1. hobbies and interests
2. paranormal phenomena
3. occult

e-newsletter No. 95
engage!
O
n the morning of 25 April, together with my wife Sue
and the Grand Director of Ceremonies Chrys Kypreos, we
had the exceptional opportunity of being at the Shrine of
Remembrance for the Dawn Service as part of the Centenary of ANZAC
Day commemoration.
The crowd was estimated to be in excess of 85,000 on a cold and
rainy Melbourne morning. You could sense at the time the continuity
of these observances by the attendance of so many families with
young children despite the time of day and the weather. During the
service, you could hear a pin drop. At the conclusion of the Dawn
Service, people were invited to lay a poppy within the Sanctuary and
thousands of people took this opportunity. At approximately 8.15am,
Freemasons Victoria representatives (myself and the Grand Director
of Ceremonies) were escorted into the Shrine of Remembrance Inner
Sanctum to proudly lay a wreath. It was a very sombre and meaningful
moment and no doubt a day that will stay with us for some time.
On Thursday night, I had the pleasure of attending the annual meeting
of the Combined Schools Lodges hosted by Ivanhoe Grammarians
Lodge. Other Lodges in attendance were Francis Ormond-University
Lodge, Mount Scopus and Collegians’ Lodge, Brighton Grammarians’
Lodge, Melbourne High School Lodge, Old Melburnians’ Lodge, Wesley Collegians’ Lodge, Caulfield
Grammarians’ Lodge, Old Scotch Collegians’ Lodge plus the Public Schools Mark and Public Schools Chapter.
A highlight in the South was when the Brethren sang their respective school songs, which is always done with
great gusto. So which school performed the best? You had to be there to know the answer. The camaraderie
on this night was exceptional with 130 Brethren in attendance plus four prospective candidates. It inspires each
Lodge to continue to enhance relationships with their respective schools. The proceeds of the night’s raffle went
towards the Freemasons Victoria Vanuatu Relief Appeal.
I trust you have all heard the announcement regarding the June Communication being held at the Dallas Brooks
Centre. I hesitate to say this will be for the last time, but I am confident it will be held there for the last time. We
considered inviting John Farnham to provide some entertainment on the night but he was busy preparing for his
last and final concert elsewhere.
As I travel around the various Lodges, it’s great to see so many new and enthusiastic members of Freemasons
Victoria. Brethren all, it is up to each of us to ensure their integration into the Craft is most welcoming, as we
should assume they will be active Members the remainder of their days.
Vanuatu
NEEDS YOU
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Freemasons Victoria
remembers
A
s the rain moved across the city,
so too did the crowd of more than
80,000 Melburnians who, in the
early hours of Saturday morning, made
their way to the Shrine of Remembrance
to pay their respects to our fallen and
fighting diggers.
News
Standing in darkness in complete
silence, the dedicated crowd watched
as MC Peter Meehan hosted the Dawn Service, the Shrine of
Remembrance softly lit behind him.
Freemasons Victoria was there, represented by Grand Master MWBro.
Hillel Benedykt and WBro. Chrys Kypreos who withstood the low
temperatures to remember those who have and are still serving, and to lay
a wreath at the Shrine of Remembrance.
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt
places a poppy in the Wall of
Remembrance on behalf of Freemasons
Victoria.
“I feel very proud to be a part of today’s service,” Hillel said. “It’s great to
see so many people have come here today to remember, and to pay their
respects to our brave diggers,” he said.
On this special day, the 25th of April 2015 we recognise the anniversary
of the landing at Gallipoli. One hundred years ago, 8709 Australians were
killed in Gallipoli, and today record numbers flocked to the perpetual
flame to remember every one of them.
Royal Australian Artillery
Lieutenant and Military Cross
recipient Neville Clark spoke
of duty over entitlement, and
humour before complaint.
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt
and VWBro. Chrys Kypreos join other
community service dignitaries for the
laying of the wreath at the Shrine of
Remembrance.
“How many great Australians
are there today, still carrying on
the great tradition of ANZAC?”
he questioned.
Thousands watch the big screen as Victorian
dignitaries enter the Shrine of Remembrance
Inner Sanctum to lay a wreath.
Afghanistan Veteran Colonel
Kahlil Fegan said that he was
trying to figure out what made
our Aussie diggers different.
“What I’ve seen I can only
describe as a manifestation of a
‘spirit’”, he said, “the same spirit
that drove the original Anzacs off the boats and onto the beaches at this
time one hundred years ago.”
Excerpts were read from soldier’s diaries returned from the war; stories of
love and misfortune, bravery and camaraderie, before crowds dispersed to
lay a poppy in the Shrine of Remembrance Inner Sanctum.
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt with
members of the Shrine Guard.
BELOW: RSL State President Maj. Gen. David
MacLachlan with Grand Master MWBro.
Hillel Benedykt.
MWBro. Hillel Benedykt and VWBro. Chrys Kypreos watched as the battle
horses paraded the Shrine forecourt, before marching together to the
Shrine, wreath in hand.
“Laying a wreath today is a privilege,” Chrys said, “I feel honoured
to represent Freemasons Victoria among other such distinguished
community service dignitaries like RSL State President Maj. Gen. David
McLachlan”, he said.
