Cowra Bowling Club has hosted a lunch to celebrate the region's Red Cross volunteers' 110 years of service to the region.
Their principles are 'humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence voluntary service, unity and universality.'
Founded just nine days after the beginning of the first world war, with thousands of Australians signing up to provide care for the sick, wounded and displaced, today the Red Cross and Red Crescent has still provides essential services and support at home for those in need. Its unique and powerful place as an impartial actor allows it to continue humanitarian work overseas, supporting victims of conflict without fear or favour.
Cowra branch's Sue Gallagher read a letter presented to the branch.
"The year 1914 changed the world and our nation forever, this is the same year your branch began - for the past 110 years, the members of Cowra branch have served to support those in need in the community," she said. " From supporting troops on the frontline during times of war, to responding to national disasters, emergencies and community trauma, Australian Red Cross has remained steadfast in its mission to allieviate suffering and protect human dignity."
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"It's branches like Cowra have been there through it all."
Much of its support comes via the hard work of volunteers.
Jenny Friend says while she sometimes volunteers, most of her work is with Legacy and Meals on Wheels.
Jenny says the region depends on volunteers, "We're very busy in Cowra, there's always something to do" adding "You've just got to get out and get involved in your local organisations, the Red Cross for one does some great work in the community."
Julie Whitby and Mary Binnington of Morongla were two generations of their family present at the 110 year celebration of the branch.
"This is my mother (Mary) both Mary and my grandmother were in the Red Cross too," Julie said.
When asked how they came to the organisation, Mary said it tended to run across generations. "It's just what we did, as families the next generation came in and got into it as soon as they could."
Also at the table was volunteer Susan Nancarrow, who said anyone wishing to contribute would find a sense of community in the organisation. "Well out of the branch, we don't just fundraise. While we don't get involved in disaster relief directly, we're supporting Red Cross and there's a great community that brings us together with a purpose."
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