ROYSTON CAVE – A TEMPLAR REFUGE? • THE WHITE MOUSE • NOBLE ART OF AN EMISSARY
v49 n1 – MARCH 2017
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CONTENTS
Editorial
3
Quarterly communication
4
More mystery card
5
GM’s Literary Prize 2016
6
Nancy Wake
8
Message from the Grand Chaplain
The Official Journal of The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
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11
From the desk of the Grand Secretary 12
Grand Lodge Website: www.masons.org.au
This issue of the Freemason is produced under the direction of: Editor and Chairman: RW Bro Ted Simmons OAM Committee: RW Bro Graham Maltby (Secretary), Dr Yvonne McIntyre, VW Bro Andre Fettermann, RW Bro Craig Pearce, RW Bro Richard Dawes, W Bro Stephen Dally, W Bro Steve Lourey, Bro Simon Pierce
History of April Fool’s Day
13
Winning care
14
Lives of service
16
In praise of emissaries
18
A medical volunteer
20
A chamber of secrets
22
A world-class reef
24
The journal is published in March, June, September and December. Deadline for copy is 1st of the month preceding month of issue.
Airborne firefighters
28
All matters for publication in the journal should be addressed to:
Masonicare
30
Have your say
32
NSW Masonic Club
34
Underground history
36
The Secretary Freemason Editorial Committee The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT PO Box A259, Sydney South, NSW 1235 Telephone: (02) 9284 2800 Facsimile: (02) 9284 2828 Email: freemason@masons.org.au
Book reviews
37
Getaway cruise
38
Famous masons
40
Associated Orders
41
Regional Roundup
42
Initiates
44
Crossword
45
Service Certificates
46
Design and Layout: Bro Simon Pierce, Megan Baumann and Pam Gill, APM Graphics Management
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FREEMASON is the official journal of The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons.
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Publication of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT. Published articles do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT. Advertising enquiries: Bro Simon Pierce APM Graphics Management 16 Springwood Street, Blackwall, NSW 2256 Telephone: (02) 4344 5133 Email: freemason@apmgraphics.com.au Website: www.apmgraphics.com.au
40 ROYSTON CAVE – A TEMPLAR REFUGE? • THE WHITE MOUSE • NOBLE ART OF AN EMISSARY
V49 N1 – MARCH 2017
FREEMASON is proudly produced by APM Graphics Management 16 Springwood Street, Blackwall, NSW 2256 Printed by Offset Alpine Printing P/L, Lidcombe, NSW. Distributed to all NSW & ACT brethren and sister Grand Lodges in Australia and throughout the World.
Editorial Policy
Electronic versions of FREEMASON can be viewed or downloaded at www.masons.org.au.
Aims of the Freemason magazine q To uphold and promote those values, morals and virtues which Freemasonry believes are universal and enduring. q To foster a better understanding of Freemasonry within the general community. q To provide a forum for discussion on masonic issues. q To publicise the charitable works of Freemasonry. q To provide articles of interest and education and to disseminate masonic news and views. q To recognise masons who make significant contributions to the Craft and the wider community.
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FREEMASON MARCH 2017
ISSN 1836-0475
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EDITORIAL
By RW BRO TED SIMMONS OAM
It’s easy to be nice
As a youngster, my parents taught me many habits which still persisted as I got older but which now seem to be part of today’s modern ‘it’s old fashioned, throw it away’ system.
I
’m referring to words and actions which do not occur as frequently today and which still rankle by their absence. You remember them – grace, manners, civility, courtesy. For example, grace is something you would think of as belonging to an older era, when people were automatically polite, when you wrote letters by hand, ladies and gentlemen were easily recognised, being kind and a willingness to help others. Manners of course were automatic with respect given to elders, not interrupting when someone else was talking, thanking people for gifts or assistance, giving up your seat in the tram or bus and even holding the door open. These actions could also be consistent with the words ‘courtesy’ and ‘civility’ which was part of the era when children were taught what was considered the correct thing to do. People say to me that the world has progressed since then and we must adjust to modern times and methods. But I wonder whether we should. We don’t listen anymore and it is becoming an endangered skill. We talk to, or at, each other but not with each other; that’s when there is a break in the mobile monopoly of conversation. At times it is almost impossible to get people talking when they are in the same room because of the constant impulse to check their mobile or the need to tell someone their location.
A dinner table used to be a gathering of family or friends where light-hearted discussions were held, jokes told and news given of the family and others. Today, it is not uncommon to watch a diner pull out his/her mobile to call or answer while food is being served. Is this being uncivil and are we taking away the voices of others by putting them in a position where they are being restricted in their conversation or even ignored? Are we moving into an area where the next generation, our children and grandchildren, will not know any other way to behave? It would be interesting to find out whether this attitude is having an effect on the health of people, especially the older
As Freemasons, we are taught to be civil, to help and to become better people, to give aid and support to our community...
generation who try to keep in touch with their children and grandchildren. But it is not only the smart phones of today that are a worry. Hostile speech is frequently used in the media, in politics and even in our everyday life. And unfortunately, there have been instances of incivility sometimes occurring in our lodge rooms through inappropriate behaviour or attitudes. As Freemasons, we are taught to be civil, to help and to become better people, to give aid and support to our community and to demonstrate to others a willingness to be leaders in helping create a better world. Consider our masonic teachings and then look at your television or paper and see a world often dominated by hostile and rude factions. We can let that continue or we can start taking steps as true ambassadors of civility to make our world a better place.
Interested in Freemasonry? Have you ever wondered about Freemasonry – what it is and what its members do? Do you ever think about joining but don’t know any masons or what action to take to find out more? If you are interested and would like to talk with a mason, contact Grand Lodge who will put you in touch with a member from your suburb who can give answers and advice. Grand Lodge is available Monday to Friday on (02) 9284 2800 or you can contact us by email at info@masons.org.au MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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QUARTERLY COMMUNICATION
December Communication
T
he Grand Master, MW Bro James Melville touched on a number of subjects when he welcomed brethren and visitors to the Grand Lodge December Communication. ‘As we come to the end of another busy masonic year, it should give us time to reflect on how we have all made a difference to promote Freemasonry. Yuana and I have enjoyed the welcome everywhere we have been and to see the dedication and hard work that the ladies, brethren and their families give to our Craft is something that makes me feel proud to be your Grand Master,’ he said. ‘I would also like to congratulate the Order of DeMolay for the recent consecration of a new chapter in Toronto. To see a number of brethren with an affiliation to DeMolay attend this event was special for all. Well done to those involved and we look forward to hearing of your progress. ‘Further thanks go to those brethren and ladies who attended the Installation of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand in Wellington. The week prior to the event, Wellington was shaken by a 5.9 magnitude earthquake. Hotels for many needed to be changed but the event went off well with the minimum of inconvenience.’ Two special events gained interest from the Grand Master – the Freemasons Open Day and the Freemasons Getaway Cruise. He rated the Open Day as a great success with several inquiries from members of the public. ‘Many hours were given to make this day possible and the media coverage throughout the State was impressive. I attended five Masonic Centres in Sydney and witnessed many members of the public visit a Masonic Centre for the first time in their local community. Many people brought along regalia and some just wanted to see Dad or Grandad’s name on the list of Past Masters. This day strengthened our Craft within the community and
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we have gained valuable experience which could help us in making this event bigger and better next year. ‘The Freemasons Getaway Cruise was well represented and we had 140 in our group, many who had never been on a cruise before. We held an open day with presentations, a group photo and walked through the main promenade in our regalia,’ he said. You can find the full story of the Freemasons Getaway Cruise on pages 38–39 of this issue, along with additional photographs on the back cover. ‘Yuana and I had lunch and a tour with the Grand Master of New Caledonia, MW Bro Jean Pierre Flotat, and the brethren from New Caledonia also hosted an afternoon tea for our group at their Martine Museum. I also wish to extend my appreciation to W Bro Dejan Stanojevic WM, Lodge Harold Herman Unity No 428, from Escape Travel at Burwood who managed our group booking and negotiated our deal with Royal Caribbean. At our last meeting on the ship I was honoured to announce we had raised $18,000 for The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.’ He said the Grand Charity Masonicare supports local communities and reported that in 2016 the Board approved $224,695 in interACTION Grants. The Grand Master also thanked RW Bros Lynden Norgate PSGW, Graham Davies PSGW and David Robertson PJGW who have decided to step down after several years of service to Masonicare. He then welcomed RW Bros Peter Ratcliff PAGM and Karl Toovey PAGM to their respective positions on the Board. Further thanks were extended to the Deputy and Assistant Grand Masters for their hard work and dedication to Freemasonry and the STEP Program. The STEP Program has sent three 40 foot containers of medical, scholastic and other supplies and equipment to the Philippines and a similar container to Fiji.
The Board of Management reported the new Grand Lodge website (www.masons. org.au) was launched in November and a budget has been set aside for six months to test advertising Freemasonry on Facebook. It is also looking at re-vamping the current social media monitoring to become more pro-active and encourage use of social media as a means of getting Freemasonry recognised. It also said that consideration is being given to holding another Masonic Open Day in 2017 and is seeking as many ideas concerning a drive for membership that can be provided. The Grand Treasurer advised that more than 50 percent of lodges had not submitted their financial statements for the 2014/2015 Financial Year or sought an extension of time. Correspondence has been sent to all executive officers of lodges reminding them of their obligations.
Agenda for the March Quarterly Communication The Quarterly Communication for Grand Lodge will be held at the Sydney Masonic Centre on Wednesday 8 March 2017 at 7.30 pm.
Included on the agenda will be: > Election of the Grand Master > Grand Master’s Welcome Address > Minutes, Correspondence and Treasurer’s report > Reports from the Executive Council, Board of Management, Grand Charity and College of Masonic Studies > Fix the Fees and Dues for 2017/2018 > Conferral of Grand Rank > Grand Secretary’s Notices
MORE MYSTERY CARD
By VW BRO NEIL WYNES MORSE
Is MING
the mystery?
I refer to the anonymous article in the September issue of the magazine, and the subsequent contribution by Bro Mark Bond in the December number, regarding a ‘mystery card’.
I
believe the card was drawn by Bro Mervin Wallace Linklater to commemorate the 9th meeting of MING (Masons In New Guinea). The meeting on 21 April 1943 was held in the 30 Squadron Rehabilitation Tent in June Valley camp, 14 km from the Port Moresby CBD. The locale is indicated on
the cover of the booklet (the right hand section) by the smaller of the square and compasses. The meeting was chaired by W Bro Sgt W Smith, a member of Lodge Commercial Traveller No 224 UGL NSW. There were 102 brethren present, 40 AIF and 62 RAAF. These numbers are in line with the
moon saying ‘98 of ‘em’, to which the owl replies ‘Yes two more it’ll burst’, referring to the bulging tent illustrated beneath. I would suggest that the ‘SQDN’ fingerpost has been ‘censored’ to remove the ‘30’. The ‘irradiated’ names are listing of the various jurisdictions or locations of the attending brethren: India, Malta, Scotland, Malaya, USA, WA, Qld, Tasmania, NZ, Vic, NG (New Guinea), SA, NSW and England. Of the 114 meetings of MING between December 1942 and August 1948, only 12 meetings had greater attendances. I would suggest that the two ‘poles’ are radio masts, reworked to correspond to two pillars known to all Freemasons. A total of 5,708 brethren are known to have attended MING meetings, but early records are missing. Bro Linklater is not listed in those who survived. However, Bro Linklater (1912–1986) is recorded as having attended a meeting of MOLATA branch of MING, held on Goodenough Island, one of the D’Entre casteaux Islands off the East coast of PNG. The records of MOLATA have Bro M W Linklater, a member of Lodge Victoria No 113 UGL NSW, residing at 45 Elizabeth Ave, Dulwich Hill. See also Bro Knowles’ letter elsewhere in this issue for more information!
Hidden meanings? Location near Port Moresby. Date of the 9th MING meeting. The Rehabilitation Tent? Radio masts in the style of pillars? Censored squadron number?
Q: Who is DionAccoto? A : L O O K AT I N S I D E B A C K C OV E R O F T H I S I S S U E F O R T H E A N S W E R . Liability Limited by a Scheme Approved Under Professional Standards legislation
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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GM’S LITERARY PRIZE 2016
By RW BRO ROBERT HUGHES Photo by Matt Buck
Freemasonry ern society
in mod
The following article is an abridged version of the essay on the subject ‘does Freemasonry have a place in modern society?’ which won the 2016 Grand Master’s Literary Prize.
F
reemasonry began three centuries ago, in the context of a society which was clearly different in many respects from today’s society. But many of the conditions which gave Freemasonry a firm and welcome beginning, still exist. This paper highlights several examples of masonic practice which indicate how the underlying philosophy of the Order retains its strong potential to promote social harmony and goodwill. The word ‘society’ may once have referred to communities of people who shared customs, laws and mutual interest groups. But sadly, our world has never been without some form of conflict. Today, as a result of lightning fast communication and transport links, society is globally integrated, and the pace of change is unprecedentedly fast. It is further influenced by the way world populations are connected by
Odd ode! Reader Rosemary Dawes sent us this brain-teasingly obfuscated twist on a classic nursery rhyme. Can you work out which one it is? Turn to page 46 to find the answer! Scintillate, scintillate, globule vivific. Fain would I fathom thy nature specific. Loftily poised in the ether capacious, Strongly resembling a gem carbonaceous.
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capitalism and consumer goods, migration flows, and issues of equality such as power, privilege, wealth and prestige. From afar, our planet might be viewed as a colourful speck in the vastness of the universe, giving an impression of natural beauty and happiness. But in reality it is a seething whirlpool of rebellious agitation. Disagreements stem from issues such as trading rights, ownership of oil deposits, chasing whales at sea, politics, religion, culture, and even skin colour. It is interesting to reflect upon just how far back in history this disunity has been addressed by Freemasons. Freemasonry was formed by a group of men looking for a means of bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds and beliefs. The era was one of great religious and political turmoil. Common sense indicated that something was needed to link a myriad of factions continuously at odds with each other. Solution ... Freemasonry. Masonic usages and customs, after three centuries, still encourage harmonious co-existence. Here is a glimpse into the philosophy of Freemasonry. Benefits for society are strikingly obvious. Each lodge opens in order, harmony and peace. The Chaplain explains that the masonic art enables men to display true godliness. Candidates indicate that they were motivated to join by a sincere wish to render themselves more serviceable to their fellow creatures. The Master points out that the object of Freemasonry is to teach the perfect truths of morality and virtue, and the members are reminded to keep their passions and prejudices within due bounds. Candidates, in a most persuasive manner, are made aware of the
importance of charity. In an allegorical reference to the early stonemasons, they are reminded of the intellectual tools which lead to success and happiness: plan ahead, and face the challenges with perseverance. Candidates are advised to let the rules of the lodge, which promote harmony and respect, be a model for the discharge of duties in other walks of life. The second degree begins by reinforcing the notion that the principles of Freemasonry are brotherly love, relief and truth. A recurring theme is that masons always operate according to the principles of morality and virtue. It is made clear that all men share the hope of a peaceful world and all are entitled to the same respect. The third degree continues to highlight the importance of morality and virtue in our lives and our dealings with others. We learn that if we work together with a commitment to truth, most of life’s challenges can be met with confidence. The Grand Master further confirms the place of Freemasonry in modern society with his theme of ‘Diversity, Unity and Mateship’. Diversity: the universality of our order. Unity: we share a common bond. Mateship: strong friendship. Outside Freemasonry we observe some groups whose aim is to impose self-centred ideas on the world though aggressive, irresponsible behaviour. Freemasonry, however, has an inbuilt responsibility; an ethos of compassion, truth and virtue. Much of the satisfaction men derive from Freemasonry comes from membership of a group of people with similar values and ideals. They also benefit from companionship, forward planning, leadership, oratory, teamwork, financial management, budgeting, community support, and above all, practising charity ... the building blocks of a successful society. Yes, Freemasonry is indeed still a viable institution. Firstly, because of its work in aged care, youth welfare, disaster relief, scholarships, orphan support, education and leadership training, and charitable community involvement. And secondly, because of the fellowship, bonding, networking, and mutual support opportunities it gives. Membership is not restricted by race, creed, religion, politics, skin colour, age or wealth. It is a way of life based on giving, and brotherly love. Is there any other organisation more deserving of a place in modern society?
