AUTUMN 2016 ISSUE 146
Freemasonry Victoria
2016 Grand Installation Special Let’s get rid of the red tape Our Order of Australia Medal Recipients Recognised Vision Australia Brings Rare Book to Life Our Principles Make a Difference
In this issue Australia Brings 1 Vision Rare Book to Life of MWBro. 3 InDr.memory John William Connell Order of Australia Medal 5 Our Recipients Recognised Powell Celebrates 10 Baden in Blazing Colour
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WBro. David Bell – Legend
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Coming to Life with Paint with WBro. George Zindilis
15
Only in Vegas!
17
Challenge Yourself to an Adventure of a Lifetime
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Research into PTSD – Volunteers Needed!
Freemasonry Victoria Magazine Issue 146 The official magazine of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria (Freemasons Victoria) Website: freemasonsvic.net.au FaceBook: facebook.com/freemasonsvic Twitter: @freemasonsvic YouTube: youtube.com/user/freemasonsvic LinkedIn: Freemasons Victoria Google+: Freemasons Victoria Telephone: (03) 9411 0111 Toll Free: 1800 068 416 Editor Gabrielle Forman (03) 9411 0101 Contact Us Email: editor@freemasonsvic.net.au Fax: (03) 9416 1468 Mail: The Editor, Freemasonry Victoria Magazine W.A. Tope Building, Coppin Centre 45 Moubray Street Melbourne Vic 3004 Editorial submissions: Article or photo submissions for each issue must be received by the end of the month, following the release of the previous issue. Email submissions are preferred and images must be 300dpi or higher. Submissions should be addressed to: The Editor: Freemasonry Victoria Magazine PO Box 553, East Melbourne VIC 8002 Telephone: (03) 9411 0101 Email: editor@freemasonsvic.net.au Disclaimer: Freemasonry Victoria is distributed by mail direct to the homes of all members and is published by Square One Publications Ltd, (ACN 005 631 470). W.A. Tope Building, Coppin Centre 45 Moubray Street, Melbourne Vic 3004 Publisher: Freemasonry Victoria is distributed by mail direct to the homes of all members each quarter and is published online at issuu.com/freemasonsvic by Freemasons Victoria.
Letter from the Editor ...
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he last three months have been huge, with the Grand Installation of our new Grand Master, MWBro. Don Reynolds, and the Installation of RWBro. Keith Murray as Deputy Grand Master. The Grand Installation saw Freemasons Victoria host guests from interstate and overseas across a four day schedule of events which culminated with the Royal Freemasons Homes Open Day at the Coppin Centre. We also saw the re-installation of Peter Crick as First Grand Principal for the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Victoria, as well as various other Lodge events. Included in this Magazine is the Installation of WBro. Domenic Donato at Garibaldi Lodge No. 890 and Baden Powell No. 488’s Founder’s Night Celebration. Some great discoveries have been made in the Library and Museum, and milestone’s reached with some of the most dedicated members receiving jewels. All this and more in this edition of Freemasonry Victoria Magazine.
Gabrielle Forman Editor
POP QUIZ 1. What is the name of Vision Australia’s Jamie Kelly’s seeing-eye dog? 2. Which Order of Australia medal recipient invented the ‘sit-ski’? 3. In which year was WBro. David Bell initiated into Freemasonry? 4. Where was WBro. George Zindilis born?
Freemasons Victoria invites your comments and feedback on our magazine - we aim to make this publication as interesting and appealing to our audience as possible. If you have any constructive feedback or comments on how we can improve your reading experience please get in touch. Please keep your comments respectful and in line with the values of our organisation.
5. Which other organisation’s logo did Grand Master MWBro. Don Reynolds make reference to in his Grand Installation speech?
Please contact us by email editor@freemasonsvic. net.au or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ freemasonsvic
8. Which Epworth Challenge will take place from 17-26 March, 2017?
6. Where does Jane Hill work? 7. Bro. John Snowden is a member of which Lodge?
Answers: Gambler; WBro. George McPherson; 1939; Cyprus; Scouts; Ovarian Cancer Australia; Yarrawonga Lodge of St. David No. 103; Explore Sri Lanka.
HISTORICAL
Vision Australia
Brings Rare Book to Life
A
200 page, leather-bound book, written and printed entirely in braille was recently discovered during the relocation from the Dallas Brooks Centre. With no real indication of the context of the book, or by whom it was written, Library & Museum Collections Manager Samantha Fabry engaged a braille specialist from Vision Australia to translate the rare publication. Librarian Jamie Kelly, of the Vision Australia Library in Kooyong, first established that it was dated 10 December, 1930. Page by page, Jamie softly touched each of the pages, able to relay the contents of the book. “Working in the first Degrees”, he said. “To open the Lodge…Entry and presentation of candidates…Obligation…” he continued. With the reading of the contents page, we were able to ascertain that this book was in fact the Rituals and Ceremony Workings of the 3 Degrees in Freemasonry.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 1
HISTORICAL Top left: Vision Australia’s Braille Librarian Jamie Kelly with loyal seeing-eye dog ‘Gambler’, translating the rare publication. Left: Freemasons Victoria’s Collection Manager Samantha Fabry eager to hear the mysteries of the braille book.
INTRODUCTION Rituals and Ceremony of Workings of the 3 Degrees in Freemasonry of Combermere Lodge under construction as UGLE. Jamie read the Preface, saying that the book seemed to be written by and for the same person.
PREFACE This volume of braille was written by B.E. Glew for his instruction and guidance on the Degree Working and Ceremonials as laid down in the ritual for Freemasons compiled with the assistance of BTC Hall of ANZAC Hostel, Brighton and to whom my very best thanks are due for his great help given so freely. Opened on 5 July 1919, ANZAC Hostel (which today operates as a care facility for the elderly)
was used by the Repatriation Department for the care of permanently disabled veterans from WWI. Although this book was published 11 years after WWI, it was possibly used by blind war veterans who lived at ANZAC Hostel including those veterans who fought during WWII. Coincidently, if we look back at Freemasonry at this time, Past Grand Master MWBro. Frank. E. Pettifer (1945-47) was Honorary Treasurer and Trustee for the Victorian Association of Braille Writers from 1934 until his death in 1946. MWBro. Pettifer was well known for supporting the translation of books into braille and therefore could have been responsible for encouraging this translation. The rare book is now in the possession of the Freemasons Victoria Library & Museum in a display case, for all to see.
Join us in
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WELLINGTON NOVEMBER 2016
The Grand Master of New Zealand Freemasons, Most Worshipful Brother John Litton cordially invites you to join him in Wellington later this year to attend the Installation of his successor Right Worshipful Brother Mark Winger, Deputy Grand Master. “Mark and I have enjoyed Grand Installations around Australia. We now join in extending a very warm welcome to the Freemasons of Victoria to our triennial celebration Grand Installation meeting. We can assure you and your ladies of a convivial and entertaining stay in our exciting capital city amongst good friends.” Fraternally John Litton
MW Bro John Litton
RW Bro Mark Winger
All details of the programme including registration form, accommodation Presented byare on our website: www.freemasonsnz.org packages and costs
VIC
Wellington – Friday 18th to Sunday 20th November 2016
IN MEMORY
A FREEMASON AND ENGINEER WITH EXTRAORDINARY VISION, SKILL AND INGENUITY
MWBro.Dr. John WilliamConnell, AM, FTSE Hon FIE Aust CPEng (Ret), PGM 22nd October 1913 – 16th May 2016
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“…a true visionary, who has left an indelible mark on Freemasonry and the community.”
reemasonry is witness to a hugely diverse membership with men from all social, economic and cultural backgrounds. This diversity is its strength.
