freemason oct04 - australija

2 FREEMASON OCTOBER 2004 FREEMASON OCTOBER 2004 3

M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T : To provide informative articles promoting an interest in Freemasonry, and giving a current view and future direction of the Craft in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

I N S E RT S : This magazine contains the following inserts: Working Tools, Masonic Youth Welfare Fund Charity Envelope.

C O V E R : Channel swimmer, Bro Warwick Heeson.

Across the English Channel 12

Quong Tart – Extraordinary Freemason 14

September Communication of Grand Lodge 15

Grand Re-Installation 17

Olympic Games – Golden or glorious 18

Order of the Amaranth 22

Profile – Derek Robson AM, Assistant Grand Master 23

Why do barristers wear robes? 24

The ABC of a good story 24

The Official Journal of

The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory

Grand Lodge Website:www.uglnsw.freemasonry.org.au

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

Chairman: RW Bro Alan Farrell

Committee: RW Bro Ted Simmons, RW Bro Graham Austin, VW Bro Wal Coombes, VW Bro David Standish, Bro Andre Fettermann, Mrs Pam Foster, Dr Yvonne McIntyre, RW Bro Graham Maltby (Secretary)

Ms Diana Chicchio, Corporate Media Consultant to this Grand Lodge, has been made available to assist in Committee deliberations.

FREEMASON is the official journal of The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons. Telephone: (02) 9267-9133.

The journal is published on 14 February, April, June, August, October and December. Deadline for copy is 1st of the month preceding month of issue.

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The SecretaryPublications CommitteeThe United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACTPO Box A259Sydney South, NSW 1235

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F E AT U R E A RT I C L E S

Foreword 3

Message from the Grand Chaplain 4

Have your say 5

masoniCare 20

Ladies 8

Masonic Crossword No. 16 29

Cartoon Corner 29

Service Certificates 30

R E G U L A R A RT I C L E S

R E G I O N A L R O U N D U P 6

14 18 23


F O R E W O R D

In examining Freemasonry’s place in the world today, MW Bro Stewart W Miner, a Past Grand Master of Virginia and currently Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, wrote as part of his Grand Secretary’s message in the Winter 2004 Voice of Freemasonry – ‘...for the better part of the four decades leading to the present, we have busied ourselves almost exclusively with the examination and identification of fraternal ailments. Almost everyone who is reasonably active in the Craft can, without prompting, recite an almost endless litany of Craft afflictions, capped, of course, with hand-wringing accounts of attendance and a declining membership. Address these symptoms, so it is said, and the Craft will be returned to good health and prosperity.

‘Thus far, however, most of our attempts to treat perceived issues have been unsuccessful. Not only have our endeavours fallen short of our aspiration but, in the process, the issues appear to have become ever more pervasive. If this be so, we need to look not to ministering to the treatment of the symptoms by the application and re-application of expensive remedial programs, but to the identification, treatment and containment of what may be a fundamental cause – the obvious lack of demonstrated interest in Masonry by Masons.

‘In my mind, my brethren, the return to the health of the Craft will depend, in the long run, not on quick fixes or gimmicks, but rather upon the fullest appreciation of the depth, or lack of depth, of the average member’s concern

Freemasonry in today’s worldIn examining Freemasonry’s place in the world today, there is a need to recognize that for many years, Freemasons the world over have busied themselves almost exclusively with the examination and identification of fraternal ailments.

for Masonry and its works; upon the understanding of the reasons underlying the Mason’s lack of appetite for fraternal involvement; and on the apparent preference of many Masons to remain outside, rather than within, the circle of active brethren.

‘The future will depend on the reversal of ingrained and unhealthy attitudinal patterns. Our major interest should not

way, Freemasons have entered the realm of the kept to an amazing degree, and in many instances, lodges today exist largely, and perhaps, only because they are able to tap resources that were earned and accumulated in generations long gone’.

In the light of MW Bro Miner’s comments, we need to ask ourselves – what are Masons doing to increase their understanding of the history, tenets,

What are Lodges doing to promote Freemasonry as a dynamic organisation of excellence?

rest on the number of members that are on our rolls or on the length of the list of names recorded on the attendance book. Rather our efforts should focus on finding a solution to the most fundamental, indeed the root issue for our order – Freemasons’ undeveloped interest in Freemasonry. Unfortunately, this is an untreated and contagious malady about which we seem to know very little.

‘A few years ago, in 1992, Bishop Carl J Sanders, in an address given at the time of the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of the White House, stated that we were now drinking from wells that we did not dig and eating the fruit of trees that we did not plant. With these words he caused Freemasons to appreciate that Masonry is surviving now not on the strength of its own efforts but, in many cases, on the work and on the achievements of our predecessors in the Craft. Put another

principles and purpose of Freemasonry? What are Lodges doing to promote Freemasonry as a dynamic organisation of excellence? What is ‘Grand Lodge’ doing to make the public more aware of our varied community and charitable contributions?

Freemasonry can be as strong, viable and influential as we will it to be. Our Grand Master, MW Bro Anthony Lauer, has laid out a Strategic Plan for us to follow. The plan is imaginative and feasible. It is up to each and every one of us to marshal the means by which the plan is to be worked.

The entire text of MW Bro Miner’s article is printed in The Short Talk Bulletin, volume March 2004, published by the Masonic Service Association of North America.


RW Bro Canon Peter Bertram, PJGW

M E S S A G E F R O M T H E G R A N D C H A P L A I N

The two ashlars are the same size though it would make sense if the rough ashlar were slightly larger as it would not yet have had the rough bits cut off. The symbolism then would be clearer. The rough ashlar is rough and unpolished as taken from the quarry.

Apparently they can be anywhere in the lodge but the appropriate places would seem to be to have the rough ashlar in the north-east corner and the perfect ashlar in the south-east corner. The rough ashlar in the north-east corner fits with the Entered Apprentice being there when he hears the charges on his initiation, especially the one expounding the virtues of charity. Just as the newly

Rough or PerfectIn the lecture on the 1st Tracing Board, we are told about the rough and perfect ashlars. The ashlars I have seen in different lodges vary in size, usually about 6 inch cubes.

ago. Some weigh over 20 tons. The quar-ries are still to be seen. It has been worked out that the large stones of the Temple were separated from the rock by means of wooden wedges driven into a series of holes. The wedges were then soaked with water. The wood swelled and thus tore the block away from the surrounding rock. The workings are underground and are now a maze of passages.

So, I like to see the Entered Appren-tice as a rough ashlar. He enters Free-masonry, ignorant of what it’s all about, in a state of darkness, like the maze of the passages. He comes from darkness to light. He progresses from being a rough ashlar towards being a perfect ashlar.

leged to know a number of old masons who fit this. They are in their declining years, after a life well spent in acts of morality and virtue. They have truly been ornaments to the Craft. To them we can apply these words from Ecclesiasticus:

Let us now sing the praises of famous men, our ancestors in their generations.The Lord apportioned to them great glory, His majesty from the beginning.

There were those who ruled in their kingdoms, and made a name for themselves by their valour;those who gave counsel because they were intelligent;those who spoke in prophetic oracles;those who led the people by their counsels and by their knowledge of the people’s lore;they were wise in their words of instruction: those who composed musical tunes, or put verses in writing.

Rich men endowed with resources, living peacefully in their homes – all these were honoured in their generations, and were the pride of their times.

