Freemason NSW & ACT - January 2026

The Official Journal of the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT

Tragedy The Bondi

The Official Journal of The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons

This issue of the Freemason is produced under the direction of:

Editor & Chairman: Bro Terry McCallum Committee: Bros Ted Simmons, Richard Dawes (Secretary), Simon Pierce, Derek Robson, Max Katz-Barber, Kim Nielsen, Rick Atkinson, Owen Sandry, Peter Stoneman and Mrs Lynne Clay

Design & Production: Bro Simon Pierce, Megan Baumann and Pam Gill

Freemason is published in January, April, July and October. Deadline for copy is 1st of the month preceding month of issue.

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The Secretary

Freemason Editorial Committee

The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT PO Box A259, Sydney South, NSW 1235 Telephone: (02) 9284 2800 Email: freemason@masons.org.au

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EDITORIAL POLICY

One of the many expressions of grief left during the Bondi memorial.

Aims of the Freemason magazine

R To uphold and promote those values, morals and virtues which Freemasonry believes are universal and enduring.

R To foster a better understanding of Freemasonry within the general community.

R To provide a forum for discussion on masonic issues.

R To publicise the charitable works of Freemasonry.

R To provide articles of interest and education and to disseminate masonic news and views.

R To recognise masons who make significant contributions to the Craft and the wider community.

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Photo by Joshua Newman

A sobering new year

The Chanukah events in Bondi rest heavily on our minds.

In the short term we can reach for our pockets and assist those who need our financial support in these dreadful times. We can, and should, pray for peace and forgiveness; not just regarding the events in Bondi but generally in this uncertain world. But most of all we should be examining our hearts and minds and thinking about what we should change in ourselves for we are not perfect and our striving for perfection is in itself a worthy cause.

January and a New Year, and the temptation is to make resolutions that may or may not be kept. The committee discussed 2026 resolutions and we have decided to share our findings.

What we can’t control:

R A world of inequality. We can bewail the inequality that we see in all aspects of our lives but as individuals we can make little difference. However, we can support groups and organisations that are pushing for change.

R Things that have already happened. Yet we can learn from things that have already happened. From mistakes and from past acts that ‘went wrong’.

R Things that are unavoidable. If the weather man predicts torrential rain

no worrying on our part will stop the rain falling!

R Things that we will have forgotten in a few days or a week. Don’t let a trivial mistake colour your future. As the kids say, ‘suck it up’ and get on with life.

All well and good but what can we control?

R Time wasted. Set priorities so that if you only get a few things done at least they are the most important things.

R Diet. So easy to write down but so hard to put into practice. Many GPs tell us that small changes repeated over time become firm habits and habit is the foundation of improving one’s diet.

R Exercise. If you can’t make yourself exercise get help; an exercise physiologist might be a good start.

R Charity. We can’t all be billionaires. Remember the parable of the widow’s mite. You can always start small and grow your giving.

R Hospitality. Many cultures make a point of inviting less well off people to share their special celebrations.

R Faith. Your belief may be luke-warm. Set a little time aside to review your

Next time you need to organise a trip, for your lodge, school or community group, give Bro Damian a call!

relationship with your creator and consider how it can be improved.

Now, specifically what can I influence in the Craft?

Think about all aspects of quality within your lodge. Think about what you can do to improve your contribution and only then think about what you can do to help others improve.

If you think highly of Freemasonry, share your thinking with your nonmasonic friends.

Look to Grand Lodge. Make an effort to really understand what our leaders are trying to do. If you don’t understand their objectives – ask them and keep asking until you get a satisfactory answer.

And a final word of encouragement. When in life you realise that there are things that you can no longer do: then fill your life with things that you CAN do.

Grand Communication

Bookings for this event are now open, but you must book even if only coming to the Communication but not the banquet.

There is zero cost to attend the Communication but $69 per person for the banquet (you may bring one guest).

Remember if you are coming from out of town then be sure to book your accommodation NOW. BOOK NOW on the Grand Lodge website, and I hope to see you there!

Tragedy at Bondi

As a brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God, within our wonderful fraternity we have brethren of various faiths, culture and background. As brethren and indeed, as Australians, we all agree that there is no place for any kind of hatred or violence in our society. The events at Bondi will, doubtless, remain in our memories for many years. Let us remember those who died, those who were wounded, and those who are affected by the extreme act of brutality. Let us also remember the heroic act of our Bro Detective Senior Constable Cesar Barraza of Lodge Sydney St George No 269 who exposed himself to mortal danger to save further bloodshed. Let us all continue to take care of each other and aim to be the light that we seek in the world.

– MW Bro B Khristian Albano

At the Grand Master’s suggestion, Freemason magazine asked two senior Jewish brethren – MW Bro Greg Levenston and RW Bro Joshua Newman – to express their feelings after the tragic Chanukah massacre at Bondi in December 2025.

RW Bro Joshua Newman: Chanukah has been a family event I have celebrated annually since my

earliest memories. From the school candelabra making and decorating, to the family lighting ceremonies for eight nights. The festival was always a lot of fun, filled with songs, strange games, and sweet and savoury treats – as long as they were fried. At the time I didn’t realise that oil is one of the central aspects of the festival. We eat doughnuts and latkes (potato pancakes) specifically because they are fried in oil.

The main aspect of the festival however is Light.

The festival is based around a miracle which happened centuries ago in Israel during the time of the second temple over 2,000 years ago – not King Solomon’s temple on which our ceremonial is chiefly based.

What I learned in later years is that Judah Maccabee had led his small army

MW Bro Les Hicks, PGM

Grand Secretary, United Grand Lodge of New South Wales & A.C.T.

PO Box A259

Sydney South NSW 1235

Australia

Our Ref: ER/PRE/KB/NSW 17 December 2025

Dear Brother Hicks,

On behalf of my Grand Master MW Brother HRH The Duke of Kent and all our Brethren I send your Brethren and their friends, family and neighbours condolence and sympathy as they try to come to terms with the tragic events during what should have been a celebration of light and hope.

Alas, although we are far away, so many other similar tragedies elsewhere in recent years have reminded us that terror and murder can so easily strike with no warning. We join you in mourning this event and a determination to reinforce our own values of high moral standards and service to our communities.

Yours sincerely and fraternally,

Paul R. Engeham Grand Chancellor

to victory and regained control of the second temple. In order to rededicate it to God’s service he removed the pagan idols that had been brought in and sought to light the eternal flame as a symbol to the people and his devotion to God. This light could only be powered by a sanctified olive oil that was suitably blessed by the High Priests and sealed in terracotta jars. Alas, all the jars had been smashed during the temple’s ransacking and only one small jar of oil was located with the priestly seal still intact. Whilst only having enough oil for one day, this jar – with God’s will – powered the light for eight days enabling the time necessary for new oil to be pressed, sanctified and delivered back to Jerusalem.

This is the miracle of Chanukah.

Light being a central tenet of the Craft ties in well with the festival of Chanukah.

The bravery exhibited by our first responders was heroic

I have seen a lot of Light over the whole festival this year as signs of support and solidarity have been expressed by Jews and non-Jews,

masons and non-masons at Bondi at the site of the devastating terrorist attack that happened on the first night. This tragedy has deeply affected my community and, being such a small community, I don’t think there is a person who has not been touched. I have received an incredible number of heartfelt messages of support via texts, calls and emails none of which I will soon forget.

On the eighth night of Chanukah this year I made my way down to Bondi with my family and 20,000 other Australians to commemorate and remember those that we lost, and to stand in defiance of darkness. The bravery exhibited by our

Mourners gathered by the thousands to pay their respects to the victims

Letter from UGLE expressing their fraternal condolences

first responders was heroic. Some of these people I recognised as masons only when they got up on the stage to light the candelabra. Our organisation attracts the best of us and fortifies the best qualities of a man.

I am inspired by the words of Rabbi Ulman who spoke at the vigil about each of the 15 lost souls, each of whom left us with a lesson we can emulate. Rabbi Ulman is the father-in-law of Rabbi Eli Schlanger – one of the victims: “Take personal responsibility to continue the Light those souls brought into the world. Let us not wait for tomorrow, let us start today.”

I wish you a safe, happy and spiritual holiday.

MW Bro Greg Levenston:

I was looking forward to the start of Chanukah. Light in a dark world.

I live in the Eastern suburbs of Sydney. In my building I heard people yelling, ‘Turn on the TV.’

I stood there watching in horror, in shock. I was seeing scenes I never imagined I would ever see, hearing sounds I never thought I would ever

…mourning precious lives lost, praying for the living and the community as a whole

hear. A night of sirens, death and darkness. Not only my Jewish values were being assaulted, but also the values of a culturally diverse Australia. Nothing was new, just the scenario.

The antisemitism, the politics, the ideas, the taking of sides, the radicalisation, the evil.

Not where I live my life in the middle.

A life of balance, unbalanced.

A life of compassion and empathy, confronted.

And it continued.

My life has strong foundations, family, Freemasonry, being a Jew, and I

am the Board Chairman of the hospitals where the victims were being taken.

I acknowledged the bravery of our services and our community. I was mourning the precious lives lost and praying for the living and the community as a whole. As was Australia and the world. Their support wrapped its arms around us and hugged.

There was resilience, strength, kindness, respect, equity and there was light in a very dark world.

What lies ahead depends on how many tails are wagging the dogs.

Navigating the tragedy over time will involve listening, supporting, loving, with prayers for comfort and healing.

It is important in the longer term to seek counselling and wellbeing resources from people you trust. And to take care of yourselves and be kind to each other.

And repeat daily..

Let there be light, and there was light.

Just some of the tokens of respect laid down by the community during the memorial held at Bondi.

Memorial tribute at the footbridge where the shooters crossed.

Bringing joy to our homes: The power of Paw-sitive Companions

Every week, our care homes are filled with excitement and smiles as Paw-sitive Companions (pet volunteers and their owners) bringing comfort, companionship, and a sense of connection to residents and team members alike.

Whether it’s a wagging tail, a gentle nuzzle, or simply the presence of a friendly animal, we see how this can turn an ordinary day into something special for our residents.

Why Paw-sitiveCompanions make a

difference

For many residents, spending time with animals sparks cherished memories and brings a sense of calm. The simple act of stroking a pet’s fur or watching their playful antics can brighten even the cloudiest day. Research shows that time with animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and ease feelings of loneliness – benefits we see firsthand in our care homes every week. It’s these small, meaningful moments that add life and joy to every day.

Meet Ivy and Velvet

Among our wonderful Paw-sitive Companions are Ivy and her dog, Velvet. Their regular visits have become a highlight for many at Whiddon Belmont. “The residents are so appreciative of having Velvet come in and visit, and they’re just so thankful. It makes it all worth while to know that it means something to them to have that companionship, even if it’s for a short while”, says Ivy.

Team members agree that their visits add something special to the care home, “Velvet changes the atmosphere instantly,” says one of our care team members. “You can see the joy on everyone’s faces – it’s priceless.”

Want to Make a Difference?

We’re always looking to welcome more Paw-sitive Companions, across all our Whiddon care homes.

If you or someone you know has a friendly pet who would love to brighten someone’s day, we’d love to hear from you.

We also have a range of other volunteering opportunities available across Whiddon, from gardening to Men’s Shed, arts and crafts to reading, there is something for everyone in our community.

Together, we can continue to create meaningful moments and lasting memories.

Visit www.whiddon.com.au/volunteers to explore our opportunities and register your interest!

By MW Bro Khris Albano

DECEMBER COMMUNICATION

Brethren, welcome to your Quarterly Communication of December 2025.

Iwelcome our Past Grand Masters and thank them for their continued support to our Grand Lodge, to our lodges in the jurisdiction and to me personally. An apology has been received from MW Bro George Curry.

Our thoughts go to the 31st Grand Master, MW Bro Noel Dunn and his wife Faye, whom I spoke to this morning and she assured us that while health is not ideal nowadays, they are with us and watching us on livestream tonight as in other recent Communications. December is, of course, the birth-month of MW Bro Noel Dunn, and I take the opportunity to wish him blessings of joy and health as he turns 95 in less than a fortnight.

OUR NEXT COMMUNICATION

The next Grand Lodge Quarterly Communication and dinner will be held on Saturday 7 March 2026 at 1:00pm in Bathurst BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL

The Communication is open to all members of Grand Lodge, which includes all Master Masons. Other brethren are invited to attend as observers.

Historically, the December Quarterly Communications have been typically quiet compared to the March, June and September Communications due to the many competing events in the season. I thank the brethren who travelled to our Sydney Masonic Centre today to participate in the business of Grand Lodge – furthering the Craft and fostering harmony among metropolitan and country brethren.

I acknowledge those lodges whose bylaws require them to meet on the second Wednesdays and who moved their meetings to be able to attend tonight’s Quarterly Communication.

I greet the brethren who are joining us via the livestreaming facility noting that attendance at December Quarterly Communications have been typically quiet due to numerous events in the festive season.

I request the incumbent Worshipful Masters and Wardens to signify their presence by a show of hands. I welcome you and thank you for all that you do for your lodges, your districts, and for our Grand Lodge.

...the attendance of brethren, family, and dignitaries at the Grand Proclamation was truly delightful’.

