Freemason Forty Years of Freemasons Scholars - NEW ZEALAND - Freemasons NZ
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Freemason NEW ZEALAND Issue 2 (Vol. 46), June 2018 Forty Years of Freemasons Scholars www.freemasonsnz.org
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In this issue From the Editor 2 Forty years on: Hot Off the Press 3 The 2018 College Grand Master’s visits 3 of Scholars 20 Grand Master 4 Roll call of scholars 22 Speaking Up and building The privilege of reply: on our success Julia Plank 26 President of the Board 4 The second year of the Lawson-Smith Freemasons Building a future Education Trust Scholarships 27 Executive Director 5 Forging careers 28 Help is at hand A passionate News clips 6 volunteer 30 Have Your Say 8 Cooling a hot problem 32 A tribtute to MWBro Heartland Bank Dan Holmes, Freemasons Scholars Past Grand Master 10 2018 33 Speak Up for Freemasonry 12 THE FREEMASONS Tell them your story CHARITY Where have all the projects gone? 34 FREEMASONS Funding now available for publicity IN ACTION University appreciation! 35 Timaru Freemasons Centre Re-dedication and a smoking hot donation! 14 Mythbusters 36 Lodge Katikati No 295 hosts NZ Male Choir 15 An initiates charity connection 37 Masonic Winter food top up! 15 The Freemasons Foundation 38 Dunedin Masonic Charity Bowls 16 A ‘seniority’ of grand masters 40 The Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari 2018 16 The Masonic Villages Trust 42 Freemason support to Tauranga Boys’ College Robotics Club 17 Royal Arch 44 Ride of Respect 2018 18 Band of Brothers 18 Some of our newest The Vacant or Empty Chair Freemasons 46 Ceremony 19 New initiates 47 Freemasons a lifesaver for The Last Word! 48 Kapiti Coastguard 19 Service awards 49 Lodge Dunstan has a new mosaic pavement 19 COVER Five Psychology Scholars rising up the steps to a baby-friendly Parliament. From bottom: Leith Pugmire with her 3-month old baby, Apriel Jolliffe Simpson, Gina Broom, Rebecca Graves and Kim Doncaster. Neil Mackenzie www.freemasonsnz.org 1
FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND National Office From the Editor Unit 2, 22 Tacy Street Kilbirnie, Wellington 6022 PO Box 6439, Marion Square Wellington 6141 I hope you are all warm and well but keeping an eye out for New Zealand those who might need our assistance over the winter period. Ph: +64 4 385 6622 There are two very different sides of the coin, in relation to Fax +64 4 385 5749 the elderly, Elder Abuse Verses Elder Care. Email: membership@freemasonsnz.org One side of the coin is sadly Elder Abuse: communications@freemasonsnz.org This is serious and we all need to be on the look-out for www.freemasonsnz.org abuse and make sure we report it. One of Freemasonry’s guiding principles is caring for others The New Zealand Freemason is the official journal of the and especially the elderly. Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. Unless otherwise indicated, the opinions expressed and the An interesting and informative video from Office for advertising content are those of the authors and do not Seniors New Zealand can be found at http://bit.ly/seniorsvid necessarily reflect the policy of Grand Lodge. or on the Freemasons New Zealand website and social media Articles appearing in this journal may be reproduced http://bit.ly/seniorsvidfnz without permission provided acknowledgement of the Another side of the coin is Elder Care: source is made and a copy of the publication is forwarded Did you know? that Freemasons look after the 3500 widows to the Grand Secretary (secretary@freemasonsnz.org). of former members and their families, Freemasons provide Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution regulars gifts to widows (this year our ‘random act of kind- should be addressed to membership@freemasonsnz.org or the Executive Director, PO Box 6439, Marion Square, ness’ is a petite electric torch key ring) and assistance to older Wellington 6141. Queries and comments regarding content members, widows and their families, when required, from The and advertising should be addressed to the Editor. Freemasons Charity and from our Lodges. Contributions to the magazine, preferably in electronic Did you also know? that we have Charitable Masonic Elder form (e.g. MS Word documents) are greatly appreciated Care Trusts that look after many hundreds of New Zealanders and should be of interest to a wide audience. Photographs (most of whom have no masonic connection) in 33 Villages, should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tif format. with nearly 1200 villas, units and care beds within care facilities Contributions may be edited in order to fit space available and with further expansion planned. and to achieve overall balance. Letters to the Editor As Freemasons we should always be looking for something should not exceed 300 words. A guidance sheet for to say … preparation of publishable material is available on request Here are some things masonic that ‘Speak Up’ for from the Editor. Contributions should be forwarded to communications@freemasonsnz.org Freemasonry in New Zealand. Scholarships – Both national and local Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, Editor communications@freemasonsnz.org Neurology – Medical Research into degenerative brain dis- eases at Auckland University Royal Arch contributions to Geoff Davies, merlin81@xtra.co.nz Paediatrics – Infant and childhood diseases with Medical Fellowships at Otago University Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the Elder Care – Extensive Masonic Villages with a charitable first day of February, May, August and November ethos Layout by Bartlett Projects, Wellington Widows and Older Brethren – Care, interest and loving Printed by Fisher Print Ltd, Palmerston North kindness extended by Lodges and The Freemasons Charity Copyright © 2018 Freemasons NZ Lodge and District Projects – what you are doing at a local level to connect and help your community as Freemasons. ADVERTISING RATES PER ISSUE I hope that this issue contains lots to inform, educate and de- Description Height Width Base price Discounted light you as readers in the area of education, what we are doing (4 Issues) in our communities as Freemasons, what our major Charities and Elder Care Trusts are doing and a magazine full of inter- Full page 240mm 175mm $1250 $1000 esting articles. Half page 240mm 85mm $650 $500 VWBro Duane Williams MBE, JP, KLJ, GSec (vertical) Half page 120mm 175mm $650 $500 (horizontal) Banner 75mm 175mm $350 $250 Quarter page 120mm 85mm $350 $250 All figures GST exclusive. For full advertising details contact Duane hard at work for communications@freemasonsnz.org Freemasons New Zealand during his five-week holiday in Goa, India. 2