Some of them have left behind a name,so that others declare their praise.But of others there is no memory;they have perished as though they had never existed;they have become as though they had never been born, they are their children after them.

Ecclesiasticus, Chapter 44, verses 1 to 9.

It has been found that deep down in the ground of Jerusalem there still lie the large foundation stones

of the Temple of Jerusalem.

initiated brother is shown to be devoid of all metallic substances, so the rough ashlar has not yet been subject to metal-lic tools. Also, he is told that it is usual to lay the foundation stone of sacred and stately edifices in the north-east corner. So he is placed at the north-east corner – he is like that stone. The foundation stones are not afterwards seen, so they can be rough and unshapen. The perfect ashlars are used for the parts of the build-ing that will be seen.

It has been found that deep down in the ground of Jerusalem there still lie the large foundation stones of the Temple of Jerusalem. They are still where they were placed by our ancient brethren centuries

What about the perfect ashlar? It should be in the north-east corner where the candidate is placed as a Fellow Craft. He is told that his change of position marks the progress he has made. But surely the perfect ashlar makes more sense to the Master Mason who has taken the three degrees. Perhaps the 2nd and 3rd degrees were once undivided.

What a wonderful encouragement there is in the perfect ashlar! We are to progress in our Masonic way from being a rough ashlar to that point where we are a perfect ashlar which cannot otherwise be tried and approved than by God’s Word and our own self convincing conscience.

In my Masonic life I have been privi-

H AV E YO U R S AY


Demeaning decreeI have procrastinated about writing for some time but have been prompted by the letter of Vilma Cook to put pen to paper.

In 2002 and 2003, wives, partners and guests were invited to witness addresses at the conclusion of the Lodge Condobo-lin Installations. On both occasions the addresses were excellently delivered and the ceremonial was impressive. There was a good attendance of guests and those present appreciated the opportunity to experience Masonry at the coal face.

To my amazement, Grand Lodge has decreed that this can no longer take place. I find this rather demeaning to lodges that have striven for excellence for many, many years.

As Grand Lodge has been exhorting lodges to be proactive in their communities, I would have thought a more open and liberal attitude would have been encouraged.

Yours faithfully,Mrs Frances Gavel OAM

Increasing membershipI know that negativity in thought and action is, if not the most damaging facet of our character, then it runs a good second to whatever is. Putting these thoughts to paper may appear to be within the scope of negativity, but reading W Bro Richard Rozen’s article in the August Freemason tended to make me reflect on some of the ideas that have been bandied around for some time in an effort to arrest, stabilise and increase our declining membership.

Amongst those ideas tried, there have been attempts at twinning, attempts at relocation and sundry other reviews of our structure. The idea of dismantling local lodges and reassembling them as a community lodge or district lodge sounds to me absolutely terrifying. I do not known where Lodge Mark Owen holds its meetings, but the district within which my lodge meets covers a travelling distance measured in hours spent in the car, not kilometres. Tonight, at time of writing, I shall attend a lodge that is some 90-100 kilometres from home. On other nights I can travel around two hours to attend a lodge.

It is difficult enough to get members to attend their own lodge on the stated meeting night but, as many have found, even a

change of hour or day will cause some of the older members to revolt and not attend their lodge. As for changing venue or location, that to them is purely a disaster in the making.

I understand W Bro Rozen’s sentiments all too well, but when we look at the demographics of ages of our membership, to them the thought of any change at all and really any change that alters the static pattern of their lives, does not sit well with them.

As I said at the start of the article, it might appear to be negative in intent but, believe me, I am just as seriously interested in increasing our lodge membership as any other mason. However, ‘to divide to conquer’ may in itself be a truism, but ‘to dismantle to rebuild’ may just be another way of courting a disaster.Eric Cooper

Camden thanksWe would like to congratulate Grand Lodge for your interest in our districts; Dr Yvonne McIntyre illustrated this while attending our district function on Sunday, 15 August.

What an ambassador for Grand Lodge she is; we watched her work the crowd that had flocked around her. She worked endlessly all day talking to people and taking photos of our function, ‘Masonic Children’s Day’. She handed out brochures to interested young men and women, speaking to them about the importance of their role in the future and what Freemasonry had to offer them as a family unit. My son was so impressed he has now made an appointment to speak to our district inspector.

We, the women of Camden/Ingleburn and Minto, now feel we at last have someone who will listen to us and be our voice.

We felt we should express our delight in your representative to us.

Our Association has invited Dr McIntyre to speak at our Women’s Guild; all are Masonic Wives or Masonic Widows, and we have a membership of 160 and are actually known as the power group.

We also noticed Dr McIntyre on Friday night at Beauty of Cabra Vale and now, again, on Sunday working for the Craft, with diligence she carried out her task for the Freemason magazine, and we are grateful to her.

Christina MeekinCamden Association

Send your letters to...

The Secretary, Publications CommitteeThe United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACTPO Box A259, Sydney South, NSW 1235

Greetings from the Solomon IslandsGreetings from the Solomon Islands! It is now well over two months since I arrived here, and so far it has been a very positive experience. The local people are very appreciative of the work of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), which makes it all worthwhile.

Recently I went on a visit to the Weather Coast, which is the southern coast of Guadalcanal. It is very isolated – the mountains rise to 2,400 metres (higher than Kosciusko), so there are no roads from Honiara, only 50 km to the north. It is also very wet (about 1 metre of rain a week), as the mountains rise suddenly from the sea, and pick up moist winds which have travelled all the way from Antarctica. This wet and isolated area was the scene of some of the bloodiest atrocities during the tensions, in which the locals were caught between warring militia groups. Consequently the presence of our police is very much welcome. I have attached a pic, showing me in my police uniform with some of the locals on the verandah of the police station at Isuna. The older gentleman with the grey beard next to me is the Paramount Chief of the area.

I trust Lodge Horizons is continuing to flourish, and I wish you all the best for our upcoming Installation (for which I must apologise for my absence).Keith Joseph, PM

Editors note: Keith is a Serving Captain in the AIF. He has recently been positioned with an Australian Army Contingent to the Solomon Islands to back up the Australian Commonwealth Police.


DGIW farewelledOutgoing DGIW of District 64, VW Bro David Sanderson, and his wife Lee are moving to Biloela in Queensland where David is to manage a small agri-cultural co-operative. They were fare-welled on 9 August at a function held in the Tamworth Services Club, attended by over 50 brethren and their ladies.

District lodges were well repre-sented and, on behalf of all brethren, the incoming DGIW, VW Bro Ken Bolton, presented them with an inscribed wall clock in thanks for David’s term and to remind them of all the friends they are leaving behind.

District 64 wishes them well in their new venture in the Sunshine State.

Sixty years at Lodge At a recent meeting of Lodge Federal Boorowa No 193, VW Bro Victor O Shumack was presented with a 60 Year Certificate and letter of congratulation from the Grand Master, MW Bro Anthony Lauer.

In making the presentation, the Master of the Lodge, WV Bro Hugh Wales, said that Bro Shumack was initiated in Lodge Federal on 13 January 1944 by his father, who was Master at the time.

Bro Shumack has held office continu-ally since his initiation, at present being the Lodge organist, and is active in the other Masonic orders.

All members wish him a long and happy further association with the Lodge.

This event was conceived four years ago when the then DGIW VW Bro Peter Williams asked what the masons could do for the kids. W Bro Basil Bainbridge of Lodge Ingleburn No 815 came up with the idea. Thus the birth of the ‘District 111 Kids’ Day’.

