By MARG STORK
LIFE begins at 80 for the sprightly ladies of the Country Women’s Association Dandenong branch.
In the English tradition, an 80th anniversary is symbolised by the ‘oak’ — a fair symbol for our indomitable CWA.
Now it’s time for a knees-up for the 10 hardworking women who meet on the fourth Monday of each month.
Turning back the clock to 1933, we note there were 45 women at the first meeting in the Dandenong Town Hall (now the Drum Theatre).
A market stall was started, magazines and badges ordered, and cups and saucers were bought from Mr Crump’s store at the princely sum of sixpence per set.
To enjoy a convivial cup of afternoon tea, with scones and biscuits, members paid three pence each.
One of the ladies’ first initiatives was to seek improvement to the restrooms at the town hall.
They enjoyed holding craft demonstrations, making hooked rugs and gloves, and doing lacquer work.
Then World War II broke out and the CWA ladies added first aid classes to their curriculum, joining the Red Cross in its emergency work. Hampers were sent to the troops, refugee funds collected, airmen’s nets and gloves crafted and servicemen’s vests and slippers dispatched.
In June 1958, the Dandenong branch reached its zenith with 104 members.
The CWA’s craftwork has always been greatly admired and sought after. A ‘candlewick’ quilt they stitched two years ago drew well deserved public praise.
Craft meetings are held on the second, third, and fourth Monday of each month.
At the moment, fiddle cushions, which help dementia patients, are being made using materials the patients can stroke and which act as soothing balm.
Knee rugs are being sewn up for patients in aged-care or nursing homes.
Branch president Margaret Murray welcomes new members from any age group.
Tails a-wagging
We’ve all heard a dog (or any pet, for that matter) is a man’s best friend. And a legion of supporters ensures that friends are in abundance for those who need them.
People of all ages — from schoolchildren to retirees — work to help the Australian Animal Protection Society in Keysborough in its daily efforts.
They raise thousands of dollars a year to help the shelter staff and volunteers care for the menagerie brought to the shelter’s welcoming doors.
Not least of these volunteers is a small group of women from Springer Leisure Centre and the Keysborough walking group.
For eight years they’ve wrapped Christmas gifts at the Parkmore shopping centre. Last year they raised about $2800. A doggone great effort from a group that’s proved up to scratch!
What do you think? Post a comment below.
Do you have a milestone, memory or question for Marg? Email easteditorial@mmpgroup.com.au or post submissions to A Moment with Marg, c/o The Dandenong Journal, PO Box 318, Dandenong 3175.
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