Hot Off the Press New Central and Freemasons New Zealand new national office Northern Division ‘Speaking up for Freemasonry’ Appointees on the Board Is your Lodge Building ‘Speaking Up for floor frontage and bold imagery near of General Purposes Freemasonry’? Wellington Airport. National Office is now well and truly Show us a photo of your Lodge WBro Geoff Davies PGD and VWBro out in the community and ‘Speaking ‘Speaking Up for Freemasonry’ and Mike Hattie PDistGM have been appoint- Up for Freemasonry’ with its fantas- while you are at it ‘Speak Up’ yourself ed to the Board of General Purposes and tic suburban location, with ground with a member of the public today. their first Board Meeting was on 13 June 2018 in Wellington at the Freemasons new National Office. New Zealand Geoff brings to the National Office Board a strategic per- New… spective as well expertise Physical address: in the areas of commu- Unit 2, 22 Tacy St, nications, public affairs, Kilbirnie, Wellington 6022 relationship and media management. Remaining the same… Mike brings a keen Postal address: business acumen and an PO Box 6439, analytical and detail-ori- Marion Square, ented approach to the Wellington 6141 Board. Telephone: 04 385 6622 We wish them well in their impor- Fax: 04 385 5749 tant task of providing governance for Freemasonry in New Zealand. A ‘random act of kindness’ Our widows are again receiving a ‘random gift will go out to our 3500 Lodge wid- act of kindness’ from The Freemasons ows throughout New Zealand. Charity, via Lodge Almoners, which will Lodges usually arrange for separate be sent shortly for distribution immedi- Christmas gifts for their widows and this ately to all Lodge widows. special gift makes for a great way to have This year the gift is, a petite solar elec- a mid-year catch up with their widows. tric torch keyring, perfect for a purse or The Freemason Charity continues to handbag (and a great winter item). The assist Lodges with its tradition of caring. GRAND MASTER’S VISITS 8 May Freemasons University Scholarships, 12 Jun The Pakuranga Lodge No 416, Two 3 Jul Lodge Papakura No 56, 50 Year Grand Hall, Parliament 60 Bars to VWBro Alan Bevins PGLec Service Badge MWBro Ian Ross PGM, 26 May United Forces Lodge No 245, and WBro Jim Laurenson RH and one WBro James Ross, South Auckland Musical Third Degree, Christchurch 50 Year Badge to WBro Morrin Cooper 3–5 Aug United Grand Lodge of NSW & PGD and promotions, Auckland ACT, Grand Installation, Sydney 9 Jun Re-dedication of Freemasons Centre, after being damaged by fire, Timaru 17 Jun Otago Masonic Charitable Trust Annual Presentations, Freemasons Centre, Dunedin www.freemasonsnz.org 3
GRAND MASTER PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD Speaking Up and Building a future building on our success A s I write this column, I am mindful that I am mid-way through my term delivering, and each one of us, by talking about our Lodges, is raising profile and attracting men of calibre to our ranks. W ith the second half of 2018 underway it is a good time to look at as Grand Master. A chance While I am keen to ensure that, each where we are and where to reflect on progress to day, we continue to Speak Up about we can get to. Looking at date, and to prepare for our Lodges, I am also planning for the information we have its what lies ahead. Freemasonry in the middle to longer safe to say we can see positive trends 18 months ago the Speak Up For term. Our current strategic plan will emerging, indicating a growing stability Freemasonry campaign was launched, expire later this year, so we need to start in Freemasonry here in New Zealand. which started a debate in Lodges about planning for and thinking about the next There is an array of efforts to attribute what we could say, who we might say it stage of the journey. I have engaged the this towards, perhaps most notable is to, and how we might handle any interest Board in discussions about a vision as ‘Speak Up’ for Freemasonry. It’s not easy that was generated. Nervous times when to how Freemasonry in New Zealand working to change fundamental per- we started to Speak Out and so the “Plain might look in 20 years time, which led to spectives on our culture, but evidently English Guide” and “Simple Answers” preparing for a five year plan building on our efforts are starting to yield positive booklets were prepared and distributed the success of the Speak Up campaign. results. With this in mind it is impor- to help fill a void. Brethren around New The fruits of Speaking Up are starting tant to note that whilst we are certainly Zealand embraced the idea – we started to appear so we need to bed that concept building momentum towards a stronger Speaking Up about our Lodges and into our strategy, and to build on the presence in our communities, we have a Freemasonry – and candidates were ap- base that has been created. I have asked way to go. This is why I think it appro- pearing in increasing numbers. the Divisional Grand Masters to gather priate to acknowledge the efforts we have A social media angle on Speak Up input from their brethren so we have made so far, and ensure the momentum was trialled and proved successful and wide consultation before any 5 year plan keeps building. so now that too is being employed more is compiled. This will ensure the final Speaking of change, effort, and mo- widely. I sense there has been a funda- product has broad input and contains a mentum, a warm welcome is due to our mental change in our thinking such direction building on the current success two new board members, Mike Hattie that we are now more willing to talk to of the Speaking Up concept, allowing for and Geoff Davies. Mike brings a strong friends and colleagues about our pride desirable enhancements and improve- business acumen and depth of analytical in Freemasonry and the enjoyment we ments, but without any sudden or abrupt skills, and Geoff has a wealth of experi- derive from participating in our Lodges. change. I expect the consultation in ence in the domain of communications, It is still early days, but I can see in Divisions to be undertaken with urgency public relations, and developing strategic the statistics a clear reduction in the as the new five year strategy needs to be previous rate at which membership had signed off by 31 December this year. been falling, and in some areas there are Momentum continues to build, results positive signs of net growth. Once clear are starting to be seen across the country, trends have been confirmed, we will pro- so let us all continue to be proud and vide the statistics but for the time being I loud about our Lodges…and every day am confident our Speak Up campaign is in every way Speak Up For Freemasonry. 4 www.freemasonsnz.org
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Help is at hand perspective. Given our current focus as an organisation I cannot think of a better duo to be welcomed to the board. I look B etween this magazine and the last there has been a significant change members in your Lodge, and with these members a new vigour and interest in all it is Freemasonry holds and offers. forward to working further with Mike at National Office. I am re- It is no secret we are looking at new and Geoff in the coming months. ferring to the recent shift in ways of reaching out to potential mem- Speaking of which, we have recently premises, from a sixth-story bers, the best example of this is social had a weekend long strategic planning office space to a ground level open floor media. In other words, we are asking session at National Office. The goal of building. What guided this decision Lodges to leverage new technologies to this weekend was to get a footing when it was the drive to be more engaged with communicate with their communities, to comes to setting viable short to long term the community, now National Office find new members, to grow. In the scope strategic goals. An important part of has a face and an easily accessible loca- of Freemasonry such an approach has success in this process is making sure we tion instead of being in a generic office never been done before. Word of mouth have an informed perspective. Critical to building. The