It started with a small gathering of brethren where Bro Basil served lunch he prepared the night before. He was ably assisted by Bro Brian Potter, W Bro John Lees and Bro Mario de Domizio. They also organised kids games and prizes for the winners. The two main attractions of the event are: 1) the tractor ride courtesy of the tractor owner and a conscientious driver, VW Bro Peter Williams, and 2) the ‘Pinata’. The venue has always been at Pembroke Park in Minto NSW, every third Sunday of August each year.

As the event became more popular and grew bigger, a committee was formed this year composed of volunteer brethren within the district. Each lodge ran a game

and gave prizes to the winners. This year’s barbecue/lunch was courtesy of Lodge Airds Campbelltown No 976. Thanks to W Bro Ric Gisborne and his team.

The proceeds of the event were all donated to charities: first year to cotton wool babies; second year to Alicia Schofield – a 10 year old girl who has spastic cerebral palsy, to assist in buying her wheelchair; third year to West-mead Childrens’ Hospital, and this year proceeds were donated to the Campbell-town State Emergency Service.

The yearly event attracts more than 120 masons and their families. We would like to thank all those who supported and braved the chilly weather on this year’s Kids’ Day.

We do it for the kids

Rainbow BallOn Saturday, 4 September, the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls held their Annual Ball which, on this occasion, was a Masquerade Ball. Many local and interstate visitors attended including the Supreme Deputy and the Grand Worthy Advisor of the International Order of the Rainbow, NSW & SA. Other guests included RW Bro Alan Farrell, PDGM, representing the Grand Master MW Bro Tony Lauer, and Mrs Anne Farrell, together with Most Excellent Companion Sydney Weller, Grand Master and First Grand Principal of the United Supreme Grand Chapter of Mark & Royal Arch Masons, and Mrs Carol Weller. The Order

of the Eastern Star and Amaranth were also represented.

The evening was oroganised by Miiss Katrina Mills, Worthy Advisor, and was an outstanding success.


We are all enjoined to attend our Lodge regularly if possible.

That dictum was certainly observed at the meeting of Lodge Wahroonga No 674 on 28 July last on the occasion of the Lodge’s second initiation in two months.

A very good sign, but what made the event something special was that the candidate, Mr Clinton Webeck, was greeted after the ceremony by four members of an extended Masonic family – father Robert; grandfather Eric; uncle John and cousin James Webeck.

Congratulations to all concerned and the fervent prayer that Bro Clinton Webeck will have a long and happy asso-ciation with our Craft.

From left to right: Grandfather Eric, Uncle John, Clinton’s father Robert, cousin James and candidate Clinton Webeck.

Extended Masonic family

The Deputy Grand Registrar, Tony Jamie-son, whilst travelling in Egypt, ran into Bill Veitch, Senior Warden of Lodge Gymea.

Tony and Bill have practised against each other as barristers for almost thirty years, but neither recognised the other’s name as being associated with Freemasonry. It was only after Bill gave Tony a lecture on the historical nature of certain Knights in the Holy Crusades that Bill and Tony got down to a cross-examination of each other (as barristers are wont to do), resulting in a judgement by each that the other was a Freemason.

Over the next two weeks Bill and Tony shared many a happy discussion on issues ranging from the significance of Roman and Grecian columns in Egyptian temples to the fine nature of Egyptian wine and food.

Both Tony and Bill came away from their holiday having enjoyed each other’s company as tourists and barristers but also their many discussions on Freema-sonry in the ruins in Egypt made their trip even more special.

Tony and Bill in front of the Sphinx at Giza

Egyptian holiday reunion

New faces at Leichhardt It was a night of firsts for The Leichhardt Lodge No 133 with the installation of the Junior Warden, Bro Walid Dehn on 15 September at Fivedock.

Nearly 100 members and visitors, as well as a Grand Lodge delegation of 27, packed the Lodge room to a standing-only capacity to witness a well-performed cere-mony where first time efforts dominated.

RW Bro Vic Totman, PJGW and a member of the Lodge, represented the Grand Master at his first official appear-ance; three recently created Master Masons presented the Working Tools, there were a number of new faces as every progressive office was filled by Master Masons, including four Stewards and two FCs and four EAFs completed the ceremony.

Fraternals travelled from The Penin-sula Lodge, Newcastle and Lodge Sara-toga, Gosford, to add to the visitors as the Installing Master, W Bro Mark Eltenn confidently performed his role.

RW Bro Totman spoke about ‘Masons Moving with the Times’ and The Leich-hardt Lodge showed that it was a worthy example by its effort.

On 18 August 2004 the Grand Master, MW Bro Anthony Raymond Lauer, was in attendance at Region 12’s first Combined District Meeting held within the Masonic Centre, Sydney.

The Grand Master was accompanied by the Ceremonial team with Regional and District Grand Lodge Officers also in attendance to add support, District No 124 was the host lodge on this occasion.

During the early part of the evening the Worshipful Masters of District 124 were assembled and presented to the Grand Master whereby they then occu-pied the various lodge positions to confer the degree work instead of the lodge’s regular officers.

On this night the host lodge, Lodge Burns Wentworth Tuscan, worked a first degree and initiated Mr George Hosni

Grand Master honours new Region 12

into the Craft, a total of 85 District breth-ren witnessed the impressive ceremony and Bro Hosni’s initiation into freema-sonry. Within the visiting fraternals from the District lodges were two of the recently formed younger men’s lodges, Lodges Kellerman 1027 and Horizons 1032 where collars and ties are the dress code of the day, rather than the usual black evening tie.

At the conclusion of the degree work the Grand Master was then presented to no less than nine EAFs and eight FCFs, all current members of these new lodges,

who had taken the time to support their own lodges on this Combined District night. The Grand Master spoke of the need for all of us within the Craft today to take a special interest in all our new younger brethren as they would be the future of Freemasonry. The Grand Master concluded his address saying that it was truly inspirational for him to witness so many younger men making the effort within our Craft.

A banquet in the south concluded a truly memorable night for all.


Grand Master with EAFs and FCFs

Three major charities in the Shoalhaven area have been beneficiaries of a recent combined effort by local Masons and the Order of the Amaranth. This followed the Combined Amaranth and Masonic ‘Charity Ball’ held in the School of Arts, Berry Street, Nowra.

It was Royal Haven Court No 13 Order of the Amaranth 49th Annual Debutante Ball and the 3rd Combined Amaranth and Masonic ‘Charity Ball’.

In true fashion the five debutantes enhanced the hall with beauty and, with their partners, provided a lovely display during the debutantes dances – with thanks to Reeves-Wallace Dancing Studio.

Two of the debutantes and one partner travelled from Queanbeyan every week for six weeks for rehearsals.

Each debutante was received by

Nowra combined effortthe Grand Royal Matron of the Grand Court of NSW Order of the Amaranth, Mrs Ann Almond, with their partners being intro-duced to Grand Royal Patron Sir Knight Don Cobcroft.

RW Bro John Armfield of the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT officially opened the Ball.

There were three lots of very proud Masonic and Amaranth grandparents on this occasion. Bro Colin Roberts (Lodge Shoalhaven) and HL Bella Roberts, who is in Amaranth, had a debutante and a flower-girl as participants; W Bro Nobby Hall had a granddaughter as a deb and HL Jacqui Gilmore had a grandson as a partner.

