60 Up, Bring on 70

60 Up - Bring on 70!

That was the comment from W.Bro Alan Scott at the Duke of Albany regular Lodge meeting in Helensville on Wednesday 28th September 2022, when he was presented with his ‘60 years in Freemasonry’ Certificate and pin by W.Bro Barry Holland, the previous DVO of ‘The Duke’.

Our DGM, W.Bro Warren Weir was struck down with Covid the day before the meeting and was extremely disappointed in not being able to make the presentation in person, something he has pledged to do at every possible opportunity. In addition, W.Bro Andrew Cochrane, the current DVO was also feeling a little unwell and withdrew, in order to ensure any infection he may have had would not be transmitted to the mature lodge members present - their health being paramount! W.Bro Holland was happy and very honoured to be asked to step in and carry out such an important yet very pleasant duty on behalf of the DGM.

W.Bro Alan then addressed the brethren in open lodge and regaled stories of his Masonic career in a most amusing and informative way. It was apparent that W.Bro Alan is a font of knowledge on the people of Helensville, having spent a considerable part of his life in the town.

After the presentation a group of Lodge members (including W.Bro Alan) read sections of the 1st degree Tracing Board. W.Bro Alan was the final participant and when his turn came, he proceeded to recite his part from memory, having been a regular presenter of that Tracing Board as a regular attendee at lodge meetings. His ritual has lost none of its style and his delivery was exceptional!

At refectory, W.Bro Scott was given the honour of being the first member of the Lodge to propose the loyal toast to "The King and the Craft" following the lamented death of our former Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II, earlier in the month. He was further toasted and honoured during refectory and as is always the case at the ‘Duke’, a good time was had by all and the enormity of the occasion well celebrated!

W.Bro Alan Scott is now determined to reach 70 years in the Craft and judging by his fitness and demeanour, will achieve it with ease!

W.Bro Alan Scott (centre) receiving his 60 year certificate from W.Bro Barry Holland (right) accompanied by the Lodge IPM, W.Bro Norm Rogers W.Bro Alan Scott (centre) with his 'old' lodge friends (From L to R) W.Bro Grev Walker, W.Bro Chas Holst, W.Bro Graeme Bodle and W.Bro David Leach ADGM

Officers and Members of The Duke of Albany Lodge celebrating this momentous occasion with W.Bro Alan Scott!

Barry Holland PDGDC

Periodical of the District Grand Lodge of North Island, New Zealand Page 8