CWA Bairnsdale Amaroo held its monthly meeting on Monday, November 3, welcomed by president Olivia Harwood.
The welfare report noted that Lois has been caring for member Helen during her hospital stay.
This year’s product of study – hemp – proved fascinating. Lois shared her discoveries, including toilet soap made from hemp oil and other innovative items crafted from the versatile plant. Members found the study both informative and interesting.
Joann presented on country of study, Sri Lanka, focusing on traditional clothing. Sri Lanka is known for its colourful and diverse costumes, with each region having its own style. Key garments include the saree (osariya), a long fabric wrapped into a dress; the sarong, worn around the waist as a skirt; the veshti, a lower-body wrap; the kurta, a tunic worn by men; and the cheethtaya, worn by women. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton and silk are commonly used. After the meeting, members enjoyed a shared lunch featuring Sri Lankan cuisine.
Members recently had a productive day at Clifton Waters Retirement Village, with eight ladies participating. Karen created a quilt from strips of material, while others made hand-sewn hearts, some of which were placed in the funeral parlour for families and friends. Over the year, the ladies also made trauma dolls, knitted teddies distributed across Bairnsdale Hospital and other facilities, and bereavement bags to support the community.
During the annual general meeting, Olivia was nominated as president and other positions were filled. Olivia and fellow members have contributed significantly throughout the year, teaching Scouts boys and girls knitting, hand sewing, scone making, jam making, and honey ANZAC biscuits. Olivia also provides scones for the Library After Dark program’s supper break.
The club has enjoyed a year of interesting speakers, flower competitions — with Jenny Crane taking this year’s prize — and community support initiatives. Members look forward to 2026, with a new country and product of study to explore.
CWA Bairnsdale Amaroo invites new members seeking great company and like-minded fellowship. The next home meeting will be held on the first Monday in February at the Bridge Club Hall, 9.30am for a 10am start, followed by a shared lunch and possibly some Christmas carols.