‘Lest we forget’
M
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Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Our young Freemasons
2015 Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year!
A
prons were swapped for leathers on Saturday 2 May in Alexandra,
for the presentation of the Ulysses Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year
(MAOTY) Award.
News
Bro. Karl Davenport of Euroa-Vega Lodge No. 185, who has been
working with his father WBro. Stephen Davenport PGSwdB (Senior
Grand Deacon designate for Grand Mark Team 2015) as a motor
mechanic since 2010, was one of eight in the country, to be selected as
a finalist. From that group, Karl was only one of two young apprentices
representing Victoria/Tasmania… and the winner is...
Karl was joined by members of the Ulysses Motorcycling Club, members
of the Euroa-Vega Lodge and members of the local motorcycling
community to officially receive the award, presented to him by the
President of the Ulysses Motorcycling Club Yarra Ranges Branch, Kevin
White.
Bro. Karl receives 2015 Ulysses
Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year
Award from Ulysses Motorcycling Club
Yarra Ranges Branch, Kevin White.
“The Ulysses Club is proud to host the award for the Motorcycle
Apprentice of the Year (MAOTY) as a means of promoting and enhancing
the motorcycle training environment within Australia.
“Karl is a very worthy winner and I am proud to present him this award
today along with a $1000 tool voucher from Supercheap Auto”, Kevin
said.
In April 2003, founding Ulysses member Stephen Dearnley saw that there
was a need to encourage and promote youth in pursuing a career in the
motorcycle industry. As a result, MAOTY now represents excellence in all
aspects of being a motorcycle apprentice. Information about candidates
is collated and assessed from employers and supervisors, TAFE Colleges
and the apprentices themselves.
Supporting Karl from left, (Bro.
Karl Davenport), WBro. Graeme
Cunningham (Vietnam Veterans
Memorial Lodge), WBro. Robert Van
Lunenberg and Bro. Benjamin Wright.
In Karl’s case, the Kangan Institute of TAFE in Melbourne vouched for
Karl’s aptitude, skill and potential, and presented Karl with an additional
Suzuki Student of the Year Award in April 2015.
A very modest Karl said that he had finished his apprenticeship ahead of
time, in 2013 and would like to continue working at S&C Motorcycles
with his Dad.
“I’ve grown up with bikes, and Dad collects and restores bikes, so even
though I worked on trucks and small engines during my apprenticeship,
I think I’ll continue working with Dad,” Karl said.
Karl said that one of his greatest motivators and mentors was a
gentleman by the name of Ray Kelly who, in 2014 passed away aged 83.
Bro. Karl Davenport
“Ray was a regular visitor here at Dad’s workshop, so I picked up a lot
from him. Ray was a classic motorcycle racer in the 1940s and 50s,
winning nearly every race across the Country at that time”, Karl said.
Saturday’s presentation was made in front of a huge mural which
has recently been painted by local artist Mark Klein, who used old
photographs of racers gone by to create a memorial of Ray Kelly, John
Davenport (Karl’s grandfather), John Woodley and Alan Jamieson.
Karl, who has just finished restoring a Yamaha YZ125 1983 model, is
currently working on a Husqvarna and is excited to be able to race it in a
few weeks at the Vintage Motocross.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
2015 Epworth Men’s Health Luncheon
Focusing on joints
E
ver felt like you can’t get out of your chair because your knees or hips
hurt? Well, you’re not alone, and unfortunately those aged 60+ are
more likely to suffer this problem than those in their younger years.
Like the wear and tear on your car tyres, your joints gradually deteriorate
in the same way, and for many, need replacing or reconstructing.
News
Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt was joined by Deputy Grand Master
RWBro. Don Reynolds, RWBro. Keith Murray, RWBro. Peter Henshall,
RWBro. Richard Elkington, RWBro. Bruce Stockdale, VWBro. Chrys
Kypreos and WBro. Miles King who all attended the event, representing
Freemasons Victoria.
Orthopaedic Surgeons Dr Timothy Whitehead and Dr Andrew Tang spoke
at the Epworth Men’s Health Luncheon about the complexities of knee
surgery, and Dr Peter Larkins addressed arthritis and all of the ways you
can prevent joint complaints in the future; keeping to a healthy weight
to reduce the burden on your joints, exercising regularly to stimulate the
fluids and muscles surrounding the joints and using topical aids such as
Voltaren to ease the discomfort.
A live auction was held to raise funds the Epworth Medical Foundation,
items such as trips to beach holidays, wine packages and AFL corporate
boxes were up for grabs as well as a table at Channel 9’s The Footy Show.
Dr Peter Larkins addresses gusts at
the Epworth Men’s Health Luncheon
about joint pain and osteoarthritis.
A raffle was drawn, prizes including Henry Bucks apparel, an Epworth
Ultimate Health Check, a Lyall Spa and Pamper Package and a Philips
HeartStart Defibrillator.
Chief Executive Officer Alan Kinkade concluded the event saying that
the Luncheon had raised nearly $200,000. A great, and very much
appreciated effort.
