By Cam Lucadou-Wells
With a sumptuous cake and a light-footed dance, Noble Park’s enduring Country Womens’ Association branch celebrated 60 years in style.
The members dressed in furs and flamboyant hats during the joyous celebration on 17 September.
The branch has managed to hold a strong base of 30 members – while others including the neighbouring Dandenong group battle to keep going.
Secretary Yvonne Smith says beside great cook-ups, crafts and dances, the group is about friendship and giving back to the community.
“The only way we lose members is if they move away or they’re not well.
“We think that’s pretty special – we must be doing something right.”
The branch’s good deeds include donating their hand-knits to charities such as Ronald McDonald House.
At Easter-time, their hand-made woollen chickens were handed to 192 young students at four specialist schools in the region.
The branch also holds fund-raising stalls, with each cent going to a worthy community cause.
“Our funds go straight to the people that need it.
“I’m a very proud member – I love it. I just think we do so much for the community.”
New members are always welcome to the meetings, twice a month at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre.
“You just have to be a willing worker,” Ms Smith says.
“You don’t have to have any special skills really.”
Details: 9547 7261 or yvonnesmith1565@hotmail.com