process around the shift has carried our Fraternity for hundreds this is giving a chance for all to have their had many elements, deciding where staff of years, and here we are using algo- say when it comes to Freemasons New would sit, what would be stored out in rithms to interact and engage in ways not Zealand as an organisation. You may or the back and what would be on display? possible 10 years ago, let alone 100. may not have come across surveys from What about the need for new furniture? Just as important as new technologies National Office on an array of topics, How much space do we really need? Or is a strong unity in Lodge when it comes regardless you will likely be asked to give perhaps most importantly, how do we to Speaking Up. We might be able to your perspective soon. move everything? All these questions open the door to the local community, The recent strategic weekend also and variables were not without appre- but if there is not a strong impression involved a great deal of analysis, from hension and the answers came slow and that can be left from Lodge members a financial, membership, and charitable steady. It has been, and still is, a journey. then perhaps the door was best left perspective. Whilst this is not the place Whilst the bulk of the shift is complete closed. Each and every member plays a to go into details about the numbers, I there will still be some time before we are role in Speaking Up and a Lodge is the am confident Freemasonry will end 2018 settled in at our new location. sum of all. With this in mind, working in a better place that it entered. Reflecting Reflecting on this I get a sense moving for effective growth in any Lodge pre- on this year so far, I am happy with what is not unlike what it might be like for sents an opportunity to strengthen its in- has taken place and look forward to Lodges wanting to proactively change, ternal member and external community what’s to come. Lodges wanting to Speak Up and engage connections with their local communities. Where At National Office we understand this does a Lodge begin? What are the key is no easy transition to make. This is why steps it needs to take to build momen- our focus is to help you every step of tum? What about the specific roles your way through this journey. We have and responsibilities members need to staff dedicated to helping you under- take? What does a successful outcome stand how these new technologies work, look like? Like moving, the process of and making sure any Lodges enthusi- Speaking Up can bring uncertainty and asm for Speaking Up is met with equal apprehension, remember it is a journey. enthusiasm for success in Freemasonry. With all journeys it is important to have We are here to help and if you feel your some idea of a destination, something to Lodge is ready for a Journey please email guide each step of the way. Perhaps the feedback@freemasonsnsnz.org and we most straightforward destination is new can start this process. www.freemasonsnz.org 5
New Zealand News clips for Freemasonry’ - Awareness Project Australian Grand Installations ember 2016 Forty-Eight Freemasons Master for the Installation and their partners and of MWBro Dr Neil Jensen. families accompanied our Two more Grand Grand Master MWBro Instal lations are com- 2018 Queen’s Mark Winger to the Grand ing up in Australia to Birthday Honours Installation for the United which our Grand Master Grand Lodge of Victoria MWBro Winger invites all Freemasons New Zealand congrat- (Freemasons Victoria) in Freemasons and their part- ulates the following brethren on Melbourne over the long ners to accompany him, their Queen’s Birthday Honours, weekend of 6–9 April with the United Grand from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2018 for the Installation of Lodge of New South Wales II, Queen of New Zealand. MWBro Keith Murray as and Australian Capital WBro James Henderson their new Grand Master. Territory (Freemasons Drummond QSM, RH of The weekend involved a NSW & ACT) in Sydney on Wellington was awarded the Grand Installation and 3–5 August 2018 and the Queen’s Service Medal, for services a Royal Arch Grand Grand Lodge of Western to swimming. Jim is a member of Proclamation. Australia (Freemasons New Zealand Pacific Lodge No 2 This was followed a cou- WA) in Perth on 25–28 FOR FOR and has his 70 Year Service Bar and ple of weeks later, on 20–23 October 2018. FREEMASONRY is a Roll of Honour Freemason. FREEMASONRY April 2018 with the Grand Installation of Details for both these Grand Instal Bro Hatete Joe Manukau QSM of the Grand Lodge of South Australia and lations have been sent to Lodges but Katikati, was awarded the Queen’s the Northern Territory (Freemasons SA you can request details Invitation, Service Medal, for services to Fire & NT) in Adelaide with a smaller dele- Registration and Accommodation from and 2Emergency Greyscale New Zealand and gation of 3seven Blackaccompanying the Grand communications@freemasonsnz.org the community. Joe is a member of Lodge Katikati No 295 and has his 25 Year Service Award. TOP Grand Master Mark Winger tries out the SA & NT Grand Master’s chair. ABOVE Official photo of the New Zealand delegation in Adelaide. LEFT Some of the New Zealand FOR FREEMASONRY delegation in Melbourne. FOR FREEMASONRY 5 Horizontal open 6 Horizontal reversed A moving farewell – the Memorial Service for Sheila Hicking A Memorial Service for Sheila Hicking, the former Administrator of The Freemasons Charity, was held last Friday at the Cosmopolitan Club in Upper Hutt with Freemasons from throughout New Zealand in attendance. A lovely lady who did so much for masonic benevo- lence in New Zealand and beloved by all Freemasons who knew her. The Freemasons Charity donated FOR FOR $1000 to TeFREEMASONRY Omanga Hospice in Sheila's FREEMASONRY name. Her Freemasons Eulogy can be found on our website: www.freemasonsnz.org 8 Light blue 9 White Colour palette Dark blue Gold 6 www.freemasonsnz.org c10 m40 y100 k0 c100 m68 y0 k50 r0 g49 b104 r228 g160 b37
Where in the world No 2 Where in the world No 1 A meeting of 15 Freemasons from around the world aboard the Sapphire Gruyeres Princess sailing between Phuket and This medieval town situated at the top Colombo on Easter Sunday. We had 6 of an 82m hill overlooking an upper from around Australia, 4 from different valley of the Saane River in the canton of parts of the United Kingdom plus one Fribourg in western Switzerland has giv- brother from an English lodge working en its name to the world famous Gruyere in Germany, two from the United States Cheeses. The town dates from a Roman of America, one from Canada and myself settlement in the 2nd and 3rd centuries with the magazine. with the castle that dominates the town Later we got together with our wives being built around the 1130s by the first on a Gala evening for dinner all dressed Count Gruyere. He apparently took in our best. A very friendly group. his name from a large bird, the crane Robin Hickman PM (in French grue), one of which he had caught with his bare hands. The crane features on the heraldic Coat of Arms for his dynasty and for the town. Colin Heyward Crossword solution 2019 GRAND INSTALLATION Our September issue of the magazine will so that the cost of attending is spread We have a couple of pleasant contain the Registration Form and we between now and then. surprises which will be announced in will also have an online portal open for A fantastic programme is planned the September issue of the New Zealand Electronic registration as well. This will on our Grand Installation weekend for Freemason magazine. have all the costs along with accommoda- Freemasons and their Partners including; Remember, any Freemason and their tion and insurance options. This is nearly A ‘Welcome’ Function, Ladies Function, partner (including Master Masons, Fellow 14 months ahead of the Grand installation Business Session*, Grand Installation*, Grand Crafts and Entered Apprentices) or wherever which is 15–17 November 2019. Banquet, Church Service and ‘Farewell’ you are on your masonic journey, can attend Members will have the opportunity to Lunch. Except for the Business Session and this triennial gathering of Freemasons from plan for time payments over that period Grand Installation which are free* – all other throughout New Zealand which includes events are pay per function for attendance. visitors from other parts of the world. www.freemasonsnz.org 7