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Timothy
Whitehead talks about the surgery
involved in managing joint issues;
knee reconstruction, arthroplasty and
ligament reconstruction.
VWBro. Chrys Kypreos, RWBro. Don Reynolds, Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt
and RWBro. Keith Murray at the Epworth Men’s Health Luncheon.
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Andrew Tang
talks further about the complexities of
knee surgery, knee replacement and
knee reconstruction.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Yarrabah School’s Garden to Kitchen Program
W
e might take for granted the skills it takes to cut, peel, slice or dice
vegetables, but the kids at Yarrabah School in Aspendale certainly
don’t! Thanks to a Garden to Kitchen Program, students are now
learning how to prepare a simple meal.
Not only that, they have grown the vegetables themselves, in a garden
they have cared for and managed in the grounds of the school!
News
Freemasons Victoria recently visited the school to donate $1500 towards
the program, aimed at kids with a mental or physical disability. The funds
will enable the school to provide the right materials and tools to build
garden beds and composting areas. The school currently provides a small
workshop where, under supervision, students can measure and cut wood
and build worm farms – but the garden area still needs a lot of work.
Bro. Andrew Dexter presents the cheque
to Principal Matthew Harris (right) and
two very helpful students.
“Once the kids have planted
the seed, they learn how to
manage the soil and weather
conditions to enable growth,
and from there they can pick
their very own eggplant,
cucumber or radish”, Principal
Matthew Harris said.
A small garden area has already
been established, and at the
school assembly, students
gave Freemasons Victoria
representatives WBro. Ivan
Harris, Bro. Andrew Dexter,
VWBro. Barry Lewis and
RWBro. Bill Morecroft a great
presentation of what can be
achieved in the garden.
Yarrabah School has a great space
ready for it’s new Garden to Kitchen
program.
“The next step is bringing the produce into the kitchen to learn how it is
prepared into a proper meal”, said Teacher Nuala Butler.
Students were very impressed with the enormous dummy cheque that
was presented on the day, one young girl commenting that it means a lot
to them, to be able to keep learning about food.
“This Program isn’t just about providing a unique extra-curricular
activity, these are life skills that Freemasons Victoria can be proud to have
contributed towards”, Bro. Andrew said.
Freemasons Victoria representatives WBro. Ivan Harris, Bro. Andrew Dexter, VWBro.
Barry Lewis and RWBro. Bill Morecroft at the Yarrabah School assembly.
For all your personal and business legal needs.
Students of the Garden to Kitchen
program show the rest of the school
what they have grown in the garden,
at assembly.
Students enjoying the fruits of their
labour.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Proud day for Lake Boga
C/- The Guardian, 27 April 2015
Wool for the Trauma
Teddies
M
D
Lake Boga had been selected to accommodate the Repair Depot for the
PBY’s or Catalina aeroplanes, that were under threat from the Japanese.
Trauma Teddies are distributed to
families who have suffered from
an incident (e.g. House Fire) via
Emergency Services, Hospitals,
Police Stations, Schools,
Pathology areas, Nursing Homes
and any area of need.
News
embers of Swan Hill Lodge and Tresco Lodge proudly unveiled a
cenotaph in Lake Boga on ANZAC Day, 25 April, 2015.
Joined by Freemasons Foundation Chairman Andre Clayton,
members of the Lake Boga Lions Club were excited to see the monument,
finally paying tribute to the history of the town and its direct involvement
during WWII.
Around 700 service personnel plus 300 female servicewomen took
residence in the sleepy town in North West Victoria and proceeded to
build the main Catalina Service Depot for the Pacific region. This made the
village really hum, enormous hanger buildings were built to camouflage
the planes while being serviced, and underground bomb proof concrete
bunkers were built to house a secret communications base for wartime
radio contact.
As WWII finished however, the Depot was de-commissioned, and the
aeroplanes were broken up and distributed to local farmers for a myriad
of uses; pig-pens, chook houses and so on. The whole place gradually fell
into disrepair, and all that survived over the years were concrete mooring
blocks in the Lake and the concrete communications bunker.
During the 70s, after consideration was made to restore a Catalina
aeroplane for historical purposes, the Catalina Museum project
commenced. Over many years of painstaking efforts to retrieve
abandoned parts, a Catalina aeroplane was created, a lick of paint applied
and concrete pads put down for it to sit on. With a roof now overhead,
and unique equipment and uniforms collected, the final touch was a
theatrette, and a plaque erected in memory of those who were stationed
at the Depot in WWII and lost their lives.
jerriwarrh Lodge No. 891 has
for many years supported
and assisted Melton Red Cross
in the purchase of much needed
wool so that volunteers can knit
Trauma Teddies.
Recipients are usually children
and Melton Red Cross has made
and distributed over 1000 each
year for the last five years.
This year Djerriwarrh Lodge
decided to seek funds from The
Highlanders Masonic Association
and Freemasons Victoria’s Board
of Benevolence to assist with the
purchase of wool.
The Lodge received great
support and as a result was able
to hand over a cheque for $1200
to Melton Red Cross.
Many Lodges and individual Freemasons have visited this world class
Museum since its inception and by most reports, all have come away
impressed.
