Mrs Kerr, a former resident of Oaklands, has been a steadfast advocate for community development and support, making her an invaluable asset to the town. “To have a nomination accepted for any Community Achievement Award is fantastic,” Mrs Kerr said.
“Members are very proud to highlight the work of CWA of NSW, members put a lot of work into helping others in any way we can.”
Her achievements with the Oaklands CWA are numerous. Over the years, she has been instrumental in organising a variety of community events, including debutante balls and elaborate dinners, which have not only brought the community together but also raised substantial funds for local initiatives.
One of her most significant accomplishments was leading a fundraising effort that successfully gathered the necessary funds within a few months to build the CWA’s rooms, which have since served as a hub for community activities.
“Some of our members have recently been of great assistance to the community right on our doorstep,” Mrs Kerr noted.
“It is very gratifying to be seriously listened to by agencies which offer services, given our respectability and reliability in the community.”
Under Mrs Kerr’s guidance, the Oaklands CWA has consistently responded to the needs of the community, whether large or small. This reliability has earned the branch widespread respect and recognition.
“The ways in which we offer our advice and assistance are on-going, over very broad issues,” she explained.
“This is perhaps our main motivation as we feel there is always some way in which we can make a difference. Firstly, by listening and then by actions.”
Notably, the Oaklands CWA has been selected as the Local Shire Council Community Event of the Year winner in the Australia Day Awards three times since 2016—proof of the branch’s ongoing impact on the community.
Mrs Kerr’s leadership and the branch’s contributions have also been acknowledged at the state level.
Recently, their work in preserving the endangered Oaklands Diuris Orchid was recorded in the NSW Parliament Hansard, highlighting the environmental significance of their efforts. Additionally, the Hansard mentioned a member’s Life Membership in the CWA of NSW Association in 2023, further underscoring the branch’s longstanding commitment to community service.
The CWA of NSW recently held its Awareness Week from September 1 to 7.
“This year the theme focused on gender-based violence, particularly due to the increase in recent deaths of Australian women by their intimate partners. The aim being to raise awareness about this crisis and advocate for measures to combat it,” Mrs Kerr said.
These achievements are a direct result of Mrs Kerr’s dedication and the collective efforts of the Oaklands CWA members, many of whom have gone on to serve as State Office Bearers and State Executive Members.
Their contributions have not only benefited Oaklands but have also had a broader impact across the state.
Mrs Kerr also mentioned that the Oaklands branch is looking toward the future.
“We are instigating a drive for new active members at present to enable us to continue our important work in Oaklands. Currently celebrating 75 years of our branch, CWA of NSW is in their 102nd year.”
Heather Kerr’s nomination for the NSW/ACT Community Achievement Awards is a fitting recognition of her work and the positive change she has brought to Oaklands.
The awards will be judged on Wednesday, September 25, with the awards ceremony to be held on November 1.
