The CWA Bega Branch set up a stall in Church Street, Bega on Thursday, March 29, selling an impressive variety of baked goods, preserves and easter treats ahead of the long weekend. 

A raffle for an ‘on-call’ Black Forest cake was also raised money through $2 tickets, with the proceeds going towards Tathra families who need to replace essentials, such as school uniforms. 

A day earlier, the CWA of NSW announced a commitment of $50,000 from its Disaster Relief fund to assist the victims of the bushfire.

Nelleke Gorton of the CWA Bega Branch said it was fantastic to see the community was so well supported from afar. 

“We do what we can here and raise what we can through stalls,” she said. 

“But that sort of money is fantastic, it will make a big difference during the rebuild.” 

CWA of NSW president Annette Turner said the fire has a devastating effect on the area and the road to recovery would be a long one.

“Our organisation is pleased to be in a position to extend this funding assistance to the community at such a terrible time,” Mrs Turner said.

“We appreciate it’s only a small drop in the ocean when you look at the enormous number of losses, but we want this money to help victims with some of the things they need right now.”

The CWA is coordinating with local branch members to assist with the management of the funding which is designed to assist victims with their immediate needs.

Mrs Turner said the CWA of NSW Disaster Relief fund was established for exactly these types of situations. The fund has been recently used to assist those affected by the Sir Ivan and Bonnay fires, as well as provide drought relief assistance in the Hunter Valley.

Since the fund was established in 2006, more than $1.37 million has been given to victims of fire, flood, drought and other natural disasters across the state.

People can also donate to the CWA of NSW Disaster Relief Fund, with donations tax deductible and able to be made via the website.