In 2014, Freemasons Victoria Grand Master Hillel Benedykt Deputy Grand
Master Don Reynolds, visited Catalina Museum, and noticed that Lake
Boga, for some reason had never had a ‘town’ Cenotaph.
Upon a successful funding application the Lake Boga Lions Club,
Swan Hill Lodge and Tresco Lodge, a Cenotaph marking the historical
significance of the town was unveiled on the Centenary of Anzac Day, 25
April 2015.
Joining many visiting members, the Chairman of the now Freemasons
Foundation, Bro. Andre Clayton attended the event and presented a
cheque for the Foundation’s proportion of the Cenotaph.
Freemasons Foundation’s Andre
Clayton at the new cenotaph with
Lake Boga Lions president Dick Peel
and Swan Hill Masonic Lodge’s Jim
Thompson.
Image C/- The Guardian Newspaper
27/04/15
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Relief for children with siblings with a
disability
I
nterChange Outer East (IOE) provides the care and support that some
children may not get at home because they have a sibling with a mental
or physical disability.
News
Much of the attention around the home is centred on the needs of
the disabled child, and the brother or sister may at times feel left out,
unimportant or ignored. But InterChange Outer East offers group
activities, camps and opportunities to talk with others of the same age
group who may share similar experiences.
Freemasons Victoria recently visited InterChange Outer East in Ferntree
Gully to find out how the organisation was progressing and to contribute
another $20,000 towards its programs.
Coordinator Fred Brumhead said that it’s so important that children know
there is always an outlet.
“Some parents have been taking their kids to IOE for years now. There is
no other program like it in Victoria,” he said.
L-R: Project Coordinator Jenna
Tatterson, WBro. Lionel May and
Project Coordinator Laura West with
IOE’s generous gift to Freemasons
Victoria.
Freemasons Victoria’s RWBro. Keith Thornton, who took time out of his
morning Palates class, to take part in the presentation, said that he was
proud to be able to raise the funds for the Program.
“When we Freemasons Victoria began assisting IOE about six years ago,
we were able to donate $10,000. It is such a pleasure to be able to have
doubled that and donate $20,000 this year,” he said.
Therapist and Program Coordinator Laura West said that the funds will
enable the organisation to provide trips for the kids, when ‘getting away’
otherwise would be near-on impossible.
In presenting the cheque, Program Coordinator Jenna Tatterson returned
the gesture, giving WBro. Lionel May a beautiful glass plaque inscribed
with InterChange Outer East’s thanks for the many years of support that
has been shown by Freemasons Victoria.
“Presented to Freemasons Victoria thank you for your ongoing support
of the Interchange Outer East
Siblings Program. Your generosity is
appreciated”.
Freemasons Victoria representatives RWBro. Myles King, Carol and WBro. Lionel May, RWBro.
Keith Thornton, WBro. Bill Stevenson, Peter White and WBro. Graham Flaherty with IOE parents
and staff; Jenna Tatterson, Fred Brumhead, Kimberley Hannett, Patsy Gussenhoven, Laura West,
Wendy Du, Lyndal Killick, Mrs Gussenhoven, Meg Hodgekinson and Harry McKie.
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RWBro. Myles King and WBro. Lionel
May present the cheque to Project
Coordinator Jenna Tatterson.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Portland’s done it again!
A
fter contributing towards the Portland Secondary College’s Reengagement program last month, Portland Lodge No. 6, with a little
help from the Freemasons Foundation and the Benevolent fund has
recently presented cheques to Seaview House, Portland Secondary College
and the Portland District Hospital.
The Lodge will also be donating a sum of money later this month to
Heywood Secondary College for its Standing Tall Program to enable
disadvantaged students to participate in school activities and camps.
News
Funds donated to the Portland District Hospital will enable remote patients
to be transferred via aircraft onto a new helipad.
The contribution towards Seaview House will pay for a much needed deep
freezer.
The funds to Portland Secondary College will help the school continue
to run its Re-engagement program that assists students who, for various
socio-economic reasons, have not been able to attend school.
Seaview House L-R: WBro. Ian Berry,
CEO Myra Bourke and VWBro. Ken
Bridgewater.
A proud WBro. Allan Thomson
T
he years 1876, 1894, 1921, 1946, 1965 and 2007 are very special
years for WBro. Allan Thomson of Lodge Eshcol No. 785.
In 1965 he joined Freemasonry at his Mother Lodge which, Lodge
Balgonie No. 764 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. In 2007 his
son Scott joined the Goulburn Lodge of Australia No. 58 when he was
attending the NSW Police Academy.
What about the previous dates? Well
these are the dates that WBro. Allan’s
Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather
and Great-Greatt Grandfather joined
the Craft. All of these Brethren
belonged to the same Mother Lodge,
however, Scott being born in Australia,
joined Goulburn Lodge in NSW.
WBro. Allan is very proud of his
Masonic heritage and is absolutely
delighted that his son has kept faith
with the family tradition of being
active in the Craft.
Portland Secondary College L-R:
VWBro. Ken Bridgewater, WBro. Ian
Berry and Principal Toni Burgoyne.
WBro. Allan being presented with his
jewel and certificate by WBro. Nat Black.