The proceeds from this evening will go towards the Amaranth’s efforts for this year in assisting the MS Society, Diabetes and Council of Care for Masons.

Lodge Abercorn No 60, Lodge Broughton No 63, Lodge Shoalhaven No 840 and Lodge Albert C. Petrie No 954 were all represented by their Worshipful Masters, along with Royal Haven Court No 13 and the Unity Court No 19 Order of the Amaranth represented by the Royal Matron and Royal Patron of both courts.

This is becoming the social event of the year for the Masons and Amaranth in a combined effort to assist the youth of today with a little bit of old culture being repeated in the coming out into society.

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The Masonic Widows Association meets once a month and offers friendship and outings.

If any brother knows of a Masonic Widow, they might ask if she would like to join an Association. The list of secretar-ies and phone numbers is as follows:Armidale DistrictElaine Robinson Ph: 6772 5503Canterbury BankstownLaurie Brown Ph: 9796 1659CumberlandDoreen Nichols Ph: 9831 6837

Masonic Widows Association Delegates at a recent Bondi meeting of the Combined Masonic Widows Association

GorokanJosie Niven Ph: 4332 1644Hunter ValleyBetty Collins Ph: 4966 515429 DistrictAilsa Pratt Ph: 9523 0784Eastern SuburbsMarcia West Ph: 9387 1266St George DistrictDot Whitford Ph: 9399 3357CanberraKathy Boyes Ph: 6247 5228

Lodge Condobolin No 185 tradition-ally holds an Anzac observance at its April meeting. The observance this year was open to the public and 70 people, including representatives from local service clubs, veterans’ associations and community groups attended.

The programme included an occa-sional address by RW Bro Richard Gavel entitled ‘The Significance of Anzac Day – Today and Tomorrow’, and the laying of a wreath on the Lodge memorial fireplace by the Master, W Bro Robin Sanderson, and the President of the Condobolin RSL Sub-branch, Mr Keith Hartin.

At the Lodge’s Installation banquet on 15 May, donations of $100 each were

Two notable events in Condomade to representatives of the three local schools, the preschool and the Physical Culture Club. Additionally, similar dona-tions were made to the three Masonic charities.

The Master of the Lodge, RW Bro Mick Press, (on behalf of the President of the Masonic Youth Welfare Fund, RW Bro Rev Harry Ctercteko), presented the Fund’s S R Garvin prize for 2003 to Luke McGregor. The prize is awarded to the runner-up for the best results at the 2003 School Certificate examination.

The 80 people present at the subse-quent banquet, including Masonic widows and visitors from surrounding lodges, enjoyed a wonderful evening.

10 FREEMASON OCTOBER 2004

F E AT U R E

Double commemorationThe Sir Walter Scott Lodge No 123 had an extremely busy meeting in April 2004. Not only was it the night for election of officers for the ensuing year, but there were two notable commemorations.

The first was an address by W Bro Bob Stenhouse on the centenary of the initiation of his Grandfather. It was preceded by the reading of the minutes of the meeting of the Lodge on 28 April 1904, that being the date on which Bro John Stenhouse became a Mason.

W Bro Stenhouse gave a short history of his family, which emigrated from Scot-land in about 1883. His great-grandfather was an operative Mason-Journeyman (and son of a stone quarry labourer) who was well known in the Parramatta district, and who built, amongst other things, the Centennial Clock Tower and Foun-tain (1888) which still stands today at the corner of Church and Macquarie Streets, diagonally opposite St John’s Cathedral.

The initiate, Bro John Stenhouse, went on to become Secretary of his Lodge, and was granted Honorary Life Membership in 1932 after 28 years of service. W Bro Stenhouse had on view the honorary membership certificate, together with his grandfather’s vellum Master Mason’s Certificate in Latin and English, his ritual book dated 1889, and his Book of Constitution (1903).

Members of the Sir Walter Scott Lodge expressed the view that while there are lodges as old or older, not many would be able to record the 100th Anniversary of the initiation of a member, commem-orated by a lineal descendant who is a current member of the same Lodge.

The second Commemoration was the annual Anzac Service. Bob Stenhouse took part in this by playing The Lament, he being a piper of some experience, and dressed for the occasion in Highland Dress.

W Bro Bob Stenhouse (left) with W Bro Wes Coombes, WM

W Bro W.A.A. (Arch) Alsop, a member of Goulburn District Daylight Lodge No 1024, was initiated on 5 October 1937, and first occupied a Master’s Chair from 1985–86 in Lodge The Duke of Edinburgh No 76.

Joining Goulburn Daylight as a foun-dation member in 1999, he ascended to its Chair on 12 February 2003 at the age of 89. The Lodge believes that he may have then been the oldest Worshipful Master in NSW. Bro Alsop had the privi-lege of representing the Grand Master at the installation of his successor, VW Bro Terry Hall, and later received a bar to his PM’s Jewel from Bro Hall.

It is understood that Bro Hall has a distinction at the other end of the time scale – that of being the youngest Master in Goulburn Daylight’s short history.

With great ideas for the year ahead, the Lodge is looking forward with confi-dence to a very successful future.

Age shall not weary and you’re never too young!

William Archibald Allison Alsop – Certificate No. 134232Initiated Lodge Lilyfield 402 – 5 October 1937Passed Lodge Lilyfield 402 – 1 February 1938Raised Lodge Lilyfield 402 – 7 June 1938Called Off Lodge Lilyfield 402 – 6 March 1951Affiliated Lodge Rylstone 495 – 16 October 1948Called Off Lodge Rylestone 495 – 17 May 1958Affiliated Lodge The Duke of Edinburgh 76 – 19 April 1983Junior Warden – 17 January 1984Senior Warden – 13 October 1984Worshipful Master– 12 October 1985/86Foundation Member The Goulburn District Daylight Lodge 1024– 22 March 1999Worshipful Master – 12 Feb. 2003/2004

On the 27th May, the Goulburn Daylight Lodge, No 1024, after a short meeting, received, in response to the Worshipful Master’s invitation, the Worthy Matron, Officers and members of the Goulburn Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star.

The Worthy Matron, Mrs Lyn Hall, Worthy Patron, Mr Eric Hunt and the Secretary, Mrs Valmai Hunt, PWGM, each delivered an address on different aspects of their Order, including its origin, the basis of its Ritual, their Charity work and details of membership. It was stressed that membership of the Order is open to both men and women and that men do play an important part in the Ritual of the Chapter.

This was not only an historic event being the first time the Chapter has visited a Masonic Lodge, but also a family affair as the Worthy Matron, Lyn Hall, is the wife of the Worshipful Master, V W Bro Terry Hall.

OES makes history


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Y


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FREEMASON OCTOBER 2004 13

In 129 years more than 10,000 swimmers have tried to beat the Channel with less than 700 successful. Sydney Freemason, Bro Warwick Heeson, a member of Lodge Horizons, this year joined that exclusive club in becoming the 35th Australian to complete the crossing in a time of 16 hours 49 minutes.

But where others take years to prepare and undertake strenuous trials, 33-year-old Warwick had his first serious training session, on 30 March 2003 in a Sydney pool. He did not have any previ-ous distance swims.

When the idea firmed in his mind he sought advice and help from a Melbourne group, all former Channel swimmers, who met regularly at Brighton Baths. He rang John van Wisse, who holds the Australian record for the Channel and whose sister Tammy regularly made headlines for distance swims. John agreed to be his coach.

