CWA Rest Room, Kulin

Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates significant associations with community
and civic minded organisations in Kulin throughout the years since its establishment. It
demonstrates a way of life.

Physical Description

Constructed of concrete blocks, the place has a hipped corrugated iron roof. The
roof extends in a skillion along the front to cover the front verandah. Block columns support the
verandah, and a stepped parapet block archway signals the entry. A concrete skirt was constructed
after cracking appeared, and it was determined that there was no foundation for the building.

History

In 1929 the women of the Kulin district formed the Kulin branch of the
CWA, at a meeting in the Kulin Memorial Hall. Meetings were subsequently held in the small room
adjacent to the hall kitchen. Land for the rest rooms was donated by the Railway's Department, after it
was no longer required for the original intent of the Stationmaster's house. The CWA received no
external assistance in the funding of the rest rooms construction. In 1937 the foundation stone was
laid by the President at the time, Mrs Casey. The rooms were constructed to provide facilities for the
country women when visiting town, to freshen, care for children's needs, have a cup of tea, and most
important of all, to socialise both formally and informally. Fundraising by the CWA takes place in many
ways, with the New Year's Eve Ball being a highlight of the Kulin calender. Catering for many civic
and social events has involved the CWA ladies. The inaugural Roe district annual rally of the 16
branches was first held at the Kulin CWA. The Kulin CWA has remained a vital and active organisation
throughout the years, and still meets weekly for an arts group.
The Kulin Branch of the Farmer's Union have held meetings at the CWA rooms over the years, and
assisted in the maintenance of the place.
Prior to 1955 the Methodist Minister visited Kulin from Yealering. In April 1955, Jim Hamilton, the
Methodist Home Missioner, was appointed to Kondinin, and the same year the Kondinin Kulin
Presbyterian District Central Committee was formed, followed by the Ladies Guild in 1956. The first
meetings in the Kulin district were the Proud's or the Shire Clerk's house. In 1968 the first ordained
Minister established in Kondinin; Terry Tero stayed for 7 years. The Uniting Church holds regular
services in the CWA rooms.
At a public meeting in the Memorial Hall on 30 September 1939, the Kulin branch of the Red Cross
was formed. By the time they held their second meeting, the CWA had offered the use of their rooms
for meetings. Bridge evenings and fundraising contributed to the war effort, although they went into
recess from 1945-47 after the war. The Red Cross have conducted an annual March appeal since
1949.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact
Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

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This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.