The photographs tendered show
WBro. Allan being congratulated by his son Scott who travelled down to
Lodge Eshcol No 785, Shepparton
from Sydney for this occasion.
The jewel and certificate were
presented to WBro. Allan by WBro.
Nat Black, a fellow Scot who is also a
member of Lodge Eshcol and actually
resides only two doors away. Portland District Hospital L-R: WBro.
Ian Berry, VWBro. Ken Bridgewater and
CEO Christine Giles.
WBro. Allan said he was delighted that
WBro. Black presented him with his
Jewel and Certificate. WBro. Allan with his son Scott
Thomson.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Combined Schools Lodges Meeting
T
he 85-year-old tradition of the Combined Schools Lodges meeting of
Freemasons Victoria was celebrated on Thursday 7 May night at the
Ivalda Masonic Temple (Darebin).
News
Ivanhoe Grammarians Lodge was host to more than 130 Freemasons,
including the Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt. He was accompanied
Grand Director of Ceremonies, VWBro. Chrys Kypreos, Senior Deacon
WBro. Gavin Howard, Junior Deacon WBro. Colin Read, Sword Bearer
WBro. Lee Andrikopoulos and Herald WBro. Marc Law.
Ivanhoe Grammarians is celebrating
the centenary of its School, and
the Lodge is in its 70th anniversary.
Master, WBro. Max Fraser, who has
been undergoing chemotherapy
treatment, was at the Lodge for the
first time for several months, and
was congratulated by the Grand
Master on his Grand Rank.
The Combined Schools Lodges
commenced in 1930, with annual
meetings at the Freemasons Hall,
25 Collins St, Melbourne, where
the Sofitel Hotel now stands. The
Old Scotch Collegians Lodge stalwart
five original Lodges were Old
WBro. Bob Arnold with WBro. Roger
Melburnians No. 317, Wesley
Wilson.
Collegians No. 358, Caulfield
Grammarians No. 364, Scotch
Collegians No. 396 and Brighton Grammarians No. 433.
More recent additions are Ivanhoe Grammarians No. 584, Mt Scopus and
Collegians Lodge No. 689, and Melbourne High School Lodge No. 759.
Grand Master MWoBro. Hillel Benedykt
and WBro. Max Fraser, Master of
Ivanhoe Grammarians Lodge.
Grand Lodge Standard Bearer, WBro.
Simon Benedykt and WBro. Jonathan
Ivanyi.
Francis Ormond-University Lodge is honoured as the ‘Mother Lodge’ for
the Combined Schools Lodges. Also in attendance were members of the
Public Schools Mark and Chapter.
The meeting saw the presentation of the Combined Schools Lodges
Master’s Collar by WBro. David Gilovitz (Mount Scopus) on behalf of
WBro. Harry Adlerstein, to WBro. Fraser. The tradition sees members from each Lodge take a position in the Lodge
Room: RWBro. Lewis Morgan Jenkins (Brighton) as Chaplain; RWBro. John
Chanter (Melbourne High School) as Senior Warden; WBro. Warwick
Dreher (Old Melburnians) as Junior Warden; Bro. George Makris (Wesley)
as Senior Deacon; RWBro. Garry James (Caulfield) as Junior Deacon; and
Bro. Iain Christie (Old Scotch) as Inner Guard.
WBro. John Bone and RWBro. Peter
Bryce, members of the Francis
Ormond-University Lodge.
The Grand Master gave a humourous address in which he remembered
his school days at Caulfield South State School, Gardenvale Central School
and Melbourne High School. A surprise guest was WBro. Bruce Worland,
who taught the Grand Master at MHS, some 40 years ago. His visit was
organised by WBro. Graeme Hawke, of Ivanhoe Grammarians Lodge, who
was in charge of many of the logistical arrangements for the special night.
One of the special highlights of the annual event is the singing of each
of the school songs, many accompanied by a ‘war cry’. Music was in the
hands of organist, VWBro. John Cantrill.
Bro. Max Broad (former Caulfield
Grammarian) with WBro. Robert Boileau.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Freemasons Victoria Vanuatu Relief Appeal
C
News
yclone Pam struck Vanuatu with devastating force on 15 March,
claiming lives and destroying homes, hospitals and crops. This
Category-5 cyclone was one of the worst storms to ever hit the
region. It is estimated that more than 180,000 people have been affected,
and between 50-90 per cent of infrastructure destroyed.
A Vanuatu Relief Fund has been established by members of the both
the Lodge of Australia Felix No. 1 and Lord Northcote Lodge No. 191 to
provide funds to assist in rebuilding and/or equipping schools that were
destroyed or severely damaged by this recent natural disaster.
LET’S AIM TO RAISE AT LEAST $50,000
The Appeal will remain open for donations until 30 November 2015, when
funds will be transferred to the Lodge of Discovery in Vanuatu.
Donations are tax deductible.
Please contact WBro. George Finniss of Lord Northcote Lodge on gfinniss@
bigpond.net.au or call 0413 624 133, or VWBro. Jim Puohotaua of Lodge of
Australia Felix on [email protected] or call 0418 561 905, for
more information.