The achievements of each member also vary greatly, with many making significant contributions to their respective communities. We value every Freemason, regardless of his contribution, but now and again we are blessed to have known one whose contribution has been so significant that we cannot help but pause, reflect on and be inspired by greatness. One such Freemason is John Connell, a true visionary, who has left an indelible mark on Freemasonry and the community. John Connell was born in Brunswick on 22nd October 1913. As a child he was fascinated by construction. He loved to hang around building sites in the local area and watch how houses and offices were put together. “I loved making things and discovering how things worked. I was always good with my hands” he would later recall in an interview for the television series, Freemasons – The Inside Story. By the early 1920s, the young boy from Brunswick would look forward to Anzac Day each year where he was allowed to take the cable tram to the city to watch the parade. He later told how it was not so much the parade he came to see – it was to watch General Sir John Monash taking the salute. He would arrive early and sit on the ground in his favourite position opposite Parliament House where he had the best view of the salute. Not surprisingly, these glimpses of his early life, where a foretaste of the life that was to be John Connell. John began his professional career as a junior draftsman, with long-time friend and mentor, Cyril Hudsepth, who later would propose him into Freemasonry in 1946. Cyril encouraged John to pursue engineering, which he studied at the Working Men’s College (now RMIT). These studies, however, were interrupted by the Second World War. He enlisted in the Australian Army as a frontline Infantry Company Commander in the 57th
60th Battalion (Merri Regiment at Preston & the Heidelberg Regiment, Westgarth) 15 Brigade, 3rd Division and was deployed to the nasty and difficult campaigns throughout the New Guinea offensives during the latter stages of the war. Here John’s leadership skills became apparent and the young infantry officer was quickly promoted to the rank of Major, a significant role for a young militia member. This experience provided him a great foundation for his later professional and humanitarian pursuits and earned him the respect of his comrades, who would later be regular attendees at the annual ANZAC Day parades, where John was warmly greeted by them. They had come to honour him as he once came to honour Monash. After discharge from the Army, John resumed his engineering studies specialising in structural engineering. When Hudspeth died prematurely in the late 1950s, John bought the business where he once worked as a draftsman. For John, this was a significant financial undertaking, but one which was to prove a turning point in his professional career. The business grew progressively as he set his sights on international engineering tasks. The formation of Connell Wagner in 1989 saw the creation of a massive engineering complex capable of the most diverse projects. Further amalgamations over the years culminated in the formation of Aurecon in 2009, a huge conglomerate with offices in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Middle East and England. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 3
IN MEMORY Some of his notable Melbourne construction projects include, the Victorian Arts Centre, Eureka Tower, Etihad Stadium, The Fruit, Vegetable & Flower Market at Fisherman’s Bend , rebuilding the MCG, the Melbourne underground rail loop along with numerous hospital upgrades and other multi storey buildings in the CBD. Not only was John Connell professionally involved in these projects but in many of them he also designed new technologies to overcome the hurdles confronted during construction. John Connell was an engineer with extraordinary vision, skill and ingenuity. Such was his renown that many universities and schools have perpetuated him with awards bearing his name or have honoured him with academic accolades. One of the most prestigious structural engineering awards in Australia is the Engineers Australia John Connell Award. One of John’s last professional functions this year was to present the medal to a younger distinguished engineer, Peter Bowtell – a handing over of the baton to another generation. Add to this his board memberships of the: • Gas & Fuel Corporation; • Royal Zoological Gardens; • Gas & Fuel Company; • Austin Hospital; • Ivanhoe Grammar School; and • Overseas Project Commission. John was awarded a Doctor of Engineering by RMIT in 1990, he had been awarded the Kernot Medal for “Distinguished Engineering Service to Australia” by University of Melbourne in 1980 and made a “Member of the Order of Australia” in 1987. The principal auditorium of Engineers Australia Victorian Division is the John Connell Auditorium. As a Scout Leader he gained the Wood Badge (the highest level of Leader training), he served as an Elder of the Presbyterian Church and was a Life Governor of Ivanhoe Grammar School. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society for Health and a member of the Royal Society of Victoria (the premier scientific body in Victoria). In his spare time he embraced beef farming and 4
Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
became renowned in the Poll Hereford Society of Australia for his innovation towards artificial insemination. John Connell was initiated into Freemasonry in Francis Ormond Lodge in 1946. He served as Master in Lodge of Adoration in 1959/60 and later joined both the Lodge of Commerce and United Service Lodge. Conferred with Grand Rank in 1964, he served as Freemasons Victoria’s Grand Superintendent of Works from 1972-78, Senior Grand Warden in 1982, Deputy Grand Master in 1984-86 and Grand Master in 1986-89. He led the project to develop the Victoria Parade site into the Freemasons Hospital Day Procedure Centre and hosted that magnificent function at the National Tennis Centre when Freemasonry Victoria celebrated its centenary in 1989. The function remains one of the biggest Masonic functions ever held. John Connell is a man whom history will judge to be a famous Australian and Freemason. In October 2013, he reached his centenary, the first Australasian Past Grand Master to have achieved this milestone. He celebrated his 100th birthday at the Ivanhoe Grammar School where he had served on the School Council for almost twenty years, fourteen of those as Vice President, before retiring in 1986. John maintained a keen interest in the School, being visited regularly by members of the School community who kept him updated. The school’s cadet unit programme, inspired by his own WW2 army service, gives students the opportunity and courage to dream as John did when he transformed his own engineering company Connell Wagner into the international company Aurecon. John passed away peacefully on 16th May 2016, having spent the later part of his life at the Sir William Hall Hostel. Apart from his Masonic and professional achievements, which were manifest, he will (most importantly) be remembered as a loved and loving husband to Merlyn (dec), a loving father to Helen, Barbara and John (dec) and father-in-law to John and Jennifer. John will also be most fondly remembered by his nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. While John Connell has had a great life well lived, he will be sadly missed by all those who had the great fortune to know him. Perhaps we should leave the last words to John Connell, which speak not only to his vision and determination, but also to his humility and generosity: “We are what we are because of the people who are amongst us … I firmly believe that the first person singular has no place in the grammar of progress. All achievements are the result of a team effort with every part of that team performing to his or her utmost”.
OUR O.A.M. RECIPIENTS
Order of Australia Our
Recipients
Freemasons Victoria met with each of its Order of Australia medal recipients – let’s learn a little about why these dedicated members of the Craft and community were awarded this honour
Dr. Sajeev Koshy
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iamond Valley Lodge’s Bro. Dr. Sajeev Koshy was awarded an Order of Australia medal this year for his service to dentistry in Victoria. Sitting on various boards and currently working as Director of Dental Services with Boort District Health in Victoria, Dr. Koshy is well respected in the industry both locally and internationally. Born in 1956 in India, Dr. Koshy has spent his career focussed on improving the community’s access to dental care. His strong sense of social justice has seen him provide compassionate care to survivors of torture, bush-fire affected patients and children experiencing disadvantage. He has also focussed on reducing health inequities by improving the oral health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In the mid-90s he volunteered in Guatemala, and at the request of the Royal High Commission in Fiji, Dr. Koshy was among a number of Rotary dental volunteers who worked in a detention centre in the Lonely Islands TAIA Chau.
After that, Dr. Koshy said he wanted to volunteer every year. He has also volunteered in Hong Kong, Mexico, Kilimanjaro, and Kenya. “That’s what gave me the tools to work as efficiently as I do here in Victoria. If it weren’t for volunteering my family and I would never have migrated. I wanted my two sons to live in a better environment. Moving to Melbourne in 2004, Dr. Koshy has since been awarded the Victoria Public Healthcare Award and the Dentistry Achievement Award. He was the recipient of Victoria’s Multicultural Awards for Excellence and more recently, the Council of the Australian Government (COAG) Ministerial Health Council (comprising of the Federal and State Ministers) appointed Dr. Koshy to the prestigious Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory National Scheme-Dental Board of Australia. “I am committed to reducing regional Victoria’s waiting list. Over the course of three years, my team and I have reduced the dental waiting list in Gippsland from 57 months to less than seven”, he said. Dr. Koshy lives in Plenty Valley with his wife Rajini and son Jeeson (30). He enjoys travelling and going on cruises saying the most memorable were to Alaska, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Top: Dr. Sajeev Koshy OAM with Her Excellency the Hon. Linda Dessau AM, Governor of Victoria.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 5
OUR O.A.M. RECIPIENTS fundraising activities. When first established, the Challenge provided participating Lodges a kick-start from the Board of $1000 for the most innovative or constructive fundraising activity proposed. In later Challenges several participating Lodges received awards and individual awards were of a higher value. It was often the case that unsuccessful Challenge proposals later received funding when presented to the Board for consideration at its regular meetings. The Charity Challenge is still running today through the now Freemasons Foundation, and has made thousands of dollars worth of contributions to the community since its inception in 2005. RWBro. Bob said that his interest in community development and welfare has inspired him to join the many groups he has been involved with over the years. He joined the Board of the Creswick District Hospital in 1975 and continued as a member of that Board and its successors until 2015, serving several terms as President and as Treasurer. He was a foundation Board member of Creswick’s John Curtin Aged Care Facility and served as the Board’s President from 1986-88, and as its Treasurer from 1988-2015. With such service already dedicated to the community, it’s hard to imagine how RWBro. Bob could find the time to serve as Mayor to the Shire of Hepburn from 1997-1998 and Councillor for the Shire from 1997-2003!
Bob Orr
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etired Forest Scientist RWBro. Robert (Bob) Orr, PDGM was awarded an Order of Australia Medal this year for his service to the community of the Shire of Hepburn. A member of Creswick Havilah Lodge No. 26 since 1973, and having been initiated into the Victoria Felix Lodge No. 86 in 1953, RWBro. Bob has received his 60 Year Jewel. He was Master of the Creswick Havilah Lodge four times, in 1982, 1990, and 2005 and again in 2007. He was a Senior Grand Deacon in the 1986 Grand Team and Junior Grand Warden in 1994. RWBro. Bob’s masonic history also includes participating as a member of the then Board of Benevolence from 1995-2009, serving as President from 1998-2000. His time with the Board of Benevolence saw the establishment of the Charity Challenge, an initiative that encourages Lodges to adopt a local charity or charitable cause and support it with
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RWBro. Bob’s other community involvements include President of the Friends of Creswick’s Park Lake Botanical Reserve Association, Immediate past President of Creswick District News, a Board member and Treasurer of Creswick and District Community Bank’s company since its beginning in 2004, a foundation member, Past President and Secretary and now a life member of Creswick Probus Club, and Treasurer of Daylesford Highland Gathering Committee since 2006. He was awarded Australia Day Citizen of the Year for the Shire of Hepburn in 2007. At age 82, he now lives in one of John Curtin Aged Care’s independent living units (naturally!) with his wife Margaret, who is also still very active with the Probus Club of Creswick as an officer and life member, the Creswick Red Cross Unit, and Creswick District Hospital’s Auxiliary, of which she has been a member since 1974, serving as Secretary from 1977 to 1995 and 2007 to 2009, and as President from 2013.
OUR O.A.M. RECIPIENTS
Darryl Wagstaff
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aryborough’s WBro. Darryl Wagstaff, a life member of the Volunteer Fire Brigade Victoria, was this year awarded the Australian Fire Service medal, in the Australian Honours List that was announced on Australia Day. Darryl has been a volunteer with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) Victoria for over 41 years. He has been a Brigade Captain for 27 years and a Group Secretary for nine years and has served the Maryborough community for over 35 years, including active involvement in fighting all major fires in the area during this time. He has been an advocate and supporter of cultural change within the CFA and has supported adaptation to new administrative processes and the registration of the Goldfields Group. He has played a vital role in mentoring volunteers to ensure the best outcomes for them and as a result, his work was integral to the growth of volunteer support for the CFA, particularly his introduction of minimum skills training, and a change in volunteer culture which has resulted in more women volunteers entering the firefighting force.
“The most scary moment I’ve had with the CFA, was attending Black Saturday in February 2009. I was part of a strike team that was sent to King Lake. My most vivid memory was of mass destruction, total devastation and razoring of the town. Limited structures were left in the town, it was levelled, and what struck me was the white powder ash blanketing the houses as well as the carnage of vehicles on the road,” “I was very shocked and humbled to receive this award,” he said. “I believe that there are quite a number of people that I need to thank because I have worked with some fabulous people in my time, which has allowed me to be in this position, to be awarded this award,” he said.
Darryl said that he was inspired to join the CFA by family who were associated with the Brigade as far back as the 1880s. “I joined as a teenager after a long line of family members,” he said. “The most scary moment I’ve had with the CFA, was attending Black Saturday in February 2009. I was part of a strike team that was sent to King Lake, on the Sunday. My most vivid memory was of mass destruction of King Lake, total devastation and razoring of the town. Limited structures were left in the town, it was levelled, and what struck me was the white powder ash blanketing the houses as well as the carnage of vehicles on the road,” Darryl said. Darryl is also a member of the Maryborough City Brass Band and has been President for five years with the Maryborough Arts Society, coordinating music performances and concerts throughout the year. Darryl is also involved with other organisations, assisting the local Rotary and Lions Club. Darryl has two sons, Declan (16) and Lucus (18) and enjoys nothing more than tinkering with his 1964 Ford Fairlane.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 7
OUR O.A.M. RECIPIENTS
David Pratt
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ounding member of LifeLine Ballarat in 1969, VWBro. David Pratt was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his service to the community of Ballarat.
