By Danielle Kutchel
The Kooweerup branch of the Country Women’s Association has elected a new committee for the coming year.
Joss Pohl was re-nominated as secretary for the second year and Cathy Stephens was nominated as president for a second year.
Dorothy Stokoe has taken up the mantle of treasurer for the first time.
Ms Stephens said she was glad to have a previous year under her belt as she took on the president’s role for 2019/20.
“There is so much involved in each committee position that the first year is a real learning curve.
“Luckily we have always had previous presidents to help us out along the way,“ she said.
The incoming president said the branch had a number of plans for the coming year, including continuing its tradition of providing Kooweerup with a Christmas tree in the Woolworths foyer.
Decorations are provided by local schools.
“It’s a real talking point that everyone gets a kick out of,“ Ms Stephens said.
The branch is also currently busy with reviewing applications for its Winn Pankhurst Memorial Scholarship, which awards one Year 6 student with a scholarship to assist with starting at their new secondary school.
A big focus for the branch will be the Cardinia Community Kitchen initiative, which is part of the Cardinia Food Movement.
Members will also continue to look for new ways to raise funds for the community. Past events have included a trip to the theatre, bowling competition and annual trivia night, as well as plenty of scone baking.
But being part of the CWA is about much more than that, the president said.
“We strive for a balance in our branch as it can’t always be about the dollar,“ Ms Stephens said.
“A big part of being a member of the CWA is the amazing people we get to meet and befriend along the way and we have all had similar reasons for joining.
“Being new to a rural area can be difficult and for myself it has been a fantastic way to meet some like minded locals and establish a support network of other women of all ages especially for those like me whose extended family are not close by.“
