Page 14 - The Outdoor Showman April-June 2023

QCWA
The tyranny of distance: it’s a Street crash plunged the world and
Queensland Country
Women’s Association
concept Queensland woman have always understood. In the 1920’s, places we now deem remote were often truly isolated.
Against this backdrop, Ruth Beatrice Fairfax set about building
a collegiate, focussed, and resilient organisation when she was appointed founding President in 1922. Her personal commitment and travel throughout the state lead to the creation of 283 Branches with 13,000 members by 1928.
Ruth’s influence extended further when in 1929 she was instrumental in forming the Associated Country Women of the World. In recognition of her community work Ruth was awarded the Order
of the British Empire (OBE) in 1935.
Formed on values of enabling the women of Queensland to come together to support communities, while celebrating their interests and forging friendships in a respectful and caring environment; the QCWA has been a beacon of connection for over 100 years.
At the time, Australia’s economy was severely strained from falling wheat and wool prices, competition from other commodity producing countries and vast national borrowings. The ensuing 1929 Wall
Australia into economic depression and brought widespread despair.
Unemployment reached 32 per
cent in 1932. During these disparate years, true to form, the QCWA branch members, provided sustenance to many rural and remote families.
During World War II, 1939 and 1945, QCWA branch members stepped to a higher level, working incessantly, providing a staggering list of equipment, produce, goods, and services supporting the
war effort in myriad ways.
Over the ensuing decades, countless QCWA initiatives have continued in
some way. Many provided invaluable and practical support in country towns and villages, to women and their families such as rest rooms near railway stations; hostels with medical care for expectant mothers; educational bursaries; shark proof bathing enclosures; aged care accommodation; cardio-phones and x-ray equipment to country hospitals; family holiday accommodation cottages; access to medical and dental treatment; and in 1938, the Emergency Housekeeping Scheme.
Continuing their demonstrable support for Queensland women and families suffering from natural
Connecting and inspiring for over
100 years
disasters or other crises the Public Rural Crisis Fund, was established
in 1990. Members worked tirelessly raising millions of dollars for direct practical assistance, such as providing grocery store vouchers and credit with essential suppliers or paying household bills. By helping in this way, not only is the recipient assisted, but the money stays in the local community, extending the benefit.
State President, Sheila Campbell explains “Our branches are our heartland. This is where members connect, share, and learn.”
QCWA’s indispensable advocacy work starts at branch level, where issues important to that branch are raised and conveyed to State Office for inclusion
in the annual State Conference. Issues can be broad, varied, and changeable; locally focused or state-wide.
12 THE OUTDOOR SHOWMAN