VWBro. David said that one of his greatest achievements was his involvement in the establishment of Uniting Care Breezeway, a 365 day-a-year meals program for the underprivileged (around 70 people). “They have a commercial kitchen in a café atmosphere,” he said. “The facility is staffed by volunteers and staff of Uniting Care who are available to make a full assessment of the needs of the underprivileged – health, clothing and welfare.” VWBro. David said that his mother used to take him to Wesley Parish Mission. It was at Sunday School that he said he learnt ‘good principles’. “I was at a state primary school in the war period, so I appreciated how others were doing it hard." VWBro. David joined APEX at 21 years of age and is now Past President of APEX Wendouree. He is Life Governor of Ballarat Base Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Homes and was made a Paul Harris Fellow for his service to the Rotary Club of Ballarat East in 2000, of which he has been a member since 1982. Since that time he has held a range of positions with Rotary including President from 19891990, Vice-President, Secretary, Bulletin Editor, International Director, Program Director, member of the Community Services Committee, member of the International Services Committee, member of the Youth and Vocational Services Committee, Membership Director, Speaking Program Organiser and Club Sergeant. It’s hard to imagine how VWBro. David could fit anything else into his life, but he was also Chair of the Ballarat Begonia Festival Committee, Treasurer for the Ballarat District Ambulance Service, Society Movement Director for the Greater Ballarat Coop Housing Committee and the Old Colonists Association of Ballarat, an organisation that provides accommodation for the elderly disadvantaged, where he was Past President from 2001-2003 and again in 1984-1986 and then Secretary in 2011.
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VWBro. David is also a member of the Ballarat Gold Museum Association (part of Sovereign Hill) and the Ballarat Cornish Association. VWBro. David lives in Ballarat with his wife Bev, a retired Uniting Church Minister. They have one daughter – Bronwyn (48) who received a scholarship through the Freemasons Victoria Scholarship Program some years ago and since then, has worked with Hassell as an Interior Designer and was involved in the fit-out of the new ANZ Headquarters in the Docklands. Initiated into Freemasonry in 1957, VWBro. David has since received four 50 Year Jewels and has held various roles within the Craft, Ark, Chapter and Royal Arch Chapter. He was Worshipful Master and Director of Ceremonies in 1977-78 with Sturt Lodge No. 427, Past Grand Inspector of Workings for Sturt-Buninyong Lodge No. 23 in 2010 and District Coordinator for Central Highlands No. 106 from 2009-2015.
OUR O.A.M. RECIPIENTS “I don’t take credit for any of this later development but it was through my son and mel with the help of the Australian Disabled Skiers Federation that ski resorts have accepted the use of the sit ski by paraplegics on the lifts and slopes,” he said. The Department of Youth, Sport & Recreation added sit skis to their range of equipment for disabled skiers and placed them at their camps in Victoria and New South Wales. “My greatest joy from the sit ski years was seeing the pleasure it gave disabled people being able to do something they could previously only dream about. Families could ski together.”
George McPherson
Y
ou couldn’t pick a more worthy recipient for the Order of Australia medal for service to disabled winter sports and the community of Myrtleford, than WBro. George McPherson. When WBro. George’s son, a paraplegic, wanted to go snow ski-ing, WBro. George investigated what the rest of the world was doing in this area and found very little that was suitable. WBro. George and his son joined Ski-ing for the Disabled, which later became the Australian Disabled Skiers Federation. “Disabled skiers at that time were amputees, sight impaired, post-polio individuals, but not paraplegic,” WBro. George said. Having some mechanical and practical ability, he designed a piece of equipment to become known as a ‘sit ski’. It comprised a plastic chair seat, a tractor spring and a few bolts mounted on a snow ski. Two cut down skis on short poles provided outriggers for balance, and after some initial testing on the mountain at Hotham WBro. George and his son took this piece of equipment to Falls Creek in 1985 and demonstrated what sit ski-ing was all about. “The demonstration went well. By chance, a reporter from The Age newspaper was on the mountain. He filmed the demonstration and the next day our son, ski-ing the mountain in the sit ski, was front page news.” From this rudimentary design further developments took place over the following years eventually resulting in the sophisticated equipment now used worldwide.
WBro. George received an Australian Sports Award for his work with disabled ski-ing and a Tattersall’s Award for his development of the Sit Ski. WBro. George is also a Life Member of the CFA having had continuous membership with the Myrtleford Fire Brigade for more than 60 years. Together with the Myrtleford Shire, WBro. George formed the Myrtleford unit of the State Emergency Service in 1979. The Myrtleford SES Local Head Quarters is housed in the G.A. McPherson building, so named because of WBro. George’s efforts to procure the building through funding grants and voluntary work. WBro. George received the National Medal for Service to the State Emergency Service. WBro. George was a member of the Parents Committee for Scouts when his children were members, and served a short time as Group Leader. "When it came time for David, our paraplegic son, to go into Venturers (Senior Scouts) WBro. George decided to fill the position of Venturer Leader." “My wife Val offered her services also and together, with others, we were Venturer Leaders at Myrtleford for several years,” he said. If that wasn’t enough, WBro. has been involved with Myrtleford Men’s Shed, and the Myrtleford Agricultural & Pastoral Society. He is currently a member of the Myrtleford Cemetery Trust and mentors young learner drivers as part of the L2P Program. WBro. George is a member of the Myrtleford Lodge No. 222, holding various positions in the Craft including Master of the Lodge in 1968 and 2004, and is currently Treasurer of Myrtleford Lodge, and Treasurer of the Myrtleford Masonic Centre Board of Management Inc. WBro. George’s wife Valerie has joined him this year in being awarded an Order of Australia medal for her service to the community of Myrtleford. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 9
BADEN POWELL
Baden Powell Celebrates in
Blazing Colour
10 Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
BADEN POWELL
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ore than 200 guests attended the Baden Powell Founder’s Night Celebration on Monday 22 February, at the Waverley Masonic Centre. The South was decorated with every type of scarf imaginable making for a very colourful evening. Proceedings began with a welcome to the Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt and his Grand Officers including WBro. Marc Law who provided the fan fare for the Grand Master’s Escort. VWBro. Russell Bradd introduced the evening’s guests that included the Assistant State Commissioner for Human Resources Mrs
Jan Kerr (representing the Victorian Chief Commissioner), Victorian Rover Council Chairman Mr Daniel Ingamells and State Commissioner of Rovers Bro. Jody Freeman. Victorian Rover Council Chairman Mr Daniel Ingamells presented the Grand Master with the Victorian State Community scarf and his very own ‘I want to be a Rover’ woggle. Eight of the Odonata Rover Crew were presented with 2015 Rover Service Award certificates, including Suzanne Clark (Rover Advisor), Bro. Aden Dowell, Sarah Gent, Jessica Berton, Ryan Gorick (Crew Leader), Em Angell, Jacqui Smith and Regi Jensen (Rover Advisor).
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LODGE NEWS
Legend
WBro. David Bell -
not covering every position. Wbro. Ian then went on to present, with immense pleasure, WBro. David with his 75 year jewel, which is the first ever awarded in Mark Masonry in Victoria, and a certificate from the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Mark Master Masons of Victoria. WBro. Ian then passed the baton to RWBro. John McElvogue, PDGM who wanted to say a few words and unfold to WBro. David that the Grand Master, MWBro. Douglas Mount saw, in his wisdom the need to award WBro. David with the Grand Master’s Order of Service Jewel – a very prestigious award, with only a few in existence. To assist RWBro. John to present this award, he called upon MWBro. Ian Chittick, PGM. They both elaborated on why WBro. David was a good recipient of this prestigious award. WBro. David’s reaction to this cannot be put into words.
WBro. David with his 75 year jewel, which is the first ever awarded in Mark Masonry in Victoria, and a certificate from the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Mark Master Masons of Victoria.
O
n Thursday 31 March 2016 history was made. A large group of Freemasons, friends and family gathered at Kyabram Masonic Centre to witness the presentation of a 75 year jewel from the United Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Victoria to WBro. David Harman Bell by WBro. Ian G. Campbell, PGSwdB.
WBro. David responded in his normal fluent way and apart from thanking various people who had an influence on him in Mark Masonry, he continued to talk on his visit to King Solomon’s Mine in Jerusalem in December 1942, during his war service. At that time he was new into Freemasonry, but had enough knowledge to appreciate how the stone was cut and shaped.
The evening commenced with the rendition of two songs from Donald Campbell – a young Baritone Singer from Stanhope. He sang firstly “Be Still for the Presence of the Lord” and then the infamous “Holy City” which was well received.
“WBro. David talked on his visit to King Solomon’s Mine in Jerusalemin December 1942, during his war service. At that time he was new to Freemasonry, but had enough knowledge to appreciate how the stone was cut and shaped”.
WBro. Ian then outlined WBro. David’s life, schooling, scouting, his career in farming, War Service (1942-46), and his time as Councillor for the Shire of Waranga – prior to amalgamation. He also spoke about David’s involvement with the Stanhope RSL and Kyabram Legacy.
Mr Ian Purdey (Legacy), spoke on behalf of all of the visitors and, as a good friend of WBro. David, of the delight at not only being invited to witness this historic event but being given the privilege to speak and sum up the whole evening.
WBro. David was initiated into Freemasonry in November 1939 and was advanced into the Mark Degree on 31 March 1941 – exactly 75 years ago on the night of the presentation. He had 75 years of continuous service, always being in office but
The presentation was concluded with Donald Campbell singing a further two songs – “The Dark Island” and Ye Banks and Braes” by Robert Burns. This was followed by a wonderful slide show featuring various facets of WBro. David’s life.
12 Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
MEMBER INTERVIEW
WBro. George Zindilis with one of the pieces that will hang in the Small French Bar, Footscray.
