St Arnaud Rural Women leading community initiatives

St Arnaud Rural Women have had a busy first half of 2024 as they engage in meaningful community initiatives, contributing positively to their local area.

“Where to start,” says St Arnaud Rural Women chair, Margaret Anderson.

“Recently we put on a lunch for the Ravensdown shareholders, we also made meals for a convoy of vintage army vehicles which started and finished their tour of the South Island in St Arnaud. They commented how much they appreciated our lovely home cooking.”

The group demonstrated their commitment to honouring veterans and community spirit by hosting a well-attended Anzac Day commemoration. The event, attended by approximately 120 from the community, featured a poignant address by a guest speaker from the New Zealand Airforce, resonating deeply with attendees of all ages.

In response to community health needs, the group initiated a successful pop-up health clinic at Lake Rotoiti Community Hall. This clinic provided essential services including COVID and flu vaccinations, serving 27 locals ensuring accessible healthcare support and recognising the importance of community resilience.

St Arnaud Rural Women kicked off a fundraiser for a community generator.

“We really need a generator as a community for adverse events, mainly to run the hall which is the hub if disaster strikes. But it can also be used in various community places as a backup to weddings or kids’ events if there is a power cut.
St Arnaud Rural Women did some organising and donated $4000 to kick it off and then the fire brigade carried it on, it is such an asset for all,” Margaret explains.

Their compassion extends beyond local events, as they continue to support initiatives like ‘Casting for Recovery’, providing gift baskets to women facing breast cancer during retreats at the local fishing lodge.

Additionally, their ongoing donations of handmade wheat bags and syringe pouches to Tasman/Nelson Hospices offer comfort and care to those in need.

“Ten ladies from all over the top of the south come to Owen River Lodge for a luxury weekend and learn to fly fish and relax,” says Margaret.

“Quite a few of us have had breast cancer and know what these ladies are going through, so we have for the past 10 years annually donated gift baskets, and we are thankful for the donations from Nelson Honey, Bulb Direct, and Bunnings to make these gifts extra special.”

The group remains committed to enhancing community rural life and Margaret says she is looking forward to discussing upcoming plans with the other members for the rest of the year.