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NANCY WAKE
By Dr YVONNE MCINTYRE, PhD
Codename: THE WHITE MOUSE Incredible people do incredible things and there are no better examples of the heroism of men and women than in time of war.
N
ancy Grace Augusta Wake AC, GM, was an incredible woman who, because of her acts of courage as a member of the French Resistance, became the most highly decorated woman of the Allied forces in World War II. The Gestapo called her ‘The White Mouse’ because of her ability to evade capture. This is her story. Nancy Wake was born in Wellington, New Zealand, on 30 August 1912, as the youngest of six children. She came to Australia with her family in 1914 but after
‘Freedom is the only thing worth living for.’ a short while, her father left for the United States of America to pursue a film making career. Before leaving Australia, he sold the family house and the family were evicted. Life in a large family without a father whom she loved and a mother who was strictly religious, was too much for a 16-year-old girl and Nancy ran away from home to work as a nurse in the Mudgee area of New South Wales. Following a bequest of £200 from an aunt in New Zealand, Nancy travelled to London where she trained as a journalist. She accepted a position with the Hearst newspaper chain and was posted to Paris as the newspaper’s European correspondent. Following an interview with Adolf Hitler and a visit to Vienna where she witnessed the atrocities Nancy’s forged French passport
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Nancy Wake in 1945
perpetrated against the Jews by Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Party, she developed a hatred of the Nazi regime. She spoke of an episode in Venice where: ‘the stormtroopers had tied the Jewish people up to massive wheels. They were rolling the wheels along, and the stormtroopers were whipping the Jews. I stood there and thought, “I don’t know what I’ll do about it, but if I can do anything one day, I’ll do it.” And I always had that picture in my mind, all through the war.’ In 1937, Nancy, a 25-year-old attractive brunette, met Henri Edmond Fiocca, heir to a Marseille shipping organisation and they married in November 1939. She and her husband were living in Marseille when Germany invaded France in 1940 and both joined the newly formed resistance movement. Nancy became a courier for the group, carrying messages and food to resistance movements in Southern France. She later joined the escape network of Captain Ian Garrow, a British Army officer who, after the surrender of the Highland 51st Division at Saint-Valéry-en-Caux on the Normandy coast on 12 June 1940, began working with other British internees and agents such as Nancy Wake, to organize
NANCY WAKE
the escape to Britain of Allied internees, POWs and other personnel stranded in France Being married to an influential business man gave Nancy the opportunity to move freely in the Vichy Zone of occupied France. She used this freedom and forged papers to purchase an ambulance which she used as part of an escape route for hundreds of refugees, escaped prisoners of war and allied pilots. Many were hidden in her home at great risk to her and her husband before being transported to the safety of Spain. The Gestapo had long been aware of a secret agent working within their midst and had placed her at the top of their wanted list with a reward of five million francs for information leading to her arrest. When the network was betrayed in 1943, Nancy agreed to return to England arriving there in the same year. Her husband had agreed to follow her but was captured, tortured by the Gestapo and executed. It wasn’t until the end of the war that Nancy was told of the fate of her husband. On reaching Britain, Nancy joined the French section of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) and underwent training as a field agent to work with local resistance units in German occupied territories. She excelled in explosives, weaponry, hand-to-hand combat, Morse code and fieldwork. Following the completion of her training with SOE, Nancy was parachuted into the Auvergne in April 1944 to establish a liaison with the local guerilla band of the French Resistance in the Forest of Tronçais. The group was led by Captain Henri Tardivat who later said that: ‘She is the most feminine woman I know, until the fighting starts. Then she is like five men.’ Never one to shirk a responsibility, Nancy took a leading role in raids on German installation including the local Gestapo Headquarters in Montluçon. She organized the distribution of arms and equipment which had been air dropped by the Allied forces, to local resistance groups and was instrumental in the development of the local resistance into a formidable force of more than 7,000 fighters. From April 1944 until the liberation of France, her group of 7,000+ maquisards fought 22,000 German soldiers, causing 1,400 casualties, while suffering only 100 themselves.
Asked how she would like to be re membered, she said she hoped to go down in history as the woman who turned down 7,000 sex-starved Frenchmen!
Nancy became a courier for the group, carrying messages and food to resistance movements in Southern France.
For her courage and commitment to the Allied cause for freedom, Wake received the following awards: • George Medal • 1939–45 Star • France & Germany Star • Defence Medal • British War Medal 1939–45 • The United States Medal for Freedom • Chevalier de Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest military honour. • French Croix de Guerre, with Star and two Palms • The French Médaille de la Resistance The Australian government initially refused to honour Nance Wake with an Australian honour; however, in 2004 following numerous recommendations by the Returned Soldiers and Services League, she was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for her significant contribution and commitment during the war.
Captain Henri Tardivat, French Resistance leader who operated with Nancy’s help.
In 2006, the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association awarded her with its highest honour, the RSA Badge of Gold. Nancy Wake’s medals are on display in the Second World War Gallery at the Australian War Museum. Wake returned to Australia after the war and stood as a Liberal candidate in the 1949 and 1951 Australian federal elections for the Sydney seat of Barton, running against Dr Herbert Evatt, then Deputy Prime Minister, Attorney-General and Minister for External Affairs in the Ben Chifley Labor government. Although unsuccessful on both occasions, she recorded a 13% swing against Dr Evatt in 1949 and lost by less than 250 votes in 1951. Wake left Australia just after the 1951 election and moved back to England. She worked as an intelligence officer in the department of the Assistant Chief of Air Staff at the Air Ministry in Whitehall but resigned in 1957 after marrying an RAF
Nancy Wake’s medals Photo by Ian Baumann
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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NANCY WAKE
officer, John Forward, in December of that year. They returned to Australia in the early 1960s and moved to Port Macquarie, NSW, where John died on 19 August 1997. Maintaining her interest in politics, Wake was endorsed as a Liberal candidate at the 1966 federal election for the Sydney seat of Kingsford Smith. Despite recording a swing of 6.9 per cent against the sitting Labor member Daniel Curtin, Wake was again unsuccessful. In 2001, Wake left Australia for the last time and emigrated to London. She became a resident at the Stafford Hotel in St James’ Place, near Piccadilly, formerly a British and American forces club during the war. The general manager at the time was Louis Burdet who had also worked for the Resistance in Marseilles. In 2003, Nancy chose to move to the Royal Star and Garter Home for Disabled Ex-Service Men and Women, in Richmond, London, where she remained until her death. When asked whether she feared for her life during her exploits she replied: ‘Free dom is the only thing worth living for. While I was doing that work, I used to think it didn’t matter if I died, because
without freedom there was no point in living.’ Wake died on Sunday evening 7 August 2011, aged 98, at Kingston Hospital after being admitted with a chest infection. She had requested that her ashes be scattered at Montluçon in central France. Her ashes were scattered near the village of Verneix, which is near Montluçon, on 11 March 2013. Following her death, the then Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard said ‘Nancy Wake was a woman of exceptional courage and resourcefulness whose daring exploits saved the lives of hundreds of Allied personnel and helped bring the Nazi occupation of France to an end,’ Ms Gillard went on to say ‘Nancy Wake will remain an abiding inspiration to generations of Australians.’ RSL national president Rear Admiral Ken Doolan said Ms Wake was a great heroine of WW II. ‘She was an extraordinarily brave person who did an enormous amount behind enemy lines, avoiding the Gestapo, standing up in a most courageous way against an awful regime, and setting a fine example for all of us.’
Nancy Wake – The White Mouse by Melissa Beowulf Photo by Ian Baumann
References: The White Mouse, The Australian War Memorial; The White Mouse who Roared, Gerry Carman, Sydney Morning Herald, 09/08/2011; Nancy Wake – Biography, Peter FitzSimmons; Nancy Wake, Convict Creations; Nancy Wake, moreorless.com.au; The White Mouse, Wikipedia; Nancy Wake – Obituary, The Guardian, 09/08/2011.
Congratulations! A Start in Life warmly congratulates Ward Horsnell on his installation as Worshipful Master of Lodge Middle Harbour No 85. Ward, his brother and two sisters were previous beneficiaries of support from A Start in Life throughout their primary, secondary school and university education. We wish him all the best in this important leadership role in Freemasonry!
For more information on how you can support disadvantaged students:
Call (02) 9264 3017 Web: www.astartinlife.org.au
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FREEMASON MARCH 2017
Email: communications@astartinlife.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/astartinlife
By RW BRO BOB SEARLE
MESSAGE FROM THE GRAND CHAPLAIN
Masonic learning By the time this is read we will be one quarter of the way into the new year and many of the New Year’s resolutions will be long forgotten, and so a timely reminder that New Year is a time for new beginnings.
O
ne of the discover the hidden ancient Greek truths and how they are philosophers applied to our lives. commented that, ‘the We have all heard ...the brother unexamined life is a life the brother who stands not worth living.’ up in lodge and rattles who ignores off charges in a manner As Freemasons, it is this lesson which indicates his appropriate that we all dedication to learning take some time to examis doing the words but also ine our lives and, in parhimself reveals his total lack of ticular, where we are at understanding, and as a mason. a great often his belief, in what Being initiated he is saying. makes us new members injustice... of our order but we all Conversely, we are all have a long road ahead inspired when a brother of us before we can truly delivers a charge with say that we are ‘a Free total sincerity and conmason.’ This road involves a great deal of viction and also in such a manner that we learning about the Craft, its ritual, its hisimmediately feel that we have learnt sometory, its meaning and how it impacts upon thing of the truths underlying the words. our lives and the lives of those in our Our ritual text book is a great place to community. begin our journey into Freemasonry and much is to be learnt on this journey. The Many brethren immerse themselves greatest lesson that we can learn is the fully from the day of their joining and source of all truth – the VSL. rapidly advance their understanding of the Craft and are soon able to truly call During our initiation we are taught that themselves masons. the VSL is one of the three great emblemSadly, many initiates into the Craft atic lights of Freemasonry and that this is never progress beyond becoming memwhere we learn our duty to God. This bers. They enjoy the ritual and the many lesson continues throughout the three aspects of membership, even to the point degrees and the brother who ignores this of taking office within the lodge but they lesson is doing himself a great injustice rarely gain any insight into the important and is patently failing in his duty as a truths concealed within the allegorical mason and makes a mockery of our stories they hear. answer to the third question we are asked This is where the importance of a critiwhen we first enter the lodge room at the cal self-examination becomes evident, not very beginning of our journey. only revealing our strengths, but also Any critical self-examination must highlighting our weaknesses. include the question, ‘Have I made a study of the VSL a critical part of my masonic Becoming a mason means that we studies?’ search behind the words of the ritual to
Australia Day 2017 Honours
We proudly announce the awarding of Australia Day Honours to the following brethren – ‘Their fellow brethren bathe in their reflected glory!’
Medal (OAM) in the General Division RW Bro Robert Timothy (Tim) Anderson OAM, JP, PJGW Lodge Vaucluse No. 266, The Discovery Lodge of Research No. 971 For service to the real estate industry, and to the community.
W Bro Frank Reginald Fraser OAM, PM Lodge Hurlstone Park United No. 288 For service to community music.
W Bro Michael John McEwen OAM, PM Lodge Ku-Ring-Gai No. 1033 For service to the community through a range of organisations.
RW Bro Terence John (Terry) Wand OAM, PJGW Secretary, Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes No. 247 For service to rugby league.
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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FROM THE DESK OF THE GRAND SECRETARY
By RW BRO STEPHEN GREEN
Messages from the
Grand Secretary Grand Installations The Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania was held in Hobart between 23 and 26 February 2017. The Grand Master was accompanied by another large party of just over 40 brethren and ladies. As always the Grand Master appreciates the great support he received.
Merchandise Back in stock! The Museum of Freemasonry shop has the New South Wales and ACT masonic tie available for sale, with the waratah motif surrounded by the gold square and compass on a navy background embossed with square and compass motifs. Some other styles also available. We also have a number of regalia cases available for purchase, in a range of sizes.
Stationery A review of stationery needs and costs has not been undertaken for a number of years. A recent review indicates quite clearly that our pricing has not kept up with current costs. Already it would have been noticed
...the Grand Master appreciates the great support he received.
that there has been a modest increase in the price of some publications. The Book of Constitutions and Administrative Regu lations has increased to $15, while the First Degree textbook will be charged at $8. Price increases are being kept marginal in line with printing costs.
Nominations and Notifications Nominations for the position as a member of the Board of Management are due to be submitted by 4 April 2017. Nominations for the office of Regional Grand Counsellor are due by 7 April 2017. Nomination forms together with role
NSW & ACT masonic ties, featuring the waratah on square and compass 12
FREEMASON MARCH 2017
statements are available from the Grand Secretariat. Nominations for various positions as Grand Officers of this Grand Lodge must be submitted by 1 May 2017. The Grand Masters Literary Prize topic for this year is; ‘Recruitment – what role should it have in Freemasonry and how should that role be achieved?’ Essays should be submitted to the Grand Secretariat by 12 April 2017. The Grand Lodge Trustees Scholarships are again being offered this year. Please contact the Grand Secretariat for further information. Members are reminded of the policy regarding the taking of photographs or videos and the social media policy. These policies need to be adhered to in order to protect the privacy and well-being of individuals.
Masonicare ‘Expressions of interest’ are being invited for appointment as a member of the Grand Charity Board – Masonicare. Please see the documentation in the Masonicare pages in this magazine for further information.
Regalia cases in a variety of sizes
HISTORY OF APRIL FOOL’S DAY
By W BRO STEPHEN DALLY
The origin of
April Fool’s Day In 1708 a correspondent wrote to the British Apollo magazine asking ‘Whence proceeds the custom of making April Fools?’
