Membership drive by Zealandia Lodge No.2072

Being the first time at setting up a stall at the market in Kerikeri, we were not entirely sure what to expect. We arrived at 6.30am and set up took about 3/4 of an hour; we really wanted to show some bling and aprons as some sort of attraction and to say who we are. We had a great site, positioned at the car park entrance and beside a very popular stall selling puppies.

Once we have done this a couple of times and have things ready to just hang up and go, things will be easier. An information board with our District, or possibly lodge, details would be useful, as would some pull-up banners. These will help in filling up the stall and enticing people to approach us. District Office kindly printed up some interesting and colourful recruitment pamphlets for us.

We had Brian Bailey, his wife Cathy, Steve Hammerton and Chris Smyth, our newest member, later in the morning manning the stand. This worked well with it being a slow winters day; if we were busy however, then one or two more would have been needed.

We found it important to stand behind or to the side of whatever table, if there is one being used, so that a space is opened up for people to enter into: so too many Masons on duty could be counterproductive. Our space on the day was always open and Brian and Cathy were very good at interacting with the public in that space although Steve had to interact a couple of times off to one side at the same time, which worked well.

Most people were enquiring about what we stand for, so more information and photos on our charitable activities would have been useful. A few ladies were asking about women in Freemasonry and fortunately some online resources were put to good use.

The market was about 25% of its usual numbers due to it being a winter’s day, so not the best time of year but a start none the less and one we could learn from. We will definitely try again, although probably when the weather is warmer in October/November; also the annual A&P Shows in November and February; and probably a summer market or two(?) then Northland Field Days.

This would make for a very busy time, are we up to the demands? One point I have realised is that we did not add our names or phone numbers to any literature so there is a point to remember as maybe someone will know where a more local lodge is and end up joining them, at least we will have moved them to join, the day tends to finish up around the middle of the day so we made a joint decision regarding the right time to pack up.

Do I think this was a worthwhile activity? Yes - without a doubt, but our timing could have been far better, not in the winter but through the late spring, summer, autumn when the market is far larger and there will be a larger public participation. We had no adverse reaction to being there for which we were quite pleased about so all is, to our knowledge, in our favour which gives me positive vibes to try again.

Brian Bailey (WM) and Steve Hammerton (PM) of Zealandia Lodge

Periodical of the District Grand Lodge of North Island, New Zealand Page 10