WBro. George Zindilis
Coming to life with paint By Freemasons Victoria’s Communication Manager, Gabrielle Forman
“
The first time I met WBro. George was at a Lodge evening at Wesley Collegians No. 358. George was outside with a few of us before proceedings started, meeting and greeting members as they arrived. Through general chit chat I soon discovered that George is a traveller, a family man, and a lawyer. Discussion wasn’t so much about his profession however, but surprisingly more about art. George is a passionate artist with an ability to open his mind to a world of colour, so contrasting to his career in law. As George shuffled through the images of his work using his phone, I became intrigued about the stories behind his paintings. So we agreed to meet again so he could show me some of his work and talk me through his experiences. George invited me to his law practice in Footscray which, from the foyer, looks like any
other administrative office. Upstairs, however, is a galleria of George’s art, with each piece revealing an important story about Greek Australian history. George had told me that he recently had his work displayed in the Greek Embassy Gallery in Canberra as part of its ANZAC Centenary exhibition, and that the pieces had just been returned to him. “The exhibition ran from April to November 2015 and was called ‘Lemnos – the Greek dimension in the ANZAC Centenary’,” he said. George went on to tell me that he was one of 14 Greek Australian artists to be invited to exhibit their work for this Anniversary, which saw RSL National Trustees Brigadier President John Sheldrick OAM (Ret’d), historian Dr. Maria Hill and Ambassador and Art Curator Eyhva Dafaranos attend. He carefully took the pieces out (a set of three), explaining the meaning behind each one.
“This is the ANZAC Trilogy,” he proudly said. “Many would be unaware that in both world wars Greece was connected with ANZAC, and Lemnos made a huge humanitarian contribution during World War I.” “I wanted to recognise the significance of the Vacant Chair from a different view point,” he said. “I used quotes from songs from that period, some in Greek, some in English.” Talking about the second piece in the set, he said, “The moon casts a dim light on the men about to arrive on the ‘shores of hell’. The script writes ‘No hope for you, only death’.” “The last piece, ‘Peasants’ is a depiction of life on the shores during war time,” he said. George said that he painted these pieces especially for the Anniversary, but that he has been passionate about art all of his life. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 13
MEMBER INTERVIEW Born in Cyprus in January 1948, George said he has been painting all of his life. He is selftaught having had no formal art education. Instead, he studied history, politics and law at Monash University. “While I was at school, one of the Fathers (who used to paint crucifixions) took an interest in me and suggested I go to Wesley College. It was here that I got more exposure to visual arts.”
‘The ANZAC Trilogy’, 2015 Oil on canvas
I met George again a few weeks later to better understand the process of his work. He held a small, well-worn book in his hand with tatty edges and began to open its pages. Hundreds of sketches and ideas from years of inspiration jumped out of each page, with George briefly explaining them as he flipped through one after the other. He said that he always starts with sketches first, usually in the human form in simple line drawings, and they soon come to life with paint. George was married in 1974. His wife shared an interest in music, travel and drama – and these, he said, were always paralleled with visual arts. George said that his inspirations have been Matisse, who also worked in a French law office, Chagall, a Russian Jew who painted images of peasant life in Russia and Wassily Kandinsky who he said ‘is the father of modern art’.
‘Altona’ Oil on canvas
‘Flower Detail’ Oil on canvas
‘Purgatory’ Oil on canvas
“Painting is my life,” George said. “It is the philosophy of being able to précis something. Objectifying a subject involves taking it out of its form, and communicating it differently.” The French Cafe Small French Bar on Barkly Street, Footscray (over the road from George’s law practice), has agreed to hang George’s pieces.
14 Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
‘Bums’ Oil on canvas
‘Portrait of a Friend’ Oil on canvas
Inner Sanctum In My Words
March 2016 Quarterly Communication and Grand Installation Let's get rid of the red tape
Membership Taking the Initiative and Following Through
Mark and Chapter Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons Victoria
Philanthropy Jane Hill, Director Freemasons Foundation Victoria Limited
Cover image: Tom McGuire, FossilBluff.com
Our Principles Make a Difference
IN MY WORDS
In My Words
Lets’ get rid of the red tape In his installation speech, Grand Master MWBro. Don Reynolds gives members permission to free themselves from 127 years of complicated processes and take responsibility for climbing their own mountains.
“
Most Worshipful Immediate Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful Past Grand Masters, leaders of visiting delegations, ladies, Brethren and guests – welcome. I would also like to welcome those who are viewing this Grand Installation via the internet, at designated Masonic Centres throughout Victoria and on Channel 31. While you have not all been privy to the addresses at our Quarterly Communications over the last two years, our Immediate Past Grand Master has ensured that a message was imbedded in each. While I liked his reference to Statler and Waldorf; the grumpy, know-all hecklers on the Muppet Show balcony, I particularly appreciated his reference to the Swiss watch – the fact that on the front it was calm and moving majestically around the face, but at the back it was working busily to enact that movement. Sadly, I do not own a Swiss ii
Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
watch but very much appreciate the support and encouragement that you Sir and Sue have given to Mya and I and for delivering the Craft into my care in good shape. Most Worshipful Brother Jones on the other hand was ‘Racing towards the Future’. I cannot see me doing that either, because I would not want to come under the watchful eye of the police. I feel a little cheated that I do not have a theme so I will revert to just telling it as it is. I have also been advised that I need to calm my passion for the organisation because not everyone can take me when I am serious. One would have thought that in selecting today’s date (1 April) for this installation that serious would be the least of my issues.
IN MY WORDS
However, there have been many events that have happened in history that mark this day for different reasons: • In 1948, on this day, scientists concluded that the earth was formed by a Big Bang – now that might not be interesting to you unless you are a scientist but it happened on this day; • In 1976, on this day, a computer in a wooden box with 4K of memory went on sale – Apple Computers was founded; • It was not a joke when Marvin Gaye was shot and killed on this day in 1984, and • In 2004, on this day, everyone thought Google was playing a prank when they offered email with a gigabyte of storage for free – no joke – Gmail was launched.
I have found it interesting that when individuals analyse dates, emblems and situations, sometimes we are too quick to feed off the negative rather than explore the facts and look to positive explanations. Emblems and symbols are very much in our daily lives and symbolism is part of Freemasonry. Take this symbol for example. Many of you will recognise it as the emblem for scouting, and it is. We have a number of Scouts, Venturers, Rovers, Leaders and their families with us tonight and we welcome all of you and trust you have had an enjoyable evening. As part of our journey in Freemasonry we are exposed to other symbols; the cross is the symbol for faith, and on earth the symbol for hope is the anchor. I Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria iii
IN MY WORDS
was considering putting the Superman Symbol onto the screen for this one, but I was warned about copyright infringement. Why you may ask? Well as we see the red ‘S’ as just that - and remember what I said earlier about making judgement- on Krypton it is the symbol for hope. The heart of course is charity and we see all three on Jacobs Ladder in our First Degree Tracing Board. I certainly trust that most of you will know what this symbol is: Brethren, we have underplayed this symbol in our communities for a very long time. As we move forward we need to consider that whatever we do in our communities we need to ensure that we act under the banner of Freemasons Victoria with Freemasonry in mind. We need to consider how the square and compasses can be utilised to bring about awareness and ensure that the community understands that we have been assisting for centuries, albeit in silence as we were told to do. So as to avoid any doubt I rescind the message given to you some 60 years ago that we should not talk about our organisation and the work we do. I charge every Freemason to openly promote our organisation – you can be sure that if we do not, then no one else will. To assist, I will explore a way in which that can be done easily as I believe we all become a little tongue tied or launch off into esoteric explanations when asked about Freemasonry. We need to find a simpler message. A simple example recently occurred in my home town, Colac. The Lodge donated a trailer to the local Sea Scouts. The square and compasses were proudly on the side with the caption – Proudly supported by COLAC FREEMASONS – that’s a simple and powerful message. We need to find a cause that we can contribute to and be known for. I have had a number of meetings with various groups and hope to bring you the outcomes of those discussions in the near future to see if there can be a commonality in our philanthropic giving. No speech at a Grand Installation is complete without including a policy segment. It very much seems to me that over 127 years we have successfully added layers to our organisation which have impacted on our Lodges. Rather than making it easier to enjoy our Freemasonry, this has only complicated the process. The administration of Freemasons Victoria or perhaps the portfolio iv Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
IN MY WORDS
officers, over countless years have seen an issue and taken over fixing it, for all the right reasons, and Brethren you have been happy to let them. The result is, you now believe that every issue should be fixed by Freemasons Victoria. We need to start peeling back the layers and you Brethren need to take responsibility for the future of our Craft. Why don’t I go first? Some time ago in order to improve the night of Installation of a Lodge, Approved Teams were created. These were accredited teams who were judged to be proficient in installing a new Master and his Officers in a Lodge. Except for the night of gaining approval, it was very rare that those teams worked in that configuration again or that even the same people were involved. Very much akin to a coach putting his A team on the field for a win. A Responsible Officer was appointed without reporting duties or anyone to report to. Late in 2014 and early 2015 a committee sat to work through how to improve this process, again Freemasons Victoria trying to find a solution, a solution to an already flawed system. The results of that committee were promulgated to our members with mixed responses.
The solution is simple Brethren, let’s get rid of the red tape. If you want an installing team then form one. If you are all Grand Officers then you will work under the information contained in the Ceremonial Procedure Manual for Grand Officers, and Brethren you can call yourselves anything you want as a team. If you are a team of Past Masters then you will work under the same manual but with adjustments. That document will be available shortly on the website. The responsible person will be the Installing Master, who will be responsible for ensuring that the Brethren in his team are competent to undertake the work. The Grand Inspectors portfolio will oversee the work on the night and report back so as to ensure that our standard of ceremonial is maintained. To again avoid any doubt, it is my intention to continue with the ‘standing order’ made by my predecessors: 1. All Installations need to be registered with the office of the Grand Pursuivant advising who the Installing Master will be and the date and time of the Installation. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria
v
IN MY WORDS
2. All Master Masons attaining the office of the Worshipful Master will be installed by the current ceremonial team, the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master, or as directed by the Grand Master. A number of Lodges, and more particularly prospective Installing Masters, have sort to short circuit this edict. Please do not seek for this edict to be overturned, because refusal sometimes offends. 3. All Open Installations, Consecrations and Dedications will similarly be undertaken by the current ceremonial team, the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master. 4. Most importantly Brethren, if there is someone that you want to be involved in an Installation where the current ceremonial team is installing, then inform the Grand Pursuivant and we will work with the Master Elect and the Lodge to effect that involvement.