A
pril Fool, April Fool – how we hate to be caught out in an April Fool prank... unless we are the instigator of the prank! Why April Fool or ‘All Fool’s Day? Was it due to the change from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar? Or was it a custom practised for centuries? The actual origin of April Fool’s Day or All Fool’s Day has been debated over the centuries and can be traced to the Roman Festival of Hilara when Romans celebrated the Vernal (Spring) Equinox. Romans would celebrate by dressing up in disguise, and women followed Spring Rituals by entering men’s bath-houses naked. The ancient Jewish celebration of Purim had people dressed in costumes and perform amusing plays. Julius Caesar, realising that there was a multitude of different calendars all having different New Year dates, designed the Julian calendar with 1 January as the first day of the New Year. Romans reluctant to change still celebrated New Year in March and completed business transaction on 23 March. By the 15th Century the Julian calendar was being used throughout Europe and efforts were made to Christianise the calendar. In 1582 Pope Gregory XIII, observing that the current calendar was a mess, decided to adjust it, bringing in Christian holidays and modifying the occurence of leap years. The calendar was at first adopted by Catholic countries but over time it was also adopted by Protestant and Eastern countries. What has this to do with April Fool’s Day? A theory often loved by the popular press as 1 April approaches is that All Fool’s Day was the result of the French, who celebrated New Year’s Day at the end of March, until King Charles IX decreed in 1563 that New Year’s Day would be celebrated on 1
January. Many Frenchmen still celebrating 1 April did not hear about the change and subsequently were known as April Fools and had jokes played on them! April Fools were known as Poisson d’Avril, or April Fish as often a picture of a fish was stuck on their backs. This theory of the French April Fool’s Day is questioned as in reality, the New Year’s date change in France wasn’t a sudden event – and in fact April Fool’s Day was well established long before. But even then, early magazines were speculating on the origins of the day. It’s strange that at certain times of the year people react to a full moon, but in medieval times the coming of Spring seemed to change behaviour – although this could be attributed to the end of those short days and cold European nights! English May Day Festivals are an example when villagers let their hair down. Having served in PNG for three years, the start of the monsoon season in October often led to a change in local behaviour! There are a number of references to All Fool’s Day. The Flemish writer Eduard De Dene in two of his poems published in 1561 mentions ‘April Fish’, Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales in 1392 alludes to April Fool’s Day and in The Nun’s Priest’s Tale describes ‘Syn March bigan thritty dayes
A Poisson d’Avril, or April Fish in France!
and two’ (i.e. 32 days since March began) and talks about a fox fooling a rooster. Some Chaucer researchers question these references but it does seem to refer that All Fool’s Day may have existed much earlier than the 15th Century. For some people, being born on 1 April has been momentous, such as film star Lon Chaney, Otto von Bismarck – the man who united Germany, film star Debbie Reynolds, TV star George Baker, singer Susan Boyle and my granddaughter Hayley who hopes to be famous one day. An article about April Fool’s Day would not be complete without reference to some of the famous hoaxes – who has forgotten Dick Smith’s famous Sydney Iceberg, Rich ard Branson’s UFO landing in London, BBC Panorama’s Swiss Spaghetti Harvest and Burger King’s left handed hamburger. There is no doubt that April Fool’s Day or All Fool’s Day existed well before the Gregorian Calendar or any happenings in France in 1563 and historians, academics and sceptics will continue to debate its origin. The 1978 April Fools hoax in which Dick Smith promised to turn this ‘iceberg’ into ice cubes for sale. Photo by The Museum of Hoaxes
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
13
WINNING CARE
By RW BRO TED SIMMONS
A home to impress
Above: Official Opening of the Sir David Martin home. Cr Meg Oates speaks to guests. Inset: The Sir David Martin Home
Frank Whiddon Homes have long been an area of support from Freemasons over decades and the Whiddon Group have kept up the program with the November opening of the new Sir David Martin home at Sydney’s Easton Park.
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he home was officially opened by the Deputy Mayor of Campbell town, Cr Meg Oates, with Whiddon Board Chairperson, Mr Len Kearns, CEO Chris Mamarelis and resident Mr Tony Bugeja as well as more than 100 guests including residents, families, local school children and staff. The architecturally-designed, two-storey building is set amongst stunning landscaped gardens, offers exceptional care and is part of a vibrant community at Easton Park in Glenfield. This building retains the name of the original Sir David Martin building that was constructed in 1993, to commemorate the Governor of NSW who passed away while he was in office. The tradition of naming these homes and buildings after those who support Whiddon is a long-standing practice and continued with the wings named
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Our staff strive every day to provide the best care that we can for our residents... in recognition of RW Bro Leslie Lock and RW Bro John Treloar, who were both longtime Board members of Frank Whiddon Masonic Homes NSW. The Sir David Martin home features 160 rooms, 24 hour care and support, awardwinning food and dining, onsite bank, kiosk and movie theatre, beauty and hairdressing salon, onsite cafés and function
centre and a specialist dementia care wing. The Whiddon Group has been caring for older Australians in NSW for nearly 70 years and now has more than 1,700 staff and 2,000 clients, offering residential aged care, disability services and independent living services in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW. In the same week, the Group held its Annual Awards Night to recognise those staff members who had given exceptional service during the year. It had been a big year for the organisation which won the 2016 Better Practice Award for its Hen Power Trial and the 2016 Employer of Choice Award. Chris Mamarelis, the Group CEO, said the Gala Dinner was a function where they can thank staff who have gone above and beyond and who truly make a difference to the organisation.
WINNING CARE Whiddon Board Chairperson Len Kearns addresses visitors and guests.
‘For those being recognized, I encourage you to to take the time to reflect on all you have achieved and how many lives you have touched,’ he said. The formal procedures began with congratulations to Scholarship recipients Corrine McClung and Lynsey Wilkins, to those who had completed the Leadership Development Program and to the Grafton Commissoning team before handing out presentation of 30 years and 35 years service awards. The highlight of the evening was the Board of Directors Awards to the various 2016 nominees with Coleen Schrader from Grafton announced as the 2016 Employee of the Year. Coleen has been with Whiddon for more than 13 years as a Care Services team member and is known for being a very caring and compassionate person who has developed a special relationship with residents, families and staff. She brings in flowers from her own garden, arranges events for residents to
celebrate special occasions with their loved ones, and is often seen singing and dancing with residents. Coleen brings great joy, cheer and delight to all, and is a very worthy recipient. ‘Our people are at the heart of what we do. They inspire us and go out of their way each and every day to touch the lives of our residents and staff,’ said Mr Mamarelis. ‘Coleen, along with others recognised on the night, has shown incredible dedication, passion, innovation and commitment. She is a true gem; I warmly congratulate her and all of our 2016 nominees from across the state.’ Coleen Schrader was delighted and surprised to receive the accolade. ‘It was an incredible moment to be named this year’s winner and I am very proud of this achievement. I work with a fantastic team who show great drive, dedication and energy for what they do,’ Coleen said. ‘I love what I do; it really is one big family. Our staff strive every day to
Coleen Schrader from Whiddon Grafton was awarded Employee of the Year
provide the best care that we can for our residents and bring love, friendship and smiles. I am pleased to be a part of this, and am honoured to receive this award.’ The Directors nominations covered many areas of NSW, including the Far West, Temora, Newcastle, Narrabri, Kyogle, Grafton and Casino.
Welcome to the Happy Masons Shop
When you need Regalia, now or in the future, you can rely on The Happy Masons Shop! We offer the best possible quality at the lowest cost anywhere in Australia.
www.thehappymasonsshop.com.au
GR TO EAT BE SA HA VIN D! GS
We are committed to providing a one-stop online masonic shop so you can browse and safely purchase quality new and collectable masonic items at ‘real value for money’ prices. We have literally hundreds of items and are acquiring more stock all the time!
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
15
LIVES OF SERVICE
By RW BRO RICHARD DAWES
Masons who served –
and served We are fond of ascribing ‘greatness’ to a mason who distinguishes himself on the field of battle. We can be eager to link his achievements with his Masonry, however, frequently we find that his Masonic achievements have been few.
P
erhaps he only reached the rank of Master Mason and did not serve the Craft in any way other than ‘belonging’. So, let’s examine the careers of some masons who achieved military distinction and civil prominence. We will not linger on their masonic lives – or lack thereof! Yet some of our heroes gave their tomorrows for our todays. For them there
was no future wherein they could make their mark in civilian life. We have no firsthand memories of those who died in WWI and few remember the young men who sacrificed their lives during WWII. Their names live on in the names of a few of our lodges, and in some cases the names of masonic buildings. Lodge Harold Herman Unity. Lodge Victoria Cross No 928, NSWC which is named after Bro John Hurst Edmondson, VC. Interestingly Parks, Streets and Clubs are named after Edmondson – but not a lodge. Perhaps a subject for further research?
‘Weary’ Dunlop by Murray Griffin Courtesy of the Australian War Memorial
Colonel Sir Ernest Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop, AC, CMG, OBE Weary Dunlop’s memory lives on as one of the most loved Australians in recent history. Great notice is taken of his service in POW camps in South East Asia. His leadership was combined with his medical skills to save the lives of many who otherwise would have died on the Thai-Burma Railway. But he was ‘special’ before WWII; in 1932 he was in the team of Wallabies that played the All Blacks (and won!): bear in mind that he was a Victorian and in fact he is the only Victorian who has been inducted into the Rugby Union Hall of Fame. Early training of AIF Recruits Courtesy of the Australian War Memorial
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LIVES OF SERVICE
After the war, he was very active in the medical and pharmaceutical fields and his tireless community work exhibited those characteristics that masons hold dear. He was a member of Lodge Liberation No 674 VC for over 39 years.
Major General Sir Frederick ‘Black Jack’ Galleghan Black Jack Galleghan volunteered for the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in 1916 and saw service on the Western Front over a period of two years. He was a sergeant and was wounded in June 1917 and August 1918 the latter wound causing him to be repatriated to Australia. Between the wars he worked in the postal service, Department of Trade and Customs and Attorney General’s Department. His ongoing militia service resulted in his being promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel. In 1940 he volunteered for the newly revived AIF. In 1941 he was in Malaya and Singapore for the defeat by the Japanese. It was his leadership during the next four years as a POW within Changi that cemented his reputation as a strong leader who used discipline to maintain morale and optimise the survival of his troops. After WWII Galleghan continued his involvement with charitable institutions and was knighted in 1969 for his work for war veterans. Black Jack joined Lodge St John No 115, NSWC in 1919 and resigned in 1931. In 1947 he was made an honorary member of Lodge Army and Navy No 517 NSWC. He affiliated with Lodge Ubique No 99 NSWC
an ‘Black Jack’ Gallegh
lian Courtesy of the Austra War Memorial
in 1959 and remained a member of the Craft until his death in 1971.
Brigadier General Arthur Seaforth Blackburn, VC Blackburn was called to the bar in Adelaide in 1913 and a year later he was amongst the first to land at Gallipoli. In 1916 he was a Lieutenant leading bombing parties at Pozieres, most of his men were killed but for outstanding bravery he was awarded the VC. Between the First and Second World Wars he was an advocate for serving and returned soldiers and became president of the Returned Sailors Soldiers and Airmens Imperial League in South Australia. He was elected to State Parliament and later served as city coroner. As a Lieutenant-Colonel during WWII he served in Syria and Indonesia where he became a POW. After his return to Australia in 1945 he became a commissioner in the Commonwealth Court of Conciliation and Arbitration and a member of the Australian National Airlines Commission. He was also State President of the RSL in the late 1940s.
Lieutenant General Sir Stanley George Savige Savige was born on 26 June 1890, joined the Army in 1915 and was commissioned at Lone Pine the same year. He fought at Warlencourt, Grevilliers, Bullencourt, Pozieres and Mouquet Farm and finished his WWI service in Persia. After the armistice, he focused on the needs and wants of returned servicemen and in September 1923 he was a founding member of Legacy and a leading figure in its development over the next 30 years. In WWII he fought in North Africa, Greece and Syria. Now 51, he continued to serve with distinction in New Guinea where he accepted the surrender of Japanese forces at Torokina. His remaining eight years included service to his beloved Legacy and directorships of companies such as Olympic Tyre and Rubber, and Moran and Cato. His Masonic career in Victoria spanned the years from 1920 to his death in 1954.
Left: Arthur Seaforth Blackburn Below: Stanley George Savige Courtesy of the Australian War Memorial
So, one man, Weary Dunlop, took his civilian skills to the battlefield and in doing so served his country and the men under his care in the most appalling conditions. After his return to Australia he continued to serve his country by using his skills to further the general condition of his fellow man. Blackburn was a qualified lawyer before the first world war; fought in that conflict and WWII then applied his talents as a stellar civil servant after his military service. Savige was a true warrior yet his main achievement in life was his beloved Legacy to which he gave most of his life and all his heart. Black Jack Galleghan fought and bled for his country in WWI, served in the militia between the wars and served his fellow POWs in WWII. He and Dunlop had a lot in common although in a significantly different manner. Some men join Freemasonry and go on to achieve much in civilian or military life. Others achieve much and later become masons. In some mysterious manner Freemasonry can be both a cause and a result. The beauty of Freemasonry is that ‘cause’ and ‘result’ are of little matter. It’s the man himself that counts. MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
17
IN PRAISE OF EMISSARIES
By RW BRO DANIEL WHITE
The noble art of an
emissary
The visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon. Sir Edward John Poynter, oil on canvas, 1890.
From the remotest times of antiquity, emissaries have played a diplomatic and pivotal role in affirming the solidarity between foreign nations and counterparts who have sought to cultivate and maintain harmonious and beneficial working relations on a consistent basis, for the prosperity and progress of all peoples throughout all nations.
