This record is a recipe calendar, containing one pudding recipe for each day of the year. It was created by the Country Women's Association of New South Wales in 1930 to raise money for rural and regional communities.
The Country Women's Association (CWA) was formed in 1922 so that women living in remote areas of Australia could connect with one another and seek improved access to health facilities. Today it is the largest women’s organisation in Australia.
This calendar was printed as a new and creative way to raise funds for rural and regional communities. A copy is held in the national archival collection because the CWA approached the government with a copyright application for the publication.
The foreword to the calendar reads:
'It is in her own home that a good woman is seen at her best. This Cookery Calendar has been compiled by such a one to assist her fellow women. On behalf of all those who need our help – we ask your support for this venture.'
This quote gives insight into the commonly held beliefs about women's roles in regional Australia in the early 1930s. It is also worth noting that the calendar was published during the Great Depression. The recipes therefore reflect the sorts of ingredients available to regional families during this time of economic hardship.
Today, CWA members advocate for their communities on a variety of issues; women’s health, education, domestic and family violence and issues that impact rural and regional people. They raise funds and awareness and build community through a wide range of activities. These include group meetings, stalls selling baked goods, assisting in medical research projects and lobbying the government for particular causes.