I greet the Heads of Associated Orders in NSW & ACT and trust that your attendance at the Quarterly Communication is evidence of close relationship with the Craft and is delivering value to the members of your respective Orders, and I welcome any other brother visiting from another jurisdiction.

Past Grand Masters, brethren, I always try to adopt an attitude of gratitude as it creates more reasons for which to have an attitude of gratitude.

It is great to be with you all tonight it being the December Quarterly Communication; the first GL Communication, after the hugely successful Grand Proclamation in September. The number of attendees at our meeting tonight is extremely encouraging especially as tonight’s Communication is the punctuation of what has been another very productive and fulfilling year for many lodges in the jurisdiction and, indeed, for our Grand Lodge.

Consistent with co-creating a harmonious member-centric masonic organisation, true to its impressive traditional customs and usages operating in the contemporary world with good corporate governance and tight fiscal management, brethren continue to help organise great experiences for their members and other brethren.

I commend to our brethren the successful Grand Proclamation in September which saw us celebrate a milestone in our home, the Sydney Masonic Centre with fraternal delegations from across Australia and overseas. You will have already received your copy of the

Freemason magazine or posts on social media providing positive reviews and updates about the weekend event.

The standing invitation for brethren to come together, not as witnesses but as co-creators of Freemasonry in NSW & ACT continues to be accepted and, once again, was very much evident in each of the several events of the Grand Proclamation weekend. Our Grand Lodge Room 1 was filled to capacity and was a standing room only situation, the Sydney Masonic Centre banquet hall and mezzanine and the marble foyer saw action like they never have, and the attendance of brethren, family, friends, dignitaries was truly delightful. It was another display of the harmony that continues to prevail and permeate every aspect of our jurisdiction.

An event such as the Grand Proclamation 2025 can be expected to attract a significant expense, and brethren are reasonably right to inquire the impact of such big events to our coffers. You will have been pleased to hear from

the Grand Treasurer that the net cost to Grand Lodge is – zero. This result was brought about from:

R Your registration to attend the events (which reached capacity at every venue);

R The sponsorship of businesses of brethren and friends whose details

were published in the event program, media wall, social media, website and our Freemason magazine; and

R The numerous brethren, some of whose names were published; while others remain unsung heroes, who personally paid directly for event-related bills, and donated to the events in kind and in the form of services.

On behalf of Grand Lodge, I thank you, brethren, for your continued generosity and support which inspire an attitude of gratitude. You can continue to rest assured that I know that you know that I know who you are.

Departed brethren

Brethren, let us also remember our brethren who are no longer able to answer any muster of workmen conducted in any temple having dropped their working tools since our September Communication. Let us make a sincere effort to offer condolences and assistance, if any be required, to their nearest and dearest in token of gratitude for our

Have your say

I would like to request the email below to be published in the magazine. The Secretariat supports numerous brethren in the jurisdiction with varied temperaments, technical knowledge and personality for a wide range of requests. We have received many comments of commendations of the improvement in recent months – below being the most recent, directly to them and in written form. Fraternally.

MW Bro B Khristian Albano

Grand Master

Dear RW Bro Sayer – Deputy Grand Secretary,

Due to my inability to say NO, I find myself the Secretary of two lodges. This situation may, or may not, have increased the frequency of my calling upon the Secretariat for assistance during 2025.

It has always been my experience, whenever I have contacted the brethren in your office, to be treated with respect, patience and civility. If they have not been able to provide immediate assistance I

have been referred to one who can or they have provided prompt and efficient follow up with a solution to my enquiry/problem. For this I am truly grateful.

I have had the privilege of meeting, in person, several of your team at the Quarterly Communications or other functions I have attended. Their personal presence has always reflected their telephone presence and has never disappointed me.

At this time of year I wish to express, on my own behalf and that of my brethren in Lodge Myall 1058 and Lodge Mayfield Daylight 493, to all Secretariat staff members, our sincere thanks for your service to Freemasonry in general and our lodges in particular.

May the Most High pour down upon you the continual dew of his blessing and grant you and your loved ones a happy, restful, safe and meaningful Festive Season.

With sincere fraternal greetings, RW Bro Geoff Williams PAGM Secretary

Letters to the

The Grand Secretariat enjoying a well-earned Festive Season celebration in recognition of their hard work throughout the year.

brethren’s work in our quarries benefiting our Craft over the years.

With sad but grateful hearts, we announce the passing of the 26 brethren who have entered the Grand Lodge Above in the last quarter. You may fondly notice 20 of them were over 80 years old and 17 of our departed brethren have laboured in the Craft for over half a century when they retired from their earthly duties. We remember their labours and contributions to our Grand Lodge with gratitude and pray they may have heard the welcome words from the GAOTU.

Carrington Medal of Honour

Brethren, our customs and traditions also provide that we recognise labour and merit in preference to longevity. Tonight, I would like to make a presentation to a brother who is worthy of our admiration and emulation for his labours, contribution and service over an impressive length of time which have significant implications in masonic, civil and national aspects.

The Carrington Medal of Honour recognises the outstanding efforts of a brother who has made a major contribution to the community at large, as well as those made within the masonic family. There have been eight awardees since the inaugural award of the Carrington Medal of Honour in August 2002 in no particular order:

1. RW Bro Reverend Harold Ctercteko

2. MW Bro Ron Johnson

3. RW Bro Grahame Cumming

4. RW Bro Frank Radcliff

5. RW Bro Allan Farrell

6. RW Bro Ken Mole

7. MW Bro Derek Robson

8. MW Bro Noel Dunn

On your behalf, brethren, I am pleased to recognise a titan among us in this jurisdiction.

1. He was born in May 1943. Initiated, passed and raised 43 years ago when he was 39 yeaars old between July to October 1982.

2. Before that, following his graduation as a doctor, our brother served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

3. His 28-year service from 1970–98 included time as an Exchange Officer with the US Air Force based in Nevada for close to three years, and as a Commander of Air Force Hospitals at Butterworth, Malaysia, as well as Laverton, Victoria.

4. Significantly, our brother served as Director General Air Force Health Services from 1990–93, and as Surgeon-General Australian Defence Force 1996–98, with the rank of Air Vice Marshal. As an aside, an Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) is a two-star senior air force rank, equivalent to a Major General in the Army or a Rear Admiral in the Navy. During this time, he was also the Patron of the Australian Military Medicine Association.

5. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (Military Division) in 1999.

6. On retirement from the RAAF in 1998, our brother became State Director of Training for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners for the ACT and Southern NSW region. He served in several general practices in Canberra, on the Board of the AMA (ACT), as a tutor in Problem Based Learning 2004–07, and tutor and examiner in Clinical Skills at the ANU Medical School 2007–2016 and was appointed a Life Member of the AMA (ACT).

7. But I digress… back to our quarries where our brother laboured with us on the level: 23 years after his raising, he was installed as a WM of Lodge Commonwealth of Australia 633 after serving as JW and SW in the immediately preceding years. He was also re-installed in the same lodge 11 years after.

8. He continues to be a member of the lodge and is also currently affiliated in Lodges Gowrie of Canberra 715 and Lodge Canberra Daylight 1057, having served as a Warden in both in various years.

As a Grand Officer:

9. He was conferred PDGIW in December 2009. As if to say to us, ‘Brethren, let me earn the rank’, he

ON THE HORIZON

R 7 February: the third year of ‘Raising under the Stars’ will be presented at Cowra.

R 26–28 February: a delegation from UGL NSW&ACT will attend the 2026 Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania.

R 7 March: The Quarterly Communication will be held in Bathurst at ‘Keystone 1889’, which was the original Bathurst Masonic Centre, the foundation stone of which was laid by MW Bro Governor Lord Carrington, our first Grand Master.

..I came to realise the accountability of the Grand Master in preserving the great many attributes of our wonderful Craft.

served as District Grand Inspector of Workings from 2012–14.

10. Afterwards, he became a Right Worshipful Brother on being conferred PJGW. Consistent with our brother’s track record of earning his rank and title by serving an office, he again served as a Regional Grand Councillor from 2019–21.

11. He was our Deputy Grand Master in the masonic year 2021–22.

12. He served as the Chairman of the Board of Management for two years in 2022–24.

Brethen, I invite you to recognise a luminary among us, well respected and largely admired in many societies including ours: RW Bro Air Vice Marshal Dr Graeme David Moller AM PDGM CMH.

Brethren, the last quarter of 2025 has been a most pleasing and productive period. In addition to the regular

R 19–21 March: The GM will be attending the Grand Lodge of Japan.

R 23–25 April: The GM will be attending the Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the Philippines.

R Date to be confirmed: Grand Lodge plans an expanded version of the Carrington Dinner in 2026. We hear that it will be ‘The Carrington Gala’. More news as it comes to hand.

R Date to be confirmed: The Masonic Shop will be opened.

meetings, degree work and installations which are staple labour in our quarries, there have been numerous occasions specially organised to recognise contributions of brethren and commemorate milestones of recent years and earlier decades.

R I have been fortunate to have led the Ceremonial Team to participate in events such the Rededication of Masonic Centres in the Eastern Suburbs, Young and Northbridge, which were each delightful with the attendance of brethren supported by their respective federal and state members, local government council persons and community leaders. Great opportunities to share with the public the good work of brethren over many decades.

R The fundraiser events that brought 52 brethren to the Hunter Valley to tough it out in the mud (aka Tough Mudder) and District 14, 15 and 16’s lunch made charity work with enjoyable memories and lasting impressions. I trust that brethren recognise the advantage and benefits of continuing to work with Grand Lodge and Masonicare to distribute the proceeds of charitable work conducted by brethren and their support system.

R I was honoured and pleased to have been involved in the Ceremonial Team Dinner of 2025 where we recognised the Grand Wardens from the last decade. Each of our Grand Wardens gift the Craft with personal resources over long consecutive years working as Grand Directors at lodges’ events around the jurisdiction; and for their exemplary contribution and generous

service to the jurisdiction and the brethren, they are appointed as Grand Wardens for a year.

It was a happy trip down memory lane as I recalled to the brethren the anecdote passed down to the Ceremonial Team over the decades, that of GM31, MW Bro Dunn. While assisting at a particular installation rehearsal when he was GDC in 1978, he made a suggestion of the correct way of executing the ceremony. He was told by senior members of a lodge, ‘We’ve been doing it this way for the last 47 years’.

He quietly but confidently said, ‘And for 47 years, you’ve been doing it wrong’.

On 29 November, we celebrated our Past Grand Wardens; titans of the Ceremonial Team in the last decade. With the tradition of excellence and service within the Ceremonial Team, we are confident that, for the next 47 years, lodges will continue to ‘do it right’.

Brethren, we enjoy the inheritance of membership in an ancient fraternity of good and noble men who aim to make good men better. In so doing, we are bequeathed an asset of an organisation with beautiful traditions, ceremonies, ritual and the structure that support it. The wonderful structure that is in place has been built by fellows and brethren who have come before us.

It is therefore appropriate to adopt and continue to entertain an attitude of gratitude for our fraternity, our forebears in general and our brethren in contemporary times in particular.

In adopting a real sense of gratitude with humility, integrity and harmony, I came to realise the accountability of the Grand Master in preserving the great many attributes of our wonderful Craft. On being proclaimed as Grand Master for a fixed, foreseeable and defined term I expressed the aim of co-creating a harmonious member-centric masonic organisation, true to its impressive traditional customs and usages operating in the contemporary world with good corporate governance and tight fiscal management.

This aim is formalised, in train and drives decisions among your Grand Lodge leadership team and each of their Committees and Boards that manage

On behalf of Grand Lodge, I thank you, brethren for your continued generosity and support...

the affairs of our Grand Lodge. It is a serious undertaking with many implications and requires commitment.

What is not articulated in the Communication’s supporting paperwork are the commitment and hours of volunteer work gifted to us by your Grand Officers and members of their Boards, Committees and Councils in cooperation with brethren and lodges with the same passion for our Craft.

In introspection, what I have said concerning myself and your Grand Officers can also be said for each and every mason in our jurisdiction. We have come into our Craft, a treasured inheritance that, practically, has not, individually, cost us much; but at some point or another has cost others a great deal and continues to demand the same from others. Hence we must continue to enjoy this inheritance but preserve it with the intention of bequeathing it to the next generation better than we have found it. We are grateful, nay, more than that – we are indebted to our forebrothers who wrote the rituals, formed the ceremonies, and built structure; and the thousands of brethren who throughout the decades have held the traditions of our Order, preserved and accumulated our fraternity’s assets and passed them down to us pure and unsullied as they have themselves received them.

We inherited a fraternity that, collectively and individually, aims to make good men better, brethren. Hence, brethren, I pass on the challenge for us all to continuously strive to be better men: be better, be more, be superior, be higher, be purer, be nobler, be greater.

I take this opportunity to paraphrase

Brother William Arthur Ward who wrote the poem, Challenges for the true Mason and endorse the challenge for us in the way forward:

R I will do more than belong – I will participate.

R I will do more than care – I will help.

R I will do more than learn – I will practice.

R I will do more than be fair – I will be kind.

R I will do more than forgive – I will forget.

R I will do more than dream – I will work.

R I will do more than teach – I will inspire.

R I will do more than earn – I will enrich.

R I will do more than give – I will serve.