P
erhaps one of the most celebrated and historical accounts illustrated through art can be seen in Sir Edward Poynter’s masterpiece titled, The Visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon from 1890. This truly magnificent piece of art epitomises the successful unification between two great leaders which, through extraordinary circumstances, was supported by the surrounding Middle East nations in what was considered during that tempestuous age, as an unprecedented time of peace and stability. It is no wonder then that the noble art of an emissary has attracted some of the most influential and charismatic men and women throughout time. Many who have personally risked life and limb to placate aggrieved communities and have worked
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tirelessly to bring about peace and harmony, through unforseen and difficult circumstances often requiring extensive involvement in underdeveloped societies and working within largely war-torn countries. However, in recent decades there have been several commendable individuals, who have gone above and beyond our expectations to create a lasting impression that continues to inspire and still make a lasting difference in the world we live in today. For instance, who could forget the charming and kind hearted Danny Kaye who had dedicated half of his life to humanitarian work and made a profound impact on the world stage, as both actor and as an emissary on behalf of UNICEF. In respect of Kaye’s immeasurable
contribution, since his death Kaye was honoured by UNICEF at their headquarters in New York, with the Visitors Centre bearing his name, and is today remembered as their first prominent ‘Good Will Ambassador.’ The late Audrey Hepburn, following a highly successful acting career, also desired and felt inclined to make a personal difference in the world and similarly became a Good Will Ambassador for UNICEF. Very soon after her appointment, Hepburn had decided to travel to Ethiopia knowing full well the associated risks. What Hepburn observed for herself was the sheer desperation and cruel plight that had decimated Ethiopia through civil unrest and famine brought on by severe drought. This eye-opening experience was the catalyst that provided Hepburn with the impetus on her return to arrange formal discussions over the course of the following weeks. She outlined a modelled plan to the media in the US, Canada and Europe of the emergency operations and projects being implemented by UNICEF that would assuage the people of Ethiopia, largely through the support and commitment from the West. From Hepburn’s initial
IN PRAISE OF EMISSARIES
mission to Ethiopia and her subsequent engagement with the West, it was no wonder that in the following years before her death, she became an instrumental emissary and advocate for UNICEF. And then we have the late, but much beloved and ever-amusing Sir Peter Ustinov. Ustinov’s lifetime achievements and contributions to humanity were altogether remarkable. Ustinov invested much of his time as an emissary on behalf of various organisations, including UNICEF and the World Federalist Movement (WFM). Ustinov served as the President of the WFM, being elected in 1991. During his tenure, with the highly successful support from Non-Government Organisa tions, the much needed International Criminal Court (ICC) was achieved and successfully established. When reviewing Ustinov’s accomplishments and reflecting on his wonderful sense of humour and clever wit, one cannot help but admire his lasting effect and poignantly bring to mind one of his most memorable quotes ‘It is our responsibilities, not ourselves, that we should take seriously.’ At present there are still greater forces and individuals at work, such as many royal families contributing towards peace from all corners of the globe and there are other notable individuals making a difference today who deserve mentioning such as Harry Belafonte, Sir Roger Moore and Kofi Annan. It brings consolation to many and we can be assured and confident in our future, when naturally reassuring individuals like Kofi Annan, the former
Secretary General of the United Nations, rise to the occasion and have the ability to raise support and thwart vexatious spot fires from around the world. Leaders like Annan bring to the world scene the perfect formula: dignity afforded to every individual, the need for clarity in all undertakings and the critical constituent, equality for all mankind. As a testimony of Annan’s capacity and commitment to the restoration and healing of the world, he continues to be an encouraging voice and an exemplary emissary for many worthy causes, such as recently being requested by state counsellor Daw Aung San Su Kyi to chair the advisory commission on the future of Myanmar. Today we venerate the indelible work of so many gifted individuals, emissaries who have and continue to shape and forge the bonds of universal friendship into an ever-evolving and brighter future that generates a refreshing new hope.
...we venerate the indelible work of so many gifted individuals...
Audrey Hepburn visiting Ethiopia in 1988. Photo courtesy of John Isaac, UNICEF
Family Law
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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A MEDICAL VOLUNTEER
By RW BRO DAVID KNIGHT
The Vision Maternity Centre
Volunteer doctor in
Ethiopia Ethiopia is a landlocked country in the horn of Africa. It is one of the poorest countries in the world and, like many of its neighbours, it is politically unstable. It is also one of the most dangerous places on earth to give birth.
I
n 2013 there were an estimated 289,000 maternal deaths worldwide, with 99% of them occurring in developing countries and 62% of those occur in sub-Saharan Africa. The vast majority of those deaths were preventable. Maternal and infant mortality can be greatly reduced by using simple techniques and inexpensive equipment. In some parts of Africa those resources have been made available by a number of western charities that mostly employ volunteers. To put the problem simply – any woman in Australia who has ever been pregnant has a 1 in 4,000 chance of dying from a pregnancy related cause. In sub-Saharan Africa that figure is 1 in 16. The Barbara May Foundation was formed in 2009 in memory of Barbara May Browning whose daughter, Valerie, had devoted her life to improving maternity services in Africa. Its main hospital in Ethiopia is the Vision Maternity Centre in the city of Bahir Dar which is located on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the second largest lake in Africa and the source of the Blue Nile.
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All of the money they receive goes to their work in saving the lives of mothers and babies in Africa. The Vision Maternity Centre is run by a team of highly trained, skilled and dedicated midwives. They are supported by volunteer obstetricians from Australia and Holland and there are usually two doctors working together at any one time. The hospital delivers more than 2,200 babies every year, with outcomes for both mothers and babies which are comparable to any first world country. I was privileged to have worked in Bahir Dar as a volunteer obstetrician for two months in August and September 2016. For approximately
half of that time I was the only doctor there. A typical day begins with an audit of the births which have occurred in the previous 24 hours. This is followed by a ward round. During the day the midwives run an antenatal clinic and they refer some of the women for medical input and ultrasound scans which the doctors are able to perform using a portable ultrasound machine. The volunteer doctors also perform caesarean sections and they are present at the more complicated births including twin deliveries, forceps, breech births and deliveries complicated by postpartum haemorrhage. The hospital itself is made up of a series of tin sheds. The antenatal clinic which is run by the midwives is located in a separate building. The main ward consists of 12 beds with no curtains or any other form of privacy for the women. The women who are in active labour share the ward with the postnatal patients as well as those women having miscarriages. Space is always a problem. Women go home after six hours except for caesarean deliveries who stay for up to three days. There is a birthing room with two beds and also a theatre for caesarean sections. Both are very basic. The midwives do vacuum deliveries and they reuse the (disposable) cups many times over. Forceps are avail able for the doctors to use. The operating theatre is in an adjacent building. Caesarean sections are performed under a spinal anaesthetic. However, there is no
BAHIR DAR
The Maternity Centre is located in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
A MEDICAL VOLUNTEER The operating theatre
The main ward
form of pain relief for instrumental births, surgical treatment of miscarriages or manual removal of placentas. Epidural blocks are simply not available. The hospital is not able to provide food for the women. The families usually supplied them with traditional meals. On one occasion I saw something that I have never seen before (and hope never to see again). I saw a five day old baby with live maggots in its umbilicus (belly button). I was able to remove all of the maggots with forceps – one at a time. I then washed the area with alcohol and instructed the mother to do the same. There were a few stillbirths and a number of miscarriages during my time there. However, none of these appeared to be preventable. There was one spontaneous uterine rupture in a woman who was having her sixth baby. Fortunately I was able to operate to repair the tear in the uterus and both mother and baby survived the ordeal. The most confusing thing that I found is that Ethiopia uses the Julian calendar, not the Gregorian (which is used everywhere
else). The Ethiopian calendar is about 6½ years behind our own. I celebrated New Year’s Day (2009) in September. There is also a six hour difference in the way they tell the time. Noon is referred to as 6 o’clock. It took me quite a while to adjust to these differences. Prior to my departure for Ethiopia, the brethren of Lodge Capitol of Canberra,
The hospital delivers more than 2,200 babies every year, with outcomes for both mothers and babies which are comparable to any first world country.
Lodge West Epping and the Goulburn Chapter of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite made substantial donations to the Barbara May Foundation. I was immensely grateful for their support. The Foundation receives no government assistance and relies heavily on the generosity of its donors. All of the money they receive goes to their work in saving the lives of mothers and babies in Africa. I would urge any Worshipful Master to consider the Barbara May Foundation as a charity worthy of support.
The Maternity Centre courtyard MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
21
A CHAMBER OF SECRETS
By RW BRO NEIL ATKINS
a Templar refuge?
Each day people journey along busy Melbourn Street in the town of Royston in Hertfordshire, England, many oblivious to the fact that beneath a section of the street is a manmade bell-shaped cave dug from the chalk strata.
T
he origins of the cave are shrouded in mystery but there is speculation that the cave was perhaps a secret meeting place of the Poor Knights of Christ and the Temple of Solomon, better known as The Knights Templar.
There is no doubt that there was a strong Templar presence in the district. By the end of the 12th Century, Templars had extensive holdings in Hertfordshire and had established the market town of Baldock, just 13 kilometres from Royston. For almost two centuries, from 1119, the Templars were a powerful and wealthy force functioning under the patronage of
...it contained debris which was excavated in search of buried treasure.
Royston Cave lies unassumingly beneath Melbourn Street in Royston 22
FREEMASON  MARCH 2017
This figure may be St Christopher
the Popes of the time. During the 14th Century the patronage was withdrawn, several Templars arrested and the Order victimised. Royston Cave might well have been their secret meeting place. The cave was possibly abandoned about the time of the Templars demise in the 14th Century until it was accidentally rediscovered in 1742. It is speculated that the cave, which has a circumference of around 5.5 metres and a height of around seven metres, was modelled on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the city which was the international headquarters of the Templars. The United Kingdom has its share of Templar sites perhaps more notably Temple, a central part of the City of
A figure believed to represent King David
A CHAMBER OF SECRETS
London named after the Knights Templar Church at this location and Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland, believed to be a possible repository of Templar Wealth. Perhaps the most intriguing relic left by the Templars in England could be the man-made bell-shaped Royston Cave. Original access to the cave was through a narrow vertical shaft extending approximately four metres from ground level. In 1790 a sloping tunnel 22 metres in length was dug to facilitate easier access. What is notable about the cave is carvings in the chalk walls forming a frieze stretching around the circumference of the cave. The frieze occupies a space from ground level to approximately the height of a tall man. Carvings related to Christian religion and paganism as well as graffiti are displayed in the frieze. Some similarities of the carvings at Royston have been seen at known Templar sites in France, strengthening the belief that Royston Cave is a former Templar site. Interpretations of the carvings have changed since the cave was discovered but there is wide agreement that some represent carvings of Saints while others represent events in Christian history. Perhaps the most interesting carving is of a man with arms upraised to the heavens, believed to be King David. Such a drawing is said to illustrate Psalm 69 on an ancient document. Psalm 69 begins with ‘Save me, Oh God’ and is thought to refer to the Templars’ plea regarding their victimisation by the Pope. A few might see the similarity to a masonic sign. Another is regarded to be a carving of St Christopher, the patron saint of travellers. Tenuously, in this location, the carving is thought to have Templar connections given the duties of the Templars to provide protection for those participating in the Crusades. The patron saint of England, St George, has been identified in another carving. He is depicted with an upraised sword and a cross on his chest. It perhaps could equally be that of a Templar but given the amount of graffiti in the cave, the cross could have been added at a later date. Elsewhere in the frieze are other scenes from Christian origins and pagan symbols which add to the mystery of the cave. When the cave was rediscovered it contained debris which was excavated in search of buried treasure. The fill was
The cave was possibly abandoned about the time of the Templars demise in the 14th Century...
‘scattered to the four winds,’ preventing archaeologists from dating the origin of the cave and perhaps its usage. Royston cave was in private ownership until it was leased by the Royston Town Council in 1964. Now it is a designated Historic England site to ensure its significance to English history is not lost. Much research and debate is still being carried out about the origin and use of the cave but with the absence of verifiable evidence, speculation and supposition is used to support particular points of view.
The sword and cross on this figure may indicate a likeness of St George
Whatever its origins, the mystery underpinning the cave and its possible link to the Templars adds to its allure. The cave is managed by volunteers of the Royston and District Historical Society and is open for viewing on public holidays and weekend afternoons during spring and summer.
Illustrations of Royston Cave carvings from Joseph Beldam’s book The Origins and Use of the Royston Cave, 1884 MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
23
A WORLD-CLASS REEF
By RW BRO TED SIMMONS
Great Barrier
It is longer than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth that is visible from space. It is one of the great tourist attractions in Australia which over the years has been visited, photographed, filmed and enjoyed. It is the Great Barrier Reef.
I
remember at school the many times the history or geography teacher would talk about the Seven Wonders of the World but the interest really moved up a notch when he would mention Australia’s unique contribution. No he would say, not the Sydney Harbour Bridge or the Opera House but that marvellous natural world famous feature, the Great Barrier Reef. It is the greatest known coral growth of its kind, extending more than 1,000 kilometres along the Queensland coast from Bundaberg northwards to New Guinea and part of the largest coral area in the world. The Reef contains an abundance of marine life, more than 3,000 individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of tropical islands adorned by golden, sun-soaked beaches. Over decades, it has prospered with the building of holiday resorts, snorkel and scuba diving, viewing underwater activities and sights from glass-bottomed boats, aircraft and helicopter flights, educational tours, whale-watching and swimming with dolphins; or maybe a semi-submersible diving view experience, or perhaps walk through an underwater viewing chamber and watch the world swim by. What more could a traveller on holidays want? Cairns and Mackay are the most-used Queensland towns from which a person can take day tours to see the Reef or
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A WORLD-CLASS REEF
possibly book into one of the modern tourist resorts for a few days of sunshine, sightseeing and self-satisfaction. Cruise ships regularly dock at Cairns, or its outer suburb of Yorkey’s Knob where it’s a quick bus ride into the city or to a wharf for the mostly calm but sometimes a little rocky catamaran ride to the Reef. Undoubtedly most people have been to an aquarium and watched as fish of various sizes from tiddlers to sharks have cruised past them but the experience of sitting in a small boat with clear glass at your feet and seeing within touching distance the myriad of sea life and the ever changing seabed as you slowly cruise around is unique. Cruises from Cairns can take four to eight hours in a catamaran or a purpose built reef vessel as you glide across the sparkling blue water leaving behind you a wonderful coastal scenery backdrop. The passage or channel between the Reef and the mainland is sometimes locally called the ‘Grand Canal’ and is the longest stretch of pilotage in the world. The South Pacific Ocean can dish up great waves on to the outer protecting edge of the Reef but usually the water in the channel is calm.
A Common Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) in its sea anemone home
History records that the great Spanish navigator Torres sighted the Reef and its islands in 1606 during the voyage in which he discovered the Strait which now carries his name. But he failed to investigate any further and the great continent of Australia remained unknown until Captain James Cook in the Endeavour made his mark in history in 1770. Another
English sailor, William Bligh, penetrated the Reef in 1759 during his epic voyage to Timor in the boat from the Bounty, landed on what is now known as Restoration Island and continued north until he reached Torres Strait. In later years, he returned to map the Great Barrier Reef for the first time accompanied by Matthew Flinders who
Barred Spinefoot Photo by Leonard Low
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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A WORLD-CLASS REEF
Cuttlefish, photo taken near Cairns. Photo by Leonard Low
subsequently added much to the knowledge of the Reef. There are possibly more than 600 islands in the Barrier Reef chain. They consist of two types – the true coral islands formed by the growth of living creatures from the bottom of the sea and continental islands which are relics of high land that was once part of the Queensland mainland. True islands are surrounded or partially surrounded by fringing reefs such as Heron or Green Island while continental islands are
created by changes in sea level such as Lindeman, Hayman and the Whitsundays. The latter are often quite mountainous with a dense jungle-type of vegetation. In seeking to look at the marine life, it is more to the advantage of a tourist to select pools in the reef when the tide is low. Colour is an outstanding feature of the Reef and practically every form of life on the land, in the sea or in the air contributes to the colourful effect. Thousands of birds inhabit the islands and the waters
Blue Starfish Photo by Leonard Low
What more could a traveller on holidays want?
teem with living forms ranging from the smallest that can be picked up through a glass bottomed boat to whales. Coral reefs may be either barrier reefs, fringing reefs or atolls. Barrier reefs are frequently found sometimes hundreds of miles from land masses. Fringing reefs are built up on submerged slopes around islands while an atoll is an island consisting of a strip or ring of coral surrounding a central lagoon. Sunning at Bondi Beach in Sydney, or Waikiki in Honolulu has certain attractions, but none can compare with the wonderful scenes and fascinating fish that inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. A visit will create memories that last a lifetime and will certainly earn the approval of a traveller as one of the Wonders of the World.
