Murray Hut CWA committee members (back, from left) Jane Middleton, Alison Luelf, Claire Brown, Jenny Philpot, Sandra Emery, Margaret McMurtrie, Therese MacDermid and Deb Shaw; (front) Nola Pinnuck, Anne-Marie Deans, Penny Sloane and Sue Escott Braybon.
The 2025 Murray Hut Country Women’s Association’s Melbourne Cup Luncheon was again a popular community event, bringing together a large crowd for a day of fun, fashion, and fundraising at the Finley Golf Club last week.
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Organised by Murray Hut members, the day ran smoothly thanks to great teamwork and community support.
Nolene Ackerly judged the fashion events, with Jenny Philpot named Lady of the Day, Helen Braybon winning Hat of the Day, Sue Escott Braybon taking out Shoes of the Day, and Jane Middlebrook receiving Bling of the Day.
Ms Escott Braybon, who is committee president, said guests enjoyed a delicious two-course lunch prepared by CWA members with help from Finley High School hospitality students.
Jane Middlebrook, Jan Horneman, Viv Muirhead, Bernadette Agosta, Lyn Flannigan, Marg Singleton, Karen Litchfield, and Roz Patterson.
“Finley Golf Club members also volunteered behind the bar, helping to make the day enjoyable for everyone,” she said.
“The major raffle, sponsored by Kelly Grains, featured a $1000 Airbnb voucher, won by Anne Braybon. Raffles and sweeps throughout the afternoon kept guests entertained and contributed to the fundraising total.
“The CWA sincerely thanks the many local businesses who supported the luncheon, their generous contributions helped make the day such a success.
“We’re fortunate to have such capable members who work so well together, enjoy each other’s company, and make this event happen each year.”
Ms Escott Braybon said a “substantial amount of money was raised” from the day, although an exact total has not been released.
Funds raised will be distributed in early 2026 to support local, regional, and state causes, in line with the CWA’s focus on community assistance and practical support.
For further details on Murray Hut CWA’s upcoming events or membership, please contact secretary Penny Sloane on 0427 773 858.
Tanya Clarke, Jenny Isedale, Pam van Beek, Glenda Rogers, Sue Fenaughty and Terri-Lea Anderson.
Julie Gregory, Deb Shaw, Margaret Close, Beth Farquhar, Helen McRae, Denise Watts, Jenny Philpot and Tricia Jackson.