Alternatively, tax free donations can be made via the Freemasons Victoria
Vanuatu Relief Appeal Face Book Page.
Community Meals for St
Peters Eastern Hill
W
Bro. Ben Quick has recently
been able to make a $3,000
presentation to the community
meals programme held at St
Peters Eastern Hill.
The Lazarus Centre at St Peters
Eastern Hill and the Drop-in
Centre at St Marks (Fitzroy)
supports homeless men
and women aged over 25 in
Melbourne’s central business
district.
The Lazarus centre provides
breakfast for homeless people
seven mornings per week. In
addition, it provides food parcels
and an outreach and referral
service offering advice, links to
other services, assistance with
accommodation, assistance with
pharmacy/medical costs and
urgent travel needs, internet
access, essential hygiene items
and toiletries, blankets, and
clothes washing facilities.
“I would like to thank the
Freemasons and friends who
supported my special effort
by buying a raffle ticket to
raise funds for this very special
programme. The support also
received from the Freemasons
Foundation was brilliant. I look
forward to doing this again in
late 2015. To be able to fund the
community meals programme
for one week is amazing, and
everyone who supported this
effort should be justly as proud
as I am” says Ben.
WBro. Ben Quick with Dr Robert LeaWest, President of the Commandery of
Victoria.
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Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Nhill Swamp Boardwalk Open Day
T
News
he incredible efforts of members of the Lowan Lodge No. 107, the
Rotary Club of Nhill as well as the Karen Community, West Wimmera
Health Service and Parks Victoria have enabled the opening of the
Nhill Swamp Boardwalk from Jaypex Park to Nhilll Lake.
This portion of the Boardwalk
was officially open for
inspection by the community
on Sunday 26 April, after a
structural engineer for the
project issued a certificate of
compliance.
The official Nhill Swamp
Boardwalk sign.
Ride4Kids Mountain Bike
Festival
F
reemasons Victoria’s John
Harvey of Hearts of Oak Lodge
No. 681, will be ‘Riding for the
Kids’ on Sunday 17 May.
Hosted by Challenge, a notfor-profit charity organisation
that provides daily support
for children and families living
with cancer, the Ride4Kids
Mountain Bike Festival will be
held at You Yangs Mountain Bike
Park between Melbourne and
Geelong.
John, who has signed up to
‘everyday hero’ and aims to
raise $500 for Challenge, said he
would like to increase awareness
of the need to support children
living with the disease.
“I will be participating in
The Ride4Kids Mountain Bike
Festival to assist Challenge in
raising valuable funds, therefore
increasing awareness and
making a difference to kids and
families living with cancer,” he
said.
Visit the John Harvey Supporter
Page and at https://2015ride4ki
dsmountainbike.everydayhero.
com/au/john and click on the
‘Give Now’ to make a donation.
John said that the more people
who know about Challenge
and the Ride4Kids Festival, the
greater the impact. VWBro. Ken Dodds, Secretary of the Nhill Swamp Boardwalk Committee.
For more information about
Challenge, visit:
http://www.challenge.org.au/
The Nhill Men’s Shed ran a barbecue on the day, to raise funds towards the
completion of the Boardwalk, out to the Bird Hide, as funds are still sought
for the work ahead.
No sooner had the community enjoyed the Open Day, than an
announcement was made on 28 April that the Nhill Swamp Boardwalk
Committee is a finalist in the Volunteering Western Victoria Awards,
recipients to be announced on 15 May.
A huge congratulations to the entire working party involved in this project,
from Freemasons Victoria.
Bro. John Harvey, of Hearts of Oak
Lodge No. 681.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Masons on the Road
C
ome and join Lodge Amalthea No. 914 when its members visit some
very interesting Lodges through May and June 2015.
Grab some other Master Masons for a great night ‘on the road’
visiting other Lodges and meeting new Masons. No Lodge is ever the same
and your Masonic knowledge will really start growing once you are out
there visiting.
Upcoming Master Mason on the Road events:
News
May 2015
Hearts of Oak Lodge No. 681
Little Ships Ceremony commemorating Dunkirk
Thursday 14 May
Annual Fireman’s Night
Mordialloc Lodge of
Charity No. 258
FRIDAY 22 MAY 2015
Celebrating the 63rd Annual
Fireman’s Night at 7:15pm
at the South Eastern Masonic
Centre, 270 Hutton Rd,
Keysborough.
Please note there will be a
$10.00 Supper Charge that
includes a fine meal, drinks &
raffle tickets.
For catering purposes can
visitors please contact:
Denis Henry 0409 112 381 or
Col Langley 0418 991 821
Brighton Temple - 15 Church St, Brighton
Tyle @ 7.30pm
South - approx $10
Lodge Amalthea No. 914
Freemasonry in the Movies, Part III
Tuesday 26 May
Come along for a ‘Blazing’
Good Night!
Prahran Temple - St Edmonds Rd,
Prahran
Tyle @ 6.15pm
South - $80 (amazing three course
supper, wines, single malts, etc.)