HAVE YOUR SAY A Token Symbol The symbols that are associated with masonic emblem of some description to symbol their reactions Freemasonry are known across the advertise more often? can be mixed, but this globe, by many; as they have been used It could be as simple as a masonic is a perfect opportunity by Hollywood to sell films and countless pin on your collar. There are numerous to educate the misinformed and to pro- authors to sell their books, but how often versions of pins and badges out there on voke a conversation with the curious. are these same symbols used by us indi- the market (most of them seem There may well be times that you vidually to promote freemasonry here in to originate from the USA) they are approached by someone, New Zealand. How many members wear come in all shapes and sizes who you have known for some a masonic symbol on a regular basis? A and from various materials. time and yet they had no idea couple of people may wear a masonic The history of pins dates back that you were both members of ring, there may even be the odd em- almost as long as the craft the craft. So many times I hear broidered jumper out there, but are we itself. During the second world that “oh that’s a freemason pin utilising symbolism to its full potential? war, freemasons within occupied isn’t it, my father (or my grandfa- Just imagine if every freemason used a Europe would wear the forget-me-not ther) was a member of that” in this sit- pin (allegedly Hilter’s favourite Flower) uation you might ask a simple question to secretly show that they were members like ‘have you not thought of becoming of the craft, this in a time were a member yourself ’? membership of Freemasonry You will be surprised by the meant certain imprisonment number of people who notice and possibly even death. The that you are proudly wearing a broken pillar pin is traditionally masonic emblem and we should given to the widows of the lodge be proud. It may be small display, so that they may be recognised as but it can make a big difference, in such. promoting the Craft. So, I invite you Pins cost as little as $5, this has to be make wearing a masonic pin part of your the simplest and most cost effective way normal public routine and be proud to to heighten the profile of Freemasonry speak up. here within New Zealand. When people Sam Rowntree recognise that you are wearing a masonic A thank you Women Speak Up too Greetings to The Freemasons Charity, This year Freemasons University and understanding we are giving them, Scholarships were awarded to fifteen our female scholarship recipients will I am writing to thank you and express women and twelve men, although the become advocates for their male family my appreciation for the generous previous year’s award favoured a male members to enquire about the wider Freemasons University Scholarship. I majority. Lawson-Smith Veterinary activities of Freemasonry. am still very humbled and grateful to Scholarships were awarded to four wom- Charity and education form the have been selected as a recipient of your en and one man. Occasionally, grumbles cornerstones of Freemasonry. Support scholarship. emerge about the awards to women on for education goes far beyond that of Both the regional and national pres- the grounds that, as they cannot become the study ancient history. It is also the entation ceremonies were very special Freemasons, these funds are not well means whereby Freemasonry, through and I would like to thank all those in- applied. its Scholarship Alumni, can openly volved. It provided a great opportunity Looking at it from another perspec- and proudly exert its influence far and to learn more about the amazing work of tive, with the increasing profile due to wide. Who could have imagined that other recipients. I was also able to learn the Speak Up campaign and the casting the award of a scholarship to a young more about the values of an organisation off of the historical shackles of secrecy, Jacinda Ardern in 2001 would have had which is not only supporting my pursuit many women have come to appreciate such far-reaching consequences for our of education, but also that of many other Freemasonry’s contribution to the com- country? New Zealanders. munity and will speak up for it and en- Morris Robertson I thank you once again for your sup- courage participation by their partners port and hope to be able to give back to and sons. Likewise, with the knowledge the community and support others as you have for me. Many thanks. A Freemasons University Scholarship 2018 recipient 8 www.freemasonsnz.org
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A tribute to MWBro Dan Holmes, Past Grand Master Freemasons New Zealand acknowledges the passing on 4th April 2018 of Daniel Mearns Holmes (Dan), QSO. He was in his 87th year. MWBro Holmes had a most distinguished Masonic career. He was initiatied in Ikaroa Lodge in the Taranaki District in 1954 and passed and raised in 1955. He enjoyed a number of Grand Lodge ranks in the 70’s and 80’s culminating in his appointment to Grand Master in 1994. He was awarded a 60 Year bar to his 50 Year jewel in 2014. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. Rest now Brother, your work here is done. B orn in 1932 and educated at Pihama Primary School, then Opunake High School where, recognised as a lead- a member of the RSA since 1965. Created a Justice of the Peace in 1971, he was also a marriage celebrant for many years. Dan position he has held since its inception in 2006. The new Opunake Health Centre under construction is to open in March er, he was chosen as Head Prefect, Dan has served on numerous committees. He next year. In Freemasonry Dan achieved excelled in sports and represented the was Chairperson of the Opunake Cottage the highest pinnacle becoming Grand Taranaki Colts and Taranaki B team in Resthome Trust. Other organisations Master (for New Zealand) from 1994–96. rugby. He was the third generation of his with which he has been involved inclued Dan was awarded the Queen’s Service family to farm 411 acres in Watino Road, St John’s Ambulance and the Cancer Order (QSO) in 1988 and in 1990 the Pihama, breaking it into productive Society. He was also a Civil Defence NZ Commemorative Medal (NZCM) for dairy farm land. Dan Holmes’ long list County Warden. Dan was also an elected services to New Zealand, the public and of achievements rnged over many fields. member of the Taranaki Hospital Board, the community. These included politics – he was a drum- later the