Green turtle Blackback butterflyfish Photo by Leonard Low
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FREEMASON MARCH 2017
Photo by Annemarie Kohl and Nicolai Schäfer
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AIRBORNE FIREFIGHTERS
By W BRO STEPHEN DALLY
Fighting fires from the air
The earliest history of fire fighting can be traced to ancient Rome when a Roman General and politician Marcus Licinius Crassus formed the first fire brigade.
C
rassus, the richest man in Rome would send his brigade to a fire where Crassus would bargain with the owner for a price to put out the fire! In 6AD after the fire that destroyed two thirds of Rome, Emperor Caesar Augustus established the first structured fire brigade known as the Vigiles. The corps of Vigiles consisted of ex-slaves who were trained in fire fighting; they also served as watchmen of the city during the night. There is very little information about fighting fires in the European Middle Ages until the Great Fire of London in 1666 that left thousands homeless. Following the fire, insurance companies formed private brigades. Fire brigades attending premises would only put out the fire if the premises displayed their company’s plaque. It is worth noting that brother Benjamin Franklin created the Union Fire Company in 1736 in Philadelphia, the first volunteer fire company in America. There were no full-time paid fire-fighters in America until 1850. A great move forward was made in 1672 when Jan Van der Heyden invented the
...seeing Elvis or Thor in the air discharging their cargo over a fire brings tremendous reassurance... fire-hose constructed of flexible leather and coupled every 50 feet with brass fittings, the length and connections remaining the standard to this day. In 1725, Londoner Richard Newsham developed the first manual fire engine which was manned by a team and capable of delivering up to 160 gallons per minute. The 20th Century saw great changes in fighting fires in methods and equipment – engines not only held thousands of
litres of water but were motorised. Cities and towns had small or well developed fire brigades but countries like Australia, apart from professional brigades, also relied on volunteer organisations. Australia is a large country with small towns and settlements that rely on volunteer brigades and each state has its own organisation, for example NSW has the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Victoria the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and South Australia the South Australian Country Fire Service (SACFS). During the last century Australia has endured some very serious bushfires including Black Friday in Victoria in 1939, Black Saturday in Victoria in 2009, and Ash Wednesday in South Australia in 1983. There have been many methods used in fighting bushfires and Victoria, in December 1997, brought in the first helicopter, an Erickson S-64 Air-Crane called Elvis to assist firemen and volunteers in battling blazes. Australians became used
Thor, a modified Hercules C130 dropping its impressive 15,450 litre payload during a demonstration. Photo by AGAIR Logistics PTY Ltd
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AIRBORNE FIREFIGHTERS A NSW RFS Firebird helicopter awating deployment Photo by Bidgee
A DC-10 tanker during a demonstration
to seeing Elvis in the sky carrying a large bucket full of water or fire retardant discharging its load over a bushfire, but it was found that using helicopters was not really successful and extremely expensive both in the air and stationary on the ground. The arrival of Thor on 1 September 2015, the first Lockheed Modified C130 saw a new chapter in the methods of bushfire fighting and control. The Lock heed C130 is a four engine military aircraft used by many countries and when converted to carrying water it can discharge at the one time more than 15,000 litres of water or fire retardant. In September 2016 another progressive move was achieved when the first McDonald DC-10 arrived in NSW. The DC10 is a three engine, wide body converted former airliner capable of discharging 44,000 litres of water or fire retardant in an exterior belly-mounted tank, the contents of which can be released in eight seconds.
But there is a query as to whether aerial fire fighting is successful. The cost of using helicopters or converted civilian liners or military aircraft is perhaps debatable. Looking at US figures, flying a DC-10 for one hour costs $6,000 and fire retardant $2 a litre. The Commission looking at the Victorian Black Saturday Bushfires heard that just keeping the fleet on standby in the period 2008–2009 cost $18 million, with a
It is worth noting that brother Benjamin Franklin created the Union Fire Company in 1736...
further $16 million operating costs. It also heard that to operate Elvis on standby cost $18 million with a further $16 million operating charges. The commission heard that operating Firebird helicopters was a lot cheaper. No doubt for state treasurers the cost of financing a fleet of aerial fire fighting aircraft or even a single aircraft on contract could create a big hole in the state budget but to the public, seeing Elvis or Thor in the air discharging their cargo over a fire brings tremendous reassurance that it will help to save lives and property.
jewellery Looking for the perfect gift? Or to organise a fun and glamorous ladies’ night for your lodge?
Elvis is a popular sight during bushfire season, alongside other Air-Cranes such as Isabelle and The Incredible Hulk. Photo by Christian Valle
Call W Bro Edwin Power
0427 233 113 MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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MASONICARE
MASONICARE – YOUR GRAND CHARITY
Chairman’s Message Welcome to 2017, and thank you to all the Freemasons who have actively participated in charitable works in the past 12 months. As you are aware, due to reduction in investment income to Masonicare and the success of Masonicare over the past 12 months, InterAction grants have now been reduced to $3000. The Board however, would like to encourage lodges to continue raising funds for registered charities within NSW and the ACT. Between now and June we will again be running an appeal for benevolence, and I would ask that when this appeal is launched all lodges participate fully as this fund directly benefits masons and their families.
I am aware that many masonic associations and lodges do have excess funds within their accounts. These funds do not qualify for InterAction grants. The Board would, however, encourage lodges who have these funds to donate them to worthy charities within their jurisdiction even though they don’t qualify for InterAction grants. By doing this it will highlight the charitable nature of Freemasonry within your local communities and assist in promoting Free masonry and Masonicare. There are vacant positions on the Masonicare Board. These positions are voluntary with the Board meeting six times a year. A further explanation and description
can be found in this edition of the magazine. I would encourage any brethren interested in joining the Board to make application via the Grand Secretariat for these positions. Both I and the Board look forward to working with you over the coming calendar year to continue to promote Masonicare and Freemasonry
RW Bro Andrew Fraser MP PDGM Chairman
A call for Board members
‘Expressions of Interest’ are invited for appointment as a member of the Grand Charity Board – Masonicare. This is the only constituted Board within the Grand Lodge that may include non-masons, with three ladies previously appointed. Here are some key facts about Masoni care – full details of Board position requirements are included in a ‘Role Statement’ that will be issued on application to the Grand Secretary.
Masonicare Charity Jewels Has your Lodge Management Committee considered making a special presentation of one of these beautiful Masonicare Charity Jewels to a deserving brother at your Installation meeting? One of the jewels could even be presented to the incoming/outgoing MCO at an appropriate time or at the Festive Board. Jewels can only be purchased by the lodge and are not tax deductible in compliance with ATO ‘charity’ regulations. Funds raised from the sale of jewels go to The Benevolence Fund.
Contact Masonicare for more information
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THE BOARD’S ROLE
Masonicare is the flagship under which Grand Lodge builds relationships and raises the profile of Freemasonry by promoting the ‘charitable’ contribution masons make in the community. It encompasses the operations previously undertaken by the Fund of Benevolence, the Scott Young Trust and the Disaster Relief Fund.
BOARD GOVERNANCE
Masonicare is administered by a Board comprising a Chairman, a Deputy Chair man, the Grand Registrar and Grand Treasurer plus eight members who are appointed by the Executive Council. This Board is supported by an Administration Officer who is an employee of UGL. The Board is responsible for Governance and planning, promoting benefits and objectives, recommending allocation of grants and assisting fundraising activities for Trusts and Funds managed under its umbrella. Reflective of this role, Board members should possess professional experience in the fields of fundraising, charitable grants marketing, business planning, public relations and communications.
PROMOTING MASONICARE
Masonicare is the marketing name of the Grand Charity and usage of this name,
except in a generic or descriptive sense, requires Board approval. Unauthorised usage may result in the Grand Lodge denying association with an activity and/ or event. This also applies to Masonicare’s slogans (see below). The Masonicare logo can be found on Masonicare’s web site at www.masonicare.org.au. There are two official Masonicare slogans – ‘PROUDLY HELPING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES’ (for external use) and ‘YOUR GRAND CHARITY’ (for internal communications). Applications to use the logo or slogans must be made in writing, accompanied by an outline of the event and/or activity being undertaken. Masonicare supports the efforts of Freemasonry through localised fundraising events and activities together with financial grants to charitable organisations for projects and programs that make a real difference. Masonicare offers lodges and Masonic groups the opportunity to be involved in their communities by directing charitable funds to local projects.
FUNDRAISING
Fundraising can include major events and activities, pledge programs, bequests or local lodge activities. Proposals to raise funds for Masonicare must be submitted to the Board. Through a direct mail program, Free masons are invited to pledge support by
MASONICARE – YOUR GRAND CHARITY enrolling as a Masonicare supporter with two options – an annual subscription of $180 or monthly donations of $15. In addition, people are encouraged to leave money for Masonicare as a bequest within their Will. All funds raised by Masonicare are invested under the guidance of Grand Lodge’s Finance and Audit Committee. Collections by a Lodge, District or Region in the name of Masonicare or any trust or fund under Masonicare’s management are forwarded to Masonicare for receipting and investment. The interest these investments earn is distributed to organisations that are selected from those who have applied for assistance.
MAKING GRANTS
Masonicare conducts several programs including Regional, InterAction, Bene volence and Disaster Relief Fund Grants. All Grant applications are reviewed by the Grants Sub-Committee which reports to and makes recommendations to the Masonicare Board. Masonicare aims to ensure that all Grants are channelled towards projects and programs that contribute to priority local community needs, are sustainable and
make a real difference for the people that the designated organisation supports. Eligibility for a Grant from Masonicare is dependent on the Applicant Organisation being authorised by the Australian Taxation Office as a DGR (deductible gift recipient) with an ABN.
WHAT IS REQUIRED OF BOARD MEMBERS?
Each Board member attends meetings which are held bi-monthly commencing at 5.30 pm. The number of meetings may vary at the discretion of the Chairman or by discussion at Board meetings. Board members form and chair a sub-committee to deal with matters relating to their particular portfolio including selection of sub-committee members and non-masons are encouraged to participate. A report on the work carried out by each sub-committee is made at each Board meeting detailing achievements and progress made since the prior meeting. All Board and sub-committee members are encouraged to support other sub-committees when required and are expected to promote the attributes of Masonicare and the role it plays within the community whenever possible.
interACTION Grants Holroyd OES donates to On 21 November 2016, the Immediate Past Worthy Matron of Holroyd Chapter No 20 Order of the Eastern Star, Mrs Robyn Reily, in conjunction with MW Bro Ron Johnson representing Masonicare had the great pleasure of presenting a cheque for $10,000.00 to Miss Ruth Hutchin from Youngcare the chosen charity of the Worthy Matron for her term 2015–16. Aged care is no place for a young person, yet right now, over 7,000 young Aussies with high care needs wake up in aged care
every day. A further 700,000 are being cared for at home, often with limited support. • 21% will go outside the home less than once a month. • 27% are parents of school-age children • 44% will receive a visit from friends less than once a year. Youngcare believes that all young Aussies – regardless of their care needs – should have the opportunity to live young lives with choice, independence and dignity. Young care works to achieve this mission through: • Age-appropriate housing solutions; • At Home Care Grants; • Home Soon Grants; • Youngcare Connect – a national support line; and • Australian-first research.
interACTION
Grants
How your lodge can help... Did you know that your lodge can apply for an interACTION Grant before it embarks on a charitable fundraising activity in your local Community? The correct procedure to get this underway is:
Plan to do a particular fundraising activity with the funds raised to be presented to a local charity which is registered as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). Obtain an interACTION Grant Application Form from your Regional Masonicare Manager (RMM) or download from the website: www.masonicare.org.au
Apply for the interACTION Grant, in principle, with an amount nominated.
Approved (at Board meeting).
Fundraising activity.
Cheque request sent to Masonicare along with funds raised by lodge, which will be matched, dollar for dollar, by Masonicare.
Cheque sent to your RMM or designated person for presentation at organised event.