Warwick started travelling to Melbourne at weekends and took 13 visits to get water acclimatised. It was 18 degrees at Bondi whereas the temperatures were as low as 7 degrees in Melbourne.

and for Warwick it included his support crew, Bro Adam Murphy, official observ-ers and four friends. Freda also provides information on the sea and weather which can only be forecast accurately for about 12 hours.

At times, 90–100 swimmers from around the world train in Dover Harbour, waiting for a chance to get into the water.

Warwick arrived at Shakespeare’s Beach at 6–15am to catch the right tide. ‘I did not sleep much the night before. I rose two hours before start time, did some stretching, had only a little food, because I didn’t want too much in my stomach,’ he said. ‘I get terribly seasick and in addi-tion, my body produces excess stomach acid resulting in indigestion. Before long swims I take prescription medication to alleviate this. It’s not unusual to get sick while swimming, you swallow lots of salt water and the body has trouble in toler-ating it. I came down with bronchitis the week before and had to have a course of antibiotics. There was no use complain-ing, you just have to go.’

Warwick, who wore an ordinary costume, did not use special insulation, just a thick wool fat applied to his body to protect against chafing. The Channel water was 16º at Dover and 18º nearer to France. ‘My crew fed me every 20 minutes to keep my insulin levels stable.

Mt Everest and the English Channel have the same fascination for people. They issue challenges to be conquered. The following article is an account of Bro Warwick Heeson’s successful crossing of the Channel on 27 July 2004.

Across the English Channel

‘I had no choice, I was at the mercy of the tide and had to go with it. It can be straight or take you anywhere.’

‘Bondi seemed like a warm bath when I swam there. At my first Sydney pool session, it took me 57 minutes to swim one kilo-metre. By crossing time I was down to 17–18 minutes,’ he said.

On his arrival at Dover, in England, he stayed at Hubert House where another Sydney swimmer, the late Des Renford stayed, and met Freda Streeter. Freda runs the Channel Swim-ming and Piloting Federation, a group of professional naviga-tors who used to guide ships through the channel but now help channel swimmers. Freda’s daughter Alison has completed 43 crossings. In a well prepared routine, the pilots accompany the swimmers in a special boat


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After six hours you go through a major fatigue period where your body begins converting energy from stored fat. At this stage I could still see the white cliffs of Dover but not France. My handlers managed to get me going again’.

The tide took him north of France before swinging him back on course towards Cape Gris Nez. Just over a mile from the Cape, it swung him north again towards Belgium. This meant another six hours swimming. In Warwick’s words: ‘I had no choice, I was at the mercy of the tide and had to go with it. It can be relatively straight or take you anywhere. My handler saw the hurt on my face, stopped me and gave me an electrolyte drink. I swam for another 10 minutes and they stopped me again and gave me a schooner of warm thick coffee which gave me the necessary stimulation and determination. At last, I found shallow water, landing at the beach on Cape Blanc Nez – I had nothing left’.

‘It wasn’t a dramatic landing. It was just after 11pm, there was nobody on the beach when I staggered on to the sand. I had touched the wall at Dover before I left and similarly touched the wall at Cape Blanc Nez. I had swum from

England to France, a total of 57 nauti-cal miles. I felt such a deep respect for the channel that I took off my cap and goggles and buried them in the sand. You are allowed to stay on the beach for 15 minutes before returning to the boat for the two hour trip back.’

‘Throughout the swim Freemasonry was never far from my mind. It was the Masonic charges emphasizing persistence, perseverance and faith that got me there.’

‘There is a certain tranquillity in marathon swimming. Time and distance are inconsequential – all that matters is getting there. Some say it’s spiritual. I just try to enjoy the moment. I’m very thankful to my friends for their support over the last few years in helping me to achieve something I didn’t need to do,’ he said.

‘Freemasonry has helped me achieve my goal and proves that any person, regardless of their day to day commit-ments, can also achieve their goal – by taking that first step, by asking for help and most of all, by being persistent.’

Linda McGill was the first Australian to swim the Channel on Friday, 13 August 1965. That was 90 years after the first successful crossing in 1875 by Captain Matthew Webb – a Freemason.

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He was also Australia’s first Chinese Free-mason, who made a significant impact on Sydney’s public, political, business and social scene.

Born in 1850 to a family of pros-perous merchants in Quandong, Quong Tart arrived on the goldfields near Braid-wood as a nine-year-old, with a party of Chinese goldminers for whom, it is thought, he acted as a scribe.

With the good fortune that seems to have smiled on him throughout his life, the bright young boy was adopted by a well-to-do local couple, Alice and Robert Percy Simpson, who were also well connected to Sydney’s legal fraternity.

By the time Quong Tart arrived in Sydney in 1881, the thirty-one-year-old had not only won the respect and esteem of Braidwood society, but also the patron-age of the Sydney elite as well.

Through his canny knack for finding gold, and his assiduous labours in mining that gold, Quong Tart had already amassed a considerable fortune by the age of 30.

On his arrival in Sydney, he applied that same acumen and resourcefulness to his tea importing business, which flour-ished from its 1881 beginnings in the Sydney Arcade.

Rooms in the Royal Arcade followed in 1884 and over the next 20 years at Moore Park Zoological Gardens, 777 George Street, Haymarket, 137 King Street, Sydney and the Queen Victoria Building.

His easy assimilation into Sydney society and his acceptance by the community is reflected in the fact that he became the first Chinese Freemason in Australia, when he was initiated into the Lodge of Tranquillity in 1885.

In 1886, he married an English born woman, Margaret Scarlett and they had six children. In keeping with the bipartisan-ship teachings of Freemasonry, each child was baptised within a different Christian denomination, including Anglican, Pres-byterian and Wesleyan. Quong Tart was himself a member of the Anglican faith.

Although today he is largely remembered as a uniquely Victorian character: a Chinese Mandarin who

adopted the dress and manners of an English gentleman, Quong Tart played a significant role in shaping Australia’s society at a time when there was such a strong anti-Chinese sentiment.

He was a tireless advocate for the rights of resident Chinese and became a mediator between the Australian and Chinese Communities. He also campaigned vigorously against the trade in opium. His tea rooms became meeting grounds for the first meetings of Sydney’s suffragettes and he was actively involved in developing diplomatic and trade rela-tions between Australia and China.

Quong Tart applied his boundless energy and financial resources to helping the poor and he was a committee member of various charitable organisations, such as the City Night Refuge and Soup Kitchen and the Hospital Saturday Fund.

Quong Tart used not only his success-ful catering business, but also his devoted clientele, in the service of charity.

During the crippling strikes of 1890, a crowd of destitute men, women and children, suffering as a result of the strikes, marched on a Sydney newspaper. Its editor asked several leading men of the city for their help.

The appeal received very little support, except the newspaper reported ‘A few came, among whom was Quong Tart. He gave at once five pounds and fifty shillings to the fund and promised to try and collect more for us from his customers.’

Quong TartCelebrating the life of another extraordinary FreemasonIn the late 19th century, Quong Tart (1850–1903), was one of Sydney’s most famous philanthropists and well-loved personalities.

Celebrating the life of another


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Before proceeding with the business of Grand Lodge, the Grand Master gave a short eulogy on the life of RW Bro Cyril James Buckingham, PAGM and Past Pres-ident of the Board of Benevolence. RW Bro Buckingham passed away on 11 July.