June 2015
Lodge Combermere No. 752
Installation under the English
Constitution
Tuesday 16 June
Ivalda Temple - 40 Salisbury Rd,
Ivanhoe
Tyle @ 7pm
South - $25
Please register your attendance via the
Master Masons on the Road Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/mastermasonsontheroad?fref=ts
There is a booking link for each event. If you are not Facebook literate and
want to book, email Michael Maher on [email protected].
Commonwealth Lodge
A big night was had at the
Commonwealth Lodge No. 186
Installation on Monday 4 May.
Three generations of the Geary
family were invested; Norm
Geary as Master, Andrew Geary
as Steward and Jim Geary as the
IPM.
Pictured between our Grand Deacons
Chris Hunt, SGD and Stuart Hill, JGD.
M
E
D
I
A
Tell someone who cares
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
WBro. Robert Kerr has returned from Scotland
I
have just returned from five weeks in Scotland, where I had a great time
visited some great Lodges, and managed to witness all Degrees, won
five raffle prizes, two were single Malts, which were consumed prior to
leaving the South.
I visited Lodge Tarbolton Kilwinning St James No. 135 the Mother Lodge
of Robert Burns. This Lodge was established in 1771, and my Father,
Grandfather and Great Grandfather were all members there.
News
The next visit was to Scotland’s Mother Lodge; known affectionately as
Mother Kilwinning No. 0, established in 1140. At this time the Lodge room
was in the Abbey, now in ruins.
Cannongate Kilwinning No. 2 Lodge in Edinburgh was my next stop,
established in 1677. The building that houses the Lodge is named the
Chapel of St John and is the oldest purpose build Masonic Lodge in the
world, you can find it half
way up the Royal Mile down
a narrow close. They have a
pipe-organ still in use that
was played by Handel in the
company of Robert Burns.
Another Lodge of interest
that I visited was Lodge St
Peter No. 331. Meetings are
held in Barr Castle Galston,
the ancestral home of the
Lockhart’s. The Lockhart’s
were great supporters of
the reformation, in the year
1545. George Wishart often
preached in the Barr Castle.
He was later burned at the
stake for his beliefs. The great John Knox in 1556
owes much of his success to
the Lockhart’s of Barr. Knox
preached over a period of
Bro. George Kelly, Substitute Grand Master of
Scotland, Bro. Robert Little Right Wor. Provisional
three years in the Barr. The
Grand Master of Ayrshire and WBro. Robert Kerr at
Castle was constructed in
Lodge Prestwick 1080.
1297 and the Lodge took
over the custodial duties and
upkeep in 1894. The Barr Castle is one of the oldest known buildings in
the world used for Masonic
purposes.
As our Grand Master says
Freemasonry is a wonderful
place!
Barr Castle.
Sid McGibbon
70 Year Jewel
By WBro. Fred Riches
S
id’s 70 Year Jewel is the first
Seventy Year Jewel to be
presented at Moorpanyal Lodge.
Prior to joining Freemasonry
in his formative years Sid
McGibbon enlisted for Military
Service and was stationed in
many postings within Australia,
before being posted overseas for
extended duty in New Guinea
with the RAAF.
After his safe return, he decided
to join Freemasonry and chose
Moorpanyal Lodge No. 467,
where his father, WBro. John
Barker McGibbon was a member.
WBro. Fred Riches, who made
the official presentation of the 70
Year Jewel to WBro. Sid proudly
wears Sid’s father’s rejuvenated
Past Masters Jewel which was
donated back to Moorpanyal
Lodge by the family. Sid was
also one of the proposers when
WBro. Fred joined Freemasonry.
WBro. Sid was Initiated in April
1945, Passed in May 1946 and
raised to the Sublime Degree
in October 1946. He filled
many positions prior to being
promoted to Junior Warden in
1955 and Senior Warden in 1956.
WBro. Sid got the vote of the
Lodge to serve as Worshipful
Master in 1957–58 and again in
2004–2005.
He is renowned for his playing
the “Mouth Organ” and is
always in demand when
venturing out and responds with
great enthusiasm.
Sid McGibbon, Moorpanyal Lodge
No. 467.
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.
News
The service will conclude at approximately 12 noon and
will be followed by a Kiddush (light
refreshments).
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.
How prepared are you?
Each night when we go off to Lodge our families say ‘Have a good night’,
knowing we are safe with our fraternal brothers.
But how prepared are we to advise our next of kin, should we need some help?
Who should be called in an emergency?
KMLR2 on tour again
in May
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
All you need to do is stick the name and
phone number of your wife or partner
on the back of your name badge so that
others know who to contact should the
need arise. This is such a simple way of
making sure that the RIGHT people are
called in an emergency.
All members are encouraged to get
out their name badges and stick a
label on ASAP.
This could save your life, or perhaps even result in a badge
being returned.
For all your personal and business legal needs.
Proud sponsors of Freemasons
Victoria in its 125th year.
Lodge of St. Mark No. 591
Ladies Night and Ball
Deadlines for content for
coming issues:
Get ready to frock up and kick up your heels at the upcoming
Lodge of St. Mark
Remember, previous issues of
engage! Newsletter can be found
using the Publications tab in the
Freemasons Victoria members
intranet. Just log in!
Ladies Night and Ball!
