Community & Business
6 March, 2026
CWA Evening Branch News - February 2026
The rundown from the Gilgandra CWA Eveing Branch February meeting, by Hilda Newstead.
By Hilda Newstead,
Gilgandra CWA Evening Branch publicity officer
Upbeat Gilgandra CWA back at it for 2026
The Gilgandra Country Women’s Association (Gilgandra CWA Evening Branch) held their first meeting for 2026 on Wednesday, February 18 at the CWA Rooms on Warren Road.
President Jessica Camlin-Reed welcomed members and visitors to the first meeting.
Jessica led us into the National Anthem and the CWA Motto. It was a most enjoyable beginning for 2026.
Our International officer Helen Oates provided the members to a wonderful Fijian dinner, comprising a chicken dish plus fruit salad and ice cream.
Fiji is the country of study for 2026.
Vivienne Gozzard, who paid a visit to Fiji last year, was our guest speaker.
Australia and Fiji have a close association in trade and investment. A fabulous table was on display with Fijian artefacts. What an interesting country to visit.
General Business
Other discussion points at the February Gil CWA meeting included a very well attended Australia day breakfast was served by The Gil Lions club and Gil CWA and that the Gil CWA Branch was also nominated in the event category ‘Group of the Year’ which was very much appreciated.
“We congratulate the Gilgandra Speedway on their very well deserved win (in that category),” the Gilgandra CWA said.
Further discussions included:
A very busy year ahead for us with many events being held at the Gilgandra CWA Rooms
Catering for the Macquarie Home Stay in Dubbo for the carers who stay at the Macquarie Home Stay whilst their loved ones are in hospital. An evening meal and desserts are served. It's a real joy to take our turn in serving the meal .
Catering for The Land Cookery competition, a very popular event. Many fantastic CWA cooks bring their amazing cakes and slices for the competition, as well the handicraft competition.
Attend the meet and greet evening at the RSL Club.
Catering for the Macquarie Group Council meeting.
All reports were well received.
President Jess is looking forward to all members to have a wonderful year of friendship and support one another.
International Report
Helen attended a well-attended International conference held in Dubbo at the RSL. Host was the CWA of NSW International committee.
CWA Markets will be held again this year.
Publicity Report
A good attendance for the Zoom meeting which was held last Thursday evening.
Up for discussion was, tips for publicity, including:
Adding pictures/photos to your report.
Try Canva, there are some great free designs you can use on their website. We are receiving a great response to our Publicity Support Forum competition. All publicity officers from CWA of NSW Branches are qualified to provide a portfolio/USB, whichever suits that branch, to enter the CWA of NSW Publicity Award.
Agricultural and Environmental Report:
Fauna study - Glossy Black Cockatoo:
Fewer than 8000 black Cockatoo exist in the wild, climate change and invasive species all pose a significant threats to the survival of this iconic bird, black glossy cockatoos -only eats Sheoak nuts and these are diminished due to urban and other development.
At the conclusion of the meeting, president Jess spoke about how Gilgandra CWA enjoyed a most wonderful 2025.
The organisation is looking forward to seeing what the branch can accomplish together.
“I know we have the talent to make this year 2026 a huge success,” the Gilgandra CWA stated.
“With great teamwork and our combined skills, offering drought relief, paying medical bills, and providing support to the community where needed .
“Looking to a wonderful year of friendship and camaraderie to all our members.”