R I will do more than live – I will grow.

R I will do more than be friendly – I will be a friend.

R And for that matter, brethren, I will do more than be a friend – I will be a brother.

R And more importantly, I will be more that just be a brother – I will be my brother’s keeper.

Brethren, I extend my sincerest season’s greetings and wish you a safe and most fulfilling festive season whatever faith you profess or customs you practice. Be it for you to have a merry Christmas or a blessed Hanukkah, reunions and celebrations with family and friends or stretches of quiet solitude of grateful reflections or determined goal-setting for the coming new year.

In whatever you do, please remember your brethren of the mystic tie and our ties that bind taken on our respective Holy Book, the obligations we took, that we should break them never. Rather a reminder for us all to continue to abide by yonder book, that square and the compasses… withersoever and forever.

Then, we can be confident that for the next 47 years, lodges and brethren, each one and everyone, will continue to ‘do it right’.

By Bro John Cameron,

Wrong one, wrong all

This article from 2019–20 reflects a Canadian viewpoint but the issues raised are valid in the Australian context. Marcus Aurelius, an ancient Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, repeatedly used the symbol of the beehive as he spoke of being a part of one large community. An interconnectedness of everyone and everything, as it were.

We, as Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, are also familiar with the symbol of the beehive. Although some Grand Jurisdictions no longer use the beehive symbol, many still do. We know of the hive as a symbol and emblem of industry, cooperation and virtue. It is used as a symbol of men working together for good and achieving more while working in harmony. The Book of Proverbs states that ‘As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another’. As the bee is a tireless worker, not for itself but for the good of the hive, so should we all not be content while our fellow creatures around us are in want, especially when it is in our power to assist.

Seneca, another Roman statesman and Stoic philosopher, talked about the interconnectedness of all people. He spoke of the need for kindness, for compassion, for understanding. You might not think that a death in the streets of Georgia, a police killing in Minnesota, a missing First Nations woman in Canada or racial discrimination on the streets of Halifax have much impact on us. These issues are complicated, but that doesn’t negate the fact that this is everyone’s problem that

we must work to solve. Dr Martin Luther King nicely summed up this concept of interconnectivity and interdependence when he said; ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.’

As men and masons, we can’t turn away from this. We can’t close our hearts to this. We can certainly disagree on what is to blame and about the solution but we have to admit that the problem exists and we have to insist that a solution be found.

Many of us are asking, ‘Why have many people throughout the world responded to George Floyd’s death with such emotion and anger? Where is this mass anger coming from?’

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has made comments about the systemic racism in Canada that has received a lot of attention recently. Political leaders and newspaper pundits, many of them white men over 50, responded by saying that there is no systemic racism in Canada, mainly because they haven’t seen it.

For me, as a white person who has lived my life in a lily-white bubble of privilege, this is not the time for me to question whether or not Canada is, or is not, systemically racist. By circumstance I have been able to see it closer than most of us. Although I haven’t experienced it directly, people I love and care for have. So, in my day to day world I don’t have to live with it. But that doesn’t mean it does not exist. It’s like a guy on Twitter said, ‘I haven’t experienced menstrual cramps, so I don’t know what these women are complaining about’.

I know I have my blind spots, as we all do, and perhaps biases that I don’t like to acknowledge.

But they’re there. For me, this is the time to listen to people of colour. What has their experience been in Canadian society? What do they have to say to those of us who make up the majority in this country?

How has, for example, our treatment of First Nations peoples through residential schools and other forms of discrimination shaped our community? What do our Jewish friends feel every time a synagogue or cemetery gets vandalized or desecrated? What do our Muslim neighbours experience when they are being asked to explain or apologize for an extremist attack somewhere in the world, an attack they had nothing to do with and are just as outraged as everyone else is?

What do our refugees feel when they are targeted for harassment, when they have lies told to them about how many benefits they get, and are hassled on the bus simply because they wear head coverings?

It has been noted by many watchers that when a white man shoots up a school, he is (and it’s usually a he) a lone wolf, an individual acting on his own. He’s not a ‘white terrorist’ or a ‘Christian extremist’. In fact, it’s not seen as an act of ‘terrorism’ at all. We blame an individual. If a person of colour commits the same violent act, very often he (and it’s usually a he) is labelled a ‘Muslim extremist’ or ‘Islamic terrorist’ and an entire religion or race becomes suspect.

I’m sure most people like to think of themselves as non-racist. As masons we

Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia

are likely to think of ourselves as fairly progressive. After all we have been charged: ‘To your neighbour, in acting upon the Square and doing unto Him as you wish he should do unto you; and to yourself, in avoiding all irregularity and intemperance which may impair your faculties, or debase the dignity of your profession.’

I am sure that these recent events have caused you some uncomfortable moments especially when you become aware of your biases. These uncomfortable moments are to be embraced because you are gaining moments of greater clarity and understanding. Understanding of how our understanding of race impacts others and the greater community.

While I didn’t participate in historic atrocities, my ancestors did. How did that shape my cultural heritage and my understanding of the world? White people were not being lynched in the southern US, but African Americans were; white people were doing the lynching.

White people weren’t taken from their families and forced to learn a different language and culture, while being abused physically, sexually, and culturally, as were our First Nations peoples; white people were in charge of the residential schools’ policies and administration.

This isn’t to beat up on white people, or shame people for being white. That would be silly. It’s to recognize a problem. It’s not enough to say ‘All Lives Matter’ when some lives are being taken away at greater rates than others and have been targets for persecution. For those of us who have benefited from a social and cultural system that privileged white people over others, today is a moment to listen to the angry voices of those who have been oppressed and discriminated against, both historically and currently.

Listening to understand those voices that are expressing the pain of generational trauma and immediate persecution is our duty. Be quiet, just listen and don’t let your biases filter out the important messages from coming through to your heart.

We may not like what we hear. We may be challenged and even may feel insulted by some accusations that might

be hurled at us. But listen to understand where the anger and pain is coming from; hear stories of people of colour and what their lives are like. Hearing the pain amidst the shouting; that’s the first step towards the deep reconciliation that our world needs right now.

So, what should we do? How do we begin. You might recall a scene from The Lord of The Rings where Frodo and Sam are leaving the Shire. When they approach the Shire boundary Sam states ‘This is as far from home as I have been’. He then hesitantly takes a step over the boundary and states, ‘This is as far from home as I have ever been,’ and he keeps repeating that after each and every step he takes until Frodo says something to him. So, we must take that first step by recognizing that racism and discrimination exists within our Grand Jurisdiction as it does in our society.

We must act individually as well as a collective group. I will commit to being

more aware of the principles that attracted me to Freemasonry and stand in solidarity with my brothers of colour both inside and outside of lodge. I will reflect deeply on the solemn obligations that I accepted and how I am living those obligations in my daily life.

The next challenge and next step are ours to take.

Inactivity is not neutrality. Inactivity is support of the status quo and the middle cannot hold much longer. With apologies to William Butler Yates and his poem ‘The Second Coming’.

To wrong one is to wrong all.

So mote it be!

This article from Bro John Cameron of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia is published courtesy of the Sunday Masonic Paper, Ontario.

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MAKERS OF FINE REGALIA SINCE 1947

Grand Ceremonial Team Dinner

It was an assembly of ‘legends’ Grand Ceremonial Team Dinner at West HQ on 29 November.

The Grand Master had decreed that the evening be a Grand Wardens’ Recognition Night and the audience was composed of brethren who have served the Grand Lodge in the ceremonial team during the current and past years.

It was a very grand, but yet a very friendly, occasion and memories were exchanged that strengthened that friendship. In his formal address, the Grand Master said:

Brethren and distinguished guests, it is my honour as Grand Master to welcome you to this evening’s ceremonial team dinner. Tonight, we join in fellowship to recognise the Past Grand Wardens who have served our jurisdiction with distinction from 2017 through to 2025.

Their leadership and commitment have upheld the dignity, precision and character of our ceremonial work, ensuring our traditions continue to inspire all who experience them.

On behalf of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, I extend sincere thanks to our esteemed brethren for their dedication and service. May this evening be one of gratitude, harmony and renewed inspiration.

RW Bro Dimantha Goonasekera PSGW

Senior Grand Warden 2017–2018

Initiated 22/11/2004 The Sydney Lodge 1020

Passed 28/02/2005 Leinster Marine 2

Raised 11/04/2005 The Sydney Lodge 1020

Grand Steward 2010–2012

Grand Standard Bearer 2012–2013

Junior Grand Deacon 2013–2014

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2014–2015

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2015–2016

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2016–2017

Senior Grand Warden 2017–2018

RW Bro Arnel Dominic Landicho PAGM

Junior Grand Warden 2017–2018

Initiated 08/08/2006 Lodge Camden 217

Passed 20/12/2006 Lodge Camden 217

Raised 10/04/2007 Lodge Camden 217

Grand Steward 2012–2014

Grand Pursuivant 2014–2015

Grand Sword Bearer 2015–2016

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2016–2017

Junior Grand Warden 2017–2018

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2021–2022

Senior Grand Warden 2022–2023

Grand Chaplain 2025–2026

RW Bro Luis Araullo Reyes PSGW

Senior Grand Warden 2018–2019

Initiated 21/01/2005 Lodge Woronora 414

Passed 03/06/2005 Lodge Woronora 414

Raised 19/08/2005 Lodge Woronora 414

Grand Steward 2012–2014

Grand Standard Bearer 2014–2015

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2015–2016

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2016–2017

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2017–2018

Senior Grand Warden 2018–2019

RW Bro Owen John Parry PJGW

Junior Grand Warden 2018–2019

Initiated 06/03/2007 Lodge Chelmsford Technology 261

Passed 04/09/2007 Lodge Chelmsford Technology 261

Raised 05/02/2008 Lodge Chelmsford Technology 261

Grand Steward 2014–2015

Grand Pursuivant 2015–2016

Junior Grand Deacon 2016–2017

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2017–2018

Junior Grand Warden 2018–2019

RW Bro Paul Francis Barber PAGM

Senior Grand Warden 2019–2021

Initiated 11/05/2004

The Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge 150

Passed 14/09/2004 The Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge 150

Raised 08/02/2005 The Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge 150

Grand Steward 2013–2015

Deputy Grand Pursuivant 2015–2016

Grand Sword Bearer 2016–2017

Senior Grand Deacon 2017–2018

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2018–2019

Senior Grand Warden 2019–2021

RW Bro Neville Grego PSGW

Junior Grand Warden 2019–2021

Initiated 09/02/1995

Passed 11/05/1995

Raised 10/08/1995

Grand Steward 2015–2016

The Hunters Hill Lodge 139

The Hunters Hill Lodge 139

The Hunters Hill Lodge 139

Grand Standard Bearer 2016–2017

Junior Grand Deacon 2017–2018

Senior Grand Deacon 2018–2019

Junior Grand Warden 2019–2021

RW Bro Jason Robert Plumridge PSGW

Senior Grand Warden 2021–2022

Initiated 18/11/2002 Lodge Tomaree 878

Passed 17/02/2003 Lodge Tomaree 878

Raised 19/05/2003 Lodge Tomaree 878

District Grand Inspector of Workings 2012–2014

Grand Steward 2016–2017

Grand Pursuivant 2017–2018

Junior Grand Deacon 2018–2019

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2019–2021

Senior Grand Warden 2021–2022

RW Bro Jason Robert Cutler PSGW

Junior Grand Warden 2021–2022

Initiated 07/12/2005 Lodge Gowrie of Canberra 715

Passed 05/04/2006 Lodge Commonwealth Australia 633

Raised 06/06/2006 Lodge Gowrie of Canberra 715

Grand Steward 2013–2016

Grand Pursuivant 2016–2017

Grand Sword Bearer 2017–2018

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2018–2021

Junior Grand Warden 2021–2022

RW Bro Arnel Dominic Landicho PAGM

Senior Grand Warden 2022–2023

Initiated 08/08/2006 Lodge Camden 217

Passed 20/12/2006 Lodge Camden 217

Raised 10/04/2007 Lodge Camden 217

Grand Steward 2012–2014

Grand Pursuivant 2014–2015

Grand Sword Bearer 2015–2016

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2016–2017

Junior Grand Warden 2017–2018

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2021–2022

Senior Grand Warden 2022–2023

Grand Chaplain 2025–2026

RW Bro Christian June Tejada PSGW

Junior Grand Warden 2022–2023

Initiated 26/02/2011 Lodge The Star of Australia 200

Passed 24/11/2011 Lodge The Star of Australia 200

Raised 22/03/2012 Australian Lodge of Fidelity 101

Grand Steward 2016–2018

Deputy Grand Pursuivant 2018–2019

Senior Grand Deacon 2019–2021

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2021–2022

Junior Grand Warden 2022–2023

RW Bro Troy Menez Gara PSGW

Senior Grand Warden 2023–2024

Initiated 19/02/2010 Lodge Blacktown Kildare 393

Passed 12/06/2010 Lodge Merrylands 479

Raised 13/11/2010 Lodge Merrylands 479

Grand Steward 2016–2017

Deputy Grand Pursuivant 2017–2018

Grand Sword Bearer 2018–2019

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2019–2021

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2021–2022

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2022–2023

Senior Grand Warden 2023–2024

RW Bro Benjamin Joseph Tubridy PJGW

Junior Grand Warden 2023–2024

Initiated 16/08/2011 Lodge Woollahra 341

Passed 19/03/2012 Livingstone United 604

Raised 18/09/2012 Lodge Woollahra 341

Grand Steward 2017–2019

Junior Grand Deacon 2019–2021

Senior Grand Deacon 2021–2022

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2022–2023

Junior Grand Warden 2023–2024

RW Bro Joshua Joseph Seitel Newman PSGW

Senior Grand Warden 2024–2025

Initiated 14/09/2005 Lodge Mark Owen 828

Passed 08/02/2006 Lodge Mark Owen 828

Raised 14/06/2006 Lodge Mark Owen 828

Grand Steward 2016–2018

Grand Pursuivant 2018–2019

Grand Sword Bearer 2019–2021

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2021–2022

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2022–2023

Grand Director of Ceremonies 2023–2024

Senior Grand Warden 2024–2025

Grand officers Committee 2025–2026

RW Bro Roland Martinez PJGW

Junior Grand Warden 2024–2025

Initiated 16/02/2007 Lodge Woronora 414

Passed 20/07/2007 Lodge Woronora 414

Raised 19/10/2007 Lodge Woronora 414

Grand Steward 2017–2019

Grand Standard Bearer 2019–2021

Junior Grand Deacon 2021–2022

Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies 2022–2023

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies 2023–2024

Junior Grand Warden 2024–2025

Growing with Monaro

A journey through heritage, community, and modern revival.