Accreditation of Lodges is another created entity. The essence of the program is great, having Lodges relook at themselves on a regular basis to remain relevant. I know that Lodges who have gone through the process have benefited. But Brethren, in my eyes, you are already accredited, your Warrant in as much says so. It also charges you with initiating, passing and raising Brethren in your Lodge – and if you don’t then you will be handing that warrant back. I have placed all action in relation to accreditation and the quality of Lodges on hold subject to a review of the process. In congratulating the 2016 Grand Lodge Ceremonial Team, I hope that the members of Freemasons Victoria realise, that except for those involved in the retirement, all members were dressed in light blue aprons, as I was on my entry. Brethren, rank and dark blue do not make the man. Okay, the heavy stuff is over, so now I wish to say thank you: • The 2015 Team – Chrys and Jane; • B1 and B2 (RWBro. Barry Brooks and RWBro. Barry Minster); • All our musicians, RWBro. Barry Reaper and the Choir, Grand Organist RWBro. Roger Manderson our Grand Herald VWBro. Ian Goddard and Melbourne Youth Music; • Past Grand Directors; • The administration team of Freemasons Victoria under the leadership of our Grand Secretary RWBro. Peter Henshall; • WBro. Graham Berry; • Mum, Leigh, Racheal and Ian; • Alan and Keith; • Friends, and • Mya
vi Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
IN MY WORDS
Before I finish I want to share the following: This year, it is as if you are climbing a mountain. Each day, you have to get out your ice pick and crack on with the endless ascent. Even by the end of the year, you may still have a long way to go. But then, why did you want to climb it in the first place? The path you are following now is all about something you want to do, somewhere you want to go, something you want to change. There is opportunity to do something significant that will make a difference for the next three decades. It may be putting you through a lot, but were you not having to make some compromises regardless? You are being put in a position to raise the standard and deepen your own belief in what is possible. All you have to do is stop
telling yourself that somehow it can’t happen. Or resenting the fact that it has to happen. This IS your mountain. You DID choose it. And you are going to make such delightful, pleasing progress this year. If you don’t yet feel confident that this could be the case, hold on tight. The year ahead is going to bring you exactly the kind of support and reassurance that you need. On the 1 January this year, New Year’s Day, I did something that I do not normally do, and probably have never done. I picked up the Herald Sun and they were the words I read in my horoscope. Thank you.”
Don
MWBro. Don Reynolds
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria vii
IN MY WORDS
Freemasons Victoria Celebrates the Installation of
Grand Master MWBro. Don Reynolds
F
reemasons Victoria celebrated its night of nights on Friday 1 April with the Grand Installation of MWBro. Don Reynolds.
More than 700 guests, including interstate and overseas delegates attended the event, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, a venue that seemed perfect for the structure and size of the occasion. All the pomp and ceremony that one would expect at this Installation was masterfully carried out, with full credit to Grand Director of Ceremonies VWBro. Chrys Kypreos who not only bid farewell to the Officers of the 20152016 Grand Team, but welcomed the incoming 2016-2017 Team with perfection. Immediate Past Grand Master VWBro. Hillel Benedykt reinforced the importance of taking the responsibility of Grand Master for Victoria and the unwavering commitment to the fraternity required. He also wished Don and his partner Mya all the very best for the duration of his term saying that he had every faith that Don would be successful.
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IN MY WORDS
Many watched the webcast via internet feed from regional Masonic Centres as well as on Channel 31 which aired the event live. The Installation was followed by a wonderful Grand Banquet on the Saturday evening at the Convention Centre’s Melbourne Room where guests enjoyed pop band Babba and danced into the wee hours. Celebrations were still in full swing on the Sunday, some a little more weary than others, arriving at 11am for the Royal Freemasons Homes Open Day and Farewell Celebration. Freemasons Victoria hosted a series of marquees showcasing the Freemasons Foundation, membership team, merchandise as well as supporting partners Scouts, Blue Ribbon and the Think Pink Living Centre. Members, their families and children enjoyed this family fun day, of music, face painting and fabulous food. Freemasons Victoria would like to thank its sponsors MIRVAC, LITTLE Properties, CREO, JB Were, McKean Park and Secure Parking for their generous support this year and Conference Secretariat High Profile Events for managing the event logistics over the three days. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria ix
MEMBERSHIP
Taking the Initiative and
Following Through
Membership Manager RWBro. Bruce Stockdale urges Lodges and individuals to show initiative and follow through on their actions to help create a stronger future for Freemasonry in Victoria.
“
Taking the initiative is not waiting for ‘someone else’ to do it. Individuals, Lodges and Districts need to take the lead to recruit, retain, re-engage, and reactivate members,” explained RWBro. Stockdale. “Lodges need to capitalise on what has been done by ensuring that there is follow through.” “There a plenty of examples where the initiative has been taken to get results.”
RWBro. Bruce Stockdale Manager Membership Services
TAKING THE INITIATIVE – POWLETT LODGE Powlett Lodge No. 661, Wonthaggi, recently showed great initiative by inviting the local Lions, Rotary and RSL members to enjoy a night at their Masonic Centre. Dinner at 7pm, was preceded by refreshments and nibbles enabling the members of all groups to mingle. The Lodge engaged local caterers to prepare and serve the meal, thus freeing the partners and wives of members to enjoy themselves and also engage with their counterparts from the other organisations. Local wines were provided as part of the meal showing support for the community and local businesses. To defray the financial cost, the visitors, in line with the practice
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at their own clubs, contributed to the cost of the catered meal. Some of the usual toasts were first explained and then honoured by those present. A raffle, with tickets at $5 each rather than the usual three for $5, raised $325. The members and other Masons present then moved to the Lodge Room, where all officers sat in their respective positions, wearing regalia. They were then joined by visitors who received an explanation about the roles of Lodge officers, as related to the officers of other clubs and organisations. The origins of Freemasonry, differences in member’s regalia and officer’s jewels, some Lodge room ornaments and the basic principles of Freemasonry were also explained in a short presentation which was followed by a question and answer session. All present joined in commemorating ANZAC Day by participating in the Ceremony of the Vacant Chair. This was preceded by a member reading an extract from a report on a battle of the Boer War. The relevance to the moment was that the report referred to this member’s grandfather, a Boer War veteran, resident, draper and the second Mayor
MEMBERSHIP
of Wonthaggi. The extract included a vivid and graphic description of the battle in which many were killed and many more wounded, including his grandfather who lost a leg. The formal part of the evening was a presentation of a cheque for $53,000 to the local aged care facility. The funds for the cheque were raised by the Lodge and included a donation from the RSL, Lions and Rotary Clubs, and a grant from the Freemasons Foundation. The Lodge has had a long term fiscal and governance relationship with the aged care facility; currently three members of Powlett Lodge sit on the organisation’s Board. Guests were again invited for refreshments before leaving for home. RWBro. Bruce Stockdale believes the evening was a great success and shows how initiative brings results. “Powlett Lodge brought several community groups together, and showcased Freemasonry in a warm and engaging way. They highlighted charity, talked about what happens in a Lodge room, and importantly built stronger links and friendships,” said Bruce. “It’s not surprising that during dinner, several guests asked about joining.”
FOLLOW THROUGH – WARRION ST JOHN LODGE NO. 83 “A great example of leveraging our efforts with follow through can be seen in the actions of Warrion St. John Lodge in Colac,” explained Bruce. “Warrion St. John Lodge held a jumble sale in their Masonic Centre, raised a few hundred dollars, received a Freemasons Foundation grant and were therefore able to present a trailer, emblazoned with the Square and Compasses and Colac Freemasons logos, to the local Sea Scouts.” “Importantly,” said Bruce, “The Lodge then planned to build on that relationship.”
ACTION PLAN – WARRION ST JOHN LODGE’S ACTIONS TO SUPPORT PUBLICITY & RECRUITMENT 1. Utilising the bond created between the Sea Scouts and Colac Freemasons Send a letter (see next page) and talk to the Sea Scouts leaders about the following events to request their support and attendance: • Invite them to run a BBQ/ cake stall at our garage sales. Possible sharing of proceeds; • Invite them to our Christmas in July dinner; • Invite them to help us man our BBQ at Mitre 10 and to show case their new trailer; • Invite them to be part of our stand at the Colac Show and showcase their new trailer.
2. Make contact with local newspaper editor for a regular (monthly) comment about Masonic activity and initiatives in the district that benefit our community • Send regular stories and photos to the Colac Herald; • Send a photo and story of MWBro. Don Reynolds donating the money to the hospital Chief for the Long Road Appeal; • Human interest story of ‘local boy (Don Reynolds) goes all the way to become Victorian leader of Freemasonry as Grand Master. 3. Christmas in July function • Invite Sea Scouts leaders and parents; • Invite widows of Freemasons; • Invite dormant members with a personal face-to-face request; • Invite staff of Freemasons Victoria; • Invite Historical Society members; • Invite manager of Mitre 10; • Advertise in the Colac Herald. 4. Special effort to raise funds to be drawn on the same night as the Christmas in July Function • Arrange for special tickets with Freemasons Victoria logo on them.
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MEMBERSHIP
THE LETTER The Secretary Colac Sea Scouts Cnr Armstrong Street and Queens Avenue COLAC Vic 3250 Dear ______
Warrion St. John Lodge No. 83 18 Pitt Street COLAC Vic 3250
The Freemasons in Colac are delighted to have been able to assist you with the recent acquisition of your purpose-built trailer. We congratulate you on your inclusion in the recent Kana festival using the trailer to publicise the great work you do and hopefully attract new members. We thought it appropriate that we share some events with you. üü You would have been aware of the great story and picture in the Colac Herald. üü Our efforts were recorded in our publication Freemasonry Victoria with photos of the handover of the trailer. Copy attached for you. üü At his installation on April 1, the new Grand Master of Freemasons Victoria, Donald Reynolds, made mention of the trailer handover in his inaugural speech. It is interesting to note that Don, a former Colac boy, was also a Sea Scout. In the coming months, Freemasons in Colac will be involved in the following activities. We invite you to share and participate with us in these opportunities: 1. On Saturday April 16 we are having a jumble sale at our building in Hesse St. We invite you to run the sausage sizzle and have a small raffle as a fundraiser. We have a council permit for such. It would be great to see the trailer in full view for all visitors if you could be so kind. More jumble sales are planned for August 13 and November 19, 2016. We would welcome your participation on those days too. 2. On Saturday 26 April we have permission to run a BBQ at Mitre 10. We have a council permit for the event and approval to exhibit your trailer. 3. On Saturday 23 July we are having a Christmas in July function. We cordially invite the officers and parents of the Sea Scouts to join with us on this festive occasion. 4. On Saturday 5 November we will be having a stand at the Colac show. It would be a wonderful opportunity for you to promote the values of your organisation. We would be delighted if you could join us at our stand with your trailer. We would be willing to cover the costs of any registration for you. We sincerely hope you can join with us in these initiatives to enable you promote your values in conjunction with our endeavours to support our community. Colac Freemasons are delighted to have been able to help you so far. We believe the great work you do locally, regularly and voluntarily for our young people is to be commended. We congratulate you for being such great community citizens. (Secretary’s name) Signature
THE RESULTS SO FAR The Lodge’s jumble sale on Saturday 16 April was attended by approximately 300 people. Several took the opportunity to look inside the Lodge room and ask questions. The Lodge raised a further $500, and the Sea Scouts raised $100 through their sausage sizzle and gained a new member. The Baptist Church, which is located opposite the Masonic Centre, ran a jumble sale at the same time. Both organisations will be co-operating in running their next sales in the near future. xii Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
PHILANTHROPY
Jane Hill, Director,
Freemasons Foundation Victoria Ltd. CEO, Ovarian Cancer Australia
F
reemasons Victoria is proud to have two brilliant female members on the Board of the Freemasons Foundation. Communications Manager, Gabrielle Forman took a few moments to chat with Jane Hill to get a feel for what it must be like volunteering in a fraternity.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria xiii
PHILANTHROPY
How have you experienced working with the Freemasons Foundation as one of the only female representatives? The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) is calling for all boards to ensure that 30 per cent of their directors are female. I admire Freemasons Victoria for having the courage to open its doors to diversity. At my first meeting I was struck by a ‘watershed’ moment when one of the board members said “ This is the first time we have ever had women around this table.” Numerous pieces of research demonstrate a positive link between the level of female representation on boards and improved corporate performance. It’s not so much about being female, but I think there is respect given that both Carol Scholes-Robertson and I are independent Directors who are not otherwise connected with the Craft, and we bring skills that are valuable to the Board and outside. I think both Carol and I have had a positive role in stewardship particularly in the finance and philanthropy areas. I do not carry the history of the organisation and am therefore able to ask the dumb questions. It’s also a very positive message that Freemasonry is not a closed book.