You should allow about six weeks for the whole process, so plan accordingly! This is how the members of your lodge can demonstrate their commitment to the lodge and the local Community, not only assisting in a charitable sense but also showing Freemasonry in action. The application process has now become more streamlined! Applications can now be emailed directly to: Angelo Sanchez Sojo at info@masonicare.org.au These requests will be dealt with by the Masonicare Board. Those charities that are eligible for an interACTION Grant must have DGR status. DGR status can be checked at www.abr.business.gov.au by entering the ABN for the nominated charity. MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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HAVE YOUR SAY
Have your say Value of a magic bank account (The writer enclosed a copy of the News letter of the Hawkins Masonic Village at Edgeworth – Editor.) We have some 340 residents at our village and these newsletters are distributed to each of them every month. In October, we reprinted your article ‘The Magic Bank Account’ which appeared in the September Freemason. I liked the article so much that I rang Grand Lodge and received permission to reprint it in our newsletter and to express my appreciation of the words which are so very true! Joyce Watt Resident and Volunteer Worker
Exploring the mystery card I read with interest Bro Mark Bond’s interpretation of the Linklater card and offer the following as an alternative interpretation. The masonic symbol at the front top of the card identifies the Anzac Night held on 21st April 1943 as a Masonic gathering. I suggest that the program for the meeting would have included the same elements as are seen in Anzac Nights of today. On the outline map of Papua-New Guinea is a small square and compasses, over which appear to be rays of light. This I believe gives the location of the base at which the meeting was held, that is, at or near Port Moresby, most likely 7 Mile Strip, located seven miles north east of Port Moresby. Perhaps the design of the small emblem was used to overcome censorship considerations or perhaps it was merely to represent ‘masonic light’ emanating from a particularly dangerous area. The incorporation of the ‘rays of light’ might have been inspired by the design of the Army’s ‘Badge: General Service;’ commonly known as the ‘Rising Sun’ badge. The back of the card provides further details regarding the meeting location – at the base of ?? Squadron with the actual 32
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number being erased, again for censorship reasons. Of course the bulging tent or marquee indicates a ‘full house’ with some (masonic?) light escaping to provide a little illumination to the outside world. The tracks leading to the tent symbolise the men travelling from within and outside the base. Numerous jurisdiction names (some indecipherable) are shown surmounted with ‘rays of masonic light’. The outline could either represent the Owen Stanley Ranges or the coastline of Papua-New Guinea. The two denizens of the night observe and comment on the attendance (‘98 of em’’ says the mythical Man-in-the-Moon). ‘Yes, two more and it will burst,’ replies the wise-old-owl. The two pillars could have the obvious masonic symbolism or perhaps depict the entrance to the base. The meeting would have been, I feel, a mostly joyous occasion. (Note the lightening-like lines (symbols of sound) emanating from the tent.) The Japanese thrown back, the allies victorious in the New Guinea theatre, Australia no longer under threat of invasion, the troops looking forward to some leave – hopefully in Australia. The card is signed in the fashion of a true artist, ‘Linklater ‘43’. Fifty-five Link laters served in WWII according to the National Archives but of course masons are not identified! One who did interest me was Linklater, JT the member of an AA Unit. He served in Port Moresby for a couple of months that included 21 April 1943. I doubt that it is possible to discover who ‘our’ Linklater was and why he drew the card. It would be nice to know. W Bro Howard Knowles Lodge Barham No 561
Seeking an Egyptian jewel Many years ago, (1975) when I was 1st Principal of Waradgery Royal Arch Chapter – holding under the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland, I had a road accident which altered my life. However I
remember that members were offered the opportunity to purchase a commemorative jewel, which commemorated either the opening – or the restoration – of the Egyptian Room at the Petersham Masonic Building. I have an idea that a M.Ex Comp McFarlane may have been the scribe? I am interested in obtaining such a jewel – if possible, and would like to know if anyone associated with the Freemason remembers this jewel and if it is possible for me to obtain one? Anything that you could do to assist me would be greatly appreciated. VW Bro Neville McGrath Lodge Balranald No 214
Back to the Rocks I have just read with great interest the article ‘The Birth of the Rocks’ by RW Bro Ted Simmons to which I would like to add further information. I am nearing publication of a book titled ‘Blackwoods – The First 120 years’ recounting from the arrival of the founder James Blackwood in 1863, to founding the company 1878 through to 1983 at which time it was acquired by Howard Smith Ltd. The company is now in its 138th year but this begs the question, how does this relate to the article? It starts with its founding which is established as being possibly near Church Hill 1878 and then 1879 at 10 Erskine Street near Shelley Street. It is marked on the Dove Plans of Sydney 1880 (City of Sydney Archives). They moved to 45 Sussex Street for 17 years before moving opposite on a short lease to 62–64 Sussex Street in 1902 until 1907 when they moved to a purpose built facility at 86–88 Sussex Street. After moving in 1967 the company had commenced business and grown over 89 years within the radius of 150 metres of the junction of Sussex and Erskine Streets during which it remained a family company for 75 years issuing a prospectus in 1953. Founder and ship’s engineer James Blackwood, a Scot, arrived in the ‘Alexandra’
HAVE YOUR SAY
10 Erskine Street
transferring to Lodge Renown 360 January 1936 (later became Lodge Turramurra 360) dying still a member 1959. James Gatherer Blackwood (son of James Jnr). Initiated Lodge Renown 360 January 1927, Passed May 1928, Master Mason June 1928, a member until his death. Donald McCoy Blackwood (son of James Jnr). Initiated Lodge Renown 360 July 1944, Passed August 1944, Master Mason January 1945, a member until February 1962. Bro Don Rothnie, Lodge Rudyard Kipling No 143 Employee of Blackwoods 1960–2001
Proud to be a Freemason The location of Blackwood Importer as it appears on a map of the area from 1880. You can find more maps and information at: atatlas.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.
1863, sold it to the Hunter River Steamship Company which became part of Australian Steam Navigation (ASN) and in whose employ he remained until retiring in 1886 as Superintendent Engineer. His daughter Agnes and son Ludovic carried on the business from 1878 to 1886. The family lived in Pyrmont with addresses at Church, Mill and Harris Streets, also Way Terrace. Living in the same area was George McCredie who served an apprenticeship with ASN as a carpenter during the time James was there. He became an architect and married James’ third child Susan Faulds Blackwood. George’s accomplishments included Mayor of Holroyd, Member for NSW State seat of Cumberland and in his profession as partner in AL & G McCredie designed Burns Philp House and several State Heritage Register homes in Glebe. This register also includes his 1891 home Linnwood in Guildford. He was invited by the government of the day to take charge of the quarantine and demolition activities in 1900 due to the bubonic plague. There are suggestions this work contributed to his death in 1903 aged 44. So great a respect was held by persons in the Guildford Presbyterian community the church carries his name to this day. James had a fourth child named James Jnr Blackwood born 1870 in Glebe. James was first recognised in the company in the
1899 M & A which shows James Senior as MD. He became Joint Managing Director with his brother Ludovic in 1916 on his father’s death. When Ludovic died in 1939 he became sole managing director. With the loss of Ludovic’s eldest son, another James in WWI, the next Blackwood to enter company service was Donald (1908–1990) in 1932. He also followed a career as a ship engineer. He became MD in 1943 and Chairman in 1954. He retired due to ill health in 1974. The Blackwoods were people of good repute and philanthropic and in 1921 donated a home which was named in memory of their father James Snr (1832– 1916) for 32 boys at what was then known as Burnside Orphanage Pennant Hills . The cost was £4,495 (In 2016 $1,580,000) and was opened by the NSW Governor, Sir Walter Davidson. Now to enlarge on these facts. The SMH article 8 August 1921 stated ‘Mr James Blackwood Senior, a well known Scotsman of high repute and integrity had been a subscriber to the homes and had taken much interest in their progress.’ Records did not say if he and George McCredie were masons but the following was available from Grand Lodge archives. James Blackwood (Jnr) Initiated Lodge Unity of Sydney February 1909, Passed March 1909, Master Mason 23 May 1909
I write in appreciation of the articles appearing in the V48 #2 June 2016 issue of the ‘Freemason’. It is a known fact that people mainly complain about anything that doesn’t appeal to them. Well, this proud mason is writing to congratulate you on the Editorial on ‘Gossip’ by RW Bro Ted Simmons and ‘Diversity, Unity & Mateship’ by RW Bro Richard Dawes on pages three and four, and also the remainder of the editorial staff. To say that both the guided missiles homed in on the targets is an understatement. The articles were very appropriate with the intent of sending a message indirectly without offending anyone. In September I celebrated my 40th anniversary as a mason and may I say a ‘Proud Mason’, due to the fact that these articles reinforced the principles and ideologies that were embedded in me by my mentors and peers who showed me the ropes of true Masonry. Could I ask the editorial staff to venture into another subject that has disturbed/concerned me? I have been witnessing a new trend of masons who ascend the Chair of KS and assume the authority bestowed upon them as being the ultimate and thus sometimes divert from the principles of the article on P4. I know it’s a very delicate/sensitive subject to tackle, yet unfortunately it is being misinterpreted. The saying ‘The WM has the last say or decision’ does not warrant them to act in that manner, unless they possess the ‘Wisdom of KS’. VW Bro Shant Avakian Lodge Frenchs Forest United No 249 MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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NSW MASONIC CLUB The old library at the NSW Masonic Club
NSW Masonic Club
Founded in 1893, the New South Wales Masonic Club has long boasted a proud reputation with past and present club members including; leaders of their professions, the commercial and industrial sectors, the public service as well as Governors, Ministers and members of parliament.
I
n the 1920s members of the club built the current premises, at 169–171 Castlereagh Street, officially opening in 1927. Holding a small but significant piece of Sydney’s history, the club was the first high-rise, reinforced concrete building seen in Sydney and became the yardstick for all of the other buildings which were built in the 1920s. At the time of construction the club was also the tallest building in Sydney, the magnificent sandstone frontage towering above its neighbours. Original features included a library, ballroom, billiard and card rooms, the Cellos Restaurant
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main bar, members’ lodgings and the magnificent dining room, later named Cellos. In the 1980s the members’ lodgings were refurbished and bathrooms added. These new hotel rooms were made available to the public and marketed as the
The club has stood the test of time...
Castlereagh Inn, today known as the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel. In recent years the hotel became a Choice Hotels Ascend Collection member and continues to strengthen this relationship. In the 1990s the club’s dining room was restored, at a cost of $350,000, to recapture the charm and elegance of its original splendour. Amazingly, metal plates, which were installed during the war, were removed during the restoration revealing concealed windows and sunny alcoves. Relished by all who dine there, the magnificence of Cellos Restaurant is only matched by its fine a la carte menu. Now entering a third century, the New South Wales Masonic Club remains extremely prosperous due to the continued support of our members and guests. Entrusted with such a beautiful, heritage listed building, the Board and management have developed a comprehensive interior design master plan to integrate and refurbish all areas of the club and hotel. In 2017 the focus will be on; enhancing the restaurants, bars, reception foyer and accommodation rooms; growing hotel occupancy revenue to reinvest into the building and create better services for members and guests, and implementing new membership benefits. Drawn by the old world charm, visitors are impressed with the value for money,
NSW MASONIC CLUB The accomodation was renovated during the 1980s
attentiveness of staff, and the welcoming ambience. Club members also enjoy discounts on accommodation, meals and beverages plus a generous schedule of events throughout the year. A 24-hour reception service and secure access to all accommodation floors creates a safe and private haven within the city centre. The club has stood the test of time and despite its age the corridors are alive with the hustle and bustle of members and guests, various function groups, business visitors and holiday makers. However, despite this abundance of activity, you will
never be deprived of finding a quiet corner, with a comfortable Chesterfield, to relax and read the newspaper!
At the time of construction, the club was also the tallest building in Sydney... The original rooftop bar
NEW SOUTH WALES
MASONIC CLUB CLUB FOUNDED 1893
we welcome you to visit one of the most prestigious Clubs in Sydney Our stunning heritage listed premises feature the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel, Cellos Grand Dining Room, elegant bars and lounge areas plus a variety of unique meeting and function spaces. Members enjoy a 15% discount on the best available accommodation rates, 10% discount on food and beverages throughout the Club, plus regular social events and exclusive Members’ privileges.
SPEAK TO US ABOUT JOINING TODAY! E XCL U S I V E GU EST O FFER WH EN YO U P RESENT THIS VOUCHER
5% DISCOUNT ON YOUR FOOD & BEVERAGE BILL *Valid for up to 4 people. Not valid for function bookings or event luncheons. Expires 31/12/2017
169 CASTLEREAGH ST, SYDNEY NSW 2000
PHONE: 02 9284 1000
EMAIL: ADMIN@NSWMASONICCLUB.COM.AU
www.NSWMASONICCLUB.com.au MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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UNDERGROUND HISTORY
By W BRO STEVE LOUREY
Museum Station
Museum Station, along with St James, was the first underground railway station to operate in Australia and has been in continuous use since opening, retaining much of the original station intact.
A
t the southern end of Hyde Park, the station is served by two tracks at a level approximately 14 metres below the surface. Platforms with a width of 3.8 meters on either side of the arch are served by 2.44 metre wide subways, located on the outsides of the main arch and leading to concourses at each end of the station. The main concourse is at the southern end, giving entrance and exit to the corner of Elizabeth and Liverpool Streets, while the smaller northern concourse serves Elizabeth Street at a point opposite Bathurst Street. In 1857, plans were prepared for the extension of the railway line into the city from Devonshire Street. Despite two royal commissions, agreement on a city railway could not be achieved. In 1908 a third royal commission finally recommended a plan for a loop which included six underground stations located generally in the positions of the current stations. In 1915 the Chief Engineer of Metropolitan Railway Construction, JJC Bradfield, submitted plans for an electric underground city railway, including a harbour bridge crossing, connections north and various branch lines heading east and west.
The layout and naming of the station was not without controversy, however. St James was proposed to form a link in the network by being built on two levels. Work commenced in 1916 for the link between Central Station and Macquarie Street. Funding problems (doubtless from the war effort) forced construction to cease in 1918. Despite setbacks, Bradfield maintained a campaign to rally support for his scheme. Excavation for Museum and St James stations finally began in 1922. Costing £2,007,943 (roughly equivalent to $160,000,000 today), Museum Station was built as a single main tunnel arch in concrete, spanning the east and west platforms and two centre tracks. The station is free from columns and other structures in the European ‘tube’ style tradition. Concourse areas were formed
above the platforms, acting as focal points for pedestrian ways from the street entrances. Each station on the city circle line was tiled throughout with common cream body tiles, but with coloured top and bottom courses distinctive to individual stations. This was part of Bradfield’s scheme to assist in easy identification of stations by passengers. At Museum Station red tiles were used and remain in place today. The first underground electric railway was opened 20 December 1926 when Central, Museum and St James stations were connected by trains. The building of the city circle at Museum and St James encouraged the commercial development of the city locale with Mark Foys, David Jones and Farmers (later Grace Brothers) building large department stores in the city close to the new railway stations. Mark Foys was connected directly to Museum Station via a pedestrian subway and an elaborate sandstone entrance building in Castlereagh Street. According to the Sunday Times, the Commissioners for Railways decided to call the city railway station at the corner of Liverpool and Elizabeth streets Museum Station on advice or lobbying from the trustees of the Australian Museum. Thus copying the name given to the Museum
Museum station Photo by Greg O’Beirne
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FREEMASON MARCH 2017
BOOK REVIEWS
station on the original underground (twopenny tube) railway in London. The Museum station in London is within easy walking distance of the British Museum of Natural History, and the Commis sioners for Railways accordingly approved of the suggestion of the Museum trustees to have the adjacent station in Sydney similarly named.1 According to The Sydney Morning Herald, ‘The Chief Commissioner of Railways (Mr James Fraser), referring last night to the decision of the commissioners to name the underground station at the corner of Elizabeth and Liverpool streets, “Museum Station,” said that it was a good, short name. “The Museum,” he added, “is not far away, and it is certainly a very important building. The name, I think, is a very appropriate one.”’ The Sydney Morning Herald also noted that a seam of coal ‘about a quarter of an inch thick’ was found between sandstone layers during the excavations.2 The layout and naming of the station was not without controversy, however. In letters to the editor of the Evening News, writers complained that the station had no public convenience, except at Liverpool Street entrance and that there was no public telephone.3 Suggestions for the new station name included Liverpool Street, or Oxford Street.4 In an article in The Sydney Morning Herald, there was speculation that the opening of the City Railway would influence land values. Of note was a proposed development at the corner of College Street and Francis Street where the demolishers were busy making way for a handsome building that was to be erected for the Royal Arch masons. The structure was to consist of a basement to be occupied as a restaurant, ground floor, and three upper floors, part of which was to be let as professional rooms.5 1 Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW: 1895– 1930) Sun 12 Apr 1925 , Page 7 2 The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW: 1842–1954) Tue 14 Apr 1925, Page 10 3 Evening News (Sydney, NSW: 1869– 1931), Thu 12 Jan 1928, Page 12, Missing At Museum Station 4 The Sun (Sydney, NSW: 1910–1954) Tue 15 Jun 1926 , Page 14 5 The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW: 1842–1954) Sat 17 Apr 1926 Page 12
The Apocalypse Fire Dr Ava Curzon returns in the sequel to the best-selling thriller The Sword of Moses.