Nestled in the rolling high country of southeastern New South Wales, the Monaro region is a land shaped by wind, granite, and the resilience of its people. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Snowy Mountains to the broad plains that stretch toward the Victorian border, Monaro’s landscape has long fostered a spirit of community and mutual support. Among the region’s institutions that have flourished in tandem with the towns and settlements is the fraternity of Freemasons. Their history in Monaro is not merely a narrative of secret handshakes and rituals, but a chronicle woven through the social, charitable, and civic fabric of the area.

Early beginnings: the arrival of Freemasonry in Monaro

Freemasonry’s journey in New South Wales began with the earliest days of the colony, but it was not until the mid19th century that lodges found their way to the Monaro region. The gold rushes and the growth of agriculture brought prosperity and an influx of settlers, many looking for a sense of belonging and shared values in often isolated communities. Freemasonry offered just that: a brotherhood open

to men of good character, espousing ideals of tolerance, compassion, and ethical conduct.

The first masonic lodge in the Monaro district was established in Cooma, the largest town and a hub for the region. Later, lodges appeared in Bombala, Nimmitabel, and other rural settlements. The lodges often met above local pubs or in hastily converted halls, their membership comprised graziers, builders, schoolteachers, and store owners alike. Through their ceremonies and charitable works, they fostered a sense of unity among men from every walk of life.

Freemasonry and the community: building the foundations

From the outset, Freemasonry was not just an inward-looking society. Its principles of charity and benevolence quickly found expression in the local community. In Monaro, as in much of rural Australia, the Freemasons played a quiet but pivotal role in supporting those in need. Fundraisers for widows, scholarships for promising students, and assistance for families struck by hardship became hallmarks of the lodges’ contribution.

During the world wars, masons organised care parcels for troops and provided relief for returning veterans and their families. Their lodges became gathering points for remembrance ceremonies and rallies for community causes. The values of service, integrity, and mutual respect that masons cultivated in their meetings extended far beyond lodge walls, shaping the culture of Monaro’s towns and villages.

Architecture and presence: the Masonic Halls of Monaro

The physical presence of Freemasonry in Monaro is perhaps best embodied in the Masonic Halls that stand in towns like Cooma and Bombala. These buildings, though sometimes modest, are rich in symbolism and tradition. With their classical facades and discreet insignia, they evoke a sense of continuity and quiet dignity. The halls have hosted countless meetings, ceremonies, and community events, their interiors adorned with regalia, banners, and artefacts that tell the story of generations of masons.

These halls have often served as venues for civic gatherings and cultural activities, further blurring the lines between the fraternity and the public.

Alpine meadows are a feature few people think about when it comes to Monaro!

Photo courtesy of Etienne Maujean

During the mid-20th century, as populations grew and regional infrastructure developed, the halls were sometimes expanded or renovated to accommodate larger numbers and new purposes. Yet, despite changes in fashion and fortune, they remain enduring symbols of both the past and the ongoing presence of Freemasonry in Monaro.

Challenges and adaptations: navigating change

Like many longstanding organisations, Freemasonry in Monaro has faced periods of challenge and change. The latter half of the 20th century saw rural depopulation, social transformations, and shifting attitudes toward traditional institutions. Many lodges in small towns struggled to maintain membership, and some closed their doors or merged with others. Yet, these difficulties were met with characteristic resilience and adaptability.

The twenty-first century has brought a renaissance of sorts for Freemasonry in the region. Renewed interest in personal development, ethical fellowship, and community service has drawn new members from across the demographic spectrum. Lodges have embraced outreach activities, opened selected events to the public, and engaged in partnerships with local charities. Modern masons in Monaro are as likely to be found volunteering at a food drive or mentoring youth as they are performing ancient rituals in candlelit halls.

The modern role of Freemasonry in Monaro

Today, the Freemasons of Monaro are a diverse and dynamic group, united by their commitment to the region’s wellbeing. The fraternity’s charity work remains a cornerstone, supporting causes that range from disaster relief to educational programs and health initiatives. During bushfires and droughts, masons have mobilised to provide material aid and emotional support, often working alongside other service organisations.

Lodge meetings still follow time-honoured traditions, but there is a conscious effort to demystify the organisation and welcome the wider community. Public lectures, open days, and fundraising galas are now common, offering insights into

The first masonic lodge in the Monaro district was established in Cooma, the largest town and a hub for the region.

the values and history of Freemasonry. In doing so, the fraternity has shed much of its former secrecy, instead highlighting its commitment to integrity, compassion, and community leadership.

Intergenerational bonds and legacy

A defining feature of Freemasonry’s growth in Monaro has been the intergenerational bonds it fosters. Many current members are the sons, grandsons, or even great-grandsons of earlier masons, and the stories of their forebears are cherished and retold. These connections imbue the fraternity’s work with a sense of continuity and purpose. Newer members benefit from the mentorship and wisdom of older brethren, while also bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the Craft.

The lodges of Monaro actively encourage youth engagement, both through masonic youth organisations and broader community initiatives. Educational scholarships, leadership programs, and support for youth sports and the arts ensure that the mission of building better citizens continues.

Looking ahead: Freemasonry’s ongoing journey with Monaro

As Monaro evolves – its towns adapting to the rhythms of agriculture, tourism, and environmental change – so too does its masonic community. The future of Freemasonry here lies in its ability to honour tradition while remaining open to innovation. By nurturing a culture of inclusion, transparency, and active service, the lodges are well placed to inspire new generations and sustain their legacy.

Freemasonry’s story in Monaro is, ultimately, a microcosm of the region itself: enduring, adaptive, and bound by a spirit of kinship. Whether through acts of charity, the preservation of heritage, or the quiet strength of a handshake between friends, the Freemasons continue to grow with Monaro – shaping and being shaped by the land and its people.

In the quiet evenings, when the wind stirs across the plains and the granite hills cast their long shadows, one can imagine the lodges’ lights shining out, a beacon of fellowship in the heart of New South Wales.

The historic masonic hall at Cooma, New South Wales Photo courtesy of Mattinbgn

Freemasonry can be a bridge

From military service to the Master’s Chair, W Bro Kane Hall reflects on brotherhood, service, and the quiet influence Freemasonry has had on his life. In this candid conversation, he shares how the Craft helped him find purpose, leadership, and balance.

WBro Kane Hall was initiated into Freemasonry in 2014, joining Glenelg Lodge No 117 under the SA/NT Constitution. He recalls his introduction to the Craft as overwhelmingly positive, shaped largely by the care and effort of those who welcomed him.

‘I had a wonderful first experience with the lodge,’ he says. ‘The team of officers that initiated me did a stand-out job, and I could tell they had put a lot of effort into preparing their ritual.’ That attention to detail, combined with the warmth of the members, made a lasting impression. ‘The members of Glenelg Lodge were very welcoming, and that was why I joined that lodge in particular.’

The decision itself came about in a characteristically masonic way – through fraternity, humour, and opportunity. A friend had joined another lodge meeting in the same Masonic Centre, and Kane had been attending their Festive Boards. It was there that members of Glenelg Lodge began encouraging him, with what he describes as ‘some friendly membership poaching,’ to join them instead. ‘There was a bit of a line-up to join the other lodge, and Glenelg had not had a new candidate for some time, so it was a perfect opportunity for both Glenelg Lodge and myself.’

Kane was 25 years old when he became a Freemason. Now 36, he reflects on how profoundly different

his life was at that time. ‘When I joined, I was still trying to find my feet in society after discharging from the Army and returning from Afghanistan.’

Like many veterans, he found the transition challenging. ‘I had been having a rough time of it and had looked to replace that sense of brotherhood in various ways without success.’

Freemasonry changed that. ‘Joining the Craft changed it for me. I now have that brotherhood, and I have met some incredible men who have helped guide and mentor me through my journey.’

Over the years, that support has helped him establish stability and direction.

‘Today, I have found my feet in society. I am now a husband and a father, and my focus is on my family life and trying to be the best man I can be for them.’

His interest in Freemasonry, however, predates his initiation by many years. Kane has always had a strong interest in history and historical figures. ‘Many of the great men throughout history have been Freemasons, and so it has been present in many of my readings in some way or another. I wanted to be a part of that same society of men.’

I find it hard to truly convey the significance of the Craft to non-members and to truly do it justice.

One particularly striking encounter occurred not in Australia, but overseas, while Kane was serving in Afghanistan. ‘My first real-life encounter with Freemasonry was actually in Afghanistan,’ he explains. ‘There was an American lodge having an open night on their side of the base.’ Although he was unable to attend, the moment stayed with him. ‘I was disappointed to be heading out to another base that afternoon.’ Two years later, when he joined Glenelg Lodge, the memory of that simple advertisement still lingered in his mind.

Kane’s masonic journey has since taken him well beyond his mother lodge. He currently serves as Worshipful Master of Lodge Nowra Unity, a role he has held for six months. ‘It has been a challenging and yet very rewarding role that I am quite enjoying,’ he says.

Among the highlights of his time in the Chair are moments both ceremonial

and charitable. He recalls attending the Grand Proclamation with a large group of brethren and their partners from Nowra, as well as raising three brethren whom he had previously invested with their aprons as Senior Warden. He is also particularly proud of the lodge’s charitable efforts. ‘We raised $6,000 in conjunction with MasoniCare for the Nowra Legacy Group, who support our local war widows and orphans.’

When reflecting on what he has contributed to Freemasonry, Kane points first to the men he has brought into the Craft. ‘I have proposed a number of mates to join that I have been close with outside of the Craft. So far, they are all still practising masons, and I am proud to call them my brothers.’ He has also progressed steadily through the officers’ chairs, learning ritual and developing skills along the way.

What he has received in return, he says, has been significant. ‘I have been blessed with lifelong friendships, public speaking skills, and picked up some leadership experience too.’ These skills have extended well beyond the lodge room. ‘Being able to talk about my experiences confidently has helped me successfully raise awareness of veterans’ issues in the broader community, and has given me purpose outside of my family and work life.’

Visiting other lodges has been another source of enjoyment and connection. Kane speaks fondly of a memorable road trip undertaken by Glenelg Lodge. ‘We hired a bus and took a road trip and a ferry to get across to Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Lodge Parndana hosted us, and together we passed a good friend who I had proposed into the Craft, and I was the Senior Deacon for the evening.’

Another highlight came after affiliating with Lodge Nowra Unity, when he joined the brethren on a fraternal visit to the Egyptian Room for Lodge Woronora’s Installation. ‘It was a great opportunity for my wife and I to mingle with my new brethren and their partners. We had a fantastic evening.’

Professionally, Kane is currently a full-time father and an ad hoc professional keynote speaker. Prior to this, he worked in a range of roles supporting veterans and their families. While his professional life and Freemasonry have not directly intersected, his advocacy has certainly benefited from masonic support. Through his volunteering, he previously advocated for masonic fundraising support for veteran causes, including Operation K9, which provides assistance dogs to veterans with PTSD. ‘They ended up donating $300,000, which blew my mind,’ he says. ‘I am very proud of Masonic Charities, and I thank them for their extremely generous support to veterans – and others – in need.’

Family plays a central role in Kane’s life. He is married to his wife, Annastasia, and together they have two young children. ‘We met after I was already a mason, and she has supported me in my masonic journey, as she can see the positive impact it has on my life.’ He is conscious of maintaining balance, something reinforced by advice from older brethren over the years. ‘They have advised the importance of that balance, lest it impact negatively on my family.’

Annastasia, he says, has been unwavering in her support. ‘She will push me to attend lodge events, and I am very grateful to have that support from her.’

Outside of Freemasonry, Kane enjoys reading – or audiobooks when time is short – and has a particular love for scuba diving. He also volunteers with RSL NSW, where he serves as the Past

Chair of the Young Veterans Committee, providing advice to the Board on issues affecting younger veterans. ‘In particular, the volunteering complements my masonic values of service to others,’ he notes.

