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e-newsletter No. 92
engage!
A
fter months and months of planning, the Grand Installation for 2015
has come and gone in the blink of an eye. The ceremony is one I could
watch over and over again. It is a wonderful example of our jurisdiction’s
excellence in performing ceremonial, and we do use the occasion to showcase
Freemasonry to the public as well as to our members. Congratulations to
VWBro. Harry Pitaro, Past Grand Director of Ceremonies, for his magnificent
work in leading the 2014 Grand Lodge Ceremonial Team throughout this last
Masonic year, culminating in the Grand Installation.
This brings our 125 year celebrations to a close with the exception of the Hall of
Fame which will be announced at the Grand Banquet on Saturday, 21 March.
There have been a great number of nominations for the Hall of Fame, so we are
all eagerly awaiting the announcement of the inaugural inductees.
Please join us for a fun filled Family Day this Sunday at Powlett Reserve, the
weather forecast looks very promising. It will be an inexpensive (i.e. no charge)
relaxing few hours that you can spend with your brethren and families.
Last week we held another successful CBD Business Luncheon and our guest
speaker Tony Gleeson, Executive General Manager of the Australian Institute
of Management was very well received. When you see the next Luncheon
advertised, make sure you book early as this event tends to sell out quickly.
You will have caught up with the exciting news of the notice of decision issued by the Planning Minister regarding the
planning permit for the redevelopment of the Dallas Brooks site. This brings us one step closer to developing what will be
our magnificent new headquarters.
As my second term commences, I am very excited at the bright prospects for the future of Freemasonry in Victoria. There
is still much more to do and there are many plans underway. I am acutely aware that some matters are still lingering from
before the start of my first term. These matters will be resolved and I am continually encouraged by the ever increasing
number of brethren who have expressed their support for the office of Grand Master and for Grand Lodge generally. These
same brethren tend to also express their frustration that some matters continue to be brought up by an ever decreasing
handful of disenchanted brethren. As I said in my Grand Installation address - over the next 12 months, I hope we can
experience a healthy balance of unity and forging ahead – I’m sure it’s possible.
MWBro. Hillel Benedykt
Grand Master
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
March Quarterly Communication and
2015 Grand Installation
M
Centre.
ore than 600 ladies, gentlemen and brethren attended the March
Quarterly Communication and Grand Installation of MWBro.
Hillel Benedykt on Wednesday 18 March at the Dallas Brooks
News
With the usual pomp and ceremony, that a Quarterly Communication
and Grand Installation brings, those present were treated to an incredible
display of ceremonial led by Grand Director of Ceremonies VWBro. Harry
Pitaro.
Deputy Grand Master RWBro. Don Reynolds announced the appointments
of six new District Coordinators, the appointment of three Grand
Representatives and presented four Lodges with Certificates of
Accrediation.
VWBro. Roy Alderton, Grand Treasurer
A presentation was made by Bro. Andre Clayton, Chairman of the
Freemasons Foundation Victoria Limited outlining the role of the
Foundation and some of the history that has led to the formation of the
Foundation.
No sooner had the Quarterly Communication come to an end, that it was
time to resume seats for the Grand Installation.
MWBro. Hillel was invested and installed by MWBro. Garry Sebo, Past
Grand Master.
A wonderful fanfare of trumpets was provided by students of the
Melbourne Youth Orchestra, with whom Freemasons Victoria has had a
valuable partnership for many years, proclaiming the Grand Master.
Presentation of Accreditation Certificates
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt addresssed all guests with a
heartfelt speech that combined his feelings about his last year with
enthusiasm for the next, as well as personal thanks to his wife Sue and his
family. He made special mention of all of the staff and other volunteers
of the Grand Secretariat who have worked tirelessly during this 125th
Anniversary year.
RWBro. Don Reynolds was installed as Deputy Grand Master by Past
Grand Master MWBro. Bob Jones, and dressed in his new collarett and
jewel, apron and gauntlets, followed by the investitute of Senior and
Junior Grand Wardens.
As the Grand Officer’s chain collars were collected, a sense of sadness was
felt for those who were giving up their duties for members who have been
in training for these roles for the last six months.
The excited and proud new Grand Team were presented with their chain
collars. This was followed by drinks and canapes.
Above: MWBro.Hillel Benedykt takes his
obligation.
Below: Grand Master MWBro. Hillel
Benedykt giving his address.
Freemasons Victoria would ike to thank sponsors; CREO Media, MIRVAC,
KPMG, Wiseman Institute, McKean Park and Royce.
Tell someone who cares
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
March CBD Business Luncheon
T
ony Gleeson, Executive Director of the
Australian Institute of Management recently
spoke at the Freemasons Victoria CBD Business
Luncheon at the Rendezvous Hotel, Melbourne.
News
Members and guests listened as Tony described the
aims and purpose of the Institute, to develop better
managers and leaders, and to grow management
and leadership excellence by supporting the profession of management
at all levels.
The Institute has a 75 year history of providing management education
training, events and seminars, research and publications, and currently
boasts a membership of 11,000 and more than 1,500 corporate
members.
Tony’s presentation focussed on the challenges CEOs face today; human
capital, customer relationships, innovation, operational excellence,
corporate brand and reputation. He said that in comparison with the
USA, Europe and Asia, Australia’s greatest challenge was managing
innovation, but that Australia fairs very well managing customer
relationships and maintaining operational excellence.
Trends such as cyber security, currency volatility and data analytics
Tony said, are most significant to today’s CEO, but no more than labor
relations which he said Australia holds most important.
Guests were interested to learn that today’s Australian CEO sees the most
important attribute to run a business as being integrity, as opposed
to managing complexity, retaining and developing talent and leading
change. Surprisingly, the Institutes statistics show that cultural sensitivity
rates last in terms of important attributes to run a business in Australia.
Executive Director of the Australian
Institute of Management Mr Tony Gleeson.
Tony’s presentation concluded that Australia is not as optimistic as other
countries but success can be found by establishing and maintaining
strong customer relationships. Tony said that integrity in business and
the ability to lead change is critical for success and that Australian CEOs
need to improve their focus on global thinking.
