We all know that the Country Women’s Association (CWA) is the foremost authority when it comes to sublime sponges, the perfect pav and, of course, exceptional scones.

But did you know that since 1922, this network of disruptors, movers and shakers has helped countless rural women and children to access lifesaving facilities like domestic violence shelters, maternity wards, qualified bush nurses and doctors, maternity care, education and so much more?

Lobbying and unionising aside, the heart of the CWA is, and has always been, the understanding that an act as small as sharing a cup of tea and a slice of cake can have profound impacts where they’re needed most. 

Related story: School holiday baking: 110 easy recipes for kids

For 100 years, the Country Women’s Association has been taking care of others, and fundraising through some, we’ll admit, pretty intimidating bake sales. Exacting standards for a very good cause. So if you’re going to do something, you’d better do it right. 

This Christmas, the Country Women’s Association Victoria is offering all the guidance you need to pull off a thrifty festive season in not one, but three helpful books that will help you pinch some pennies and take advantage of a century of insider tips. 

Thrifty Gardening, $24.99 For all the wannabe green thumbs, Thrifty Gardening is a guide on how to make your garden flourish while saving money.
Thrifty Household, $24.99  No one knows how to stretch a dime like a woman on a budget. Thrifty Household has over 1,000 tips to live large on a shoestring.
Thrifty Cooking, $24.99 Prepare meals fit for a queen with Thrifty Cooking – 170 top-secret recipes to impress your guests, get through the midweek grind and feed a family for less.

If you prefer your gratification instant, you can get your goodies straight from the source at CWA bake sales and branches across the country.

CWA Victoria will hold bake sales at the following branches (more to be announced at cwaofvic.org.au):
Toorak – Dec 7, 3 Lansell Rd, Toorak
Frankston – Dec 7, 33 Beach St, Frankston
Gippsland – Dec 14, Coal Creek Farmers Market, Sth Gippsland Hwy, Korumburra

CWA Western Australia will hold a Christmas stall at its headquarters at 1176 Hay St, West Perth on Dec 6.

CWA Tasmania will have Christmas cakes and puddings available from their headquarters at 16 Albert Rd, Moonah from Dec 2 – 24.

To find out how you can support – or even join – your local CWA branch, check their websites and social media pages.

Get your hands on the whole book range by calling the CWA Victoria directly on (03) 9827 8971.

Related story: How to make a classic Christmas cake just like the CWA