Taranaki Area Health Board, Until his death Dan was chairman mer in the Auroa Pipe Band, and later occupying the position of Chairperson and partner-owner of the Pacific drum major. Dan’s colourful history in- from 1983–91; from 1991–93 he was the International Hotel Management School cluded eleven years in the Armed Forces Government-appointed Commissioner at Bell Block. in the Territorials where he attained the of the THB. Dan is currently Chairperson Dan Holmes 60 years as a member rank of Temporary Captain. He has been of the CoastalCare Health Trust, a of Opunake’s Ikaroa Masonic Lodge, was marked at a special function held at Sandfords Events Centre on Sunday November 23, 2014, 60 years to the day since Dan joined the organisation. He was presented with his award by his son – also called Dan – after he de- livered a moving tribute to his father. As he attached the special pin to his father’s lapel and those present rose in a standing ovation followed by a rousing rendition of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow”, a vis- ibily moved Dan senior seemed lost for words. “I don’t know what to say,” he said. Around 90 people from all over the North Island, including the Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge John Litton, attend- ed the occasion. Other dignitaries present Dan and Lois Holmes, from The Freemason in 1994. 10 www.freemasonsnz.org
A FRIEND REMEMBERS DAN AT PEGASUS DAYLIGHT LODGE B rethren this is not a eulogy as such, but simply my experiences of a man who was respected by all whom he came organist Bro George Watt. Now George had long received the bar to his 50th year jewel and Dan pointed out that some of GM was especially poignant for me as it was the final evening that I received my Roll of Honour. I felt absolutely over- in contact. He was always easy of address George’s actions had been rather peculiar whelmed by the presentation and more and had a wonderful ability of putting lately. Dan cautioned me that if George particularly that Dan was one of the first people at ease. He joined Lodge lkaroa in turned up he may well treat me a little to congratulate Margaret and I, thanking 1954 to sit with his father. He became the differently. You may understand how the us both for our efforts over the years in Worshipful Master in 1965. chickens feel, when the fox arrives. Just Freemasonry. I first encountered Dan as a young tell him that you chose to assist until he Joking and teasing was always part 2nd Lieut. in our last summer camp of arrived and find another seat. Bro Watt of Dan’s greeting and because our farm our Compulsory Military Training days arrived rather late and events transpired was chosen as the first oil exploration at Hellwan, Waiouru in the summer of just as Dan had suggested. well site in 1978 by the Government’s 1959. In his earlier years he learned the When Dan became the Provincial Petrocorp, he would often greet me as side drum to play in the Aurora Pipe Grand Master in 1972, he embraced the Bunker Hunt the famous oil baron from Band and combined his military interests good fraternal relations with the three USA. I retained that name up to 2000 to become a drill judge at the various sister constitutions that most of the past when we left to come south, but in 2015 contests. There was no doubt he was born Prov. GM had. I can recall that when the I visited Dan with WBro Bob Jagger of to be a leader. Grand Lodge of New Zealand was admit- Lodge Whangamomona and right from As with many lodges, he filled the ted into Lodge Hinemoa S.C. to the tune the moment he first greeted us he said, various offices when the gaps occurred, “Oh Danny Boy” he would instinctively “Bunker: I thought you were way down which included Master during the early remain stoic for as long as possible and in the South Island, but then again, I ’90s. This installation was both memo- finally glance at the organist with a beam- supposed you are still living on all those rable and quite amusing in that Dan had ing smile. royalties. asked me to understudy lkaroa’s aged MWBro Holmes had served on the Freemasonry has certainly become Taranaki Hospital Board for a number of part of my character and much of that years and became Chairman in the early is captured by meeting and working 1980s and it was under his watch that the with people as MWBro Daniel Mearns first of the Polytechnic Nurses graduated. Holmes. It certainly has been my pleasure. He took a great interest in those gradu- Brethren, I was indeed fortunate, ates as he knew many of them and their to have learnt a saying from an elderly families. Public sentiment was strongly Scottish Presbyterian in my home district opposed to such a radical change with which could be well applied to MWBro dire predictions of failure. But Dan was Dan Holmes who was also another good always in full support of the system. Presbyterian. “That service to your fellow His installation at the Wellington man is the rent we must pay to live on Communications was supported by God’s earth” members of all four constitutions from Prepared by WBro Malcolm J Johnson, Taranaki. He was a very popular figure Pegasus Daylight Lodge No 450 and we felt he belonged to us all. When and delivered on the observance the Grand Lodge Communications were of mourning for the passing of held in Taranaki in 1997 his presence as MWBro DM Holmes PGM included the mayor of South Taranaki about Freemasonry. “We do good in the “the measure of the man as a Freemason Ross Dunlop, and former Member of community but we don’t talk about it,” he is what he is prepared to give up to fulfil Parliament Shane Ardern. Prior to present- said. Quoting former US president Harry principles.” He described Dan Holmes as ing the award there were several speeches. Truman he said, “There is no limit to “a shining example of a freemason who Past president of the World the good men can do if somone doesn’t has led the way” and who has “served the Federation of the New Zealand Justice get credit for it.” He then went on to list community far beyond the call of duty.” Association Athony Israel QSM, JP envy, lust and sarcasm as among the WBro David Lusk, beginning the speeches, spoke a little undersirable traits in people and added Ikaroa Lodge No 115 www.freemasonsnz.org 11
Speak Up Is the tide turning? We all know Speak Up is a long-term project. There needs to be a lot of speaking up before we see the ultimate reward. But there are signs appearing that suggest your efforts at telling the world about Freemasonry are already producing a positive effect … Have a look at these national figures: INITIATIONS Number of initiations January–June 2017 80 January–June 2018 105 That’s a 24% increase in six months! So what could be causing this positive people today form their opinions in this of our University Scholarships presenta- change? One reason could be our way and speaking up on digital seems tions is solid evidence of the influence increasing use of digital media to tell to be paying off! digital can have. People do take note. We the Freemasonry story and how to get A 300% increase in social media ac- think it’s worth doing more. involved? There’s no doubt that many tivity around Freemasonry at the time Social media coverage April to May 2018. More promising signs National figures may not always be the Hutt Wairarapa In the 12 months to best way to look at things – it is always 30 June 2018, initiations have increased good to look at figures on a local level from 16 to 20 on the previous 12 months. and hear the stories behind them. That’s 25% up. And that’s after a drop of Consider the following from the 45% from two years earlier! Auckland and Hutt Wairarapa Districts: And here’s another possible indicator Auckland District January–May 2017: from Hutt Wairarapa: Total membership 7 Initiations, full year estimate: 31 and in the past 12 months has virtually lev- January–May 2018: 23 Initiations, In elled out. Compared to the downwards Pipeline: another 30 Initiations, movements over the last 5 years the Full year estimate: 53. That change last year was just 0.68%. is a 228% increase over the same period last year and a We guess there has been a fair amount of speaking We need YOU and every 2018 full year estimate up 71% on 2017. up going on in this District Well done Auckland. too! Keep it up Hutt Kiwi Freemason to make Wairarapa. Freemasonry great again! 12 www.freemasonsnz.org
