Hay trucks, dwindling dams, fewer stock, stories of human tragedy, shop closures in tiny towns. These are reminders of the widespread and on-going drought affecting our region and many other regions across NSW. At the same time we are challenged with conflicting views on land uses – with coal seam gas, sand quarries, and housing developments competing against agriculture and tourism.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
CWA has a long history of commitment to matters affecting women, families and rural communities. At the recent state conference in Armidale, members discussed and voted on agricultural issues for the CWA to advocate in the coming year with government. Issues such as feral animals, compulsory water metering within the Murray-Darling Basin and ram sales with/without brucellosis certificates.
The agriculture and environment officer is prominent within each CWA branch, seeking opportunities for members to visit and learn about agricultural activities in their region, follow media discussions and information, and hear speakers share information or discuss important local issues.
Many CWA members have had a life on the land, running businesses and managing farms. Others have qualifications in agriculture, are passionate about their rural community, or have other specific skills. Frances Simons of Exeter branch breeds Square Meaters cattle, a breed nominated by Wollondilly Group as a candidate for agricultural product promotion.
All members can attend the State CWA Agriculture and Environment seminar, to be held at Narromine in September. Here, members share their knowledge and experience, and can learn more about our environmental and agricultural heritage.