Don’t forget to come along...
Executive Director of the Australian
Institute of Management Mr Tony Gleeson
with Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Newest members welcomed
A
great night was had at the New Members Night held on Tuesday
3 March at the Dallas Brooks Centre. This event was another great
opportuntiy to get together, meet new members, learn about
Freemasonry and introduce the fraternity to family and friends.
With nearly 150 guests in attendance this was a gratifying indication of the
continued strength and appeal of Freemasonry in Victoria.
News
MC for the evening, RWBro. Peter Henshall welcomed and introduced
- Bro. Max Broad, a young Freemason who gave his very positive and
encouraging impression on Freemasonry.
For the first time, the New Members Night included a display of booths,
hosted by Freemasons Victoria’s partners; the Royal Freemasons Homes,
Epworth HealthCare, Think Pink Foundation and our newest partnership the Freemasons Victoria Wine Club hosted by Snobs Creek.
Young member Bro. Max Broad, Lodge of
Orana No. 836. addresses a packed crowd.
The Library and Museum, hosted by Samantha Fabry, provided a great
display of all of the hidden treasures that have recently been catalogued
and archived, and answered questions from members and guests about
the process Freemasons Victoria is currently going through to preserve our
history.
Members from the Education Office were there to talk about masonic
studies, as well as the coordinators from the Ionic Coaching Service.
RWBro. Bruce Stockdale, Freemasons Victoria Membership Manager said
that feedback on the night and afterwards was that it was a great night.
Some of our newest members listen to
RWBro. Peter Henshall introduce the
evening.
“A significant number of potential Freemasons attended and in speaking
with most of them, many had already started taking the steps towards
joining, but the night had helped in cementing their knowledge and
opinion of the fraternity”, he said.
RWBro. Peter Henshall who, along with the members of the 2014 Grand
Team was there to answer new member queries, said he was very pleased
with the event.
“Looking around the room and seeing 100 plus new and potential
Freemasons enjoying each other’s company, meeting new people like
themselves, and finding out more about our amazing organisation
affirmed to me that the future of Freemasonry in Victoria is very strong”,
he said.
Wbro. Adrian Kamar, WBro. Bruce Carey
and WBro. Simon Campbell.
The United Grand Lodge of Victoria Library
and Museum hosted a display of historical
items for guests to view.
Guests assemble in the Dallas Brooks Centre Auditorium.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Combined Lodges ANZAC Reunion
Prepared by VWBro. Alan Mitchell, The Army Lodge No. 478
T
News
he idea of the ANZAC Reunion Meeting was conceived by WBro.
Lieutenant Colonel B.R. (Barry) Tinkler, MBE, during his term as
Worshipful Master of The Army Lodge No. 478 in 1982.
The first meeting was a special daylight meeting to enable those who were
unable to attend the normal evening meetings, to join with the Brethren
of the Lodge in an ANZAC commemoration ceremony and reunion
luncheon. The meeting was an outstanding success. Brethren from both
the Victorian Naval & Military Lodge No. 49 and the United Service Lodge
No. 330, together with the Army Lodge members, attended in large
numbers.
Shortly after the meeting, representatives from the three Lodges met and
agreed to hold the meeting annually, hosting it in rotation. The format
of the meeting was to remain the same, i.e. a short commemoration
ceremony in the lodge room followed by a reunion luncheon. The only
variations agreed were that each host Lodge would carry out its own
particular ceremony of commemoration, and that ex-Service and other
interested Brethren would be welcome to attend. It was also agreed that
the Most Worshipful Grand Master (or his nominated representative)
would be invited to attend.
At that time there were a number of Freemasons in the Royal New Zealand
Returned and Services’ Association (NZRSA) who were also invited
to attend and make it a real ANZAC event. In 2011 Vietnam Veterans
Memorial Lodge No. 921
was invited to join the
combined Lodges and
host the 2011 event.
The MWGM with his GDC and Worshipful Masters of the
Combined Lodges at the Inaugural Meeting in April 1983.
L to R: WBro Graeme Blamey – Victorian Naval & Military
Lodge No.49, WBro Alan Mitchell – The Army Lodge No. 478,
MWBro Henry Nathan GM, WBro MAJ Ivor White – United
Service Lodge No.330, and VWBro COL Terry Bates GDC.
To ensure that the
meeting always
maintained the same
standard and format, it
was agreed that The Army
Lodge would maintain
administrative control
of the meeting. A later
modification was that
the Army Lodge Catering
Officer handled the
catering arrangements.
Donation to Prostate
Cancer Support Group
S
wan Hill Lodge No. 919, with
the support of the Foundation,
donated $1000 to assist the Swan
Hill Prostate Cancer Support Group
in their awareness campaign. This
recognises the role that the Swan
Hill Prostate Cancer Support Group
plays in the help and advice given to
those who unfortunately have been
diagnosed with this cancer.
Convenor Dawn Hilton
in accepting the cheque,
stated that the aim of
the group is to provide
information and support
to all who are afflicted
with prostate cancer,
and that the money given would of
great help in raising the awareness of
the group, and the assistance that is
available.
Prostate Cancer affects men physically and mentally, and in many
different ways.
The awareness program is aimed
at helping men, and their families
through these challenging times.
This is done either through group
meetings, or by a one on one
discussion.
Anyone who has recently been
diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, and
would like further information may
contact Gillian Mayes at Swan Hill
Health.
The combined meeting
was held in 1983, hosted
by The Army Lodge; and with one exception, has been held every year
since, with attendance averaging 100 Brethren.
This year marks the 100th Anniversary of the Gallipoli Landings and to
mark the occasion, the meeting’s organising committee intend to make
the Combined Lodges’ ANZAC Reunion Meeting a very special event on
the Victorian masonic calendar.
The 2015 meeting will be held at the Ivalda Masonic Centre on
Saturday 18 April, 2015, with a short Lodge meeting and commemoration
ceremony commencing at 11am, followed by a reunion luncheon at
12.30pm. The day’s proceedings are scheduled to conclude at 3pm.