Speak Up for Freemasonry is on TV FREEMASONRY FOR FOR FREEMASONRY Some said it couldn’t be done. But they It especially allows community groups reaction from Freemasons throughout didn’t take Barry Rushton‘s drive and 4ofSpeech all types the opportunity to put their bubble the country with an online 5 Horizontal open survey and enthusiasm into account. The PDist organisations on television and offers the results indicate at this early stage that it GM North Shore has made it happen. A facilities to produce the programmes. has been received well by members. national half-hour television Master programme With limited resources Barry and his colour variations Full marks for initiative and well bearing ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ team have worked very hard and used done to Barry and his workers who have as its title is being broadcast on SKY all their talents to find the funds to even brought Speak Up for Freemasonry to Channel 083 FACE TV. In a pilot series of begin to construct the programme. And television. five weekly episodes the first programme found it among themselves. Production Start watching. SKY Channel 083 every went to air on Thursday June 14. costs are many. Our own ‘stars’ on the Thursday at 8pm. If you miss out you Barry and a small group of similarly screen avoid the cost of ‘talent’ and are can watch On Demand at facetv.co.nz. determined Freemasons started on their working hard to capture the public imag- quest over two years ago to publicise ination! Grand Lodge Office is testing the Freemasonry through television and de- spite many hurdles their plan has come into being with the Speaking Up project being the perfect title. FOR FOR FREEMASONRY FREEMASONRY The programmes purpose is to pub- licise Freemasonry telling the story by using both our famous faces from histo- ry and the accomplished everyday men among our members in today’s world to 7 Gold 8 Light blue demonstrate its appeal. And FACE TV is the obvious Channel for the purpose. For ultra small spaces Colour p Barry Rushton PDistGM is the programme’s on-air host. Let your hat do the speaking up! 10 Small 11 Smaller 12 Smallest Our enterprising Freemasons from the field – giving you your opportunity to Southern climes have the gear that will speak up! spark the questions that Speaking up for Caps and beanies are available to Freemasonry is looking for – and you individuals or maybe your Lodge might can answer! arrange a bulk purchase for all your Just the thing to avoid needing to members. speak first but guaranteed to prompt lots Get all the details about quality, deliv- of questions in the street or at the sports ery and prices from: Caps (your Lodge name included) andy.wrighton@ xtra.co.nz The Havelock Lodge No 104 Beanies WBro Rowntree samrowntree42@hotmail.com Christchurch www.freemasonsnz.org 13
Freemasons in action Timaru Freemasons Centre Re-dedication and a smoking hot donation! Serving a local need Our Grand Master Mark Winger lead the District South Island Masonic Trust and The Midland Masonic Choir provided Re-dedication Ceremony of the Timaru The Freemasons Charity (with its usual some musical items and Freemasons, Freemasons Centre after it had previous- subsidy) provided 150 Smoke Alarms partners and friends came from around ly damaged by fire. (photoelectric with 10-year batteries) the South Island including the Sister Lodge Te Puni organises a variety show to fund bladder scanners It was appropriate that Midland to Fire and Emergency New Zealand in Constitutions and the Royal Arch. Masonic Charitable Trust, Sophia Street Timaru for use in homes in need. On Wednesday Car Park Trust, English5th March members of Lodge Te Puni presented two bladder scanners Constitution to the CEO of the Hutt Valley District Health Board. This was the result of a fundraising effort by the combined Lodges of the Hutt Valley. W. Bro TR McKenzie, Master of Lodge Te Puni, with W. Bro Ray Keenan presenting Graham Dyer, Hutt Valley DHB CEO with one of the two portable bladder scanners, looking on is Pete Chandler Hutt Valley DHB COO. BELOW A bladder scanner. A couple of Lodge members’ immediate family, who work for the DHB, had indicated that staff were fund Craft and outside, including his very own successful singing son and his Group, raising for equipment that was in short ‘The Auzzie Boys.’ A plethora supply for their Patients. The nurses of of acts was assembled, from Mapu Unit and the Community Health juggling, dancing (ballroom, Services had started selling cakes and rock-n-roll, traditional undertaking other fundraising efforts to Polish), musical acts and As always it was a tight knit team, purchase a bladder scanner. even the piping in of a Haggis with encompassing members of the Lodges The members then brought the Units’ the traditional address. Audience from the Hutt Valley, wives and partners, plight to the Lodges and a number of participation was encouraged and, and the nurses from the DHB that made Brethren also indicated that they had during intermission, food and drink was this occasion the success it was. Thanks been hospitalised recently and had to available for purchase. are due for the support of local businesses, wait for the only scanner to become Along with some very sought after individuals and the performers along available for their treatment. prizes for raffles, the support for the with The Freemasons Charity for help Lodge Te Puni decided to hold a show was outstanding. The money raised in providing such necessary equipment Variety Show to raise funds to complete on the night was, with the help of The for the health and wellbeing of the wider the purchase of at least one bladder Freemasons Charity, able to purchase community. scanner. WBro Ray Keenan approached two bladder scanners valued at over WBro Mac McKenzie many talented artists both within the $13,000.00 each. Publicity for your community events – 3 steps Ensure someone is responsible Seize good photo Act quickly to spread the BEFORE DURING AFTER for publicity, arrange for opportunities, concentrate word, send press release and a photographer, plan on ‘action’ not ‘satisfaction’, captioned high resolution photographs, involve recipients get names for captions, make photo, focussing on a and find a hook that would notes. If media comes ensure newsworthy aspect to local interest local media. that they are looked after and media, district and divisional opportunities set up. newsletter and NZ Freemason. 14 www.freemasonsnz.org