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What have been your challenges since taking the role of Director? Personally, it’s balancing the demands of my fast paced day job with my volunteering and other pursuits. I’m CEO of Ovarian Cancer Australia, a national charity taking action for women affected by ovarian cancer. More than 1450 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year and the survival rate is only 43 per cent. I am determined to make big inroads into improving survival rates over the next five years. The Board is new and with all things new it takes time to understand the Board dynamic – the Board is a group of individuals from varying backgrounds and with quite diverse interests and experiences. There lies the biggest strength and the biggest challenge – to continue robust discussion and debate but for each of us to work collaboratively and be on the same page as one another. Respecting the history and understanding its context is important. I attend as many Freemasonry events as I can such as the scholarship awards night, the Grand Installation and various cheque presentations. What do you enjoy the most about being involved with the Freemasons Foundation? Working with a group of committed and enthusiastic men who volunteer their time and expertise. It’s about being part of something where I can point to tangible, benevolent and philanthropic outcomes.
In my current job I am tasked with sourcing the funds, not so much giving the funds. It is refreshing to be on the other side of giving. There is nothing more rewarding to attend a cheque presentation accompanied by a local Lodge representative to hand over a cheque to a charitable organisation, and making a difference in the local community. In doing so I hope to spark the interest of the Lodge to form an ongoing partnership with these local organisations. Where would you like to see the efforts and focus for the Freemasons Foundation directed in the future? I am overwhelmingly interested in philanthropic impact and a well governed Foundation, where the corpus is managed prudently. Freemasons Victoria has built an incredible reputation in the health and aged care sectors. I would like to see our gifts making an enduring difference and being a catalyst to Lodge involvement in local charitable activities. I see us being involved with grass roots philanthropy and benevolence but also selecting a couple of large flagship projects for which Freemasonry can be known. The biggest challenge for Freemasonry is demonstrating its relevance to the community. If we do that then hopefully we can inspire men from all ages to get involved and encourage their family and friends to take part. The corpus needs to be managed with care so that in time it grows.
Swimming lessons now a possibility in the West February, 2016
When
was the last time you went to the beach? Or visited a public swimming pool? Some of us take for granted that we can swim, or that water for leisure has always been accessible, but not for these kids. Some of the children of the Western English Language School in Footscray have never had the opportunity to learn how to swim, let alone jump into a pool! So a recent $15,000 donation made by the Freemasons Foundation to support the school is invaluable. The funds enabled the hire of a bus to allow the children to travel from Footscray, St Albans and Werribee to swimming lessons at the Ascot Vale Swimming Centre. Teacher and coordinator Claire Kelly said that the donation has helped the school enormously...
Freemasons Foundation Victoria Limited NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
This philanthropic body was set up to carry out a number of charitable functions on behalf of Freemasons in Victoria. Among them is the support of Lodges in their charitable objectives. The Freemasons Foundation supports Scout Groups, local bands, Aged Care Facilities, Men’s Sheds, school programs and many similar community programs. Decisions regarding funding are made based on charitable objectives and the availability of funds. Lodges that need more than dollar-for-dollar - ask for more. If you wish to make a tax deductible donation, you should stipulate that your donation go to the Freemasons Public Charitable Foundation. If you wish to make a bequest, a member of the Freemasons Foundation will be happy to discuss the matter with you. Write: The Directors Freemasons Foundation Victoria Limited ABN 159 528 122 PO Box 553 East Melbourne Vic 8002 Web: www.freemasonsfoundation.org
MARK & CHAPTER
Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons Victoria
S
upreme Grand Chapter held its Installation at the Pullman Hotel, Melbourne on Saturday 16 April 2016. Most Eminent Companion Peter Crick was reinstalled as First Grand Principal for a second term; Right Eminent Companion Greg Harmer was again installed as Deputy First Grand Principal; and Right Eminent Companions Robert Redman and Gavin Myers were Installed as the Second and Third Grand Principals respectively; and Grand Officers Invested. The Ceremony was watched by more than 300 Companions, Ladies and Non-Freemasons. One of the highlights was the reception of a Delegation from the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Alberta, Canada. All Australian States and New Zealand were represented. Representatives of the Other Masonic
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Rites and Delegations from the United Grand Lodge of Victoria and Grand Mark made for a most colourful ceremony. Following the Installation a three course banquet was held in the Grand Ballroom. Entertainment was provided by Alex Murer (Tenor) accompanied by David MacFarlane. This was the second year that the Pullman Hotel was used as the venue for the Grand Installation and the wonderful support of the hotel staff ensured a happy and enjoyable day. Bottom left & right: Right Eminent Companions Robert Redman and Gavin Myers installed as the Second and Third Grand Principals respectively. Top left: Most Eminent Companion Peter Crick reinstalled as First Grand Principal for a second term. Top right: Right Eminent Companion Greg Harmer installed as Deputy First Grand Principal.
LODGE SPOTLIGHT
Garibaldi puts on a
Grand Show! B ro. Domenic Donato, son of WBro. Matteo Donato, Assistant Grand Pursuivant was installed as Worshipful Master of Garibaldi Lodge No. 890 on Saturday 9 April. With more than 250 guests in attendance, Essendon Masonic Centre was at capacity. Installed by Deputy Grand Master RWBro. Keith Murray who was supported by the 2016-17 Grand Ceremonial Team, Domenic took his obligation which was led by his father. Invited guests included Immediate Past Grand Master MWBro. Hillel Benedykt and his wife Sue, along with Past Deputy Grand Master RWBro.
Peter Crick and his wife Deirdre, as well as members from Lodge Leonardo da Vinci No. 238 (SA/NT), Lodge Galileo No. 1019 (NSW/ACT) and Italia Lodge No. 367 (WA). Guests moved on to the Abruzzo Club in East Brunswick to enjoy a wonderful three course meal, dancing and toasts. Grand Director of Ceremonies, VWBro. Myles King led the evening, which included the cutting of three cakes (each portion coloured to represent the colours of the Italian flag) and a raffle. The convivial nature of the festive board made this a night to remember, not only for Garibaldi Lodge but for everyone in attendance – what a great night!
Bottom left: WBro. Emmanuel Barakis, WBro. Shawn Momen, WBro. Domenic Donato and WBro. Matteo Donato.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria xvii
SWAN RECOGNISING HILL RECOGNISED SERVICE
Jewels Presented ~ January NAME
NO.
LODGE NAME
50 YEARS RWBro.
KD
Cribbes
192
Kyneton
VWBro.
KF
Crouch
7
Golden & Corinthian
WBro.
GL
Laidler
906
Epicurean
VWBro.
RA
Pearce
192
Kyneton
Bro.
WJ
Schultz
188
Rutherglen
62
Union Lodge of North Gippsland
Bro.
RW
Taylor
60 YEARS VWBro.
LWI
Anderson
50
Leura
WBro.
WR
Armer
859
Blue Dandenongs
WBro.
GW
Cathels
154
Glenelg
VWBro.
DA
Hollis
59
Albert Edward
VWBro.
EW
Mackenzie
220
Sandringham District
RWBro.
MJ
Newman
654
Observance
Bro.
JT
Nielsen
164
Yarraville
65 YEARS RWBro.
MW
Morse
7
Golden & Corinthian
RWBro.
WR
Ray
654
Observance
VWBro.
BS
Symon
96
Cosmopolitan
70 YEARS Bro.
DK
Grant, OAM
572
Altona
Bro.
AJ
Mayes
190
Duke of Connaught
VWBro.
SJ
Wrigley
0
Transition
xviii Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
RECOGNISING SERVICE
Jewels Presented ~ February NAME
NO.
LODGE NAME
50 YEARS VWBro.
FV
Bibby, MBE
0
Transition
WBro.
KJ
Brooks
0
Transition
Bro.
GE
Buckingham
62
Union Lodge of North Gippsland
WBro.
R
Crawford
867
Lodge Leawarra
VWBro.
KHR
Dorning
359
Berwick Balcara
Bro.
RF
Phippen
80
Antient York
WBro.
JFN
Raven
871
Ebden
Bro.
JS
Vickers
915
Blackburn United
Bro.
IW
Baglin
915
Blackburn United
Bro.
TJG
Bennett
749
Moyhu Valley
60 YEARS
WBro.
WB
Birney
929
Mitchell
WBro
WM
Carland
107
The Lowan Lodge
Bro
JS
Dodgshun
37
The Brighton District
VWBro
KJ
Drew
759
Melbourne High School
VWBro
DJ
Fleming
929
Mitchell
Bro
RF
Hillman
895
The Lodge Metropolis
WBro
GK
Holdsworth
103
Yarrawonga Lodge of St. David
VWBro
EJ
Mulder
5
Geelong Lodge of Unity & Prudence
RWBro
JR
Neilsen
723
Devotion
Bro
IC
Oliver
49
Victorian Naval and Military
WBro
AD
Phillips
661
Powlett
WBro
WNT
Reilly
275
Deepdene Balwyn
WBro
WG
Schoof
924
Brunswick United
Bro
TJS
Smith
906
Epicurean
Bro
JM
St.Clair
89
Richmond
WBro.
