LOCAL MLA Mia Davies has congratulated the Country Women's Association on reaching its 90th birthday, saying the service organisation was a treasured national icon.
Ms Davies attended the opening ceremony of the Annual Conference on Monday night in York along with large number of members and their partners.
"I was thrilled the CWA chose the Avon Valley as the venue of their 90th Annual State Conference and delighted to be asked to take part in the opening ceremony," she said.
"The membership of this organisation has been an integral part of our regional communities, supporting, advocating and celebrating the benefits of volunteering and putting service above self."
Ms Davies said the organisation was an inspiration and as relevant today as it was when women gathered in Nungarin for the first meeting in Western Australia.
"The CWA has touched the lives of so many individuals and families, providing financial and moral support for those in need, stepping up in times of crisis and participating in Government inquiries and Committees," she said.
"In particular I commend them for their support of regional students and their long-standing support for the Royal Flying Doctor Service."
On the night, Sara Kenny the State President of the CWA presented a representative from the RFDS with a cheque for $75,000.
Also of special note was the life membership bestowed on York local resident Marianne Nilsson.
"It was lovely to see the surprise on Marianne's face when the announcement was made, and quite humbling to listen to the commitment she'd made to the organisation to be considered for life membership," Ms Davies said.