Members were heartened by the solid support of attendees who were outraged and labelled the handling of the situation by Divisional and State bodies of the CWA as unprofessional.

Queensland Country Women’s Association state president Robyn McFarlane says the decision to close the Mount Isa branch “was not taken lightly”.

She said the Mount Isa Branch did not abide by the CWA’s constitution.

Two members, Daphne Doaks and Anne Morris, have a combined total of 95 years’ membership of the CWA and say they are heartbroken over the disrespect and unprofessional manner in which they and their fellow members have been treated.

The Mount Isa Branch of the CWA was formed in 1928 and over the past 87 years its members have proudly upheld the creed and motto of the organisation.

The branch says this is the first incident of unrest within the local association which has been brought about by “mischievous and ill-informed” outside influences.

 “The majority of members are in their senior years and several of us have over 30 years of service each,” Mrs Morris said.

“This wealth of knowledge is of great benefit to the younger members who are stepping up to take on the association reins in town.”

Mount Isa CWA vice president Daphne Doaks said while membership numbers may have dwindled over the years, it was due in no small part to the large floating mining population, extended work hours and the wider choice of recreational activities available in the community for younger women.

She said the Mount Isa Branch of the CWA has been at the forefront of community involvement albeit as quiet achievers.

“But now is the time to join forces and fight for our right to continue meeting in our hall,” added Mrs Morris.

Another extraordinary meeting has been organised for next weekend when the contingency plan to address the disruption to branch meetings and activities will be outlined.