L-R: RWBro. James Thompson,
WBro. Norm Mathiske, Convenor Dawn
Hilton, WBro. Ernie Russell and
member of the support group, Des Hilton.
It is a Freemasons only event, with attendance to the luncheon limited to
120. Entry is by prepaid ticket. Those wishing to attend should complete
the entry form at the end of this Newsletter and return it before the due
date. Should the luncheon be over-subscribed, places will be determined
by the order in which replies are received.
For all your personal and business legal needs.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Lodge bursaries confirmed
N
umurkah Secondary College students have again benefited from the
opportunity to win bursaries from Freemasons Victoria.
RWBro. Geoff Thompson of Rupertswood-Numurkah Lodge No. 104
visited the college this month to confirm the continuation of the Lodge’s
donation with Assistant Principal Jennifer Attard.
News
With the support of the Freemasons Foundation Victoria Limited, students
were offered four $800 bursaries, which were awarded last year to Hayley
Storer (Arts), Jade Connolly (Science), and Teun Boomaerts and Austin
Jones (Mathematics).
Ms Attard commented, “The college community greatly appreciates the
support of the Lodge in rewarding our students for their efforts.
“We encourage our students to strive for excellence and awards such as
these help students achieve their goals,” Ms Attard said.
“We at the Lodge are pleased to be able to offer our support for our local
school, and hopefully we can continue our connection in the future,”
Geoff said.
Annual Caravan and
Camping Weekend
B
ook in now to join the 2015
Second Annual Caravan and
Camping Weekend!
The weekend will be at the
picturesque Tarra Valley, in the
Strzelecki Hills, north of Yarram. The park boasts both powered and
unpowered camp sites and a number
of comfortable cabins. Take a dip in the babbling brook
around the park whilst tall mountain
ash trees ensure comfortable
temperatures.
There will be camp fire receptacles
available, so come and spend a few
relaxing days with the gang from
Argyle Lodge. Good food, good cheer
and plenty of tall stories ensure a fun
time.
When:
Friday 10 April to Sunday 12 April
Where:
Tarra Valley Caravan Park, Fernholme
1906 Tarra Valley Road, Tarra Valley
(via Yarram)
Fees:
Powered Site $35 per night for 2
adults plus $12 for extras.
Unpowered Ste $28 per night
Cabins $95 to $140 per nite
Please contact Rob Kovacs on
0428 108 262 or 03-5176 6812
or email [email protected]
Or Kerry Watson on 0412 598 792 or
03-51744773
Bursaries confirmed… Geoff Thompson and Jennifer Attard settle the deal.
819 Years of Masonic Service!
A team of Freemasons all over 80 years old carried out the Third Degree
Ceremony for Bro. Bruce Roberts in February at Gippsland Lodge No. 51.
There was 819 years of Masonic Service in the Team that evening.
Don’t let your caravan end up like this one!
Join the Caravan Club today!
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Nucleofector for Burnet Institute
T
hanks to funding from the Foundation, the Burnet Institute has
purchased a Nucleofector machine to assist and increase the
efficiency of gene research. The research will determine how the
immune system works and how viruses and parasites grow within cells.
News
A cheque was presented by
Freemasons Foundation Victoria
Limited Director VWBro. David Gibbs
to Burnet Institute’s CEO and Director
Professor Brendan Crabb and Dr Paul
Gilson.
“The Nucleofector machine assists
to shuffle genes in and out of cells
much more easily and rapidly than
existing methods,” Dr Gilson said.
The Nucleofector machine will be
used to help put genes into cells
with greater efficiency. This will
enable the Institute to observe and
measure what happens to cells much
more quickly, saving time and speed
thereby increasing productivity.
“The Nucleofector works by giving cells a very precise electric shock,
which puts small holes in the cells enabling DNA to enter and be
expressed by the cell,” he said.
The new machine will be utilised by a number of Burnet Institute
laboratories working with human cells either studying how the immune
system works or looking at how viruses and parasites grow in within cells.
Many experiments require that these cells have their genes manipulated
and the Nucleofector machine will be important for this work.
From left: Burnet Institute’s CEO and Director Professor Brendan Crabb and Dr Paul Gilson with
Foundation Director VWBro. David Gibbs .
Tell someone who cares
Epworth Oncology’s new
Raphael Ward
T
he Epworth Hospital’s Oncology
Ward has recently been named
in honour of Freemason WBro. Ross
Raphael, in grateful thanks for his
generous support of the hospital
and its patients.
WBro. Ross’s first experience of
Epworth HealthCare was in 1981,
when he was rushed to hospital
with severe chest pain. WBro. Ross
had developed an ulcer on his lung
which was successfully removed,
and he was able to resume his busy
life.
WBro. Ross is an accountant with
a long association in the health
sector, and also established and
managed a successful transport
company. He is an active member of
the community and has contributed
many years to Freemasons Victoria;
the Returned Services League (RSL);
the AFL Umpires Association; and his
professional association, CPA.
Having worked in the health sector,
WBro. Ross understands how vital
philanthropy is to Epworth. He is a
thoughtful and generous donor, and
patients now and for many decades
into the future will benefit because
of WBro. Ross’s kindness.
WBro. Ross’s recent support of
Epworth also includes establishing
the Raphael Family Nursing
Scholarship and naming a room in
the Epworth Hospital’s Richmond
premises through his Estate.
WBro. Ross Raphael with Donor Relations
Manager Vanessa Dannock and Executive
Director Epworth Medical Foundation Scott
Bulger.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Research project participation needed
L
eadership effectiveness and
managing its influence on
attitudes and performance in
the workplace is one of the most
important factors for maintaining
positive and constructive
employment.
News
Bro. Brad Nikolic of Williamstown
Lodge No. 16 is conducting a
research project as part of his
studies with RMIT University on
exactly this subject, and he needs
your help.
Bro. Brad, a PhD student at RMIT’s
School of Management will be
conducting a number a online
surveys as part of his thesis, that
will identify the role that leadership
plays within your organisation.
