I acknowledge Country Women's Association Awareness Week, which runs from Sunday 7 September until Saturday 13 September. The week shines a spotlight on the incredible work of the local branches of the Country Women's Association, while also drawing attention to a key issue each year. In 2025, the focus is on promoting the benefits of seasonal eating—a timely and vital message that encourages us all to rethink how we approach food in our daily lives. I am so lucky to have three active branches in my electorate: Belmont, Mannering Park and our newest addition at Gwandalan. Recently, I had the pleasure of catching up with members of the Gwandalan branch at the Lions markets at Gwandalan. They are absolutely blossoming, growing at a rate of knots and encouraging people to join and get active in the Country Women's Association. In addition, members of the Mannering Park branch were there helping them out, giving them guidance and assistance.

It was wonderful to see the allegiance between the two branches. I was deeply moved by their commitment and enthusiasm. These women are dedicated champions of our community who work tirelessly to uplift and support those around them. The Mannering Park branch continues to shine, with its recent Father's Day stall and raffle. In addition, its open days are an incredible celebration of creativity, with demonstrations of knitting, crochet, spinning, painting and, of course, some iconic scone making, which the CWA is most commonly known for. The Belmont branch is also undertaking a truly remarkable project: knitting blankets for elephants at a refuge in northern Thailand. This initiative, which began in April, has already seen three blankets completed and sent to Melbourne. It is a beautiful example of compassion that knows no borders. The Belmont branch has also created stunning quilts for Allira House and raised funds for Sailability, an organisation that opens up the world of sailing to people with disabilities in my local area and the beautiful Lake Macquarie.

This year the branch proudly celebrated its eightieth anniversary. One of its earliest triumphs was securing a baby health centre in Belmont, which still stands today and now houses Meals on Wheels. I congratulate the Belmont branch on 80 years of extraordinary service and on a legacy of care that continues to serve my community. All of our Country Women's Association branches are pillars of strength, compassion and community spirit. They provide social connection, support local causes and enrich our lives in countless ways. It may come as a surprise to members that the Country Women's Association is behind some of the biggest social and safety changes that have been seen in this country. Random breath tests; the compulsory wearing of bicycle helmets; sun safety with no hat, no play; speed-indicating signs; and 40-kilometre speed limits around schools were all initiatives of the Country Women's Association, which came together for the social good and safety of those in our community, particularly our children.

There is nothing like the Country Women's Association when the women get together. They are women who have a cause and an agenda and who work together for the betterment of society more broadly. I extend my deepest gratitude to every single Country Women's Association volunteer. Their dedication is inspiring and their impact is immeasurable. If people have ever considered joining the Country Women's Association, now is the time. It is truly an exceptional organisation, and our communities are stronger because of it. Whilst they are known for their scones—and, can I say, there are none better—they are so much more than that. I congratulate the Country Women's Association.