Asked what advice he would give his younger self, Kane’s answer is immediate. ‘I would advise my younger self to join the Craft earlier – the sooner the better.’ The reason is simple. ‘It gives you more time earlier in life to learn and develop. You will meet many good brethren who will mentor you and give you guidance, which is so important for young men as they’re finding their feet in society.’

Finally, when asked how he would explain Freemasonry to someone entirely unfamiliar with it, Kane admits it is not an easy task. ‘I find it hard to truly convey the significance of the Craft to non-members and to truly do it justice.’ Still, there are key truths he returns to. ‘It constantly makes me –and everyone who actively participates – better men.’ He emphasises the brotherhood, the personal and professional growth, and points to his own journey as evidence.

He also recalls advice once shared with him by MW Bro Stephen Michalak, PGM of SA/NT: ‘That Freemasonry can be a bridge between your faith and your duties to the community. It is the vessel we can use to serve, engage with, and mentor others.’

For Kane Hall, that bridge has proven not only enduring, but life-shaping.

Our mission

A masonic address the words

Brothers, we gather in the radi ance of brotherhood to reflect on the contributions of one of the titans of the past – not a Mason in the annals of our Order, but a true edifier in the Temple of Truth and Beauty: Michelangelo Buonarroti.

When Michelangelo completed La Pietà, that miracle of vision cut in marble, he allegedly declared that in it, he had surpassed all who had ever worked before him, anyone then living, and even people yet unborn. To some, such words may sound as prideful; but to us, they bear a more sacred lesson.

What was he saying? Did he truly believe that no hand could ever equal his? Perhaps. Yet his boast is not merely an artist’s conceit, it is the eternal ideal toward which he aspired.

La Pietà is more than a sculpture. It is harmony in stone. It is the triumph of form over chaos, of order over rugged ness, of God’s vision made manifest by human toil. Michelangelo released from the marble a conception so pure that, for a moment, the eternal broke into the temporal.

strive to reach.

Brothers, is this not our own mission as masons?

To take the shapeless stone of our own character, and through patience, discipline, and foresight, fashion the ideal ashlar? To labor until something immortal shines forth from within us?

When Michelangelo proclaimed that his work surpassed past and future, he was not competing with other men, but with imperfection itself. He declared that in that instant, the ideal had been attained. Such moments are rare for the artisan, the artist, and the mason alike,

Within our lodges, each instrument – compass, square, level, and plumb directs us toward refinement. Michelangelo wielded chisel and hammer as we wield our moral tools. He worked in silence, removing all that was unnecessary, until the figure emerged pure, serene, and whole.

So must we chip away at the marble of our lives: the excess of pride, the hardness of ignorance, the coarseness of untempered passion. For only then can the true design engraved within us by the Great Architect of the Universe be revealed in its beauty.

Let us remember, brethren: our calling is not to overshadow the past,

nor to boast of victory over others, but to achieve within ourselves the eternal ideal even if only for a moment and to give it form in the world.

Thus, Michelangelo’s words are not merely defiant, they are a challenge to us. To labour with such devotion and mastery of self, that when our work is finished, whether it be a life well lived or a single noble deed, it may stand as though it belonged not to time, but to eternity.

And then may we, like Michelangelo, seek not to conquer our fellow men, but to conquer ourselves until the rough stone becomes the perfect ashlar, and we too reflect the Light.

So mote it be.

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Masonicare Appreciation Dinner

Following the successful December 2025 Grand Communication, brethren, ladies and guests assembled for the Communication banquet at the Sydney Masonic Centre’.

This was a glittering evening, themed as a Masonicare appreciation dinner to recognize districts, masonic centres, lodges and individuals who have contributed to the underlying core of Freemasonry in NSW and the ACT – charity

At the start of the ceremonies one lodge and one brother were honoured with a distinctive plaque for support of Masonicare in general. Then a number of lodges and individuals were honoured for their involvement in Masonicare activities during the year.

For involvement with the Disaster Relief appeal, 10 certificates were presented together with 14 of the newlystruck Masonicare coins and 27 plaques.

For the Grand Charity Lunch, 44 Masonicare coins were presented along with 15 plaques.

The largest category for the evening was for support of the Grand Master’s CEOs sleepout in association with Vinnies. This outstanding event enabled a donation of $150,000, with 27 certificates presented along with 17 Masonicare coins and 51 plaques.

To round out the evening 22 certificates and four plaques were awarded for support of the Benevolence Fund.

The special commemorative coin was minted for this occasion. Those receiving the coin will have a unique keepsake as this event is the first occasion at

which they were awarded. In the future Masonicare intends that these coins will be used to recognise those brethren who have made a significant contribution to the ethos of Masonicare.

A full list of awardees is available on the Masonicare website

Highlights

During 2025 Masonicare has reengaged with the wider masonic community. The amount that can be claimed for an Interaction Grant contribution has been increased from $3,000 to $5,000.

Presentation cheques for completed projects will feature the name of the contributing lodge rather than Masonicare.

Masonicare itself has sponsored projects, as well as relying on individual lodges to seek funds through the Interaction Grants process. An example of this has been the Grand Master’s CEO sleepout in association with Vinnies where $75,000 was added by Masonicare to match the amount donated by lodges, districts and masonic centres.

In announcing these awards, the Chairman of the Grand Charity, RW Bro Raul Amor praised the efforts of those recognised during the evening and announced that the Board will be holding an Awards Night during 2026, actively acknowledging those brethren who truly exemplify the ethos of Masonicare and masonic charity.

The Grand Master awards Bro Ben Pillet of Lodge Caledonia of Canberra 938 a plaque for his outstanding personal contribution to Masonicare, through his support of the Benevolence Fund.

Photo courtesy of Renan Legaspi Photography

Whiddon’s Board of Directors Awards

Whiddon recently hosted its annual Board of Directors Awards, a signature event dedicated to recognising the remarkable achievements and milestones that shape the organisation.

The celebration highlighted the passion, dedication, and care of Whiddon’s exceptional team members – the individuals who make a real difference every day in the lives of those they support.

From inspiring leadership to Everyday Heroes, each achievement reflects the very heart of Whiddon.

Award winners

Director Awards

R Northern Region – Li Wen (Wendy) Wang

R Southern Region – Harriet Frain

R Far West Region – Julie Cartridge

R Easton Park – Katie Kennedy

R Home Care – Lisa Hodson

R Support Services – Emma Pennisi-Gordon

Service of the Year Awards

R Home Care – Kelso

R Residential Aged Care (RAC) – Narrabri Jessie Hunt

Leadership Award

R Chris Mar, Marketing and Communications Manager

The winners honoured at Whiddon’s Board of Directors Awards

Passing the baton

There comes a moment in every lodge, as sure as the rising and setting of the sun, when one brother must pass the baton to another.

Whether that baton is the gavel of the Worshipful Master, the quill of the Secretary, or the working tools of any other officer, its passing is not merely a formality – it is an act of renewal. It is the continuation of the Craft itself.

Yet, too often, this vital handover is delayed. Too often, brethren – out of habit, pride, or fear of decline – hold too tightly to the reins of their office. Their intentions may be noble, but the effect can be corrosive. For in clinging to our posts, we risk something far greater than our own exhaustion: we risk the future of Freemasonry itself.

As one wise brother once observed: ‘The captain may go down with a sinking ship, but if he had handed control to a younger man, the ship may not have sunk.’ It is a poignant reminder that leadership is not about permanence, but about legacy.

The changing of the guard

Every lodge is a living organism. It breathes through the enthusiasm of its members, beats with the rhythm of ritual, and grows through the dedication of those who serve it. But as with all living things, growth depends on regeneration. When renewal stops, decay begins.

In too many lodges, the same names appear on the summons year after year. The same voices echo from the dais. The same hands hold the minutes and balance the books. Stability is valuable, yes – but stagnation is deadly.

When a brother holds an office for decades without training his successor, he may feel he is preserving order. Yet he may in truth be sowing the seeds of chaos. For when his health fails, or when at last he lays down his working tools, who will take up the quill, the gavel, or the collar?

We often hear it said that ‘no one wants to take on the jobs anymore.’ But

is that truly the case? Or have we failed to show our younger brethren that these roles are not burdens, but honours –that they are the engines through which a lodge moves forward?

The truth is, we have not been training our successors early enough.

The case for mentoring early

Mentoring is at the heart of Freemasonry. It is woven into every degree, every lecture, every working tool. We talk about guiding our brethren from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge. Yet, too often, we confine that mentoring solely to ritual and philosophy.

Why not apply the same principle to the governance of our lodges?

Imagine if, after a brother is passed to the Second Degree – when his enthusiasm is high, and his curiosity is keen – he were invited to take an assistant role. Not a burden, but a learning post:

Every lodge is a living organism. It breathes through the enthusiasm of its members, beats with the rhythm of ritual, and grows through the dedication of those who serve it.

R Assistant Secretary – learning the delicate balance of record-keeping, correspondence, and confidentiality.

R Assistant Treasurer – understanding the financial stewardship that underpins every charitable act.

R Assistant Director of Ceremonies – observing the choreography that brings ritual to life.

R Assistant Chaplain – learning the quiet dignity of spiritual support within the lodge.

These are not token titles. They are opportunities for apprenticeship. The same way a Fellow Craft once learned the secrets of his trade by observing the Master Mason at work, so too can a young brother learn the duties of the officers by walking beside them.

Such a system would not only prepare the next generation but would enliven the lodge itself. Interest would flourish, participation would increase, and a sense of shared purpose would return. The lodge would no longer be divided between ‘the old hands’ and ‘the new men,’ but united in a continuum of shared learning.

Ego and the gentle art of letting go

Let us be honest with ourselves. Sometimes, the reluctance to pass the baton has little to do with practicality and much to do with pride. We become attached to our offices, to the authority and respect they confer. It is human nature.

But Freemasonry calls us to something higher than human nature – it calls us to self-mastery.

In the ritual of the Third Degree, we learn the importance of fidelity, of obedience, and of the due recognition of the

transient nature of all things. The wise brother knows that every role, every title, is but a trust – held temporarily for the good of the Craft.

There comes a time when each of us must hear the words from the Gospel of Matthew: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’ Matthew 25:14 These are not words of finality, but of transition. They say, in essence, ‘You have done your part; it is time to rest and to let another rise.’

To cling to our office beyond our time is to deny another brother the same joy of service that once animated us. It is to turn the lodge into a museum of memories rather than a workshop of growth.

And so we must learn the gentle art of letting go – not as a loss, but as a final act of leadership.

The captain and the ship

Let us return to the metaphor of the ship. A lodge is much like a vessel upon the sea – steady when its crew works in harmony, but vulnerable when leadership falters.

‘The captain may go down with a sinking ship, but if he handed control to a younger man, the ship may not have sunk.’

This saying captures an uncomfortable truth: experience is invaluable, but it must not become an anchor. The true captain trains his first mate not for someday, but for every day. He knows that a storm can come without warning, and when it does, the ship’s survival depends on the readiness of the crew.

So too in a lodge. When the Worshipful Master nurtures his Wardens, when the Secretary teaches his assistant the mysteries of the minute book, when the Treasurer explains not only the financial reports but the spirit

of charity behind them – then the lodge is strong, and the Craft safe.

A lodge that trains its successors will weather any storm. A lodge that does not, will founder when its leaders falter.

Raising them up

There is an old biblical injunction: ‘Raise them up in their bent, and they never stray from it.’ Proverbs 22:6 The wisdom is eternal – what we teach early becomes a lifelong habit.

If we instil in our newer brethren a sense of shared responsibility, they will never think of office as a chore to be avoided, but as a natural part of their masonic journey.

Consider what happens when a young man joins our lodge. He is often full of enthusiasm, eager to participate, yet unsure how to contribute beyond attending meetings. Too often, he becomes a spectator rather than a participant.

And we wish all members of the masonic family a joyous 2026!

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But if, soon after his Passing, he is told: ‘Brother, we would like you to serve as Assistant Director of Ceremonies for a few months – to observe, to learn, and to help,’ he will feel not only valued but needed. His attendance will rise. His connection to the lodge will deepen. And when the time comes, he will step into the full role not with fear, but with confidence born of practice. In this way, the principle of ‘raising them up in their bent’ becomes a living, breathing policy – not just for moral conduct, but for masonic continuity.

Practical steps for lodges

Words are easy; action takes planning. Here are some practical steps lodges can take to effectively implement a ‘passing the baton‘ approach:

1. Create Assistant Roles officially

Add assistant positions to the lodge’s by-laws or standing resolutions. Make them part of the organizational chart. This gives structure and purpose to mentoring, rather than leaving it to chance.

2. Appoint Mentors for each office

Pair each officer with an assistant from among the newer brethren. The mentor’s duty is not only to train but to encourage, involve, and gradually share responsibility.

3. Rotate Duties

Allow assistants to perform certain parts of the role under supervision – such as reading minutes, balancing small financial entries, or conducting parts of the ceremonial. Practice breeds confidence.

4. Recognize Service

Acknowledge assistant roles publicly. Present them with certificates of service or mention them at installation nights. Recognition reinforces value.