Each survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete and your
answers will be kept strictly confidential. You are not required to reveal
your identity and there are no RIGHT or WRONG answers.
The results of the surveys will be included in Bro. Brad’s doctoral thesis
titled Authentic Leadership and it’s Impacts on Employees Workplace
Attitudes and Performance and will contribute towards his hypothesis.
If you work in a medium (50-250+) to large (250+) sized organisation of
any industry that’s structure includes five or more departments, and you
would like to help Bro. Brad by taking part in an online survey, please
contact Bro. Brad at [email protected] or call 0424 434 023.
Bro. Brad’s research has been approved by RMIT University’s Research
Integrity, Governance and Systems Department.
Freemasons Victoria
Library and Museum
Update
The Freemasons Victoria Library
and Museum Collections Team
was featured in a recent article in
the Museums Australia (Victoria)
Newsletter.
Collections Manager, Samantha
Fabry treated the Museums
Australia (Victoria) staff to a tour
of the Dallas Brooks Centre.
“It's a fascinating collection and
history, and one you can share
in as it is digitised. Keep your
eyes on the growing collection
of Freemason-related collections
and ephemera on Victorian
Collections”, Co-Manager of
Victorian Collections Belinda
Ensor said.
Since December 2014, Samantha
Fabry has coordinated a
Collections Training Course for
Lodges across the state to learn
how to photograph objects
and enter data correctly into
the software, with the intention
and purpose of cataloguing
items to feature on the Victorian
Collections site.
With a waiting list of eager
participants and hundreds of
images now online, the course
has been enormously successful.
If you are interested in attending a
future Collections Training Course
(at no cost) please send Samantha
an email at
[email protected]
with your Lodge name and
number, your contact details
and permission from your Lodge
Secretary to take part.
To check out the Freemasons
Victoria ‘Victorian Collections’
page visit:
http://victoriancollections.net.
au/?q=freemasons
To find out more about Museums
Australia (Victoria), visit:
http://www.mavic.asn.au/
Recently the Lord Somers Aprons have been taken down from display in Lodge Room 1 as part
of the preparation stage for future storage of the Library and Museum collections.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Manningham gets a leg up
D
oncaster Rehabilitation Services will be able to purchase a Leg
Press Machine for use in their Manningham Centre, thanks to the
Foundation.
The machine, worth $8000 will assist DRS to better provide ‘slow stream’
rehabilitation for Manningham’s elderly community.
The cheque presentation was made by Director of the Foundation VWBro.
David Gibbs, to Ross Dawson CEO of the Manningham Centre.
News
“Several pieces of equipment at DRS are more than ten years old and with
continued high daily usage, their useful life is nearing an end. We have
recently identified the need to replace the current machines with more
advanced technology to ensure that clients can continue to exercise safely
and independently,” Ross said.
A large number of people in the Manningham community will benefit
from this donation.
In 2013-14, DRS supported 436 older people living at home by providing
a range of day therapy services. The service currently operates at full
capacity. About 220 clients a week are provided with physiotherapy,
occupational therapy, podiatry, exercise programs, support groups,
counselling and physical aids information and education.
Over 1300 older people directly benefitted from the service in the last
three years and as older people are living longer in their own home, it is
anticipated that the demand for this service will increase .
There is no government funding to support the purchase of equipment.
DRS relies on philanthropic partnerships and are organising fundraising
U3A given a boost
F
reemasons Victoria’s Western
District Coordinator WBro. Jeff
Denison presented U3A Brimbank
with a cheque for $4000 on Monday
2 March.
The donation, which included $2000
from the Freemasons Foundation
Victoria Ltd., will enable the U3A
to grow to meet the needs of the
Brimbank community.
The donation was presented to U3A
Brimbank President, Mrs Glenda
Kueng, who said that the funds will
be used to purchase materials and
equipment to assist with classes and
activities.
“U3A Brimbank is a voluntary
organisation open to anyone over
the age of 50, who is retired or
semi-retired. Everyone is a volunteer,
including our tutors, group leaders
and our committee of management.
This donation for which we are most
grateful will help us run classes more
effectively”, Glenda said.
The aim of U3A is to provide
opportunities for shared learning,
creativity and leisure activities.
Benefits include life-long learning
possibilities, new friendships,
personal development and healthy
ageing. The minimal annual
membership fee covers all classes,
and members do not have to pay
fees for individual classes.
Currently, U3A has 28 different
classes and activities including
computers, tablets and Adobe
Photoshop, languages including
Spanish, French, Italian and English,
games including cards, scrabble and
chess, modern and classic movies,
ballroom and line dancing, exercise
and relaxation including yoga, tai
chi, gentle, qi gong, craft, painting,
book club, coffee-and-chat and
cooking.
If you would like to learn more
about U3A, visit: http://www.
brimbanku3a.org/ or call 03-9356
9085.
Foundation Director VWBro. David Gibbs with CEO ManninghamCentre, Ross Dawson.
WBro. Jeff Denison with the U3A Brimbank Team
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Bro. John Millar
KMLR2 on tour again
Father, author, Freemason
in May
T
he last twelve months has gone from busy to frenetic for Bro. John
Millar, Peace and Loyalty Lodge No. 261. In addition to interstate
and international travel, sitting on various philanthropic boards;
and raising a family of six children, John has achieved international
recognition for his series of books The Entrepreneurs Guide.
News
John wrote, published and released an international best selling book
How to Turn Your Idea Into a Million Dollar Business, that has sold tens
of thousands of copies globally and been nominated for the prestigious
2015 IPPY and 2015 Axiom Business Book Of The Year Awards.
The book’s foreword was written by Past Grand Master MWBro. Bob
Jones, and in the spirit of charity, John has bequeathed that all proceeds
from the sale of the book are donated in perpetuity to Bridge Builders, a
non-profit youth organisation based that delivers services to the Eastern
suburbs of Melbourne, and around the State.
John has another book that is almost completed and should be due for
release in late April 2015. The foreword for the latest publication will
be written by the current Executive General Manager of the Australian
Institute of Management, Tony Gleeson (guest speaker at Freemasons
Victoria’s March CBD Business Luncheon).
