ROSEWOOD Country Women’s Association rest room was officially opened on March 28, 1925 following the Rosewood Show of 1924, and by request from the Governor of Queensland Sir Matthew Nathan.
“As a result of a huge response, the Country Women’s Association (CWA) then opened a Grandchester and Marburg Branch in 1927, where over 100 members were involved,” David Pahlke from the Rosewood History Group said.
“In 1952, the rest room closed, meetings were then held in private homes or local halls, until 1969, when a fund was launched to obtain a new rest room.
“The former National Bank building in John Street was purchased for $500, and was opened as the new CWA headquarters in 1974.
“This building was originally built as the Royal Bank in 1887.”
The building burnt down in 1914 in a fire that destroyed the Rosewood Hotel and eight other buildings.
It was rebuilt and in 1917 it became the Bank of Queensland.
“In 1922, the Queensland National Bank took over the building until finally the National Bank of Australia commenced in 1948.”
David said the CWA quickly became a large resourceful, influential women’s organisation and the members worked tirelessly to set up many support networks for local families.
“The Rosewood CWA in particular have been heavily involved in supporting the Rosewood community through events, disasters, celebrations and CWA milestones.”
Rosewood CWA International Officer Gaylene Stack said that the talk was very informative and gave an insight into what the CWA was all about.
“With a long history, our branch is still active which is great to see, because throughout the years many other branches have had to close their doors,” she said.
“Our aim is to keep our branch active for as long as possible, because it is a great way for women to come together to share skills, and to support each other.”