‘Cyril was initiated in Lodge Leich-hardt in April 1952 and installed into the Chair of that Lodge in May 1961.

‘In 1968 he was elected as District Grand Inspector of Workings for then District No 29 and appointed as a member of the Board of Benevolence in 1973. Having served that Board for 11 years he was elected as its President for two years in 1985, serving a total of 13 years.

‘Bro Buckingham had the rank of PJGW conferred in 1976, PSGW in 1988 and PAGM in 1993. He continued his active interest in assisting Grand Lodge and was to the fore at Grand Installations and other Masonic functions to assist in arranging transportation for interstate and overseas visitors. Cyril was also active in other orders throughout his career and was a 32nd Degree Mason in the Ancient and Accepted Rite for Australia.

‘We have since been able to fully appreciate his community service espe-cially in his care and attention for chil-dren and the EXODUS Foundation.’

The following extracts have been taken from the Grand Master’s address:

VisitsNoumea: ‘In June, I had the great pleas-ure, in the company of a number of

September Communication of Grand Lodge

The Grand Master, MW Bro Anthony (Tony) Lauer, presided over the first Communication of his third term of office as Grand Master on Wednesday 8, September. In thanking brethren for their attendance, the Grand Master gave a special welcome to three Entered Apprentices, two Fellowcrafts and VW Bro Bill Gaynor, a visitor from Lodge Victoria Plains, No 287, Western Australian Constitution.

brethren and ladies from this Jurisdic-tion, to attend the consecration of a new lodge in Noumea.’ Queensland: ‘In July, I was accompanied by over 45 brethren and ladies to the Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Queensland and I congratulated the new Grand Master, MW Bro John Archibald Menzies.’ Lupis Foundation: ‘On 6 August, it was my pleasure, in the company of Joy and our interstate visitors, to attend the Lupus Foun-dation Dinner hosted by Lodge Rectitude No 485 in the presence of Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, Governor of the State of NSW and Sir Nicholas Shehadie.’ Governor General: ‘Accompanied by RW Bro Alan Farrell, PDGM, Chairman Board of Management, I called upon the Governor General, His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffrey, AC, CVO, MC, at Admiralty House Kirribilli on 12 August.

The purpose of the visit to the Governor General, himself a Freemason, was to assure His Excellency of the ongoing commitment of this Grand Lodge in community affairs and to highlight our positive contributions which will always be available when needed.

Also, we sought the Governor General’s thoughts on his participation at the VIII World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges to be hosted by this Grand Lodge in November 2005 as, perhaps, Patron or to officiate at the opening or closing ceremonies.’Archbishop Jenson: ‘On 31 August in

the company of the Grand Registrar, I made a visit to the office of the Arch-bishop of Sydney, the Most Reverend Peter Jensen. This was as a result of an invitation by the Archbishop.

‘The luncheon meeting focussed on many issues and, of course, the recent resolution of the Anglican Synod which referred to membership of our Order and expressed the view that Freemasonry was incompatible with Christianity.

‘Following an amenable discussion I trust that the Archbishop’s concept of our Craft is now a little clearer and there will no doubt be ongoing developments of the relationship between the Anglican Church and the Craft in the months ahead.’

ABC Television‘As part of my ongoing commitment to bringing Freemasonry to the attention of the public as much as possible, I visited the Canberra Masonic Centre on 14 July and was interviewed by ABC television on the various aspects of a Masonic Lodge Room.

The interview was for the ‘Stateline’ program and, being a regional interview only, to date has only been shown on the ABC in the Australian Capital Territory.’

Other Masonic Orders‘In July, I had pleasure, in the company of the Chairman Board of Management, the Grand Registrar, the Grand Secretary and RW Bro Dr Frank Radcliff, PAGM, to host a luncheon for senior representatives of other Masonic Orders.


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V I E W I N GSaturday 30 October 10am–5pm; Sunday 31 October 10am–1pm

1:00pm Sunday 31 October, 200417 Katina Street, Turramurra NSW 2074

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The lunch was attended by the heads and senior officers of:• The United Supreme Grand Chapter

of Mark & Royal Arch Masons of NSW & Act

• The Ancient & Accepted Rite for Australia

• The Order of the Secret Monitor• The Knights Templar• The Red Cross Knights of

ConstantineThe purpose of the meeting was

to commence ongoing negotiations to cement our standing with each of these orders and to formally establish our recognition for each.

The meeting was outstanding and most interesting and I am confident that future negotiations will be amicable and positive in resolving any and all issues. RW Bro Dr Frank Radcliff will be the liaison person for this United Grand Lodge in future meetings with each Order.

I place on record my sincere thanks to RW Bro Radcliff for his ongoing and enthusiastic commitment to this project.’

Walk for Aphaeresis‘On Sunday 22 August last, after many weeks of planning and organisation, 200 people including many Masons and their families, joined in a three mile ‘Walk for Aphaeresis’ to Liverpool Hospital.

‘This was a result of a call for help from a very ill mason at the Hospital in June who wanted to attract blood donors as Liverpool Hospital was desperately short of supply.

‘This call to Grand Lodge resulted in a ‘swarm’ of donors from many of our

Sydney Lodges and the medical team at Liverpool Hospital admit they have never seen a response like this.

‘The walk was the first of many initiatives now in place to purchase an Aphaeresis machine for the hospital which finds it difficult to cope on the two currently available.

‘My special thanks to VW Bro Peter Court of the Grand Secretary’s staff and Dr Yvonnne McIntyre, a volunteer in the Grand Secretary’s office, for their continuing efforts for this very worthwhile cause.’

Strategic Plan‘It is now 12 months since the release of the Strategic Plan. In order to report to the membership on progress and to continue the consultative process, the Deputy Grand Master, RW Bro Robert Peattie, will now conduct meetings in each region. I ask all Brethren to endeav-our to attend these meetings which present an opportunity to be personally involved in the planning process and to be better informed.

Coinciding with the Planning meet-ings, as far as possible, the Deputy Grand Master and the Assistant Master, RW Bro Derek Robson, will present a program entitled ‘MASONS – MOVE WITH THE TIMES’. This program will involve an open Masonic meeting for which I have approved a ceremony for opening and closing of the Lodge in public. The format will be similar to that of the Father and Son night conducted earlier this year in this very room. In addition, the Museum of Freemasonry will provide a travelling

display and, where possible, that display will include exhibits with relevance to the area visited. The program will include an explanation of the Lodge room, aspects of the history of Freemasonry, short pres-entations by Masons and delivery of the ‘Address to the Brethren’. A presentation package will be available to non-masons.

Planning at this time will see the program presented in Kiama (Region 11), Bourke (Region 13), St George (Region 2) and Turrumurra (Region 1) in coming months.’

Course for Grand Officers‘A course for Grand Lodge Officers on the role of a Grand Master’s Representa-tive will also commence in October.

The course, a half day seminar, will include matters of dress standards, proto-col issues, duties of the Representatives and aspects of public speaking.’

Changes to Ritual‘Brethren, I have recently issued changes that I have made to the ritual, in particu-lar to remove the necessity for candidates, in all degrees, to ‘swear’ obedience to the oath they are taking, with the emphasis shifting to ‘promise’.

‘I made this decision with much consideration, deliberation and having sought advice from experienced Masons.

‘The continual scrutiny that we are subject to, requires us to constantly consider the perception and understand-ing of the Order that we may be placing on our candidates and, indeed, to ensure those who are not Freemasons have no reason to doubt our intention.