W
hen the Turin Shroud is stolen in a violent assault, archaeologist and former spy Dr Ava Curzon is plunged into a desperate struggle against the leader of an apocalyptic Russian cult. Recruited by the UK’s clandestine MI13 intelligence agency, and aided by the Vatican’s security division and her former colleague Ferguson, Ava is sucked into a world of dark extremism and biblical secrets. As the chase catapults her from London to the Vatican, Paris and Jerusalem, she must unravel the mysteries of an ancient icon belonging to the shadowy Order of Malta. With time running out, and military violence in the Middle East the price of failure, the world stands on the brink. This crypto-thriller will keep you enthralled until the very end.
THE APOCALYPSE FIRE Author: Dominic Selwood Published: Canelo and Corax ISBN: 9780992633271 Copies available from: Available from selected retailers and online.
Sharks Never Sleep What is it like to stare into the jaws of a shark?
F
ollowing a year of record numbers of shark attacks, this book takes readers around the world to meet shark-attack survivors, shark lovers and shark hunters who tell of the fear of being eaten alive by a wild animal. At Jefferys Bay, South Africa, Mick Fanning revisits the incident that turned him into a global celebrity – the time he narrowly escaped death by punching a great white in the face during the final of one of the world’s biggest surfing competitions. At Jaws on the Hawaiian island of Maui, shark-attack survivor Bethany Hamilton heads into monstrous waves to surf, even after having lost her arm to a tiger shark as a 13-year-old junior surfing champion. This book explores the complex relationship of fear and fascination with sharks by meeting scientists, conservationists and others in these gripping tales of first-hand encounters.
SHARKS NEVER SLEEP Author: Brendan McAloon Published: Hardie Grant Books ISBN: 978-1743792445 Copies available from: Available from major retailers at an RRP of $29.99.
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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GETAWAY CRUISE
The Grand Master’s
Masonic Cruise A South Pacific cruise sounds wonderful and when there is a masonic theme it just adds some icing to the cake!
T
he Masonic Getaway Cruise on the Explorer of the Seas was a great success with 140 brethren, ladies and friends embarking on 29 November. Ten days at sea allowed time for masonic events, social interaction, international Freemasonry and total relaxation. The highlights were many and the memories will stay with us for years to come. WBro Dejan Stanojevic of Escape Travel, Burwood did all the organisation and it was brilliant.
Every afternoon at 4pm, Dizzy Gillespie’s Jazz Bar on Deck 14 became very popular with many and became the default meeting
Entertaining cabaret shows were held most evenings...
A procession was held in full regalia, much to the interest of the public 38
FREEMASON MARCH 2017
place where we fraternised with one another and enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails. Early in the voyage, WBro Kris Albano conducted an educational session centred on ‘Attain, Retain, Regain’. He focused on the ‘pillars’ or characteristics on which a lodge exists and developed a series of strategies that have been used successfully to strengthen a lodge’s membership. Kris provided concrete examples that can be used as the bases for success in NSW. His presentation was well received and the lessons learnt will be spread through the jurisdiction. RW Bro Bruce Munro held morning ukulele lessons for both beginners and experienced players. Rumours of radical change within the Mason Ensemble have been officially denied! The Masonic Open Day was an onboard highlight with masons in full regalia and ladies in formal wear. The Grand Master led the whole contingent from one end of the Royal Promenade to the other and we all received a rousing reception from the ship’s public with cameras flashing and loud hand clapping greeting us as we passed by... wonderful to be a part of the procession and to witness the public acclamation! The other passengers were
GETAWAY CRUISE
By VW BRO LUIS REYES AND PAM MILLER
The Masonic Open Day was an on-board highlight with masons in full regalia...
MW Bro Jamie Melville and wife, Yuana
treated to an unexpected display of Freemasonry that could not but impress and hopefully raised the profile of the order in the eyes of all the non-masons. The Grand Master then opened a lodge in ample form in the Alaska Room where he was joined by a delegation from the Order of the Eastern Star led by Grand Matron Margaret Kestenbaum. The audience included many non-masons who were treated to the three installation addresses.
The cocktail evening was a much-loved highlight
The meeting concluded with an address by the Grand Matron and a spirited question-and-answer session which showed the high level of interest engendered by this very special masonic procession and lodge meeting. The ship held two formal nights and one tropical theme night with most people dressed accordingly while our travel agent Dejan Stanojevic organised a private masonic group cocktail party held in the ship’s Star Lounge for masons, families and friends to enjoy. The ship’s dining room and the Windjammer Bistro served all meals and different restaurants and cuisines were available. In fact, there was something to suit everyone’s taste. On shore, port days and tours were available at Port Villa, Mystery Island and Noumea, New Caledonia. On arrival in Noumea the Get Away Masons were welcomed by the Provincial Grand Lodge of New Caledonia in the person of the Provincial Grand Master. A social visit to the Maritime Museum of Noumea was followed by light refreshments including the fabulous desserts for
which French cuisine is justly famous. The level of mutual enjoyment was such that a return visit was mooted and is much to be desired. Entertaining cabaret shows were held most evenings and a wonderful ice skating show was a particular highlight. Along with trivia, bingo, karaoke competitions and art auctions, all entertainment offered on board was of a very high standard and was enjoyed by us all. On the last day of the cruise the masonic contingent assembled in the Alaska Room and the Grand Master summarised the cruise. There was no doubt in everybody’s mind that the cruise was a great success and the social success was matched by fundraising success, with masons raising $18,000 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, the Grand Master’s nominated charity. The Grand Master made specific mention of the professionalism of Royal Caribbean and Escape Travel, Burwood which underpinned the whole success of the cruise.
What will the future hold? The charitable efforts of Freemasonry will continue and imaginative ways to raise funds will be allied with events designed to provide enjoyment for us all. Most of all we can expect the Masonic Getaway Cruise to cement existing friendships and to cultivate new friendships. The people who enjoyed the cruise will want to repeat the happy times. We will keep you informed of the next cruise – the next opportunity to be happy and confer happiness on others!
umea Enjoying the sun in No MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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FAMOUS MASONS
Buzz Aldrin
A life of achievement and struggle Mention Buzz Aldrin and thoughts of Space, the Stars, the Moon, Apollo 11 and Gemini spring to mind. But there is much more to Aldrin the man, and incidentally Aldrin the mason.
T
he images provided by NASA and other agencies show astronauts in an utterly professional light. It all looks so easy, but appearances are deceptive and everything comes at a price. In Aldrin’s case the price was paid early in his career with seemingly endless study and late in his career as he battled with clinical depression and alcoholism. ‘Buzz’ Aldrin, whose real given names are Edwin Eugene, was born in 1930 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey. His parents were Edwin Eugene Aldrin Sr (1896–1974), a career military man and Marion Gaddys (née Moon, 1903–1968), who lived in Montclair. After graduating from Montclair High School in 1947, Aldrin went to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Aldrin graduated third in his class at West Point in 1951, with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. In 1963 Aldrin earned a Doctor of Science degree in astronautics from Massachusetts Institute of Tech nology. His graduate thesis was Line-ofsight guidance techniques for manned
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FREEMASON MARCH 2017
The abrupt transition from hero/astronaut to administrator/ manager was partly the cause of his personal problems. orbital rendezvous, the dedication of which read, ‘In the hopes that this work may in some way contribute to their exploration of space, this is dedicated to the crew members of this country’s present and future manned space programs. If only I could join them in their exciting endeavours!’ Aldrin was selected as a member of the third group of NASA astronauts in October 1963. Nearly a quarter of a
century of study and his astronaut training was only just beginning. He was with NASA for eight years and exposed to the glare of publicity for most of the time. The abrupt transition from hero/astronaut to administrator/manager was partly the cause of his personal problems. His life improved considerably when he recognized and sought treatment for his problems. Aldrin is an active supporter of the Republican Party, headlining fundraisers for GOP members of Congress. In 2007, Aldrin confirmed to Time magazine that he had recently had a face-lift; he joked that the G-forces he was exposed to in space ‘caused a sagging jowl that needed some attention.’ Aldrin commented on the death of his Apollo 11 colleague, Neil Armstrong, saying that he was ‘deeply saddened by the passing. I know I am joined by millions of others in mourning the passing of a true American hero and the best pilot I ever knew. I had truly hoped that on July 20, 2019, Neil, Mike and I would be standing together to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of our Moon landing... regrettably, this is not to be.’ Aldrin is a Freemason, a member of Montclair Lodge No 144 of New Jersey and Clear Lake Lodge No 1417 of Texas.
ASSOCIATED ORDERS
What is the
Royal Arch? Mark and Royal Arch Masonry has a history closely allied to, and linked with, the Craft. All three Orders have a common ancestry born out of Operative Masonry that no other Order in Masonry can emulate or replicate.
F
or example, prior to the formation of the United Grand Lodge of NSW in 1888, Mark and Royal Arch Masonry was being practiced in Craft Lodges in this jurisdiction as well as England. This closeness is reflected today on occasions such as the Craft Grand Re-Installation when the Grand Master invites the Grand Chapter to be present in recognition of having all the degrees of Pure Ancient Masonry present at the one time. Another example is Mark Man ceremonies when, where possible, both the Grand Master and the First Grand Principal again come together irrespective of whether it is a Craft or Chapter as the Mark Man Ceremony is the only one shared between the Craft and the Chapter and which can be worked by either Order. This close identity with the Craft goes far back into masonic history. The first written record of a Freemason in NSW being Exalted as a Royal Arch Mason falls to His Honour Justice Jeffery Hart Bent in 1814, the Supreme Court Judge for the colony at the time. Mark and Royal Arch Masonry prior to this date was being practiced regularly within the Regiments but no written records remain. The Order currently administers 11 degrees. Every mason who joins the Order undertakes the first three degrees in a strict order, after which he is free to choose to do as many of the other degrees as he wishes. All however are fully worked regularly and none are merely conferred – if you join this Order you can expect to experience every
degree. Uniquely, only one set of regalia and dues is required for all degrees. In every other state of Australia, a mason would need to join multiple Orders to achieve this. Whilst the Royal Arch will restore that which was lost to a Master Mason it is perhaps the Mark Degree which will equally intrigue him. On entering a Mark Lodge Room, the Master Mason sees little different to that of the Craft. He would see the Officers occupying the same chairs as
The real knowledge awaits, in Mark and Royal Arch Masonry itself.
the Craft and being referred to as Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens, Brother Deacon etc. What he experiences however is different because the Mark Degree completes and finishes the Fellow Craft Degree of the Craft. In the Mark Lodge he will learn how and where to go to receive his wages and most importantly he will receive his own Masons Mark and much more of an esoteric nature.
Photo by Sailko
To give a brief glimpse into the world of Mark and Royal Arch Masonry and the pathway of knowledge and learning available to a Master Mason leading to the ‘completion of his journey in Freemasonry’, the Mark Man ceremony was developed – but do not think for a moment the knowledge and sense of completion a Master Mason reaches when he joins a Chapter is contained in that short and abridged ceremony. The real knowledge awaits, in Mark and Royal Arch Masonry itself. In closing, if you have ever wondered in the 3rd Degree exactly when and in what circumstances that which was lost will be restored to you, then you need to become a member of a Chapter under the jurisdiction of United Supreme Grand Chapter where you can complete in conjunction with the Craft all the Degrees of Pure Ancient Masonry (not just the first three). These are the only other Degrees recognised in the Constitution of Grand Lodge other than the three Craft Degrees. For more information, visit our webpage www.usgcnsw.org.au or contact us on (02) 9569 5699. MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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REGIONAL ROUNDUP
MASONIC NEWS FROM NSW & ACT
Regional Roundup
NSW S ACT
L odge Nowra Unity No 60
From plan to practice
L odge Saratoga No 937
Horses for courses
L
odge Nowra Unity has appointed a Social Secretary, RW Bro Robert Cochrane, whose task it is to arrange social outings for the ladies and brethren. Robert’s first event has been a trip to NSW Parliament House. A relaxing trip from Nowra-Bomadery was followed by a short walk from Martin Place to Parliament House where the group was welcomed by the Member for Kiama, the Hon Gareth Ward who was the perfect host. He provided a superb lunch for the hungry travellers before a twohour tour of the varied buildings and
Tell us
about your lodge! We’re always looking for stories about lodge activities, so send us yours! You don’t have to be an officer to send us a story, just keen to promote active Freemasonry!
Send your stories and photos to: The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT PO Box A259, Sydney South, NSW 1235 Or email: freemason@masons.org.au
42
FREEMASON MARCH 2017
Back (L–R): Yuriko and W Bro Lauri Ball, Bro Peter Cumes, Hon Gareth Ward, RW Bro Robert Cochrane, Bro Geoff Herne, W Bro Michael Hill. Front (L–R): W Bro Ron and Carol Davies, Jenny and W Bro Mark Baker. W Bro Keith Beresford, RW Bro Syd Weller and Narelle Cochrane.
rooms of the Parliament House complex. Before embarking on the return journey our intrepid group spoilt themselves with a delightful coffee at the Lindt Coffee Shop in Martin Place. Robert Cochrane has still not stopped smiling! L odge M illennium No 2000
King Kelly B
ro Nick Kelly was installed as the tenth Worshipful Master of Lodge Millennium in November attended by a strong representation of members and visitors. Grand Lodge was represented by RW Bro Robert Tait PAGM, accompanied by the RGC, RW Bro Robert Moore PJGW
L–R: Central Coast Riding for the Disabled President Garry Kirkby, Andrew Kfoury, Lucas Kfoury, Harry the horse and handler Gerhard Schreiber
O
n 11 December 2016, Freemasons from Lodge Saratoga of the Gosford Masonic Centre presented a donation of $4,000 to the Central Coast Riding for the Disabled branch at Somersby. The donation will be used to provide the upkeep for a horse for two years. Horses are ridden by Special Needs children from the Central Coast Region and the branch is manned by a group of dedicated volunteers.
and District 24 DGIW, VW Bro Ian Hogan. The installation ceremony was led by the Installing Master RW Bro Ken Bock PJGW with strong support from members taking part. W Bro Kelly has been a Freemason for only five years but has excelled in ritual as well as presenting pages on masonic matters. During the installation banquet, W Bro Kelly was presented with a gavel which had been specially made by lodge member W Bro Peter Tait.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
MASONIC NEWS FROM NSW & ACT
O orana Police T ravelling L odge No 1053
Oorana’s First Initiate B
L odge Education No 814
A deep education
T
wo days after being installed to the Chair of King Solomon, W Bro Jurjen Tayag and the officers of Lodge Education trekked to Jenolan Caves on 21 November for an evening of spelunking and masonic duties. The brethren literally laboured in the quarries of the Caves as they carried in the ornaments and furniture required for the three degrees. At 3pm the lodge was tyled and the brethren of Lodge Education were joined in The Cathedral section of the Lucas Caves by members from foreign jurisdictions – including the Grand Lodge of New Zealand and a fraternal of over a dozen from the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. While meetings have been held in The Cathedral for many years, the double-raising
Members of Lodge Education journeyed into Jenolan Caves for a very special meeting.
proved to be historic. The presence of the Worshipful Master of Lodge Oberon, W Bro David Rowling was most welcome, as in his introduction he mentioned that he was the last person to be married at the steps of the cave’s Cathedral formation and, indeed in his memory, the last brother raised in the same cave exactly two decades ago. At the end of the night, brothers Marc Aquino and Erwin Landero had had the unique pleasure of being raised in a holy place of the Gundungurra people, in the presence of their brethren and sojourners from overseas. An excellent ceremony and typical of the work of Lodge Education.
rother John Duckett became the first initiate of the first meeting outside Sydney for the newly consecrated Oorana Police Travelling Lodge, with the ceremony conducted in the beautiful Goulburn lodge room. ‘This was a unique and auspicious occasion,’ said the WM, RW Bro Ray Godkin OAM. ‘I could not have been prouder than being supported by our band of lodge officers topped up by our IPM not only a PGM, but also a past Commissioner of Police.’ The newly initiated brother, following the ceremony reflected, ‘I had no idea what to expect. As the ritual unfolded I grasped a little understanding of what Freemasonry is about – the history, the symbolism, but more importantly, the brotherhood and there is so much that I don’t yet know.’ VW Bro Sean Godkin and Bro Dale Morrell affiliated with Oorana at the same meeting and the lodge has received more applications for affiliation.