Lodge Katikati No 295 hosts NZ Male Choir To show support for the move to “Speak undertook ticket selling and prepared the The Lodge has received plaudits from Up” the members of Lodge Katikati No Hall in time for the afternoon rehearsals the officers of the Male Choir, and the 295 in the Bay of Plenty District decided and dismantling the following day. Lodge is proud to have brought such to invite the NZ Male Choir to visit the A non-stop 2-hour programme pro- talent to its town. town and perform. vided the audience with a truly memo- As a result of the concert, the cam- An organising committee was set up rable evening and the feedback from the paign has meant the all the town and and with the invitation being accepted by community has been extremely positive. outer district have an appreciation of our the Choir, preparation began in ear- Lodge, the Male Choir left with a nest. For a small country Lodge this strong sense of achievement having was a big undertaking but the aims performed to a capacity crowd, the were to provide everyone involved audience witnessed our charitable with contact with Freemasonry side in passing profits to the Choir, through the local Lodge. written inserts in the programme A musical programme was com- gave an insight into Freemasonry, piled that would be readily received Lodge ladies were involved with by a mature aged audience and be floral tributes and support artists affordable, The Local town choir, gained deserved exposure. (Mural Town Singers) a violinist and Lodge Katikati members are a 14yr old soloist provided support proud to have achieved every aim acts for the Male Choir. planned and will ensure its name is Local businesses were fully sup- to the fore in Katikati. portive in selling tickets, displaying If any Lodge wishes to host the posters and providing staging NZ Male Choir, we are ready to help components, the local Lions club as- you with any information you may sisted with carpet, the RSA provided require. It’s a great way to “Speak the sound system. Lodge members Up” Masonic Winter food top up Lodge Erewhon No 200 Masonic mem- Lodge to have a top up as the food bank He said a number of the membership bers have recently conducted a winter has heavy demands by families during come from the Philippines where pov- food top up for the Salvation Army Food the cold months. erty and hunger is commonplace. There Bank. Funds were raised to purchase goods are no comparable organisations to our Master of the Lodge Jeffrey Sostinto from the membership and Thistle Lodge. foodbank so his relatives back home said winter was a good time for the Food gift cards were also given. manage on meagre rations and aid sent home to them from New Zealand. Jeffrey said the Lodge has some com- munity projects in mind for his term as Master including, giving blood to the Blood Bank, having a reading project for School Children and a Rubbish Clean up Drive. FROM LEFT Raymond, Noel Lowe, Salvation Army manager, Judith Lilley, Salvation Army volunteer, Catherine Harris, Alwyn Loquias, Master of Lodge Erewhon Jeffrey Sostinto and baby Chloe, Brian Reodique, Roland Bustamante and Teudulo Mendez. Noel Lowe www.freemasonsnz.org 15
Freemasons in action Dunedin Masonic Charity Bowls This year 2018 we had a lawn bowling which was thankfully received and faith- Dunedin received $1,500 for the day tournament, nothing new in that. We fully applied. Then at the presentation of which blew them away. had 14 teams, which equal 56 men and the prizes, one member of the winning Yes we spoke up for Freemasonry in women participating, nothing new in team gave his cash prize to the Hospice, word and deed, nothing new in that. We that. The day and greens were first class, which blew everyone away. Hospice in were content. nothing new in that. Sixteen businesses around the city donated gifts which were raffled for funds, nothing new in that. In fact there was nothing new at all, only put them altogether and we had fun galore. We gave $1,000 to The Otago Community Hospice. St Patrick’s Lodge No 468 IC came to the party with $500 Rob, Jim, Ben, Ian and Sam. The Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari 2018 A Freemason Team made up from From here battling a head wind found A final short break before the last 20 four different districts (including two it was difficult to maintain any kind of km’s along the coast, reaching Hokitika a divisional Grand Masters) took part in speed at all and that was before we even little over 9 hrs from the start. this year’s Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari. reached Porters Pass. Testing the gears I am pleased to report that all five The event involves riding 250 km’s and using all the power we could find team members and their machines ar- from Christchurch to Hokitika on 50cc we made our way steadily upwards at rived safely at the finish, albeit slightly Scooters to raise funds for the New little more than walking pace. The relief damp and feeling a little worse for wear. Zealand Cancer Society. It was billed as of making the summit evident on more The Six previous events raise just over “It’s not for the faint hearted” it certainly than one or two of the competitors faces. $789,000 and with the addition of this lived up to its reputation and it wasn’t A short break on the shores of Lake year’s event, an amazing $320,000 that just hard on the riders, as these tiny Lyndon, then on through the pass. It’s brings the figure up to a grand total of machines where pushed well beyond not until you attempt the ride through $1,109,000. With the money still coming anything they were designed for, made the Alps on a 50cc bike that you realise in they expect that figure to surpass evident by the steady rate of mechanical just how often the gradient changes. At $1,120,000. attrition throughout the day. least we got a chance to see the beauty There is still time for you as an indi- It began with two records for the Mike that road through mountains has on vidual or your lodge to make that figure Pero Motorsport Park, firstly the largest offer. even higher. So if you haven’t already number of motor vehicles ever recorded Lunch in Arthurs Pass village was very done so please donate what you can into racing at the same time (270) and second welcome. Unfortunately the thought it the events account, every little helps: the slowest race in the circuit’s history. being all downhill to the finish was short Widows Sons Charity Account Out on the open road our four man lived, as we first had to climb our way BNZ 02-0876-0001948-03 team made its way across the Canterbury to the head of the pass. Descending the plains and soon enough found the over the viaduct would be a test of nerve All money raised goes to the Cancer Sheffield Pie Shop and the first chance to on 30 years old bikes, on skinny tyres Society for scientific research and cancer refuel both man and machine. There was and poor brakes. With the rain setting patient support. even enough time for a little TLC for one in the road down to Kumara would offer For more photos visit the Safari of the bikes. a few more challenges before the end of Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ the day. scootersafari/ 16 www.freemasonsnz.org
