Branches mourn fallen friend

By Paul Dunlop
COUNTRY Women’s Association officials are mourning the impending closure of the Officer branch, but say the organisation remains alive and well around the district.
The Pakenham and Bunyip CWA branches have emphasised they are in no danger of suffering the same fate that has befallen Officer, which will cease to exist this month.
The Gazette reported last week that lack of support prompted Officer CWA officials to a make a heartwrenching decision to disband the 77yearold branch.
Officer secretary Gwen Monckton said ageing membership and an inability to attract new office bearers made it impossible for the branch to continue.
Pakenham CWA president Chris Johnson was sorry to see the passing of the neighbouring branch, but said the organisation was going strong in Pakenham.
It was a similar message at Bunyip, where branch president Nanette Balzary said there were 35 members.
“Our numbers are very healthy,” she said. “We’re going well.”
Ms Johnson said Mrs Monckton had played an integral part in helping to form the Pakenham branch about seven years ago.
She said any Officer members would be most welcome to join Pakenham.
“We have about 16 members, we’re growing, and we have a lot of fun,” Ms Johnson said.
Mrs Balzary said it was sad that groups such as the CWA were finding it harder to attract younger women.
“Lifestyles have changed, people are not as interested in volunteer work because their own lives are so busy,” she said.
“But without volunteers, small townships don’t get anything done.”
Mrs Monckton said she had received a strong response from the community after people read about Officer’s plight in the Gazette.
She thanked people for their support.
Branch president Beryl Chadderton, vicepresident Joy Hicks and Mrs Monckton are currently organising the branch’s farewell gathering.
Officer CWA will meet for the final time on 13 September.
For more information about the CWA in the local area phone 5941 1625 (Pakenham) or 5629 5860 (Bunyip).