ABC Gold Coast: Cathy Border
)They still cook and crochet but the most popular class run by the Coolangatta branch of the Country Women's Association is very 2021 — a hip-hop class.
The club has operated continuously for 92 years and president Judy Denham says members have embraced new ways to look after the health and wellbeing of the local community.
The classes are run by popular instructor Kyla Blacksmith and are currently booked out.
Supplied: Kyla Blacksmith
)Modern and traditional exercise options
Also attracting younger participants are hula hoop classes.
"They are so much fun and people don't realise they are exercising," instructor Jo Jo McEvoy said.
Ms McEvoy took it up 11 years ago and teaches one-hour classes to teenagers right through to some aged in their 70s.
ABC Gold Coast: Cathy Border
)"It is a full-body cardio work-out," she said.
"I am really passionate because it brings a sense of joy and playfulness back into people's lives."
Winding back the energy levels but offering enormous health benefits are tai chi classes.
ABC Gold Coast: Cathy Border
)Instructor of the Taoist Tai Chi Society Keri Webb started learning 21 years ago because of a bad back.
"I have never stopped. Everything has got better since then," Ms Webb said.
Calorie-conscious scones and sandwiches
The Coolangatta CWA has just 21 members and has launched a new membership drive.
The association's creed and a somewhat faded photo of a young Queen Elizabeth II hang on the hall wall, as is CWA tradition.
Scones and egg sandwiches remain mainstays, but there might be less cream and wholemeal bread is used.
The Queensland CWA partnered with Queensland Health eight years ago on the 'Country Kitchens' program delivering hands-on nutritional workshops and training events.
It includes learning more about reading food labels and substituting sugar for more healthy sweet options.
ABC Gold Coast: Cathy Border
)"You can leave out the sugar completely in most recipes. Substitute with fruit because then you are getting more of the fibre as well," Ms Denham said.
Tooth teddies take over from teddy bears
One member identified another area of community need when a local oral surgeon asked for help in treating children traumatised at the prospect of dental surgery.
Supplied: Judy Denham
)Tooth teddies was the answer — little knitted smiling teeth with a bow that the kids hold while they have their treatment.
Other beneficiaries of the Coolangatta club's work are disadvantaged local women and domestic violence victims.
Birthing kits are organised for rural women in Papua New Guinea.
Some traditions may have been altered and new activities embraced but serving the community remains the priority.