‘These changes, as with most changes

We cater for any occasion including.... Lodge South’s, Lodge Installations, other Special

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Distinguished guests included the First Grand Principal and Grand Master of the United Supreme Grand Chapter of Mark and Royal Arch Masons of NSW and ACT, Most Excellent Companion, Sydney Thomas Weller, and the Grand Masters of the Grand Lodges of Western Australia and Tasmania, MW Bros James George Maley and Robert Theo Clarke.

The Grand Master announced the

Grand Re-InstallationThe Re-Installation of MW Bro Anthony Lauer as Grand Master was held in the Masonic Centre Sydney on Saturday, 7 August in the presence of brethren, ladies and members of the public.

re-appointment of RW Bro Robert Peattie as Deputy Grand Master and the appointment of RW Bro Derek Robson, AM, as Assistant Grand Master.

The Re-Installation was the first involving the new structure of the Ceremonial Team and resulted in the following list of brethren being invested as Grand Officers for the year 2004–2005.

Senior Grand WardenRW Bro Dr R Wingate

Junior Grand WardenRW Bro G Williams

Grand ChaplinRW Bro Rev B Burton, PAGMRW Bro Rev P Bertram, PJGW

Grand TreasurerRW Bro R Pickering, PAGM

Deputy Grand TreasurerVW Bro R Collins

Grand RegistrarRW Bro J Armfield, PDGM

Deputy Grand RegistrarRW Bro A Jamieson, PJGW

Grand SecretaryRW Bro K McGlinn, PAGM

Deputy Grand Secretary, Museum of Freemasonry

RW Bro C Craven, PAGM

Deputy Grand Secretary, OperationsBro K Taylor

Grand Director of Ceremonies

RW Bro K Damyon

Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies

VW Bro G Jamieson

Assistant Grand Director of CeremoniesVW Bro J Melville

Assistant Grand Director of CeremoniesVW Bro L Butler

Grand ArchitectRW Bro G Green, PSGW

Senior Grand DeaconW Bro W Mahenna

Junior Grand DeaconW Bro P Reid

Grand Sword BearerW Bro A Perry

Grand Standard BearerW Bro R Johnson

Grand Director of MusicVW Bro C Gill, PDGIW

Grand OrganistVW Bro W Caukill, PDGIW

Grand PursuivantW Bro G Beaton

Grand TylerVW Bro A Herbert, PDGDC

Grand StewardsW Bro D Balmond, W Bro G Bottril, W Bro A Bradley, W Bro M Galea,

W Bro I Galloway, W Bro R Garlick, W Bro A Georges, W Bro K Gisborne, W Bro R John, W Bro M Maniago, W Bro R Pearson

made in recent years, have been made to fall into line with the present day ethical standards of society and in no way diminish the importance of our ceremonial aspect.’

Book of Constitutions‘Brethren, as you are aware, the Board of Management has been reviewing the present format of the Book of Constitutions with the intention of dividing the current Regulations into two parts, namely Acts and Administrative Regulations.

‘I am pleased to advise that progress on a draft is well advanced with Part 2 – Private Lodges – now complete and it will soon be forwarded to the Registrars for review. Similar work on Part 1 – The Grand Lodge – should be completed by the end of this month and will also be reviewed by the Registrars.’

The Grand Master gave an assurance that ample opportunity will be given for comment prior to the proposal being submitted to Grand Lodge early next year.

Volunteers‘Finally, Brethren, I feel it my responsibility to acknowledge the magnificent efforts, that we are so fortunate to have, by a dedicated group of brethren who volunteer their time and expertise for this Grand Lodge. They do so without hesitation and without seeking reward.

These ‘volunteers’, as we so freely call them, assist within the Secretariat, the Library, the Archives and the Museum. They are without doubt the unsung heroes of any success we have had or may boast in the future.’


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The good Baron may have been satisfied if he could have seen the thousands of people who lined Sydney’s streets for the ticker-tape Welcome Home parade of the Athens team, heard the cheering for the competitors and seen the proud looks of the opening and closing flag bearers, Colin Beashel and Petria Thomas, who led the parade.

But his beliefs were established more than 100 years ago and do they still apply in today’s 21st century? RW Bro Ted Simmons asks the opinions of those who competed at the Olympics and their reaction to the Athens Games.

W Bro John Treloar has been a partici-pant and onlooker. Winner of three track sprint gold medals at the Auckland 1950 Empire Games, Olympic 100m finalist at Helsinki in 1952, Treloar lists drugs, professionalism and too many sports as problems facing International Olympic (IOC) organisers.

‘Eliminating drugs is one of the biggest challenges facing the IOC because drug peddlars have been one step ahead. Taking drugs is cheating and the Games are about fair competition,’ Treloar said.

‘It’s a shame professionalism has to come in but today there’s huge money for the winners. The Games are also now too big and some sports are question-able as to their worldwide significance such as beach volleyball, baseball, taek-wondo, and should boxing and weight-lifting continue.’

Olympic Games –

Golden, glorious or...Baron Pierre de Coubertin, regarded as the founder of the modern Olympic Games, was insistent in his belief that amateurism was good and to participate was more important than winning.

‘When they bring in marbles, I’m finished with the Games.’

However, Treloar believes the Games should continue because they bring the world together. He also congratulated Athens for its display after all the adverse media reports and said Greece carried on the good standard which had been set by Australia.

VW Bro John Plummer, Australian 1500m track champion and also at Auck-land 1950, said track athletics has faded since 1964 and Australia has produced few runners like Betty Cuthbert, Marjorie Jackson, John Landy and Ron Clarke.

‘In my day you were not allowed to accept money or a valuable trophy other-wise you’d be classed as a professional. I think the amateur attitude was good because it made personal goals more enjoyable and created an even playing field. Now you have to be an elite athlete to get top coaching. But Athens appeared to be a great event with atmosphere and tradition,’ he said.

VW Bro Ray Land, who competed in sprints and relays at Melbourne 1956, said he would like to have competed at Athens and believes some of the team and later sports could be cut from the Olympics.

‘My most memorable moment was in Melbourne with the roar of the crowd when Hector Hogan, Gavin Carragher and myself were the first athletes to perform. The roar in Sydney in 2000 was just as big and awesome. I sometimes

think the Olympics should stop but they do bring people together in unity.’

John Boultbee, a veteran of seven Olympics as rowing administrator or spectator, is one person who doesn’t believe there should be any change in the number of sports competing at the Olympics.

‘An impressive Athens was the best example of how a country and city rises to the occasion when it gets the Games. Unquestionably, the Olympics are good for the world. They teach a lot of people at the Games, and others watching, to respect and accept people from other nations in a way that’s not always so clear in other walks of life.

‘Team sports should stay as they are, there’s nothing which says the Olympics have to be restricted to individuals.

‘My most impressive moment was in 1992 when Peter Anthony and Steve Hawkins won the double sculls – two little blokes who beat the big blokes in a sport where big dominates. Every-one from all nations present celebrated because it typified the Olympic spirit.’

Three Olympic Games as Australian basketball captain gave Robyn Maher plenty of experience as well as a bronze medal in 1996 at Atlanta. As team liaison officer at Athens she was impressed with

Australian Sprint Champion John Treloar wins the 100 Metres event at the 1948 State Olympic Trials.


the superb venues, facilities and the friendliness of the Greek people.

