.
At the pivotal meeting on 10 June 1939, Mrs Osborne extended a warm welcome
to Mrs Frank Hyles, president of the Queanbeyan CWA, and invited her to address
those present on the objectives and work of the Association. Following this address,
Mrs L. Harrison proposed that members of the Baby Health Centre committee, along with interested visitors, form a local branch of the CWA. The motion was seconded
by Mrs Simpson and carried unanimously.
Meetings were held on the second Tuesday of each month.
The Bungendore branch quickly became part of the wider regional CWA network.
At the Group Conference held in Yass on 19 December 1939, Miss English, the group president, commended Miss Yeo for her careful management of finances. The group
had started the year with a balance of £6, and by the time of the conference, this had grown to £10!
Article in the Goulburn Evening Penny Post, Friday 21 July 1939, page 5.
The Bungendore CWA today
Today, the Bungendore CWA is a thriving, intergenerational community
of dedicated women who meet regularly at their own rooms located at
40 Gibraltar Street, Bungendore. While the heart of the CWA remains its commitment to service and community connection, the modern branch brings fresh energy to a proud tradition.
Members continue to champion local and national causes, raise funds for
disaster relief, women's health, and rural education, and provide support for families and individuals in need. The Bungendore branch is also known for its legendary scones, cakes, and preserves, which are sold at local markets and events.
But it’s not all hard work—members also gather to sew, knit, laugh, and share stories, keeping traditional skills alive while fostering deep friendships. From
craft mornings and cooking demonstrations to guest speakers, advocacy campaigns, and social get-togethers, the Bungendore CWA plays a vital role in both preserving heritage and responding to the needs of a changing community.
With open doors and open hearts, the Bungendore CWA welcomes new members of all ages and backgrounds, continuing a legacy of practical support, spirited fellowship, and quiet strength.
Our Sponsors and Supporters
ABOUT The CWA OF NSW
The CWA was formed in 1922 when country women were fighting isolation and a lack of health facilities. Within the first year, the Association was a unified, resourceful group that was going from strength to strength. The members worked tirelessly to set up baby health care centres, fund bush nurses, build and staff maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest homes, seaside and mountain holiday cottages - and much more. The women of the CWA have been initiators, fighters and lobbyists. They have made localities into communities by providing social activities and educational, recreational and medical facilities.
The CWA is the largest women's organisation in Australia and aims to improve conditions for country women and children. We reach that aim in various ways including lobbying for change, helping the local community, creating a network of support and meeting together in towns and cities. CWA of NSW is a member of the Associated Country Women of the World and through this organisation we support rural women world-wide.
Women from the country and the city in NSW and the ACT meet together to connect with others in their local area, fundraise and help set policies which are lobbied for at a state level. Members also enjoy cooking, handicraft, art and creative writing competitions as well as teaching skills to others.
As a member you can:
share friendship through a range of activities;
learn new skills;
become involved in the community, with schools and community groups in our area;
help with practical help in times of need; and
participate at State level in matters that affect your area.