5. Set Succession Plans

At the start of every masonic year, officers should identify their likely successors and begin training them. It should be as natural as preparing the ritual.

The spirit of continuity

When we speak of succession, we are not speaking merely of replacing men

– we are speaking of the continuity of light. Each office in the lodge carries a symbolic meaning, and each must be transmitted with understanding.

If the Secretary’s pen is passed without the wisdom of discretion, or the Director of Ceremonies’ wand without the grace of precision, the chain weakens. But if each transition is made in a spirit of brotherly teaching, then the chain strengthens with every link.

The lodge becomes like a well-tuned instrument, where each generation adds its own note, yet the harmony remains true.

The legacy we leave

The final measure of a mason’s service is not how long he held an office, but how well he prepared others to hold it after him.

When the great architect of the universe calls us from labour to refreshment, we will not be remembered for the years we sat in a chair or wore a collar, but for the lives we touched and the brethren we raised up, willing to wear the collar and sit in the chair after us.

So when your time comes to step aside, do so with grace. Sit among the ranks of Past Masters and officers not as one diminished, but as one fulfilled – for you will have done your duty, and you will have ensured that your lodge will thrive beyond your years.

As scripture reminds us: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ Matthew 25:14 You have built something that will last.

A lodge renewed

Picture a lodge where the Master trains his successors as naturally as he once trained his Wardens. Where each officer has an assistant learning the ropes. Where no brother fears the day when another must take his place, because he knows he will be replaced not by a stranger, but by a friend he has taught himself.

Picture meetings where new brethren feel part of the machinery, where they take pride in their small but vital contributions. Where older brethren look on, not with jealousy, but with quiet satisfaction – knowing that the work continues.

That is a living lodge. That is a lodge that will endure.

Freemasonry has survived wars, depressions, and cultural revolutions. It has done so not through stubbornness, but through renewal. Each generation has handed down not only rituals, but responsibilities. It is now our turn to ensure that the next generation is ready to receive them.

Conclusion: the final handshake

In the Third Degree, we are taught that ‘man, that is born of woman, is of few days and full of trouble.’ Yet we are also taught that through labour, faith, and brotherly love, we build something that outlasts us.

So too with our lodges. The individual mason may fade, but the lodge must go on.

Passing the baton is not an act of surrender – it is an act of creation. It is how the spirit of Freemasonry moves from one generation to the next. It is how we ensure that the light we guard does not flicker out when we, at last, lay down our working tools.

Let us therefore resolve, each in our own lodge, to begin the process now. To train assistants. To mentor early. To step aside gracefully when the time comes. To raise them up in their bent, that they may never stray from it.

And when at last we hear those words – ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’ – may we know in our heart that the work continues, strong and true, in the hands of those we have trained to carry the Craft forward.

A practical challenge for every lodge

At your next meeting, ask this question aloud: ‘If I could not attend next month, who could take my place?’

If the answer is silence – begin the mentoring process today.

By Sir Knight Benjamin F. Hill

Who was Zerubbabel?

The name Zerubbabel is of biblical origin and is believed to mean ‘seed of Babylon’

or roughly ‘born of Babylon’.

He is a prominent figure within the lore of Freemasonry. His rebuilding of the Temple brings together two subjects of special interest to masons: architecture and religion. He is often referenced in masonic lore, rites, and orders.

Who was Zerubbabel and what is his legacy? To answer these questions, we need to examine the scriptures in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah and Chronicles. Zerubbabel was born in Babylon as a Jewish exile and grandson of Jehoiachin, king of Judah, and was thought to have been of the line of King David of Israel. Zerubbabel and Sheshbazzar may have been the same person. As Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah, he was appointed governor under Cyrus, king of Persia, and as Zerubbabel, he was appointed governor under Darius the Great.

All that is known about Zerubbabel is found in the canonical books of Zechariah, Haggai and Ezra-Nehemiah. According to these, he and Joshua the high priest led a group of Jewish captives

from Babylon to Jerusalem in the first year of Cyrus I, generally thought to have been between 538 and 520 BCE. They began rebuilding the second Temple in the second year of Darius I (522 BCE).

According to the Romano-Jewish author Josephus and the book of Ezra, Zerubbabel was a friend of Darius I and had successfully competed in a contest whose object was to determine what was the strongest thing in the world: wine, kings, women, or truth. Zerubbabel having demonstrated that truth was the mightiest of all, was called the King’s ‘cousin’ and was granted permission to go up to Jerusalem and to rebuild the Temple. Zerubbabel was also made a governor of Jerusalem and had official duties as Persian collector of taxes.

Importance of Zerubbabel in Judaism

Zerubbabel’s importance to Judaism is as a historic figure connected to the Temple at Jerusalem, and it is this connection which is emphasised most in biblical sources. The Hebrew faith prior to the Babylonian captivity was centred

first around the portable Tabernacle the Israelites carried with them through the wilderness into the land of Israel and then later around Solomon’s Temple at Jerusalem. Both figure prominently in the Old Testament as the centres of worship. When the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar conquered Israel, they destroyed the Temple at Jerusalem and with it, the centre of worship for the Jews. While the Jews continued to practise their faith while in captivity in Babylon, they did so without a centre of worship and without a clearly defined leadership. That changed with the return of Jews from Babylon to the province of Judah, led by Ezra the prophet as the spiritual leader, and Zerubbabel as the political leader. With the support and the authority of the Persians, Zerubbabel began the construction of the Second Temple at Jerusalem. Zerubbabel was a critical agent in restoring the faith as it had been before the Babylonian conquest.

The Second Temple eventually fell into disrepair until it was restored and largely rebuilt under the reign of Herod

Zerubbabel Before Darius by Nikolaus Knüpfer, circa 1644.

the Great, just prior to the Christian era. It was still standing during Jesus’ ministry and as such, is mentioned in many places in the New Testament, where it was clearly a centre of worship for Jews and Christians alike. It was destroyed by the Romans during the siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE. With the Temple once again destroyed, Judaism entered a period of crisis regarding its identity and the nature of worship. That crisis was largely resolved through a shift toward worship centred in the home and in the synagogue, with rabbis as the spiritual leaders of the Jewish people. Rabbinical Judaism remains the dominant form of Judaism in the modern era, but the influence of the Temple is still felt in Jewish thought.

The importance of Zerubbabel in Christianity

Considering Zerubbabel’s place in history and the prophecies of the Jews, it is important that Zerubbabel and his ancestors have lineage back to King David and are listed in the genealogy of Jesus. Zechariah’s prophecies during the reign of Darius have connections to the accounts of Jesus given in the New Testament in the gospels of Matthew and Luke and have direct references to Joshua the high priest and indirect references to Zerubbabel as the builder of the Temple. In the gospels, Jesus directly assumed the role of a builder of temples. Most significantly, Jesus’ declaration of his role as the builder of the Temple was in response to a chal lenge to his authority. The connection between the building of the Temple and the kingly authority can be found in the prophecy of Zechariah, which looked forward to the messianic figure who would come and complete the work of restoring the faith that had begun with Joshua the high priest and Zerubbabel.

Zerubbabel in Freemasonry

Although his name is not directly associated with the Symbolic Lodge or Ancient Craft Masonry and its ritual, Zerubbabel is a prominent figure within the lore of Freemasonry. It is interesting that Freemasonry, the

champion of truth, one of the Craft’s founding grand principles, should be attributed to the story of a contest between Zerubbabel and Darius’ three bodyguards about the strongest thing in the world – wine, kings, women, or truth. As recorded in the Book of Ezra and the ritual of the Knights Templar Illustrious Order of the Red Cross, Zerubbabel, like that Scottish Rite twentieth degree Illustrious martyr of the symbolic lodge, is a figure representing truth.

Zerubbabel’s rebuilding of the Temple directly connects him to Solomon’s Temple at Jerusalem and brings together a subject of special interest to Freemasons. From the scriptures we learn that Zerubbabel led a group of Jewish craftsmen to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple on the spot where Solomon’s Temple had stood, and he brought with him the sacred vessels Nebuchadnezzar carried away when Solomon’s Temple was destroyed. From Albert Mackey’s Royal Arch History in Three Lectures, we learn that three sojourners found several valuable items in the rubbish of the old Temple and a stone with characters on it which comprise the sacred tetragrammaton and the ineffable name of God. More details

the Knights Templar Illustrious Order of the Red Cross. Thus, ‘the Royal Arch stands as the rainbow of promise of the resurrection, of that which was lost and that which shall be recovered’ as Most Excellent William F. Kuhn presented in ‘The necessity of the Royal Arch to the Master Mason’. The Chapter of Rose Croix is the spiritual heart of the Scottish Rite and is focused on religion, philosophy, ethics, and history. Its 15th and 16th degrees are related to the rebuilding of the Temple at Jerusalem by Zerubbabel and portray the neverending struggle against the adversaries of truth and light.

In conclusion, the story of Zerubbabel is important to the Craft and its Master Masons, Companions, and Templars. Like Zerubbabel, we have a noble heritage of being a defender of liberty, a custodian of freedom, and a champion of truth and fidelity.

Sir Knight Benjamin F. Hill is a Past Grand Commander of Virginia and a Past Commander of Portsmouth Commandery No 5. This article is re-printed with the permission of Knights Templar magazine.

Helping students step confidently into the new school year

For many young Australians, the start of a new school year brings excitement and possibility.

EVENTS & NOTICES

International Order of the Rainbow for Girls Rainbow Girls meetings

Now meet at 2.00 pm on the second Sunday of each month at the Blacktown Masonic Centre: 5/1 Carnegie Place, Blacktown

For further details please phone Lorraine on 0417 082 631 or email: rainbowgirls74@gmail.com

All masonic brethren welcome!

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But for families facing financial hardship, this time of year can be one of the most overwhelming. The cost of uniforms, shoes, backpacks, textbooks, stationery and laptops adds up quickly. For households already under pressure, these expenses can turn an important milestone into a significant barrier.

For more than a century, A Start in Life has worked to ensure that no motivated young person misses out on learning because of circumstances beyond

“Your continued support has made a meaningful difference for me this year...”

– Aliyar, student

their control. With the longstanding generosity of the Freemason community, the charity provides funding, mentoring and unique opportunities to students from kindergarten through to tertiary studies – helping them begin each academic year feeling prepared, supported and hopeful.

The impact of this support is reflected clearly in the lives of students like Zach and Paige. Last year, when their father required major surgery and an extended hospital stay, the siblings suddenly faced a period of uncertainty at home. A Start in Life stepped in, helping Zach and Paige stay focused in high school. With the stability from funding and regular support, they kept going to school, completing their work and kept engaged with their learning.

Support also makes a big difference for younger children just beginning their school journey. When Roni’s mum, Armita, applied for assistance last year, she shared the challenge of being a single parent on a tight budget. Roni, then in Year 2, proudly told us his goals: to make more friends, read ‘big books’

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and improve his handwriting. Within a month of receiving the school supplies, resources and activities he needed, he earned a Merit Certificate for his writing – a huge moment for him and his family!

These stories show what becomes possible when a student has the support they need. A uniform that fits helps a student feel like they belong. A backpack and textbooks allow them to participate fully in class. A laptop opens the door to research, homework and new skills. Encouragement from someone in their corner transforms their confidence.

The Freemason community has played a meaningful role in this work for more than 100 years. Your commitment to education and opportunity has helped generations of students move through school with dignity, direction and confidence. This year, your support will once again ensure that students like Zach, Paige and Roni walk into school

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Support a student’s start to the new school year – donate today

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A refreshing article

I just wanted to drop a brief note to commend Bro Simon Pierce on his article, One Hall on Severn Street, published in the Oct–Dec 2025 edition of our magazine.

I found it refreshing, and it stood out particularly in contrast to recent editions, which I have felt have been more heavily focused on Grand Lodge visits and activities. Articles of this nature provide a valuable and engaging perspective, and I would welcome seeing more contributions of this kind from the brethren.

I also recall, at some point, a call for volunteers to submit profiles or write-ups on Australian Honours and Awards recipients, or similar articles celebrating individual Freemason contributions to our community and nation. I would be very interested in contributing in this space. While my initial drafts may require some refinement, I am confident they would receive the appropriate editorial scrutiny prior to publication.

If there are any other topics of particular interest you would like me to explore or draft, I would be more than happy to assist. Fraternally .

VW Bro Andrew Kfoury PDGIW

The Central Coast Lodge No. 2001

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On the level

Sharing your stories from around the jurisdiction

A BBQ for kids in need

On Saturday 18 October 2025, Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes held a Bunnings sausage sizzle at Tuggerah to raise awareness and funds for Central Coast Kids in Need (CCKIN).

CCKIN is a small volunteer organisation which raises money to aid families of seriously ill children on the Central Coast who are required to travel to Sydney or Newcastle Hospitals for treatment. It provides financial assistance for medication, travel, accommodation and assists with in-home specialised equipment when necessary. Over the last twenty years CCKIN has assisted over 4,351 families with more than 5.2 million dollars of support.

After months of planning we arrived at Tuggerah Bunnings at 6:45am and started

preparing for the day ahead – getting drinks on ice, neatly stacking bread and serviettes ready for serving and so on.