With fourteen of his published works being currently submitted to audio
to be made available on iTunes, and more than a dozen DVDs to be made
available on Amazon.com, there is no way anyone could possibly miss
out on getting a copy!
In this past year it is important to note that John’s hard work and recent
efforts have been duly recognised by authorities in his industry. John
was a finalist in the 2014 Australian Institute of Management Business
Excellence Awards for Owner/Manager of the Year and has again been
nominated this year fro the same award. He has also been nominated for
the current 2015 Australian Business Awards along with a nomination in
the Telstra 2015 Business Awards.
The Kilwinning Mark Lodge of
Research No. 2 (UGLMMMV) will
meet at the Belmont MC as part of
its program to take research into the
Mark Degree into regional Victoria,
on 29 May 2015.
The KMLR2 is chartered to hold two
of its four meetings each year at
Victorian country locations with the
other two being held at its home
base of Mt Waverley MC.
Since its reconsecration in late
2013, KMLR2 has met at Bendigo
and Wonthaggi. Meetings are held
with the assistance of the local Mark
Lodge and all Mark Master Masons
are invited to attend.
Lodge will tyle at 5:30pm, and after
the opening one or two lectures
on a topic related to Mark Masonry
will be presented and discussed.
Lodge will close at 7:30pm so that
members and guests can enjoy the
entertainment and dinner.
Dress: Jacket and tie
Information booklet: contact
the chairman of the membership
committee WBro. Les Cooper on 039887 9293 or email crusader711@
optusnet.com.au
Soon to progress to the position of Junior Warden at Peace and Loyalty
Lodge, John is distinctly aware of the balance between family, business,
community and Lodge and is striving to maintain that balance while
developing himself
through the
progressive science of
Freemasonry which
has been his passion
since his initiation five
years ago.
Bro. John Millar, Peace and
Loyalty Lodge No. 261
For all your personal and business legal needs.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Children’s Hospital Steam Train
P
articipating in the Good Friday Appeal means more than just shaking a
collection tin at a nearby intersection, particularly for Colin Marston.
Colin, supported by long-time advocate for the Royal Children’s
Hospital Bro. Don Kinsey, and Western District Coordinator WBro. Jeffrey
Denison, will be coordinating a steam train excursion with all proceeds
going towards the Appeal.
News
On Friday 3 April, SteamRail Victoria will be operating two trips from
Flinders Street Station, in two classic vintage carriages pulled by historic
steam engines.
The first steam train will depart at 10am and travel to Sandringham and
Craigieburn before returning to Flinders Street Station by 11:45am. The
second trip will head to Mordialloc and then to Watergardens before
returning by approximately 4:45pm.
Colin, a train and motor enthusiast is excited to be able to contribute to
the Good Friday Appeal in this unique way.
“Around 220 passengers on each trip will be able to experience steam
train travel from last century while supporting the Royal Children’s
Hospital,” he said.
The train will be pulled by steam engine Y112 and a K Class steam engine
and comprise vintage Victorian Railway carriages. Steam engine Y112 was
built in Ballarat in 1889 and is the oldest railway steam engine in Victoria.
The K Class engines were built at Newport workshops from 1922 to 1946.
Bro. Don Kinsey said that in addition to the passengers, 1000s of people
are expected to see the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal
steam train.
“Beach Road Brighton will be a great vantage point to see the train steam
by the bay,” he said. “The Yarra Promenade in Southbank will also be a
great place to see the train as it crosses the Flinders Street viaduct”.
SteamRail Victoria
is donating the
train for the day
and all SteamRail
members are
volunteers.
SteamRail is the
largest mainline
heritage train
operator in
Victoria and all
of its volunteers
are dedicated to
the preservation
and operation of
Victorian Railway
steam engines.
Caption
With tickets only
$65 for adults, $55
for senior, $45 for
children and $189
for a family, tickets
will go fast – bookings are essential!
Visit www.steamrail.com.au or call 9397 1953 between 10am and 2pm
Monday to Friday.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Special Shabbat Service
F
reemasons and their families are invited to a special
Shabbat (Sabbath) Service to honour Freemasonry.
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt, together with
members of the 2015 Grand Ceremonial Team, will be in
attendance.
The service will conclude at approximately 12 noon and
will be followed by a Kiddush (light refreshments).
News
DATE: Saturday 4 July 2015
TIME: 9:30am for a 10:00am start
PLACE: Temple Beth Israel, 76 Alma Road, St Kilda
DRESS: Gentlemen - Lounge Suit (No regalia)
Head covering is necessary for gentlemen and will be available on arrival.
Ladies – smart casual
CONTACT: Please confirm your attendance for catering purposes by contacting WBro. Ron Aarons at
[email protected] or call (03) 9563 4737.
Mirabel Foundation Challenge
Late last year, Sunbury cyclist Vaughn McCarthy, the son-in-law of WBro.
Darryl Young, Master of Gisborne Lodge No. 298, has recently raised $350
towards the Mirabel Foundation.
Vaughn rode in the Tour de Bress 130km bike ride from Melbourne to
Bress Winery in Harcourt as part of the Mirabel Foundation Challenge - an
annual bike riding event designed to bring together like-minded people of
varying cycling abilities as a means of raising funds for children.
Welcome to WineLand
G
rand Lodge has been working
with Wineland.net.au to
establish a wine club exclusively for
Freemasonrs and their family.
WineLand has been sending
invitations to each Lodge Secretary
in order to set up every Lodge with
its own online account.
This allows each Lodge a direct line
of communication to both WineLand
and Grand Lodge.
All purchases provide for funds
being put directly back into the
charitable foundation.
The Mirabel Foundation was established in 1998 and is the only
organisation in Australia that specifically supports children who have been
orphaned or abandoned as a result of parental illicit drug use.
There is no cost to the Lodge to
maintain an account, and WineLand
will deliver for free.
The children are now in the care of extended family who are, more often
than not, elderly grandparents. Mirabel is currently supporting more than
1350 children throughout Victoria and New South Wales.