SG
White
360
Marnoo
RWBro.
DS
Bower
94
Bro.
WC
Haigh
572
Altona
VWBro.
KE
Kingsford
37
Brighton District
WBro.
PJ
Leake
154
Glenelg
WBro.
TJ
Lewis
170
Mildura
VWBro.
TH
Toop
16
Williamstown
65 YEARS Weston Street United
75 YEARS RWBro.
GHC
Wall
258
The Mordialloc Lodge of Charity
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria xix
RECOGNISING SERVICE
Jewels Presented ~ March NAME
NO.
LODGE NAME
50 YEARS VWBro.
JF
Forster
433
Brighton Grammarians
Bro.
GN
Freijah
163
Meredith
VWBro.
HR
Lupton, OAM
261
Peace & Loyalty
WBro.
RF
Oliver
0
Transition
Bro.
RF
Seear
895
The Lodge Metropolis
Bro.
RW
Taylor
62
Union Lodge of North Gippsland
WBro.
GF
Wilson
243
Gardenvale Mobility
60 YEARS RWBro.
HL
Dehn
855
Allara
Bro.
AK
Drayton
163
Meredith
WBro.
KC
Painter
279
Henty
65 YEARS WBro.
FR
Ahern
90
The Clifton Hill Lodge
WBro.
HJ
Goodgame
861
Essendon Daylight
WBro.
TR
Klitzing
607
Maroondah Daylight
Bro.
AM
Liebert
164
Yarraville
VWBro.
RG
Whyte
0
Transition
70 YEARS VWBro.
ID
White
23
xx Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
Sturt-Buninyong
NEW MEMBERS
Our newest Freemasons January 2016 - March 2016 Name
Lodge
Name
Lodge
Bro. Travis Dowling
Yarraville Lodge No. 164
Bro. Rakesh Kumar
Lodge Fraternal No. 603
Bro. Robert O'Donnell
Seymour Lodge No. 87
Bro. Raymond Ng
Lodge Fraternal No. 603
Bro. Stuart Loft
Lord Carrington Lodge No. 111
Bro. Ayon Guha
Wahgunyah Lodge No. 56
Bro. Damian Larobina
The Revival Lodge No. 926
Bro. Ramil Magnaye
Lodge Killara No. 259
Bro. Ian Wylie
Rosebank Lodge No. 348
Bro. Joshua Gray
Lodge of Rapport No. 920
Bro. Michael Carter
Swan Hill Lodge No. 919
Bro. Joseph Nino Fajardo
City of Footscray-Wyndham Lodge No. 239
Bro. Peter Littlewood
Robinvale Lodge No. 684
Bro. Fotios Antipas
Lodge Integrity No. 376
Bro. Michael Chizhik
United Service Lodge No. 330
Bro. Stan Snyders
Bro. Dominador Ortinez
Robbie Burns Phoenix Lodge No. 88
Berwick Balcara Lodge No. 359
Bro. Robert Snyders
Bro. Roger Haddad
Robbie Burns Phoenix Lodge No. 88
Berwick Balcara Lodge No. 359
Bro. Daniel Clapham
Williamstown Lodge No. 16
Bro. Mark Bush
Arcadian-Veritas Lodge No. 340
Bro. Christopher Adams
Seaford Lodge No. 720
The United Memorial & Merbein Lodge No. 327
Bro. Kelvin Hay
Gordon Lodge No. 99
Bro. Kevin Riggs
Bro. Lucus Smithers
Lodge of Australia Felix No. 1
Bro. Robert Pollock
Benambra Lodge No. 153
Bro. Nardzson Hamot
Cohuna Lodge No. 227
Bro. Reynoldo Dipasupil
Cohuna Lodge No. 227
Bro. Scott Nixon
Doncaster Lodge No. 662
Bro. Naim Ghanbari
The Lodge of St. Mark No. 591
Bro. Elio Bonazzi
The Lodge of the Golden Fleece No. 300
Bro. Michael Dib
The Lodge of St. Mark No. 591
Bro. Patrick Crosswell
The Lodge of the Golden Fleece No. 300
Bro. Mario Gojoco
Warrnambool Lodge No. 34
Bro. Jonathan Ramos
Altona Lodge No. 572
Bro. Marlon Sabay
Warrnambool Lodge No. 34
Bro. Efraim Lowie Sarte
Altona Lodge No. 572
Bro. Teddy Oudin
Cranbourne Lodge No. 290
Bro. Simon Wright
Wodonga Lodge No. 156
Bro. James Mann
Brunswick United Lodge No. 924
Bro. John Senior
Robinvale Lodge No. 684
Gardenvale Mobility Lodge No. 243
Bro. Zein El-Hamden
Elrona Lodge No. 384
Bro. Marco Lima
Bro. Edwin Caledonio
Jubilee Lodge No. 125
Bro. Thomas Mahon
The Army Lodge No. 478
Bro. Ernald Parugrug
Jubilee Lodge No. 125
Bro. Frankie Paigan
Dandenong Lodge No. 635
Bro. Andre Villablanca
Jubilee Lodge No. 125
Bro. Paul Calleja
The Derrimut Daylight Lodge No. 905
Bro. Jason Santos
Jubilee Lodge No. 125
Bro. Arthur Lytas
Middle Park Lodge No. 206
Bro.Robert White
The Spring Vale Lodge No. 389
Bro. Louis Acanfora
Admiral Collingwood Lodge No. 13
Bro. Ian Armstrong
Lodge Amalthea No. 914
Bro. Samuel Walsh
Lodge Belvoir No. 727
Bro. Paul Murphy
Lodge Amalthea No. 914
Bro. Jack Macklan
Lodge Belvoir No. 727
Bro. Constantine Karatenislis
Admiral Collingwood Lodge No. 13
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria xxi
NEW MEMBERS
Our newest Freemasons January 2016 - March 2016 Name
Lodge
Bro. David Gallacher
Lodge Belvoir No. 727
Bro. Christopher Smith
Weston Street United Lodge No. 94
Bro. Amir Dastavi
Deepdene-Balwyn Lodge No. 275
Bro. Stuart Hastings
Lodge Observance No. 654
Bro. Neil McRae
Old Gippstown Lodge No. 930
Bro. John Snowden
Yarrawonga Lodge of St. David No. 103
Bro. Nicholas Hodder
Lodge of Balnarring No. 850
Bro. Nathan Gorman
The Lodge of St. Mark No. 591
Bro. Matthew Jones
Lodge Amalthea No. 914
Bro. Christopher Berry
Lodge Amalthea No. 914
Bro. David Kingsford
The Brighton District Lodge No. 37
Bro. George Carrington
Williamstown Lodge No. 16
Bro. David Illingworth
Brunswick United Lodge No. 924
Bro. James Daly
Gardenvale Mobility Lodge No. 243
Bro. Charles Roth
Gardenvale Mobility Lodge No. 243
Bro. Kasinathan Palaniappa
The Clifton Hill Lodge No. 90
Bro. Harendra Patel
The Clifton Hill Lodge No. 90
Bro. Siva Sadasivam
The Clifton Hill Lodge No. 90
Bro. Anaud Vadivelu
The Clifton Hill Lodge No. 90
Bro. Michael Dib, Lodge of St. Mark No. 591
xxii Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
AROUND THE WORLD
Vegas!
Only in
What are the odds of two Melburnians becoming the Worshipful Masters of two different Lodges in Las Vegas at the same time? Master of Las Vegas Daylight Lodge No. 44, Michael Schiavello, explains how this extraordinary coincidence is giving Freemasonry in Sin City a delightful serve of Aussie.
“
Las Vegas is the gambling capital of the world,” said Michael Schiavello, 40, “but seriously, what are the odds?” “It really is a freaky coincidence,” added Peter Murdoch, 68, Worshipful Master of Vegas Lodge No. 32. Michael and Peter first met in November of last year at the Grand Lodge of Nevada’s Annual Communication at the Orleans Casino in Las Vegas. “I knew the Senior Warden at Vegas No. 32 was also an Aussie from Melbourne, but I had never actually met him,” said Michael. “I was sitting behind this silver-haired bloke and I hear an Aussie accent! I introduced myself and we got on like a house on fire from the get-go.” Peter was raised in Murrumbeena Lodge. No. 311 in December 1974. He later became the foundation Tyler at Cybernetics Lodge
No. 858 and worked in Information Technology for such companies as ADAPS, Lucas Industries and IBM. In 1980, Peter moved to the United States to get married. He lived in New Orleans before relocating to Las Vegas in 1999, and affiliated with Vegas Lodge No. 32 in 2008. With over 600 members and established in 1907, Vegas Lodge is the largest and oldest Lodge in Southern Nevada. It is also the wealthiest with assets of several million dollars including real estate and endowments bequeathed by deceased members for the issuance of scholarships. Being Master of such a prestigious Lodge, Peter says it’s a privilege but also a challenge. “Being Master is a full time job. I have to work hard at maintaining peace and harmony, and keeping passionate egos on the same path,” said Peter.
