The History of Point of Women Incorporated
On 25th July 2009 Christina Holmdahl and Robyn Cochrane held a meeting of Clarence Point residents, with a view to forming a woman’s group which would meet regularly at the Clarence Point Hall. The purpose of the group was twofold. The hall had fallen into disrepair and was under threat of being demolished. The community wanted to maintain the hall as an
asset and see it regularly utilised. It was also felt that community spirit could be built by encouraging social interaction. At the inaugural meeting the group’s purpose was brainstormed. One local issue of concern was the number of young people leaving the area or not accessing tertiary education due to lack of transport, financial disadvantage or lack of role models. It was decided that Point of Women would link with UTAS to identify students in the 7270 and 7275 postcode areas who were enrolled in an undergraduate course and undergoing financial hardship. A bursary was established to support the selected student with $1000 per year, for each successful year of a full time undergraduate course. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, so the selection criteria were extended to TasTAFE in 2013. To raise funds for incorporation and public liability insurance the group had a stall at the Exeter Market. Point of Women was incorporated on 8th September 2009. Point of Women initiated the Good Friday Market in 2010 to raise funds to support the bursary program. Each year the Good Friday Market and a pre Christmas Market is held. These are well attended and offer a diversity of crafts, fresh produce, preserves and delicious food and wine. The Point of Women group is inclusive of men and women. All residents of the West Tamar are welcome to join. The group provides an excellent opportunity to meet your neighbours, near and far. The bonding and sense of community has been nurtured through events such as a Community Christmas Party, Bush Dance, High Tea, Cheese and Sausage making workshops, Mosaic workshop, Safe Food Handling workshop, Artentwine events such as “Our Halls, Our Community”, luncheons and a craft afternoon. The group have supported the Beaconsfield to Beauty Point Walking path and sponsored a seat, funded a Self Esteem Workshop for Beaconsfield Primary School upper primary students and are currently working with the Memorial Avenue subcommittee to rejuvenate the avenue.