Any or all details relating to the
Lodge account can be changed
by the Lodge Secretary by simply
logging into the website
www.wineland.net.au
For more information about the work of the Mirabel Foundation, visit:
http://www.mirabelfoundation.org.au/
Accounts can also be deactivated if
preferred.
If you would like to discuss anything
about WineLand or the accounts,
please contact Marcus Gillon on
0426 200 075 or email
[email protected]
ONLY
$12.50
PER BOTTLE
With the support of lodges in Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury, WBro. Darryl Young presents a
cheque for $350 for the Mirabel Foundation to cyclist Vaughn McCarthy.
Tell someone who cares
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Luke Batty Foundation gains support from the
Mornington Lodge
The Luke Batty Foundation and the Mornington Lodge No. 160, in
conjunction with Freemasons Victoria have joined forces to raise public
awareness against family violence.
The Mornington Lodge has been supporting local community groups for
125 years and is now going to begin raising $125,000 for the Luke Batty
Foundation.
News
The Luke Batty Foundation was established in February 2014 after Luke
Batty was killed by his father at cricket practice in Tyabb, Victoria, on
Wednesday 12 February 2014.
Public response to Luke’s death was overwhelming, and it inspired Rosie
to set up the Luke Batty Foundation with the goal to raise funds to support
women and children affected by the trauma of family violence.
Bro. Edy Wilfling and other members of the Mornington Lodge were so
moved by the tragedy they created ‘Lewis’ the Masonic Bear to assist in
raising funds for the Foundation.
“We wanted to develop a
promotion, and create a symbol
that’s warm, friendly and people of
all ages can relate to,” Edy said.
In Masonic terms, a ‘Lewis’ is the
son of a Freemason, and also an
ancient lifting device that denotes
strength.
‘Lewis’ the Masonic Bear
Edy said that this is an opportunity
for ‘Lewis’ the Masonic Bear
to represent on-going support
from Freemasons Victoria of the
awareness against domestic
violence.
Sale Hospital Oncology
Ward $7000 better off
thanks to Gippsland
Lodge No. 51
G
ippsland Lodge No. 51
recently participated in the
International Parks Week Expo at
the Sale Mall.
Parks Week is an international
celebration of the important role
that parks play in contributing to
the health of the community.
The expo, hosted by Wellington
Shire Council showcased
the highly valued work that
volunteers of community
groups do locally, nationally and
internationally.
Gippsland Lodge took the
opportunity to present a
$7000 cheque to Central
Gippsland Health Service for
the redevelopment of the Sale
Hospital’s Oncology Ward.
The Lodge raised $3500 and
the Freemasons Foundation
contributed another $3500.
A fantastic achievement and a
great day was had by all - even
Elmo!
“I have spoken with Rosie Batty
(Australian of the Year 2015) and she is thrilled to have support from
Freemasons Victoria, and has said she will assist as much as possible with
guest speaking arrangements and other appearances where required,”Edy
said.
Freemasons Victoria Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt is in full
support of this challenge saying that it is a significant fundraising effort.
“Freemasons Victoria is very proud to support the Luke Batty Foundation
and Edy has my full support in his efforts to generate awareness against
domestic violence. Luke’s death is an
unnecessary tragedy and one that
could have been avoided,” Hillel said.
In order to reach the fund raising
target, 8000 ‘Lewis’ Masonic Bears will
need to be sold. So don’t hesitate to
get behind Edy’s campaign and preorder a bear for only $29.95 today.
Bears are available by contacting Edy
Wilfling at [email protected]
For more information on the Luke Batty
Foundation visit:
www.lukebattyfoundation.com.au
L-R: RWBro. Barry Minster, CEO Sale Hospital
Dr Frank Evans, Oncologist Dr Sachin Joshi
and Secretary of Gippsland Lodge
WBro. Dr Iain Nicolson.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
All in the family
L
News
ord Northcote Lodge No 191 made local history last December when
WBro. George Finniss initiated his grand son Bro. Tyler James Dowsey.
WBro. George Finniss with his grandson
Bro. Tyler James Dowsey.
WBro. George is the father of Bro. James
and father in law of WBro. Eric Williams
the current secretary of the Lodge. He
said that his son James had been the
influence for all three to join back in
2005.
Deadlines for content for
coming issues:
Engage 93 - 1 April 2015
Engage 94 - 15 April 2015
Remember, previous issues of
engage! Newsletter can be found
using the Publications tab in the
Freemasons Victoria members
intranet. Just log in!
Tyler’s interest in Freemasonry was
sparked some years ago when he gave
him a ‘Square and Compasses’ key ring.
It seems that Tyler started asking questions about the craft and its aims and
then vowed that he would join once
he’d turned eighteen. True to his word
Tyler lodged his application last October
when he became of ‘mature age’.
Prior to starting his masonic career Tyler was a student at
Parade College in Bundoora where he completed
his last year of schooling as School Captain.
Furthermore since thirteen years of age Tyler has
been an army cadet at the Army Base in
Watsonia and has reached the pinnacle rank of
Cadet Under Officer (CUO). During his cadet
career and amongst other activities, Tyler has
participated in several ANZAC parades.
Along with his Granddad, Tyler has been involved
with the Lord Northcote Lodge’s efforts, fund
raising for the Good Friday Appeal rattling the
collection tin with the at nearby 7-11 stores.
Freemasons Victoria
FREE TO JOIN!
Forgotten your username or
password?
Bro. James Finniss
Wine Club
Join the Freemasons Victoria Wine Club to enjoy a great range of drops
and take advantage of some great prices.
We have teamed with Wineland to give all members and Lodges across
Victoria, the opportunity to access their own wine purchasing account.
Visit: www.wineland.net.au today to find out more
To access benefits for all Freemasons, remember
to use this code when paying though the
online payment gateway: Freemasons
To access information from the
Members Intranet you will first need
to enter a username and password.
Your username is your six digit
member number followed by
@freemasonsvic.net.au.
Your password can be reset by
clicking ‘Forgot your password’. A
new temporary password will be
sent to your email address.