We were a little worried early on with overcast skies but that quickly turned into a brilliant day. The BBQ was fired up by 7:15am and by the time the first batch had barely finished cooking we had customers clamouring for a snag. A steady stream of customers followed all day, and we were able to settle into our roles – it wasn’t long before we were a lean, mean sausage-sandwich-making machine! The day was only interrupted by the (not unexpected) ‘waves of madness’ around mealtimes when keeping up with the queues of ravenous people really put our skills to the test!

However, we weren’t in it alone – we had excellent volunteers from other lodges in the district bringing our numbers up to 16, so we were never short of a helping hand. Those numbers were further boosted when some members of the Soldiers Beach Surf Lifesaving Club arrived after their morning duties to help out for a few hours. Freemasons on the Central Coast are long-time supporters of Soldiers Beach SLSC and this is a great example of how like-minded community organisations can help each other out for a great cause.

Further thanks are owed to the local community, who really showed their generosity on the day. I lost count of the number of times people said ‘Keep the change, it’s for a great cause’, with some even buying a single snag and paying with a $20 note. It was truly awe-inspiring.

The highlight of the day came when one lady, buying snags for her family, told us that CCKIN had helped her family out when they were in dire need, and how much she appreciated our efforts in support of the organisation. Meeting the family and hearing their story was a heartwarming experience for us all and made the day that much more rewarding.

In the end, the event was a remarkable success, raising about $3,600. With the assistance of Freemasons on the Central Coast (FotCC) who covered the cost of supplies (bread, sausages, onions, ice, sauce, etc) and the unwavering support of Masonicare we presented CCKIN with $7,200 to help their cause.

Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes would like to extend our thanks to Freemasons on the Central Coast, Masonicare and Soldiers Beach SLSC for their support, and the community for their generosity and for helping to make our sausage sizzle such a great success!

Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes 247

The fearless snagslingers of Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes.

The Central Coast Lodge 2001

$6,000 for Special Care Nursery

Tiny trains and sausage sandwiches were the key to the Central Coast Lodge being able to donate $6,000 to the Gosford Hospital Special Care Nursery last September.

They are a staple of the Central Coast Steam Model Co-Op-run community days on the first Saturday of every month, providing rides for kids (and kids at heart) on the miniature railway at Narara. And if you’re feeling peckish, Central Coast Freemasons are a regular fixture, running the sausage sizzle to support local charities.

After several months behind the BBQ, the $3,000 raised from these sales was doubled with a Masonicare grant and donated to Gosford Hospital to help their Special Care Nursery – the facility that provides care for premature and unwell babies over 32 weeks gestation.

In recognition of the donation, Central Coast Lodge and Freemasons on the Central Coast representatives were given

Lodge Panania No 845

a tour of the nursery by Ms Carmen Bonny, Clinic Nurse Educator. The hospital provides state-of-the-art care for infants, is equipped with humidicribs of all sizes (with various attachments for special cases) alongside more ordinary care for

the parents, with rooms provided for them to stay overnight near their babies.

After the tour Ms Lynette Hill, Director of Women, Children and Families, extended her thanks to those present for the donation.

Bowls for ‘Youth off the Streets’

On Sunday, 2 November, all six lodges in District 34B gathered for a happy day of good fun, food and colourful banter. And some bare foot bowling of course. The event raised money for Youth off the

Streets, a local project. The event was held in association with Masonicare.

The brethren were accompanied by friends, partners, children and even a few grandchildren. Scoring for the excellent

bowling was close and the respective scores were a hot topic at the bistro of the Padstow Bowling Club during the luncheon following the competition.

Eventually Lodge Fire Brigade No 940 were declared the winners. Maybe they had a premonition as they seem to be signalling their superiority in the photo which was taken before the tally was added up or maybe this is some fire brigade signal code, we may never know.

However, the real winner of the day was Youth off the Streets. The district is aiming to raise $5,000 as part of their Masonicare Interaction grant and this event added $940 to the kitty.

Fun, food, a couple of drinks with friends and family, and charity. In some ways this event summed up the social aspects of our fraternity in one day.

Taking a ride on the miniature railway at Narara

Brethren of District 34B out for a day on the green

Tania shows off one of the teddy bears her charity program donates

BBQs with a heart

It was with short notice that Bunnings West Gosford reached out to Bro Alex Mountain of the Central Coast Lodge to ask if they could fill in for a last-minute BBBQ (Bunnings Barbecue) cancellation. Despite little notice, our volunteers swung into action and managed to raise $3,000 on the day for the Business With a Heart charity program. Added to ongoing fundraising efforts and including Masonicare’s fund matching, this delivered $10,000 to help sick kids in local hospitals.

Business with a Heart was created by Tania, who was given a less than 2% chance of survival at birth. Within her first 6 months of life she had three heart surgeries, suffered a stroke and spent her first Christmas in hospital after having suffered a second stroke and heart failure.

Throughout these (and more) experiences in hospital, she brought her teddy bear, helping keep her calm and providing a small sense of her home life through the most difficult of times.

After defying such odds, Tania was determined to live her best life. She went on to complete her schooling, graduate from university, and create Business with a Heart to gift kids in hospitals around

Australia teddy bears like the one that helped save her life.

One important takeaway from our BBBQ day is the importance of developing strong working relationships with your local community organisers. Because we’d run previous successful BBQs and built a reputation for being reliable and easy to work with, they came straight to us to help out in a pinch. And how could we say no to that?

The previous BBQ we ran was in aid of Central Coast ARAFMI, at which we were able to raise a similar amount of money. Central Coast ARAFMI is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of families and individuals across the Central Coast. We recently received a lovely letter of thanks from Rhonda Wilson CEO, which reads in part:

‘Your contribution makes a meaningful difference. Thanks to your generosity, we can provide an environment where people can maintain a sense of community and develop new initiatives. Your support not only strengthens our organisation but also uplifts the people we serve every day.’

Well-deserved thanks go out to those who’ve helped at this and previous fundraisers and to the community at large for being hungry and generous in equal measure!

Lodge Federation installation

In late September The Lodge Federation 196 celebrated the annual solemnity of their installation. The evening was highlighted by the pleasure of the company of the Grand Master who reminded the brethren of the storied history of the lodge.

In the late 1880s, a number of Freemasons, including the Past District Grand Master Depute of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, petitioned the newly constituted United Grand Lodge of New South Wales for the establishment of a lodge to meet at the Campbelltown Town Hall.

With the Federation of the Australian states being the widespread topic of the day, this word was chosen as the name of the proposed lodge. The petition was granted, and the warrant, under the hand of the Grand Master, Lord Carrington, was issued bearing the date 18 August 1890. Consecration of The Lodge Federation 196 took place in the dimly lit council chamber at the Town Hall (now the Town Hall Theatre).

In 1917 land was purchased in Browne St, Campbelltown, and the Grand Master, MW Bro William Thompson set the Foundation Stone for the building. seventy years later, the building was sold, and land in Ambarvale was purchased. Work on the City of Campbelltown Masonic Centre began in July 1988 with a commemorative stone and time capsule being laid and a plaque unveiled in October 1988. The City of Campbelltown Masonic Centre was an official Australian Bicentennial Project. The foundation stone ceremony, followed by the dedication of the lodge room, took place in October 1989 in the presence of MW Bro Ronald Johnson AO. This meeting included a fraternal delegation from Victoria’s Lodge Federation 453.

As other lodges in the area handed in their warrants, the ranks of The Lodge Federation grew, creating a lodge of experienced masons, many of whom are still active in the Lodge today.

The Central Coast Lodge 2001

Queanbeyan Install

W Bro Nathan Cole, OAM GH, was proudly installed into the chair of King Solomon on 22 November 2025 by his father, VW Bro David Cole, PDGDC, in a memorable ceremony overseen by MW Bro Derek Robson, AM CMH, with over 30 distinguished Grand Officers present.

Nathan’s masonic journey began with his initiation in 2019 at the historic Hawkesbury Heritage Lodge No 150, followed by his Passing at Lodge Hornsby No 262 and Raising at Lodge Fitzroy No 241 in 2020. After his transfer to Melbourne in late 2020, where he became a valued member of Freemasonry Victoria, Nathan continued

Carrington history

In July 1889 Lord Carrington, the Governor of NSW and the first Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of NSW, laid the foundation stone as well as the keystone of the Masonic Centre (Carrington House) in Keppel Street, Bathurst. The building was sold in 1983 and is now a commercial function centre operating under the name KEYSTONE 1889.

In 1888, 176 lodges of England, Scotland and NSW Constitutions came together and formed the United Grand Lodge and were assigned new lodge numbers. The consolidation of Lodge Phoenix No 79 and Lodge Caledonian No 144 on 20 September 1900 gave rise to Lodge Bathurst United whose

his dedication with another transfer in late 2023 to Canberra, where he eagerly joined Lodge Queanbeyan St. Andrew. Queanbeyan St. Andrew has maintained masonic tradition in Queanbeyan since 1877. Originally known as Lodge St. Andrew, it merged with Lodge Queanbeyan to form today’s vibrant Lodge. The Lodge looks forward to celebrating the remarkable 150th anniversary of the Queanbeyan Masonic Centre in 2027, marking a proud chapter in its long-standing legacy. The future looks bright for Queanbeyan St. Andrew with a steady line of young men starting their masonic journeys here.

motto is ‘United We Stand To Perform As One’ which is aligned with Grand Lodge’s motto, ’Juncta Juvant’.

The brethren of Lodge Bathurst United 79 went back to Carrington House to celebrate their 125th anniversary in 2025.

In November 2025, W Bro Samuel Beadsworth celebrated one of the rarer milestones a mason can achieve – 75 years’ service!

Bro Alex Mountain, W Bro David Walker, Bro Simon Pierce and our new brother, Bro Adam Graham, joined together to present the Certificate on behalf of the Grand Master, MW Bro Khris Albano.

Bro Mountain gave a heartfelt speech, saying: ‘This Certificate we present tonight is far more than paper and ink. It is a symbol of a lifetime of fidelity, of friendships formed and cherished, of quiet acts of kindness and counsel freely given. It reflects not just longevity, but loyalty, integrity, and love of the Craft.’

The event was held at his retirement village, and brought together his brother masons, friends and family, down to his great grandchildren!

Sam was initiated in May 1950 in Lodge Blaxland Temperance No 346 and completed his three degrees that same year. Over his long masonic career, he has served in many posts, including several terms as Master.

When he and his wife Hazel moved to the Central Coast, he affiliated with Lodge Morning Star No 410 (now closed) and then Central Coast Lodge No 2001 and has been a regular Senior Member until recently when his health forced him to slow down, but his interest in Freemasonry has not diminished!

Thank you, W Bro Samuel, for your contribution to Freemasonry.

Bathurst United 79

Photo courtesy of KEYSTONE 1889

Lodge Queanbeyan St Andrew 56

The Central Coast Lodge 2001

The brethren of Lodge Queanbeyan St Andrew 56 with MW Bro Derek Robson

Samuel Beadsworth receives his certificate

Eastern Suburbs Centre rededication

In early November the Eastern Suburbs Masonic Centre celebrated the 25th anniversary of Lodge Kingsford Smith 1028 and brethren remembered the life of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith and toasted his legacy.

Sir Charles Kingsford Smith (1897–1935), known affectionately as ‘Smithy’, is remembered as one of the world’s greatest aviators. Born in Brisbane, he was an adventurous and mechanically gifted child who studied mechanics and electrical engineering at Sydney Technical College.

At 18, he enlisted in the army, serving at Gallipoli before joining Britain’s Royal Flying Corps, where he discovered his lifelong passion for flying. Despite being wounded and losing three toes in combat, he earned the Military Cross and became a celebrated war hero.

After the war, Smithy worked as a stunt pilot in Hollywood before returning to Australia to fly mail routes. Driven by ambition, he set his sights on crossing the Pacific. In 1928, piloting the Southern Cross with Charles Ulm, Harry Lyon, and James Warner, he completed the first successful flight across the Pacific Ocean, greeted by hundreds of thousands on arrival in Sydney.

He went on to set multiple aviation records, including winning the 1930 England–Australia Air Race solo. By 1933, he was regarded as the world’s leading aviator, holding more long-distance flight records than anyone alive. However, fame brought pressure and criticism. In 1935, aged 38, he disappeared with co-pilot Tommy Pethybridge during another record attempt near Burma — their aircraft was never found.

Kingsford Smith’s pioneering spirit and determination made him a true Australian

hero – a symbol of courage, innovation, and perseverance. He was also a Freemason, initiated into Lodge Gascoyne No 62 (WA Constitution) in 1925 and remained a member until his death.

Lodge Kingsford Smith

The Lodge Kingsford Smith No 1028 was established to honour his legacy. It formed from the amalgamation of Lodge Lillyville–Herewood No 532 and Lodge Long Bay, spearheaded by RW Bro Barry Unicomb. The Lodge was consecrated in 2000 at the Kensington Masonic Centre, with W Bro Robert Munn as its Foundation Worshipful Master. In 2001, following the closure of Lodge Mackay City of Sydney No 761, members including RW Bro Graham Berry (deceased), W Bro Don Eyb OAM (current Junior Warden), and RW Bro George Shenouda affiliated with Lodge Kingsford Smith No 1028, further enriching its heritage.

