Clifden Branch Marks 95 Years of Service in Western Southland
Western Southland gathered in proud support on Sunday as Rural Women New Zealand celebrated 100 years nationally, alongside the 95-year anniversary of the Clifden Branch. The Clifden group is widely regarded as one of the oldest and most active branches in the country, and the turnout reflected the deep respect the community holds for the women who have quietly kept things running for generations.
A fitting start beneath the Clifden Bridge
The day began at the historic Clifden Suspension Bridge, where members, families, and supporters met for a relaxed catch-up before the celebrations officially opened. One of the early highlights was a bagpiper leading the group across the bridge, the sound of the pipes rolling out over the Waiau River. After a brief pause at the far end, everyone walked back together to the reserve for afternoon tea.
Back at the tables, guests settled into food, conversation, and a couple of short speeches acknowledging both the national centennial and the Clifden Branch’s long-standing contribution to the district. In true Western Southland style, the dogs in attendance decided the moment needed extra drama, launching into an enthusiastic bark-off, much to everyone’s amusement.
Before leaving the reserve, the group gathered for a formal photo beneath the bridge’s towering pylons, a fitting backdrop for a milestone built on endurance and community grit.
A century of support, and 95 years of local service
Rural Women New Zealand’s history stretches back to 1925, when it formed as the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union. For a century, the organisation has supported rural families through advocacy, welfare, leadership, community projects, and practical help. Locally, the Clifden Branch has upheld that spirit for 95 years, contributing to wellbeing across Western Southland through fundraising, hospitality, support during hardship, and the kind of community connection that rural towns rely on.
Honouring outstanding service
Two significant honours were presented during the celebrations:
- Lynley Whyte, Centennial Coordinator, was awarded Branch Life Membership for her exceptional service and leadership.
- Ann Sutherland received the Branch Bar of Honour, recognising her long-standing commitment to the branch.
These awards reflected what the day was really about: recognising the steady, often behind-the-scenes work that strengthens rural communities year after year.
Dinner in Tuatapere and a centennial cake
The celebration continued in the evening at the Waiau Town & Country Club, where a sit-down meal, speeches, and the cutting of the Centennial Cake rounded out the day. Stories were shared, achievements acknowledged, and the resilience of rural women, past, present, and future, was warmly celebrated.
As Rural Women New Zealand steps into its second century, the Clifden Branch remains a shining example of what rural communities are built on: service, strength, connection, and women who simply get things done.
