A Garden Party celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) at “Marinya”, the former home of Mrs Ruth Fairfax, the founding president of the organisation, drew a large crowd of branch members from a wide area along with local and visiting dignitaries.
Close to 400 people joined the party, which featured a range of stalls along with an official ceremony which included the unveiling of plaque by Tim and Gina Fairfax.
Mayor of the Toowoomba Region, Paul Antonio was among guest speakers and said the QCWA was an important part of the Region’s history.
Mayor Antonio spoke of the dedication and achievements of Ruth Fairfax as she worked to extend the reach of QCWA.
He said it has become the largest and most widespread women’s organisation in Queensland.
The Mayor said the Toowoomba Region has a very strong culture around helping people and the work of the QCWA is aligned with that culture.
Member for Condamine Pat Weir spoke of the continuing relevance of the QCWA today while Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki spoke of the continuing support the organisation provides for the community.
L-R: Among those enjoying the day were Vale View resident Margaret Gallagher who’s a member of Middle Ridge branch, Lydia Woods (Pittsworth) and Cr Melissa Taylor;
Felton Hall Committee members Graham Schmidt, Graeme Lotz (president), Tex Barrett, Greg McKee and Phil Sissman were cooking up a storm to help feed the large gathering. Photos: On Our Selection News
A 100th birthday cake was cut by the State International Officer for QCWA Barbara McMillan, the president of the Darling Downs Division Phoebe Mitchell and a long serving member of the Kingsthorpe branch, Marie Ehrlich.
Later in the day Regional Councillor Nancy Sommerfield acted as compere for “Ten Decades of Fashion”.
Tim Fairfax AC is a grandson of Ruth Fairfax and after addressing the gathering mingled with those in attendance.
This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 30 March 2023.
Related story: A century of QCWA celebrated in style
