towards 2022

Enduring relevance

As the Association grows and responds to social and lifestyle changes, the model of QCWA Branch membership endures. It is the grass roots laid down by Ruth Fairfax and the founding group of women, who’s passion, commitment and desire to improve the lives of others still underpins the Association.

The activities of each branch continue to be driven by the interests of the local members, and the unique circumstances in their locality and community. Branches operate in rural, remote and regional towns as well as cities.

Activities range from education, cooking and craft competitions, workshops, networking events, international study, fundraising and advocacy.

The indispensable advocacy work starts at branch level. Resolutions such as access to Midwifery services, Patient Transport subsidy and education around Q Fever, are contributed to the annual State Conference. It is these issues which inform where the Association lobbies governments - Local, State and Federal - for increased awareness, improvement and ultimately, change.

Never shy of a challenge the QCWA set about building a commercial motel on a site at 89-95 Gregory Terrace, Spring Hill, Brisbane. Ruth Fairfax House trading as Motel on Gregory was officially opened in 2007.

The QCWA remains a beacon of hope and support in difficult times, for thousands of women and families across Queensland. The fundraising efforts of individual Branch members coupled with the Association’s capacity to garner corporate partnerships has sustained huge amounts of practical support to rural Queensland women and their families in times of drought, flood or other emergencies.

Between 2011 and 2019, the QCWA distributed, through its Public Rural Crisis Fund, over $10,720,000 approximately, to more than 4878 families in need, particularly in rural and remote parts of the state.

In recognising these achievements QCWA was inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame in 2013 and in 2019, received a Queensland Great Award for empowering and inspiring women across the state.

Currently, the QCWA has over 220 Branches and over 3500 members state wide.

As the QCWA advances towards the 100-year anniversary in 2022, this continuously evolving association prevails as a trusted, iconic and relevant organisation.

RUTH FAIRFAX

2022 CENTENARY

BECOME A MEMBER

The QCWA would like to thank the following for their valued support.