Freemason support to Tauranga Boys’ College Robotics Club A message for the NZ Freemason mag- then score the base stations in various We setup a Facebook page at facebook. azine to shout out our boys’ success and zones around the playing field. com/tbcrc and Braden Smith worked on show what our sponsors are making The VEX season runs from April to a website to summarise the work of the possible. April, culminating in a world champi- Robotics Team and this can be viewed at onship event in Kentucky, USA. Our club https://bs17078.wixsite.com/robotics. 2017 saw the successful launch of started partway into the VEX season, There are some very established Robotics at Tauranga Boys’ College which meant that although we were teams in the NZ competition and we set thanks to generous funding from short on time, we were able to learn from ourselves modest goals for our first year. Kiwibots, Tauranga’s Masonic Lodges, the early season robots that other teams An early-season reconnaissance trip to e-Strategies, Brother and Tauranga Boys’ had revealed. watch a scrimmage in Auckland had the College (TBC). Our team of four had specific roles: team buzzing with ideas, and we were Our first team of four boys creat- a builder (William Bruning), program- stoked to take out 3rd place in a local ed a robot, affectionately known as mer (Joshua Badshah), and two drivers BOP scrimmage in September. Moonbeam, to take part in this year’s (Cesar Vargas-Tuerlings and Braden In December, the biggest robotics VEX EDR competition. The name of the Smith). In reality all of the boys learned competition ever held in the Southern game this year is “In the zone”, and the building skills and while Joshua pio- Hemisphere took place in Rotorua. robot needed to be able to pick up cones neered the coding, the rest of the team 300+ teams from 10 countries com- and put them on mobile base stations, were competent understudies. peted in the Asia Pacific Robotics Championships. Team Moonbeam excelled in our first outing with placing 20th overall and an additional 19th plac- ing in the special ‘Driver Skills’ category. To add to this, they were honoured with a trophy for the ‘Judges Award’ which was given to the most outstanding team for Sportsmanship, Attitude and Team Spirit. Huge thanks go to our teacher Annmarie Lawler, support teacher David Jackson, and parents Darren Bruning and Kathie Mackie-Smith for the awe- some support for the Robotics Team which wouldn’t have happened without their efforts. We’d also like to acknowl- edge the support of Paul & Toni de Rijk at the House of Science Robotics Club, Representatives of the Masonic Lodges in Tauranga after their $1,100 donation, topped up to for allowing us to join in their “build $1,500 by Nelson Tkatch (eSuccess Strategies), to the Tauranga Boys’ College Robotics Club. sessions” on Saturday mornings and who From left: Joshuah Badshah (year 12), William Bruning (year 10), Cesar Vargas-Tuerlings (year 9), Nelson Tkatch (Junior Warden), William Kennedy (Treasurer & Webmaster), Braden Smith (year have generously shared their robotics 9), John Denne (Lodge Master), Rodney Graham (Senior Steward), Ron Pibworth (Past Master), expertise with our team. Darren Bruning (Robotics Team Leader), John Lever (Secretary), Annmarie Lawler (English and Darren Bruning Design Teacher, Tauranga Boys’ College). HAVE YOUR SAY Write a letter to the Editor – preferably 300 words maximum. Submit an Opinion piece – 800 words plus a 100-word author biography, and a photo. www.freemasonsnz.org 17
Freemasons in action Ride of Respect 2018 The Ride of Respect is the Anzac cere- mony for the motorcycling community, where motorcyclists can pay tribute to our tri-service personnel. It is also an opportunity to raise funds to support Military Charities. The ride was first or- ganised back in 2010 in the UK, by two grandmothers who grandsons had been injured on active service. On that first ride over 22,000 motorcycles took part. Since 2014 many other countries around before forming up on mass, for the ride pleasure to be able to hand over $4480 the globe have hosted the event. It is the through the town centre then onto Oxford raised on the day. The United Forces Lodge privilege of the Widows Sons to host the and its Workingmen’s club via the Loburn working in conjunction the district char- Ride of Respect here in Christchurch. back road. The food this year was supplied ities officer were able to use the masonic As dawn broke on the morning of 22 by Oxford school (who raised over $1000) charity system (effectively doubling the April riders started to descend, slowly fill- and thanks to all of our sponsors over 70 funds to $8960) in aid of a local forces be- ing the carpark at The Papanui RSA. By 10 prices were given to the lucky ones. Our nevolence project. A further $1000 went to o’clock there would be a total of 365 riders. last stop would be The Templeton RSA a major national RSA project. The locations After the quick talk outlining the event where a lone Piper played and the group this year were marshalled by members of and a short safety briefing the group head- stood in silence listening to the last post the Freemasons who did a fantastic job, ed out. Cutting through the Christchurch play and hearing the Soldier Ode. ensuring that entrances remained clear traffic they soon found their way to The WBro BJ Clarke National President of and that everyone was welcomed. Great Rangiora RSA. A short stop to regroup, the RSA was present and it gave me great thanks must also go to the bike shops and businesses that supported the event, not to mention all who took part in the ride. Thank you all for your great support and the atmosphere you brought to the day. It was great to see the respect shown for the event both on and off the roads. For more photos and details go to the Ride of Respect New Zealand Facebook page. “Lest we forget” Band of Brothers The Anzac day parade in the town of the site of the mason apron was a mix- generic freemason flag in true in rank Rangiora was a little larger than normal ture intrigue and curiosity. (There is still and file. This unit of smartly dressed and this year to commemorate the one hun- a little mystery left within freemasonry, very distinguished members marched dred year anniversary of the end of the even in this world of total interweb with almost military precision as the Great War. It was the second year that knowledge). It was a great chance to music of the local pipe band filled the air. members of the Ashley Lodge (wearing engage in conversation regarding the It was great to see that so many had made there aprons with pride) had the oppor- merits of the craft. the effort to be a part of the parade. tunity to lay a wreath on the cenotaph This year it was decided to despatch As the last post sounded and the ma- during the Anzac ceremony. an invite for all brethren residing in or sonic flag was ceremonially lowered, it The wreath party headed the proces- near Rangiora to join in the parade. showed that we had lost family in those sion (just behind the band) with the two The result was that brethren from four terrible times and that the sacrifice made masonic representative’s positioned front different lodges, two districts and two by our brothers would not be forgotten. and centre. The reaction from many at constitutions assembled under a single After due respect the flag was slowly raised and held high as the procession moved back through the crowded streets back to the RSA. Our presence within the parade was noticed by a great many people and the bearing of our members during the day gives true testimony as to the strength of character found within the craft. 18 www.freemasonsnz.org
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