WHAT’S ON? Your guide to upcoming events from lodges and districts. L odge Morning Star No 410 Saturday 25 M arch 2017
Installation of Bro Scott Hinks Lodge Morning Star invites all masons to attend the ceremony and banquet in the presence of the Grand Master at the Wyong Masonic Centre from 5pm.
L odge Morning Star No 410
EAFs aplenty There was no shortage of EAFs at this recent Lodge Morning Star Initiation, seven in total! There were 44 brethren in attendance to celebrate the occasion, including two DGIWs. L–R: W Bro Bown, Brothers Nounev, Jamieson, Perkovic, Kendall, Sullivan, Henry, Mumford along with VW Bro Matthews DGIW District 21 and VW Bro Lord Wright DGIW District 23.
RSVP: RW Bro David Leabeater by 14 March 2017 at david.pam.l@bigpond.com. Banquet $20/head.
Lodges and Districts – Publicise your upcoming events in our new ‘WHAT’S ON’ guide. From only $12.50 per entry in the listing (minimum purchase of four entries to use as you wish). Call Bro Simon Pierce on (02) 4344 5133
MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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INITIATES
WELCOME TO THE CRAFT
Freemason Welcomes New Members To The Craft Name
Lodge
ALSTON, Warrick
Lodge Woronora 414
ANDERSSON, Kevin
Lodge Temora 168
ARELLANO, Arnel BADURIA, Mond BARR, Blake
The Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge 150 Lodge Merrylands 479 City of Newcastle Lodge 170
BEGIC, Jay
Lodge Camden 217
BELL, Idress
Lodge The Raleigh 241
BERWICK, Jarrod
Lodge Kiama 35
BLACK, Shane
Lodge Liverpool 197
BLAXLAND-WALKER, Liam The Prince Charles Edward Stuart Lodge 1745 BONDOC, Helbert
Lodge Jose Rizal 1045
CAPULE, Aris
Lodge Jose Rizal 1045
CARLINO, Sam
The Hills Lodge 1025
CHRISTENSEN, Rick
Batemans Bay Daylight Lodge 1013
COLLINS, Jamie
City of Newcastle Lodge 170
COMPTON, Christopher COOPER, Chris
The Hills Lodge 1025 Lodge Artarmon United 285
DIMITROV, Stoyan
Lodge Ku-Ring-Gai 1033
DUCKETT, John
Lodge Oorana 1053
DURHAM-THEUERJAHR, Dylan EDEN, Tristan
Balmain Lodge 23 Lodge Sylvania 853
EISMAN, Avi
The Lodge Of Tranquillity 42
EL BETY, Tony
The Cedars Lodge 1041
FANG, Allan
Lodge Capitol 612
FIELD, Shae
Lodge Macquarie 53
FOUET, Paul
Lodge Castlereagh 72
GARCIA, Ian
The Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge 150
GARDINER, Cameron GOLFO, Omar GONCALVES, Adam
Lodge Burns Wentworth Tuscan 21 Lodge Education 814 Lodge Highway 837
Name
Lodge
GULASI, Uf
The Cedars Lodge 1041
HAMMOND, Jack
Balmain Lodge 23
HATTON, Alex
Lodge Richard Coley 152
HENRY, James
Lodge Morning Star 410
HIJAZIN, Khaldoon JAQUB, Rami KITSON, Joshua
Lodge Emu Plains 860 Lodge Miguel De Cervantes 1038
QUEJADA, Ely
Australian Lodge of Fidelity 101 Lodge Trinitarian 978
Lodge Sylvania 853
Lodge Education 814
Lodge Toxteth 1052
RIDDETT, Chris
Lodge Toxteth 1052
The Lodge Of Australia 3
RUSSELL, Stuart
Lodge Capitol 612
KRAVCHENKO, Vladimir The Royal Empire Lodge 613
SEIBRIGHT, Joel
Lodge Illawarra 59
KRUSZYNSKI, Marek
The Hills Lodge 1025
KUSHABA, John
Lodge Aviation 688
LEE, Chris
Lodge Morning Star 410
LEO, Dimitri LISTON, Liam MABUYO, JudilJudille MASSONE, Brian
SEMMENS, Grahame SHARMA, Ramesh
Lodge Illawarra 59
SLEIGHTHOLME, Joe
Balmain Lodge 23
Lodge Silver City 141 Lodge Dunblane Australis 966 Lodge United St Andrew Singleton 34
Lodge Young Burrangong 20
SMITH, Sean
Lodge Gowrie Of Canberra 715
The Prince Charles Edward Stuart Lodge 1745
SMITH, Sam
Lodge Phoenix 1034
SMITH, Alan
Lodge Prince Leopold 87
MATTHEWS, Slade
Lodge Southern Cross 91
MERRICKS, Reuben
Lodge Southern Cross 91
SOTO, Mario
The United Lodge of Sydney 11
Lodge Toxteth 1052
TIMAR, John
Lodge Warragamba 541
MIKATI, Amine MINTY, Gavin
Lodge Blacktown Kildare 393
MISTRY, Sud
Lodge Axiom 1047
MORTON, Ray
Lodge Canberra Unity 465
MUMFORD, David
Lodge Saratoga 937
NAJIM, James
Lodge Sutherland 585
TODD, Jason
Lodge Sutherland 585 Lodge Galileo 1019
TRAJANO, Arch
Australian Lodge of Fidelity 101
TZORTZIS, Louis
Lodge Hellenic Arcadia 177
Lodge The Star Of Australia 200
Lodge Education 814
Lodge Horace Thompson Ryde 134
WALSH, Brett
City of Newcastle Lodge 170
NATIVIDAD, Archi NIKNAM, Ben
TOBIA, Ziad
VILLAR, Eddie
PARKER, Samual
Lodge Eltham 272
PARKYN, Jonathan
Lodge Eltham 272
PARSONS, Greg PEDROTTI, Marcus PEEK, Leo PERKOVIC, Simon
The Peel Lodge 209 Lodge Kellerman 1027 Lodge Dawn 511 Lodge Morning Star 410
I tried to catch some fog. I mist. Jokes about German sausage are the wurst. ews it. How does Moses make his tea? Hebr sun I stayed up all night to see where the went. Then it dawned on me. This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I’d never met herbivore. ity. I’m reading a book about anti-grav I can’t put it down. it They told me I had type A blood, but was a type-O.
FREEMASON MARCH 2017
PUN, Cesar
RAMOS, Alvin
I say, I say, I say!
44
PORTER, Kieran
RAGARVEN, Ralph
Lodge Illawarra 59
HITCH, Graham
Name
WATSON, Pana
Lodge St James 45
WILSON, Matthew Twin Towns Daylight Lodge 981 WORTH, Adrian
Lodge Illawarra 59
ZIFF, Richard
Lodge Trinitarian 978
ZOBAIR, Sayed
The Hills Lodge 1025
This dyslexic man walks into a bra. I didn’t like my beard at firs t. Then it grew on me. When you get a bladder infection, urine trouble. What does a clock do wh en it’s hungry? It goes back four seconds. Broken pencils are pointle ss. What do you call a dinosa ur with an extensive vocabulary? A the saurus. England has no kidney ban k, but it does have a Liverpool. All the toilets in London pol ice stations have been stolen. Police say they have nothing to go on.
MAR 2017 ROYSTON CAVE – A TEMPLAR REFUGE? • THE WHITE MOUSE • NOBLE ART OF AN EMISSARY
CROSSWORD
V49 N1 – MARCH 2017
STAR OF BETHLEHEM • THE OLD GREY MATTER • AUSTRALIA DAY • TRAVELLING LODGES V48 N4 – DECEMBER 2016 THE ROCKS • PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS • WC FIELDS • HISTORY OF BREAD
V48 N3 – SEPTEMBER 2016
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Great Barrier
Reef!
Chinese New Year!
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ACROSS 6 Her Jamie fitted up a Hebrew prophet (8)
6 Jesuit caught out with 3 down (7)
7 Those that represent others at a men’s toilet (6)
8 Just a small amount for desert (6)
9 A case for a ministry (9)
12 Clumsy doctor to cure fungal outbreak (10)
10 & 11 Strip and beat it (4, 3)
15 Show eager enthusiasm at a lyric performance (8)
11 See 10 across
16 See 3 down
13 Craig craves for a smoke (5)
17 Porn is hidden in a gaol (6)
14 Crude pen fashioned for 3 (8)
19 Flush away clues I craft (6)
17 Turn up a relic for this unusual or unique clue (8)
22 Sound like treatment made the parasite disappear (4)
18 Men in Baghdad challenge I.Q. of IRA (5) 20 & 21 Object from reusable mould cited as evidence (3-4)
Solution December 2016
21 See 20 across
T
E M P
E
R A N C
22 Fitted our changes for 3 down (9)
A
Y
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2 Prick to open recipe (6)
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MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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SERVICE CERTIFICATES
70
CONGRATULATIONS
Years Service
BEYNON, William
Lodge Independant Lewis 592
PARTRIDGE, Marshall Bundaleeah Daylight Lodge 992
60
Years Service Lodge Warringah 83
BLIZARD, Charles
Lodge Rudyard Kipling 143
BRANDSCHIED, Russell
Lodge Unity 6
CRAWFORD, James Australian Lodge of Fidelity 101 CRAWFORD, William
Lodge Barham 561
GARDINER, Robert
Lodge Barham 561 Lodge Sir Joseph Banks 300
HILLIS, Kenneth HODGES, Noel
Lodge Barham 561 Trial Bay Daylight Lodge 1018
JOHNS, William
Lodge Tomalpin 253
The St George Lodge 328
NEILSEN, Arthur
Lodge Caledonia of Canberra 938
SQUIRES, Ernest
Lodge Greater Taree 66
TOMKINS, James
Lodge Epping 390
WEBB, William
50
AITKENHEAD, James
HAZLEWOOD, Bryan
KILGOUR, Ronald
Lodge Sir Joseph Banks 300
Years Service
GALLEY, Robert
Lodge Burnside 729
GOODWIN, Keith
The Australian Lodge of Harmony 5
HANSEN, Harold
Lodge Wahroonga 674
HATCH, Geoffrey
Lodge Ricahrd Coley 152
HILL, Robert
Lodge Balmain 23
HUMPHREY, Donald
Lodge Panania 845
Lodge Cowra 33
HUTCHISON, Peter
The Australian Lodge of Harmony 5
BANKS, Alan
Lodge Millthorpe 276
KNOWLES, Howard
BARHAM, Ray
Lodge Woollahra 341
LAING, Paul
Lodge Enterprise 400
BAXTER, John
Lodge Dubbo 906
LORD, Bruce
Lodge Silver City 141
ALSFORD, Keith ARMSTRONG, Ian
BUTLER, Arthur
Trial Bay Daylight Lodge 1018
Lodge Bland 337
CAUKILL, William
The Australian Lodge of Harmony 5
CLARK, Peter
Lodge Warringah 83
DENGATE, Gary
Lodge Caledonia of Canberra 938
e g a i r mar
An announcement of
Lodge Barham 561
MACKAY, Duncan
Lodge Unity 6
PIGGOTT, Anthony
The Australian Lodge of Harmony 5
POOLE, Arthur
Lodge Burnside 729
REID, David
Lodge Cowra 33
RICHARDSON, Kevin RIDOUT, Frederick SAYERS, David
Lodge Burnside 729 The Northern Rivers Lodge 77
Lodge Chelmsford Technology 261
SEDDON, Peter
Lodge Camden 217
SHEARER, Michael
Lodge Warringah 83
SHEARMAN, Neville
Lodge Tomaree 878
WATTS, Ian
Lodge Unity 6
WILSON, Kenneth WOSEEN, Peter
Lodge Cowra 33 Lodge Enterprise 400
Bro Jamie Melville on We received this letter from MW to his long-term the occasion of his recent wedding partner Yuana.
46
FREEMASON MARCH 2017
Did you get it?
Jamie
On page 6, Rosemary Dawes posed a polysyllabic puzzle to our clever readers. How did you go?
Regards,
The nursery rhyme in question is none other than Twinkle Twinkle Little Star! Although be prepared for lengthy explanations if you’re going to sing it to your children!
es on yone for the cards, gifts and kind wish Yuana and I would like to thank ever were we , 2017 ary Janu of 5th the , ary together our special day. On our 5th annivers joined in marriage. Wood ’s Anglican Mosman with Rev Max The ceremony was held at St Luke ds. frien and ily ; witnessed by our fam proclaiming us as husband and wife a blessing on Sunday the 8th of January we held The following day we flew to Bali and rent diffe from ds frien and ily fam this day with ceremony and reception. We shared parts of the world. brate with n were held at Tirtha Uluwatu to cele The blessing ceremony and receptio t. fine food and dancing into the nigh our friends. ay exploring Bali and relaxing with We spent the most part of our holid
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Liability Limited by a Scheme Approved Under Professional Standards Legislation MARA#1572156 * Dion Accoto was admitted to legal practice in August 1999. He started work as a legal clerk in 1991.
Help others, donate today For 137 years, Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution (RFBI) has provided assistance to those in need. Today we continue this endeavour through our Annuity Assistance and Benevolence Schemes. These schemes have allowed us to provide ongoing financial assistance to families in our local communities. We are also proud to provide grants to organisations to fund important research and provide education. It is now our Appeal Quarter and we ask you to again give generously so we can continue to improve the lives of others. Be assured, all donations (tax deductible) will be gratefully received and faithfully applied. For more information please contact Frank Price, CEO, RFBI.
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Masonic Villages: It’s how to live... MARCH 2017 FREEMASON
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Freemasons Getaway Cruise 2016