On Wednesday, 23rd October, the Fish Creek Catholic Women’s League (CWL) celebrated an impressive milestone—80 years of dedicated service. Bishop Greg Bennet celebrated a special Mass to honour the occasion, joined by parish priest, Fr. Confidence Masvosva. The event saw over 50 attendees.
The celebration was a moment to recognise individual contributions within the CWL. Pat Peterson was awarded a 50-year service badge, a testament to her long-standing dedication. Bianca and Nadia Stefani each received 40-year badges, and Margaret Smith and Sheila Young were honoured with certificates. A display of memorabilia showcasing CWL’s history and achievements was set up for attendees to enjoy, offering a glimpse into the decades of service. Following the Mass, the group along with Bishop Greg Bennet and Fr. Confidence Masvosva, gathered at the local Hotel for a meal.
The CWL’s origins in Fish Creek trace back to the late 1940s when it was initially called the Catholic Women’s Social Guild (CWSG) before becoming CWL Victoria & Wagga Wagga Inc. in 1970. In the past, the local CWL network spanned nine branches across South Gippsland, including Yarram, Foster, and Leongatha. Today, the branches at Leongatha, Inverloch, and Fish Creek continue to uphold the CWL’s commitment to faith, fellowship, and community service.
For many years, Fish Creek served as the parish centre, with the presbytery and the Motor Mission run by the Sisters of St. Joseph located nearby. CWL members played a key role in supporting the parish priests and sisters, particularly during major fundraising efforts to establish a convent in the 1960s. Over the years, CWL members have been pivotal in raising funds, providing spiritual and community support, and serving the parish through activities like church cleaning, organising flowers for services, and supporting parish leadership committees.
The league honoured its life members, such as Madame Nell Buckley, Nell Ryan, Adele Kerr, Margaret Farrell, Violet and Lennie Vuillermin, and Margaret Comrie. The late Miriam Van Dyk, who joined CWL Fish Creek when the Foster-Toora branch closed, was also remembered fondly; her generous bequest continues to support the three churches within the parish.
Reflecting on the CWL’s 80 years of service, the members shared their hopes that the organisation has met the joys, hopes, and challenges of the local community, while honouring their mission to support the parish and the Sisters of St. Joseph. Under the guidance of their patron, Mary Help of Christians, CWL members remain committed to their legacy of service and fellowship.