“I must also add that it is truly an honour to be accepted so completely into the hearts of Nevada Masons, so far from my native home, and to be able to serve through the officer line to be ultimately being handed the gavel.” Michael was raised in Deepdene-Balwyn Lodge No. 275 in 2010. He works as a commentator and moved to Las Vegas in 2011 to further his career with AXS TV network, beamed into more than 43 million homes every Friday night. In 2012, he became a member of Daylight Lodge No. 44, which meets every Monday at noon. Four years later, he finds himself sitting in the Oriental Chair. Daylight 44 has over 300 members. It received its charter from the Grand Lodge of Nevada in 1960, and was originally formed as a Lodge for casino shift workers and entertainers who could not attend Lodge at night. Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 15
AROUND THE WORLD
Among the current members of Daylight 44 are a casino manager, limousine driver, professional photographer, America’s most decorated fighter pilot, a music producer, a Pearl Harbour survivor and an engineer who works at Area 51. Michael says being Master of a weekly Lodge is a challenging and difficult role, but one he relishes. He has put a focus back on Masonic education with weekly lectures, special guest speakers, monthly Masonic trivia sessions and interviews with a different member each week in open Lodge. “My line of officers is the youngest in Daylight 44’s history and we all have the same vision for the Lodge’s future. Education, commitment to excellent ritual and floor work, and having fun.” At his installation last December, Peter was presented with a boomerang attached to a plaque by the Brethren of Vegas Lodge to commemorate the event. When asked if they have injected any ‘Aussie-ness’ into their Lodges, Michael and Peter both enthusiastically exclaim, “Absolutely!” “Americans love Photos Credit: Shane O’Neal
16 Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
Aussies,” said Michael. “I think they get a real kick out of hearing our accent in the East.” “Last Friday we passed three Brothers to the Second Degree,” said Peter. “I conferred the Degree, Michael was visiting, and in attendance we had an Englishman now living in Canada and another Aussie who dropped by visiting from Townsville, Queensland. Our organist was not in attendance so the English Brother from Canada offered to play for us. Can you guess what song an Englishman from Canada played for two Aussie Masters living in Las Vegas? Waltzing Matilda, of course! What are the odds?!” Peter and Michael are not the first Melbourne Freemasons to sit in the East in Las Vegas. “In 2014,” said Michael, “Keir Hales served as the Worshipful Master of Mount Moriah Lodge No. 39, also a Las Vegas suburban Lodge. Keir is a very well-known radiologist from Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Challenge Yourself to the adventure of a lifetime
T
he Epworth Medical Foundation has launched its challenges for the next twelve months. Every Epworth Medical Foundation charity challenge is an adventure in travel, friendship, taste, exploration, discovery, fitness, and kindness while raising funds to improve patient care at Epworth, a charitable not-for-profit healthcare group encompassing ten hospitals around Victoria, including Epworth Freemasons hospital in East Melbourne.
Where do you want to go today? We invite you to take part in an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime challenge to raise funds for patients at Epworth HealthCare. Discover extraordinary cultural wonders in off-the-beaten-path destinations. Explore bustling markets and remote villages, and savour delicious traditional meals. Forge new friendships, and push yourself beyond your everyday limits.
Great Wall of China Dates: 16-27 September, 2016 Cost: $6790 (includes $2500 in fundraising) Beneficiaries: Cancer patients at Epworth HealthCare This innovative itinerary takes in a remote section of the Great Wall outside Beijing. The scenery is vast and diverse as we trek our way through tall swaying corn cropped fields to distant green river valleys with one of the great wonders of the world as our backdrop. In Beijing we visit the capital’s major historic sites such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the lakeside Summer Palace. We also indulge in the culinary delight of Chinese cuisine. The Beijing food experiences will no doubt compete with the trek itself as one of the highlights of this unique adventure. This is a great opportunity to raise funds for EMF whilst travelling on the adventure of a lifetime!
Heartsmart Rajasthan and Varanasi Cycle Dates: 3-14 February, 2017 Cost: $6670 (includes $2500 in fundraising) Beneficiaries: Cardiac patients at Epworth HealthCare From the delights of Jaipur, we adjust to the pace of the buffalo cart savoring a way of life that is still in harmony with the seasons. The roads are flat, the days not unduly strenuous and we provide a backup vehicle for your convenience. There will be ample opportunity to witness the spectacular Taj Mahal at sunrise and explore Fatephur Sikri before experiencing the holy city of Varanasi on the banks of the River Ganges where the rituals of life, and death, are carried out on the steps of the ghats. An expert local guide will accompany you through the maze of winding streets to sights including the Bharat Mata Temple and the monkey temple of Durga.
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 17
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Heartsmart Myanmar Cycle Dates: 10-21 February, 2017 Cost: $6690 (includes $2500 in fundraising) Beneficiaries: Cardiac patients at Epworth HealthCare We explore at handle bar level this friendly land, where exceptional hospitality is guaranteed. After flying to Mandalay, our cycling adventure starts in earnest with a ride on the outskirts before returning by boat on the Irrawaddy River. Our cycling continues through timeless villages where we observe traditional lifestyles en route to Bagan, home to one of the finest collection of temples in South East Asia. Exploring at a gentle pace, this magnificent region uncovers ancient pagodas and temples of a bygone era with intricate carvings, murals and astonishing architecture. At sacred Mount Popa, the abode of ‘Nats’, known as ‘Spirits of Ancient Ancestors’ we leave our bikes and climb the 700 steps for stunning panoramic views from the golden temple at its summit.
Southern Thailand Cycle Dates: 24 February - 5 March, 2017 Cost: $6590 (includes $2500 in fundraising) Beneficiaries: Breast cancer patients at Epworth HealthCare For a cultural immersion into the friendly rural landscapes of Thailand, cycling is the way to travel. Taking the quiet roads on scenic routes, past pineapple plantations, through national parks with limestone hills and alongside sublime coastal beaches, the itinerary offers plenty of opportunity to stop and chat with friendly locals. From the capital Bangkok we begin cycling along canal ways 18 Freemasonry Victoria Autumn 2016
and past temples and traditional houses. From here we head south to explore the beautiful coastal provinces on the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, visiting interesting fishing villages. We ride through the stunning mountain scenery, take a speed boat to the island of Koh Samui, where snorkeling in the crystal clear water is possible right from the beach.
Explore Sri Lanka Dates: 17-26 March, 2017 Cost: $6990 (includes $2500 in fundraising) Beneficiaries: Patients at Epworth HealthCare A land of misty highlands and tea plantations, dense jungles and national parks, Sri Lanka is a truly amazing country to explore. From the palm fringed west coast, we travel to Pinnawala to witness large herds of Elephants before exploring the ancient caves of Dambulla. We continue to the rock fortress of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa ‑ the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, before heading to the hill town of Kandy with its splendid botanical gardens and lush tea plantations. We then travel to the colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya before enjoying a walk in the Horton Plains, the only National Park in the hill country and view of the Baker’s Falls Water Falls. We continue to Ella and undertake two challenging climbs of Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock before continuing to the Uda Walawe National Park. Our trip ends with a visit to the Southern coast at Ahangama before returning to Colombo via the port city of Galle. A stunning exploration of Sri Lanka staying in lovely character filled hotels.
Nepal Poon Hill Trek Dates: 13-26 October, 2017 Cost: $6440 (includes $2500 in fundraising)
Beneficiaries: Cancer patients at Epworth HealthCare This trek encompasses all the highlights you would expect from a trek in the Annapurna range. Beginning in the foothills we trek through delightful villages and rural landscapes where we take in the local way of life. Making our way to Poon Hill we are rewarded with the stunning panorama of the Annapurnas at sunrise. From here we depart the main trail to complete a more remote traverse above the Annapurna Circuit, all the while accompanied by stunning mountain views as we make our way to Nayapul and the end of a very memorable trek in the Himalaya.
How it works Each Epworth Charity Challenge is hosted by Epworth Medical Foundation, and all funds raised are used to support patients at Epworth HealthCare, by funding important services, new equipment, and facility upgrades. There is a minimum fundraising target to participate in an Epworth Charity Challenge, which will cover the cost of your adventure and ensure that funds are raised for our patients. However, you are always welcome to contribute MORE than the minimum, and can rest assured that all funds will directly help patients. If you decide to go down the fundraising or sponsorship paths, Epworth Medical Foundation will help you with a number of resources and ideas to make sure that this is easy and stress-free. To get involved or seek more information, simply visit www.emf.org.au or contact Kathryn Johnston via email kathryn.johnston@epworth.org.au or phone 03 9426 6359.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Left: Vietnam Veteran Mr David Hay and Tia Cummins, Austin Hospital.
Research into PTSD –
C
Volunteers needed!
ommunications Manager, Gabrielle Forman recently met with researcher and PhD Candidate Tia Cummins at the Austin Hospital to find out more about studies into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
In order to complete the studies Tia needs volunteers between the age of 60 and 85, who have had PTSD since their 20s/30s.
Prompted by RWBro. John Austin of Comacine-Acanthus Lodge No. 400, who had given a very informative talk to members of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Lodge No. 921 about the disorder, Gabrielle endeavoured to find out as much as she could in an effort to help with the studies.
• 50 with PTSD • 50 with head injury (with or without PTSD) i.e. veterans with a history of a head injury: this includes any head injury that was sustained during service, whether it’s combat, fall, or sports related. This includes anyone who lost consciousness for seconds/minutes/hours/ days, or those who stayed conscious, but felt dizzy or confused after the injury. • 50 with no PTSD or head injury. The volunteer will take part in a medical interview with a psychiatrist, a memory
Tia, who is located in the Molecular Imaging & Therapy Unit is working hard to establish possible links with those with PTSD (with or without a head injury) and the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease.
The studies will be conducted in the following way: There will be 3 groups making up 150 veterans
assessment, and have 3 PET scans and 1 MRI.
Then, in 18 months, another memory assessment will be conducted. Tia has so far recruited 85 of the 150 volunteers needed. The PTSD group is nearly full so the focus is on the head injury group, and the group without PTSD/head injury. If you think you may be able to assist Tia with her studies, please contact Gabrielle Forman by email at gforman@ freemasonsvic.net.au. For further information about the studies visit: http://brainpet.org/read-me/ For further information about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder visit: http://phoenixaustralia. org/?s=PTSD
Autumn 2016 Freemasonry Victoria 19
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Welcome to the Happy Masons Shop We are committed to providing a one-stop online masonic shop so you can browse and safely purchase quality new and collectable masonic items at ‘real value for money’ prices. We have literally hundreds of items and are acquiring more stock all the time!
When you need Regalia, now or in the future, you can rely on The Happy Masons Shop! We offer the best possible quality at the lowest cost anywhere in Australia. We are in partnership with Bro John Hiatt who makes all our Regalia for EAFs and for several Grand Masters by hand.
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John Fowler, General Manager of Le Pine Funerals with staff members of the Masonic Lodge.
Victorian Freemasons have been relying on Le Pine for more than 100 years. So it is reassuring to know that we have a dedicated team that can help you in a time of need. John Fowler - Glen Waverley WBro. Rod Sampson - Glen Waverley WBro. Brian Bennett - Glen Waverley RWBro. Trevor Burkitt - Mordialloc WBro. Daimon Whitmore - Glen Waverley Bro. Damian Magee - Glen Waverley Bro. Simon Braid - Glen Waverley
(03) 8587 5700 (03) 8587 5700 (03) 8587 5700 (03) 8580 8447 (03) 8587 5700 (03) 8587 5700 (03) 8587 5700
www.lepinefunerals.com.au Australian Owned | 24 Hours | All Areas | Prearranged Funerals