Celebrating a milestone
Country Women’s Association Horsham branch members are hoping their numbers might swell after welcoming a group of special guests to their 85th birthday celebration.
Centre for Participation migrant learners performed a dance at the milestone event, in CWA Hall in Mcpherson Street on Friday.
Branch president Robyn Abbey said the celebration went well and she hoped several guests would consider becoming members.
“We have 15 members and we would like more,” she said.
“There’s a lot of ladies here from Centre for Participation today, who might be interested. They put on a dance for us, which was great.”
The birthday celebration included a meeting, two-course lunch and birthday hat and baby photo competitions.
Participants also enjoyed a birthday cake made by Marlene Schmidt.
Several Centre for Participation migrant learners shared their experiences of the day.
Migrant liaison worker Cecile Vence said engaging with the community was ‘such a privilege’.
“Being a community engagement leader, I feel this is truly beneficial for us because it gives us the opportunity to learn more about the culture and the community we live in, and learn to embrace each other’s differences,” she said.
“A huge thank you to their president,
Robyn Abbey, for reaching out to us.”
Sokan Sat said she was glad she had an opportunity to perform and participate.
“They’re very lovely, kind, fun and beautiful,” she said.
“It was so much fun. Food and dessert were delicious. I wish to join any activity with them again in the near future.”
Maria Cecilia Mahmood said the day was ‘interesting and fun’.
“I feel honoured being part of the event and I look forward to joining their future activities,” she said.
Hannah Lam said she would love to join CWA and spend time with the women, while Nerissa Navarro said she felt ‘loved and welcome because they are lovely and beautiful people’.
“It was fun being with them. I am so interested to be part of their events,” she said.
Along with encouraging connection and participation in community life, the birthday celebration also enabled the migrant women to practise conversational English.
The Horsham branch meets on the first Friday of each month in
CWA Hall. Ms Abbey said the group had been busy and was looking forward to a state conference in Ballarat in the next couple of weeks. There will also be a state craft exhibition in Ararat later in the year.
“We all enjoy being part of CWA, it’s a lot of fun,” Ms Abbey said.
“A lot of times we just get together for lunch or something at a local restaurant.
“Anyone who does want to join or learn more can come along or contact any of the members.”