Enter your username and your new
password into the login screen. If
you are still unable to log in please
contact Tony Morris at
[email protected]
8:'
facebook.com/
freemasonsvic
@freemasonsvic
ONLY
$12.50
PER BOTTLE
youtube.com/
freemasonsvic
linkedin.com/
company/freemasonsvictoria
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
You’re Invited
The Homes Open Day
Saturday 28th March 2015 : 11am -2pm
Coppin Centre, 45 Moubray Street, Melbourne. Entry (walk) via main Moubray Street entrance.
Please note there is no parking on site. Limited parking will be available at Wesley College [Gate1],
and meter on-street parking on Moubray Street. Close to all public transport.
Open Day showcases our sites, our staff, our
activities and achievements in a family day
atmosphere with something for everyone.
There will be a presentation of Awards,
acknowledgments, a BBQ luncheon and a variety
of family activities in a garden atmosphere.
Keynote Speech
“Technology facilitating change
in dementia care”
Dr Tanya Petrovich,
Alzheimer’s
Australia Vic
RSVP Telephone: 9452 2453 Email: [email protected]
Program on the other side of this Invitation.
Premier Partner
The Homes Open Day
Saturday 28th March 2015 : 11am - 2pm
Program
11.00 am
Arrival of guests
Refreshments and live entertainment.
11.30 am
Guests assemble in Coppin Hall
(Limited seating available)
11.40 am
Opening Address
Board Chairman, Ian Buckingham
11.50 am
Keynote Speech
“Technology - facilitating change in dementia care”
Dr Tanya Petrovich, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic
12.10 pm
Presentation of Awards
12.30 pm
BBQ Buffet luncheon
Enjoy family style entertainment including petting zoo,
music and magician on site from 12.30pm!
(Drinks available for purchase)
2.00 pm
Guests depart via Moubray Street
Therapeutic Robot Seal Appeal to
help Royal Freemasons in its
continuing care strategy for residents
with dementia.
These are some of the first therapeutic
robotic seals to arrive in Australia. They
will allow the documented benefits
of animal therapy to be experienced
by Royal Freemasons residents across
Victoria. The purchased baby seals will
also be part of an internal research study
to understand how they can improve
quality of life for residents and caregivers.
The Seal will be on display and
information on how to donate to the
Appeal will be available at Open Day.
royalfreemasons.org.au
125TH ANNIVERSARY MERCHANDISE AT
CLEARANCE PRICES!!
00
$5.
125TH CUFF LINKS
00
.
$3
125TH TIE PIN
00
.
5
$
UT
O
D 25.00
L
$
SO
125TH TIE
125TH LAPEL BADGE
00
.
$5
125TH COFFEE MUG
0
0
$6.
EA
125TH WINE GLASS
ORDER ONLINE: http://shop.freemasonsvic.net.au/collections/all
OR CALL (03) 9411 0100
WELCOME
A Monthly Wine Club run by masons for all freemasons and family
VOL. 2, Feb 2015
Freemasons Wine Club
Register your Lodge name and number to gain access to exclusive products and deals
To the Brethren of Freemasonary Victoria,
At Wineland we have been busy creating an exclusive wine club for all freemasons
where all of your wine needs, and in future spirit and beer needs, can be sourced at
great prices while providing additional funds back into the Charitable Foundation.
With the approval of Freemasons Victoria , every lodge in Victoria has had an account
set up within the wineland.net.au website and these will be activated on Sunday 15
March unless Wineland hears from your lodge with advice that you wish your account to
remain inactive.
To help you with your decision we welcome you to visit wineland.net.au. In order to
access the site please use the following codes which will be active for the next 30 days.
Email: [email protected]
Password: wineland
Once you have had a chance to look at the Wineland site and, we hope, decided to take
up the offer of an exclusive online wine club for your lodge members, there are a few
details you need to be aware of to make accessing your account simple:
-
Your lodge’s initial login details are your secretary’s email as the username and
their surname as your lodge’s password. You can change these details to suit
your needs after your initial login. Wineland will not alter or manage your
account unless you request our assistance.
This is an exclusive wine club and as such many of the products and prices are not
available to the general public.
So we encourage you to discuss accessing your exclusive online wine club with your
brethren and have a look at the Wineland website. If you have any questions please
email Wineland at [email protected] with your queries.
We look forward to providing you with all your wine supply needs into the future at
great prices while supporting the Freemason’s Charitable Foundation.
Fraternally,
Marcus Gillon
Director of Wineland
[email protected]
JD Integrity, Prahran
Administration Office; 1160 Riversdale Road
Box Hill South
Victoria, 3128
The Victorian Lodge of
Research No.218
http://lodgeofresearch.net
Sequendo Lampada Disco
Lecture Programme 2015
4th Friday February to October
Dates
Lecture
Presenter
February
Friday
27th
Spirituality of Freemasonry
WBro Phil Bennett
(218 Member)
March
Friday
27th
Aspects of Freemasonry in
Ballarat
Open Meeting
Dot Wickham
Director Ballarat Heritage Services
Open Meeting
April
Friday
24th
Installation of Master and Investiture of Officers
May
Friday
22nd
Presentation on Le Droit Humain
(co- Freemasonry)
Open Meeting
RWBro Sharon des Landes
Le Droit Humain (Co-Masonry)
Open Meeting
June
Friday
26th
Symbolism of Gardenry & the
Orders of Knights of
Gethsemane & St Joseph
WBro Ben Quick
(Master Gardener)
July Friday
24th
JSM Ward - Mason & Mystic
VWBro VRev Fred Shade
(218 member)
August
Friday
28th
Knight Templar Priests
WBro Chris White
(218 Member)
September
Isaac Newton and the Solomonic
Friday
Temple
25th
October
Friday
23rd
H.V. McKay - Freemason &
Founder of Sunshine Harvester
Open Meeting
Bro Dr Michel Jaccard
ANZMRC Visiting Speaker
PM Lodge Liberte´ (Lausanne)
WBro Iain Taylor PGStdB
(218 member)
Open Meeting
The Certificate of Masonic Studies (CMS)
Grand Lodge having several years ago recognised that modern men expect more than an unrelenting repetition of the
three degrees: As a result, the Masonic Advancement Programme was introduced by Grand Lodge as a mandatory part
of every brother’s introduction to our Craft.
