The tea rooms initially shut in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

The branch, after months of consideration, made the decision in early April 2021 to permanently close the tea rooms due to a lack of volunteers.

The tea rooms, offering Devonshire tea, had operated for decades.

The space will continue to be used for CWA functions and meetings, as well as made available for community hire.

Port Macquarie CWA Branch secretary Gloria Burgess said the decision to close the tea rooms was not made lightly.

A range of ideas were considered in a bid to keep the tea rooms open but the measures weren't practical in the long run.

Mrs Burgess said the closure of the tea rooms marked the end of an era.

"I'm a bit sad about it because we have been running [the tea rooms] for so long," she said.

The Devonshire teas, which were available on weekday mornings, attracted groups from clubs and nursing homes, as well as residents and tourists.

Patrons enjoyed scones with jam and cream, along with tea or coffee, served by volunteers at the Town Green location.

The future is now set to hold a new direction.

Port Macquarie CWA Branch is considering other revenue opportunities as the tea rooms were its major fundraising source.

The branch wants to raise awareness about the CWA and attract new members too.

It aims to stage themed morning teas, possibly with a guest speaker, for members and the broader community.

The branch's community contribution includes annual grants to six schools for Year 6 students.

The handicraft group donates handmade items to organisations such as aged care facilities and emergency services.

The Country Women's Association of NSW has been supporting women, children and their communities throughout the state for almost a century.

The Port Macquarie CWA Branch was formed in 1929 after a public meeting at the then Town Hall.

The branch, which has almost 50 members, meets at the Port Macquarie CWA rooms at 1.30pm on the second Wednesday of the month.

The handicraft group gets together on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 1pm to 3pm. Non-members are welcome to attend.

The rooms are available for community hire outside of CWA meetings, functions and craft activities.

Call 0412 326709 for hall hire inquiries.

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