Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland): On the first weekend of May this year, 400 members of the NSW Country Women's Association visited Bega Showground for the CWA's 99th Annual State Conference. On the fourth and final day of the conference state award winners were announced, acknowledging the tremendous work of the many dedicated and talented country women from across the state. While I congratulate all of these women, I would especially like to acknowledge the three special country women from Maitland who were recognised in the awards.

Congratulations to Sandra Fox of Maitland Branch who won second prize in 'The Art Section' for Mixed Media. Congratulations also to Barbara Read and Jenny Geczy from the East Maitland Branch. Barbara was won second prize in 'The Land Section' for Knee or Cot Rug sewn using natural fibres and Jenny won third prize in 'The Land Section' for Felted article or Garment.

Well done to all of these women on their achievements in craft and your continued work as members of the Country Women's Association, the largest women's organisation in Australia, working to improve conditions for country women, children and regional communities.

Congratulations to all NSW country women who participated in the awards.