The Victorian Lodge of Research observed that a logical outcome of this course of action would be that many of those
newly admitted brethren would be asking
“Okay, what’s next?”
The Lodge of Research has developed a programme of Masonic studies for those brethren seeking further
enlightenment of the background and principles of Freemasonry veiled by our mode of presentation using ritual and
ceremonial.
Rather than being of a classroom style - as its name may imply – the programme is conducted as a group of four to ten
brethren meeting around a table; reflecting the tavern and coffee shop gatherings in the seventeenth and eighteenth
centuries that has evolved into what we have as our Speculative Freemasonry of today.
Class groups gather together, maybe with a coffee and biscuit, and following private reading of a specific aspect of
masonry, under the guidance of a moderator share their impressions and conclusions about the topic.
Following these exchanges a short personal 2 to 3 page assessment of their thoughts and ideas of the topic is
submitted for assessment.
The programme is completed in eight sessions over a 12 month period.
A record of achievement is awarded at the completion of the programme hence it is termed a Certificate of Masonic
Studies. The cost of the course is $80.00. DO NOT SEND MONEY TILL REQUESTED
Certificate of Masonic Studies – Course Dates –
Waverley Masonic Centre 2015
(Last Saturday of the month - 9:00 to 11:00)
Module 1: - Origins of Freemasonry
Module 2: - Freemasonry from 1717-1738 (England)
Module 3: - Freemasonry and its global impact 1738-1813
Module 4: - History of Victorian Freemasonry
Module 5: - Legends, Symbols and Allegories
Module 6: - General Philosophy of Freemasonry
Module 7: - Religious Beliefs and Freemasonry
Module 8: - The Aims of Freemasonry (& reflections on
Course)
Module 1: - Saturday 28 March 2015
Module 2: - Saturday 25 April 2015
Module 3: - Saturday 30 May 2015
Module 4: - Saturday 27 June 2015
Module 5: - Saturday 25 July 2015
Module 6: - Saturday 29 August 2015
Module 7: - Saturday 26 September 2015
Module 8: - Saturday 31 October 2015
Other Masonic Centres are:Bendigo MC 99 -101 McIvor Toad Bendigo:
Brunswick MC 6 Davis Street Brunswick
South Eastern MC 270 Hutton Road Keysborough: Baxter MC Cnr Stotts Lane & Baxter Tooradin Road Baxter
District Co-ordinators /Education Officers if you want a CMS course in your area please contact Iain Taylor
Application
Name……………………………………..
Postal Address…………………………………………………………………………………
E-mail Address
Phone…………………………………..
Lodge ………………………………………………..Masonic Rank………………………..
I hereby apply for entrance to the Victorian Lodge of Research No 218 Certificate of Masonic Studies. I declare I
am an affiliated member in good standing. I understand that successful completion of the course requires active
participation in all tutorial sessions and the acceptance of the course assessor’s assessment of my written essay.
Signed………………………………………………………………………………..
Date……………………………
Print Name…………………………………………………………
For further information please contact Iain below
Iain Taylor Administrator Certificate of Masonic Studies
Ph: (03) 9796 4864 M: 0409 363 742 E: [email protected]
ANNUAL COMBINED ANZAC REUNION LODGE MEETING
The Worshipful Masters of
Victorian Naval & Military Lodge No.49, United Service Lodge No. 330, The Army Lodge No. 478 and
the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Lodge No. 921 invite you to attend the annual Combined Lodges Anzac
Reunion Meeting to be held at Ivalda Masonic Temple, 40-42 Salisbury Avenue, Ivanhoe, on Saturday,
18th APRIL 2015, tyling at 1100 hours sharp, with the South from 1200 to 1450 hours.
This year the host Lodge is The Army Lodge No. 478.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS MEETING IS NOT AN “OPEN” MEETING AND ALL ATTENDEES SHOULD BE
FREEMASONS OF GOOD STANDING. THE LUNCHEON IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO 120 ATTENDEES.
The cost is $40 per head, including GST. The dress (in order of preference) is Uniform or Lounge Suit (with
medals), Mess Dress or Dinner Suit (with miniatures). Note a concession of 50% is applicable to all “WW2 Diggers”.
Returns with payment must be received by the Combined Meeting Secretary, VWor Bro Alan Mitchell, not later
th
than 10 April 2015.
Please make cheques* out to: “COMBINED LODGES ANZAC REUNION”.
*Bank Transfer is available see below
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS MEETING IS CONDUCTED SEPARATE AND DISTINCT FROM YOUR LODGE.
PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST THAT CHARGES BE PLACED ON PERSONAL LODGE ACCOUNTS.
Yours Fraternally
VWor Bro Alan Mitchell - Combined Meeting Secretary.
Please tear off and return the bottom part with your payment to the Combined Meeting Secretary, as shown:
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....................................................................
th
RSVP: Not later than 10 April 2015.
A.S. Mitchell,
2 Carrabin Court,
Knoxfield, Vic., 3180.
Tel: 03 9763 8371 Mob: 0417 130 945 Email: [email protected]
I, ………………………………..................................... , from …………………………………………………………………………………………..
(PLEASE PRINT)
(LODGE NAME & NUMBER)
th
will be attending the Combined Lodges Anzac Reunion meeting on Saturday, 18 April 2015 and I will be
accompanied by................... Masonic guests …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
(PLEASE PRINT - NAMES & LODGE NO. OF GUESTS)
My cheque for $.............. made out to the COMBINED LODGES ANZAC REUNION is enclosed – or –
*I have paid by Direct Debit to the COMBINED LODGES ANZAC REUNION account BSB 033-187 Account 14-1671
* If paying by bank transfer make SURE you include your name with the deposit and then RSVP by email with the details above (Lodge, numbers
and names of those attending etc) and saying payment has been made.
My contact number is ………………................
Signature ........................................
Date………………………………