Assisting Can Assist

The Mobile Masons recently travelled to Uralla on NSW’s Northern Tablelands, spending ten days at the Country Road Caravan Park and exploring the region.

As part of their annual tradition of supporting local communities, they selected Can Assist Uralla as this year’s charity, donating $1,000. Thanks to a matching contribution from Masonicare, the total donation reached $2,000.

The presentation was made to Can Assist Uralla during an afternoon tea held by the Mobile Masons and local lodge members, with Mayor Robert Bell and Can

Assist representatives in attendance. The afternoon served to thank the group for their generosity and highlight the vital work Can Assist does across NSW.

Can Assist Uralla was formed in 2000 as a branch of the larger Can Assist organization with the mission to provide financial support to cancer patients and their families in the Uralla Shire area. Living so far from major towns and cities means that treatment is much more expensive due to travel and accommodation, so Can Assist branches aim to help their local communities with these costs.

Mobile Masons of NSW & ACT

The Lodge Kingsford Smith No 1028

Charles Kingsford Smith circa 1925

Lodge French’s Forest United 249

Northbridge Masonic Centre receives centenary rededication

The centenary rededication of the Northbridge Masonic Centre stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy built by the brethren of a century past.

What began on 23 May 1925, when MW Bro John Goulston laid the foundation stone before more than two hundred masons, was not merely the construction of a building – it was the establishment of a spiritual home dedicated to light, brotherhood, and the timeless work of the Craft. The presentation of an inscribed trowel and gold pencil to VW Bro F E Stowe reflected the deep appreciation of the labour and devotion that shaped the temple’s beginnings.

By 9 November 1925, when 328 brethren witnessed the solemn dedication of the new hall, the Lodge had already become a beacon of unity and masonic purpose. The ceremony’s dignity affirmed the sacred role of a masonic Temple: a

place where good men gather, where virtues are formed, and where traditions are passed from generation to generation.

Today, as Lodge French’s Forest United 249 commemorates its centenary, the re-dedication not only honours a storied

past but also reaffirms the commitment of present-day brethren to preserve the light that has shone within those walls for one hundred years. It is a celebration of heritage, continuity, and the unbroken chain of brotherhood linking the past, present, and future.

Tough Mudders for scholars

On 2 November, 52 Freemasons together with the Senior Councillor and Junior Councillor of Phoenix Blacktown NSW Chapter DeMolay pushed themselves to the limit at the Hunter Valley Tough Mudder 2025! But this wasn’t just about overcoming obstacles; it showcased our mission to support deserving scholars in the Philippines.

In the past, our scholars have graduated with honours, and we are proud of their achievements. We aim to maintain the momentum by raising funds to support the next generation of scholars who deserve the same chance at success.

We need your help to make this possible! Every donation goes directly to providing life-changing educational opportunities for our scholars.

Celebrating the rededication of the Northbridge Masonic Centre

The Goldfields Lodge No 40 and Lodge Temora No 168

A legacy continued: a family’s masonic journey in Parkes

There are usually two things that draw people to Parkes in the Central West of NSW. First is The Dish, the giant radio telescope that played a vital role in the 1969 Moon landings. The second is the iconic Parkes Elvis Festival, where pompadours and pomade rule each year. Yet there is far more to discover here, from a world-class sculpture trail to the quieter stories of community and tradition. One such story unfolded recently inside The Goldfields Lodge room, where members gathered for a milestone that blended family, fraternity, and the enduring spirit of Freemasonry.

Members of The Goldfields Lodge and Lodge Temora came together to celebrate the Passing of Bro Kris Barrass to the Second, or Fellowcraft, Degree. For Bro Barrass, a proud fourth-generation Freemason from Lodge Temora, the evening carried special meaning. Among those present were his grand-uncles, VW Bro Eric Barrass of The Goldfields Lodge and W Bro Graham Barrass of Lodge Temora No 168, together with his second

cousin, W Bro Scott Barrass of The Goldfields Lodge. All Past Masters, they stood proudly in support of his advancement, their presence adding a deeply personal dimension to what was already a significant step in his masonic journey.

The Passing to the Fellowcraft Degree is one of the great milestones of the Craft. It symbolises growth in knowledge and responsibility, a stage where a mason begins to more deeply explore the lessons of learning and skill. For Bro Barrass, to experience this degree surrounded by family who had walked the same path before him was a poignant reminder of how Freemasonry’s legacy continues through generations.

The evening was conducted under the calm and confident leadership of VW Bro Russell Cochrane, Worshipful Master of The Goldfields Lodge. In a fine example of masonic collaboration, the work of the night was shared between officers of both lodges. Each brother took up his role with pride, reinforcing the bonds of

W Bro Scott Barrass (second cousin – The Goldfields Lodge), VW Bro Eric Barrass (great uncle – The Goldfields Lodge), Bro Kris Barrass (newly passed brother), and W Bro Graham Barrass (great uncle – Lodge Temora)

brotherhood that unite lodges, no matter the distance between them.

Although Temora and Parkes are separated by almost 200 kilometres, the connection between the two is strong. While family ties link them, it is the shared values of fraternity, loyalty, and respect that truly bring them together. The lodge room was filled to capacity with visiting brethren and locals alike, creating an atmosphere of warmth and unity that reflected the very best of Freemasonry.

Moments like this show that Freemasonry is not defined solely by its traditions or formality. It is about people — standing with one another in life’s milestones, celebrating each other’s achievements, and honouring the legacy of those who came before us.

For Bro Barrass, the evening was not only a step forward in the Craft, but also a cherished memory shared with family and brethren alike. For the lodges involved, it was a night that embodied unity, collaboration, and the living traditions of Freemasonry. As the evening closed with warm handshakes and words of congratulation, all present left with a renewed pride in the strength of their bonds.

It was an evening of unity. A celebration of brotherhood. And a reminder that while distance may separate us, the light of fraternity keeps us close.

Group photo of The Goldfields Lodge No 40, Lodge Temora No.168, and visiting brethren

L-R:

Welcome to our new members

ABAID, Hamza Australian Lodge of Harmony 5

ABLAHAD, Saan Lodge Toxteth 1052

AGBOVOR, Charlemagne Lodge Illawarra 59

AL-MALIKI, Munaf Lodge Toxteth 1052

ALVOS, Jacob Lodge United St Andrew Singleton 34

ARORA, Ravi Lodge Weston-Kurri Kurri 253

AUGUSTE, Kevin The Royal Empire Lodge 613

BABY, Arun Lodge Prince Leopold 71

BANGOY, Vincent Paul Lodge Benjamin Pryor 709

BLENCKE, Christian The Lodge of Tranquillity 42

BRACE, Benjamin Lodge Bland 337

BROOM, David The Central Coast Lodge 2001

BROWN, Braden Lodge Artarmon United 285

CATALAN, Dennis The Central Coast Lodge 2001

CATIPON, Elson Sherwin Lodge Benjamin Pryor 709

CHRISTMAS-ESTEPHEN, Jayden Lodge St Andrew at Bexley 7

CRISOSTOMO, Eric jules Lodge Education 814

DACRON, Jacob Lodge Dunblane Australis 966

DANAO, Lachlan Australian Lodge of Fidelity 101

DERBAS, Michael Lodge Sir Joseph Banks 300

DI MURO, David Lodge St David and St John 180

DOWNS, Christopher Lodge Cooma Monaro 164

DUBROVIN, Alexey Lodge Balgowlah 392

EL ETRI, Atef The Cedars Lodge 1041

ESTRIBO, Ezer Lodge Macquarie 53

GAPUZ, Rex Parramatta City Daylight Lodge 1014

GHISALBERTI, Daniel The Leichhardt Lodge 133

GRAHAM, Adam The Central Coast Lodge 2001

GRENGIA, Marlon Lodge WestonKurri Kurri 253

HEMMINGS, Conrad The Royal Empire Lodge 613

ISSA, Moussa Lodge Nepean 29

KOTSEV, Yordan Lodge Southern Cross 91

KYLE, Spencer Lodge Dunblane Australis 966

LANDALE, Kevin Lodge Commonwealth of Australia 633

LANG, Jay-Aaron The Central Coast Lodge 2001

LUNNEY, Ryan Lodge Kensington 270

MARKS, Christopher Lodge Macquarie 53

MATEZIC, Mahmut Balmain Lodge 23

McALLISTER, Nicholas Lodge Kirrawee 903

McGRADY, Ricky Lodge Star of Wauchope 310

McLEAN, Darren Lodge Sydney St. George 269

NASR, Kaedon Lodge Sylvania 853

NELSON, Glenn Lodge of Truth 26

NEVALASCA, Gedy Lodge Woronora 414

PARDO, Maxwell Lodge Macquarie 53

PIKE, Anthony Lodge Leeton-Yanco 313

PUGH, Cavan Lodge Oorana 1053

Familiar ring

I met a man the other day, A fellow-traveller on life’s way, Our paths had never crossed before, And maybe we shall meet no more, Sure not this side heaven’s gates, Where the great Architect awaits –He bore no mark of wealth or fame.

Perhaps he’d won no great acclaim. Upon his hand he wore a ring –‘Twas not a costly jewelled thing –But there an emblem plainly shown Told me, that I was not alone, For as we stood together there I knew that he was on the square.

Bro Brigadier George Crewe

QUISAOT, Arneil Lodge Courallie 235

RAMBOJUN, Jayesh Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes 247

SAADY, Nicholas The Cedars Lodge 1041

SALENTES, Vernon Lodge Nepean 29

SALVADOR, Ronald Lodge Blacktown Kildare 393

THOMPSON, Grant Lodge Cessnock 252

TRICKEY, Dean Lodge Cooma Monaro 164

TROZADO, Charlemagne Lodge Woronora 414

TULLOCH, Joseph Lodge Scone 183

VALMADRE, Thomas Lodge Eltham 272

VARCOE, Shane Leinster Marine Lodge of Australia 2

WATFA, Andrew Lodge Oatley 381

WEARN, Geoffrey Lodge Farrer 93

WEST, Russell Lodge Myall 1058

WOODS-ATKINSON, Shaun Lodge Queanbeyan St Andrew 56

YADAV, Dev Lodge Corrective Services 1039

YEO, Lucas Lodge Rudyard Kipling 143

Photo courtesy of Arielinson

Fialka fun

This issue’s challenge is based on the education provided in the last edition (The history and legacy of the Fialka, Oct–Dec 2025 issue).

Imagine you have been provided the printout from a Fialka machine:

If you wish to place an advert and support your magazine, phone 1800 806 930, email freemason@apmgraphics.com.au, or visit advertise.freemasonnsw.com

(The numbers have been transposed to a grid below to assist you) For ease of use, and your sanity, imagine all keys have already been used to produce the printout. It is now your now your job, to use decode the numbers using the geographical and historical context noted above. But keep in mind that, you may need to shift your perspective and see things from a different angle to ultimately be successful.

“Was Harry Houdini a mason? Yes. Real name Carl Weiss. St. Cecile Lodge New York.” The clue ‘phone a friend’ references the keypad on a phone. By pressing the key the listed number of times, the indicated letter was selected. Yes, we

to text like this!

Congratulations to our masons

YEARS SERVICE

BAKER AM, Geoffrey Robert Lodge Cowra 33

DUNCAN, Norman Hector Lodge Mayfield Daylight 493

JAMES, Leonard Richard Forster Great Lakes United 994

JARRATT, Ian Brian Charles Balmain Lodge 23

McDONALD, Ronald Neil Lodge Condobolin 185

The Broken Column

Brethren who have passed to the Grand Lodge Above April 2025 – June 2025

With solemn hearts we record the passing of the following distinguished members of our masonic fraternity who have entered the Grand Lodge Above. We honour their years of dedicated service to the Craft and the invaluable contributions they made during their masonic journeys.

May they rest in peace, and may their memory inspire future generations of Freemasons to continue their good work.

Title Surname Given Names Rank Deceased

STRYKOWSKI, Sam Lodge Frenchs Forest United 249

WARD, James Anthony Bridgeman Lodge Myall 1058

50

YEARS SERVICE

ALLEN, Robert William Lodge Artarmon United 285

ANGEL, Barry Maxwell Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes 247

CRAMP, Michael Wayne Lodge of Truth 26

EVANS, Graham Lewis Lodge West Epping 390

HANNAH, William Ernest Lodge Thespian 256

KEARNEY, Robert James Lodge Farrer 93

McFARLANE, John Munro Lodge of Peace 120

PARKIN, Ian Bruce Lodge West Epping 390

PEBERDY, Glenn Richard Lodge Burnside 729

SCHELLENBERG, Walter Forster Great Lakes United 994

SEN, Amitava Lodge West Epping 390

WEST, William James Lodge Cowra 33

40

AUBIN, Raoul Stirling Marie Lodge West Epping 390

DOUEK, Isaac Edgar The Lodge of Tranquillity 42

RFBI has provided over $2.7 million in community support and subsidised accommodation over the last financial year, including provision of two more defibrillators (bringing the total number donated by RFBI to 38 over the last 10 years) and ongoing assistance to six individuals through the Annuities Scheme, helping them afford essential goods and services.

In December 2024, RFBI opened Watson Place in Bellingen - an affordable housing complex for women over 55 at risk of homelessness - and with support from the community, partners and Masonic Lodges, fully furnished all 23 apartments.