AFTER 65 years, the last five members have officially retired the Culgoa branch of the Country Women's Association.

More than 40 people were at the Culgoa public hall last week for a social afternoon to reminisce and recognise the important role the CWA had played in the community.

President Val Sewell said branch membership had declined over the years and the final five, in their 70s and 80s, decided it was time to shut up shop. "We're closing because there's no future of getting any younger members and we've passed our use-by date," she said.

The final five members are Mrs Sewell, aged 77, Barbara Shepherd, 74, Shirley Willey, 71, Ursula Walsh, 75, and Loretta Barry, 84, who was unable to attend.

Mrs Sewell said she was recruited by a former member in the 1970s after expressing an interest in cooking.

After obtaining her judging certificate through the CWA, she judged at numerous country shows over a period of 15 years, including Wycheproof, Charlton, St Arnaud, Swan Hill, Kerang, Boort, Hopetoun, Woomelang and Ouyen.

"It's a marvellous organisation," she said.