The Country Women’s Association of NSW celebrates its centenary in 2022.

There have been active branches in the Illawarra region since the Wollongong branch was established in 1933. A Rest Centre in Wollongong's Burelli Street, which opened in 1938, was a haven for local women and their children. Unfortunately, it was demolished to make way for the development of retail space.

Known for their cooking and handicraft competitions, CWA women are also involved in lobbying government about community issues and fundraising for disaster relief. Members of local branches were interviewed for Illawarra Stories. They convey the valued place of the association in women’s lives and the variety of activities undertaken by the branches.

Local members were invited to the opening of the mural of large photos of the local history of the CWA mounted in Bonacina Walkway on the side of Wollongong Library to celebrate the centenary.

Visit illawarrastories.com.au/country-womens-association-stories