Engage 96 - 20 May 2015
Engage 97 - 3 June 2015
News
The event, on Saturday 23 May, will be held at the wonderful Grand
Star Reception Centre at 499 Grieve Parade, Altona North.
Be there from 6:30pm sharp to enjoy a 3-course meal, wine, beer and
soft drinks of choice.
This is a fabulous opportunity to dress up, have fun and enjoy the
company of your fellow Brethren and their lovely ladies!
At only $75.00 per person you’ll need to book early as there are limited
numbers available.
Please contact WBro. Neil Wells: 0412 552 828 or
WBro. Emmanuel Marabeliotakis on 0450 876 112
to enquire and make your booking.
Forgotten your username or
password?
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.
Freemasons Victoria
FREE TO JOIN!
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
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.
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
Moorpanyal Lodge No. 467
Offers You
An Invitation to our
37th
Emergency Services Night
RWBro. Alan Cromer. PJGW. Worshipful Master.
Monday May 18th 2015.
At the
Geelong Masonic Centre
25 - 27 Regent Street
Belmont.
Tyle @ 1900 hrs
5241 7100.
**
Visitors @ 1930 hrs
Work: Double Second Degree
Bro. Leigh Scott & Bro. Elliot McCLaren
Courtesy of Geelong Lodge of Unity & Prudence No.5.
by
WBro. L. J. (Les) Kelly. PGStdB.
Assisted by the Emergency Services Brethren.
For further information, and if attending.
Please contact one of the following
by Wednesday 13th May 2015
for catering arrangements.
Secretary: WBro. Alex Everett. PGStdB: (03) 5244 3441.
[email protected]
WBro. Jim Rogers. PGStdB. (03) 5251 1888 - O428 270 341
[email protected]
The Mordialloc Lodge of Charity No. 258
MAY 22nd 2015
Celebrating the 63rd Annual Fireman’s Night on
Friday, 22nd May @ 7:15pm
at the South Eastern Masonic Centre,
270 Hutton Rd, Keysborough.
“Please note there will be a $10.00 Supper Charge that includes
a fine meal, drinks & raffle tickets”
For catering purposes can visitors please contact :
Denis Henry 0409 112381 or Col Langley 0418 991821
Come along for a ‘Blazing’
Good Night
Everyday Hero
“Break the Cancer Cycle”
In memory of Bob Isaacs, who lost his battle with
cancer 5 years ago, we are holding a fundraising
event to raise money and help fund research
to find a cure.
If you are unable to attend, donations can still be made at
https://supportingpetermac.everydayhero.com/au/break-the-cancer-cycle
You are invited to the
Freemasons Victoria
Eshcol Lodge
Charity Dinner
& AUCTION
6:30pm Wednesday 22nd July 2015
Goulburn Valley Hotel - High Street, Shepparton
Two course meal - $50pp
Tables of ten available
Live entertainment | Special celebrity guest!
Proceeds to the Goulburn Valley Health Breast
Cancer Support Group Nurse
For more information and bookings:
contact Allan Thomson on 0402 284 797
AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDE:
Apple iPad | Parklake Lunch | Family portrait by Occasion Studios | Travel
Luggage | Wine | Fernwood Fitness Membership | 2 x Introductory Flights
with Shepparton Airport Flying School | Car Service | B&B with Club
Mulwala Resort and MUCH MORE!
TALBOT LODGE 42
Annual Riverland
Trip 22-27th July 2015
All Talbot and District Brethren are invited to accompany Sue
and I on Talbot’s Annual trip and Official Visits to “Tresco
Lodge” Swan Hill 22nd July and “Sunrasia Daylight
Lodge” (Irymple) Mildura 27th July.
Itinerary:
Swan Hill:-Meet and Greet Swan Hill RSL for dinner Tuesday 21st. Attend
Lodge 10am Wednesday 22nd. Dinner at RSL.
Mildura:- Meet and Greet Mildura RSL for dinner Sunday 26th, Attend
Lodge 10am 27th.Dinner at RSL or Working Mans Club. TBA
Ladies in the South both meetings
Travel & Accommodation:We will leave with caravan in tow Monday 20th (Tue to Set up)
Swan Hill: Big4 Riverside Caravan Park. Ph 50321494
Depart SW 23-24. Arrive Mildura Saturday 25th (Sun to set up)
Mildura: Apex Caravan Park. PH 50236879
Both Parks are located by the River, Cabins available
Please advise if you intend joining our week of Fellowship
Fraternal regards
Chick & Sue Mercieca (Ph 54604736. 0428120845)
melbourne high school lodge 759
$70.00 per head
Early Bird
(paid in full by 15/05/2015)
You are invited to the
Second Annual Whisky Tasting
$80.00 per head
(for payments after
15/05/2015)
– Highlands Whisky –
Friday 10th July 2015
Designated Drivers Please Email
[email protected]
At the school
RSVP
Booking & Payments close
FRIDAY 19th JUNE 2015
Bendigo Bank
Acc: MHS Lodge 759
BSB: 633 000
Acc No: 132090598
Ref: Your Name
Includes 8 tastings & scrumptious meal
All tasting are available for sale at discounted pricing