‘It was great and I ranked it second to Sydney. The Olympics definitely bring countries together and it’s good if you can stop wars by staging the Games,’ she said. ‘It is not too big, it’s an elitist contest, the ultimate where all competitors get together to represent their country as a unit, not as individuals, and it should stay the same as it is.

‘Winning the bronze medal, Australia’s first in basketball, was one of my most exciting moments, only equalled when we beat Russia in 1988, their first loss at the Olympics. We were ecstatic that a team from a little country could beat the world power.’

Australian Socceroo Alan Davidson was disappointed by the empty seats at Athens but is a strong supporter of the Olympics which he describes as a forum for the best of the best to compete.

‘It is contested only every four years and everyone in the world stops for the Games. They don’t stop when world championships are contested in other sports except the soccer World Cup,’ he said. ‘It gives competitors an opportu-nity to stand on the world stage and be noticed, and every country in the world can take part.

‘The sporting field is a good way to cross barriers, especially the way the world

is heading with terrorism. The reception given to the Iraqi team when they marched into the Stadium is a good example. Right across the board we have the same desire for peace and the Olympics have nothing to do with religion or race.’

Davidson, who played in the highest soccer division in England, was a member of the Socceroos during the 1988 Seoul Olympic campaign where the Australians reached the quarterfinals.

He rated his most memorable point as the moment when the Australian anthem was played at the Seoul Olympics which were the last Games for open age soccer before it was reduced to players under the age of 23.

‘The national anthem brings the best out of you and made me feel ten feet tall. It’s a feeling you have inside being an Australian and playing for your country. It brought tears to my eyes. It was a special moment to treasure.’

Basketball Boomer and first time Olympian, CJ Bruton never expected to go to the Olympics but, like other sports-men and women, dreamed of competing or being part of the Games. He was very excited about going to Athens but the atmosphere was not as good as expected because events were not sold out.

‘It wasn’t too big and I enjoyed the company of athletes from other countries, talking to them and finding out what they

had to go through.The Games definitely bring people together; it’s a period when families and individuals take time out of their lives to be a part,’ he said.

‘The number of sports, possibly teams, could be reduced. But what impressed me was the number of people inside the athletes village who said Australia was the best Olympics, not only in the way it was run but that the people all round Australia were really nice. And as the Olympics are so special it was really great that the Games this year went back to the nation where it first started.’

Australia won a record 17 gold, 16 silver and 16 bronze medals at Athens and most gold medal winners took part in the Sydney parade including swimmers Ian Thorpe, triple gold Petria Thomas, Jodie Henry, rowers Drew Ginn and James Tomkins, shooter Suzy Balogh and the hockey, basketball and soccer teams.

The excitement on their faces and their complimentary remarks about the Olympic Games kept flowing, even after they were given the Keys to the City at a special recep-tion at Sydney Town Hall. Their thoughts about the Games were obvious.

So, as they progress into their second century, the modern Olympics look set to continue, to create joy and despair, to bring out the best in people and to pursue the principles of fair play, peace and friendship.

Some 250 athletes from Australia’s record-breaking 2004 Athens Olympic Team were welcomed home with a ticker-tape parade in Sydney. The Athens Olympians were our most successful team yet with a total medal tally of 49 – 17 gold, 16 silvers and 16 bronze.


Rotary Lodge Presentation: Richard Ford (left) and Anthony Eden (right) with Richard Morrocco (Rotary Lodge) at the building site.

The program offers funding, up to a ‘dollar for dollar’ level, for community projects in which local Masonic groups are directly involved. In addition, the InterACTION Grants help to encourage Lodges, Districts and Regions to be more involved in their communities, helping to promote Freemasonry. So far in 2004, masoniCare has contributed to a range of initiatives organised by local brethren.

InterACTION Grants!Launched this year, the InterACTION Grants program has created a lot of excitement in the Masonic community.

DGIW John Thomson presents cheques to the SLSA Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter team at their South Coast base.

DUNEDOO HOSPITAL – LODGE DUNEDOO

When Lodge Dunedoo were advised that the local hospital was in need of an electrically operated bed, the breth-ren immediately began raising funds to help purchase the unit. Through a car rally and various raffles the Freemasons of Dunedoo raised $1,500, which was then increased to $2,500 with an Inter-ACTION Grant from masoniCare.

The cheque for $2,500 was presented to the Dunedoo Ladies Auxiliary in a special ceremony held in July. Thanks to the Freemasons of Dunedoo, the electric bed will be installed before Christmas.

ROTARY LODGE PROJECT – PORT MACQUARIE FREEMASONS

For some time, Port Macquarie Base Hospital has been planning to extend their Rotary Lodge complex, which provides self-care accommodation for patients at the hospital. Port Macquarie Freema-sons, led by Dick Ford (then DGIW for

20 FREEMASON OCTOBER 2004 FREEMASON AUGUST 2004 21

Masonelles Presentation: Dr John Harvey, surgeon at the Burns Unit, receives the $14,000 cheque from Mrs Narrelle Wearing.

the area), decided this was a worthy cause and embarked on a fundraising campaign for the project. Brethren raised funds through raffles and weekly sausage sizzles at the local Bunnings Warehouse. Their efforts raised $2,000, which was matched ‘dollar for dollar’ by masoniCare, making a combined total of $4,000.

Dick Ford presented the cheques to the Rotary Lodge Committee at a special open day, which attracted coverage from local newspapers as well as NBN Television. Port Macquarie Freemasons plan to raise a further $3,000, which will also be matched by masoniCare. Keep up the good work!

SLSA WESTPAC LIFESAVER RESCUE HELICOPTER – DISTRICT 113

When given custody of a large teddy bear, John Thomson then DGIW for District 113, saw the opportunity to raise funds for the SLS Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter service, by raffling the giant toy. Whilst doing so, District 113 applied for an InterACTION Grant and masoniCare agreed to match funds raised by the raffle. The raffle eventually raised $1,717, which was increased to $3,434 with masoniCare’s contribution.

John Thomson presented the cheques to the SLSA Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter team at their South Coast base, which was publicised in local news-papers. Well done District 113!

LUPUS FOUNDATION OF NSW – LODGE RECTITUDE

For several years now, Lodge Rectitude has held a gala dinner and charity auction for the Lupus Foundation of NSW. Last year the event raised $10,000, which Lodge Rectitude hoped to surpass in 2004.

To complement this, masoniCare agreed to match funds raised ‘dollar for dollar’ up to a limit of $10,000.

The event was a roaring success with $11,000 raised on the night which, combined with masoniCare’s grant, made a total of $21,000. The money will be used to fund much needed research into Lupus disease, a multi system inflamma-tory disorder that affects young women. Let’s see what Lodge Rectitude can do next year!

BURNS UNIT AT THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT WESTMEAD – THE MASONELLES OF DISTRICT 111

The wives and partners of the Free-masons of District 111 formed the Masonelles group three years ago, prima-rily to be more active in the commu-nity. Each year, the Masonelles select a local charity for which they raise funds, selecting the Burns Unit at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead for 2004. Eventu-ally $7,000 was raised through a range of fundraising activities including a debu-tante ball, fashion parade and numerous raffles. When the Masonelles were told of the InterACTION Grants program, they immediately made an application, which

Lupus Presentation: The Grand Master, MW Bro Tony Lauer presents the cheque for $21,000 to Karen Aubrey, President of the Lupus Foundation

was approved by masoniCare, contribut-ing an additional $7,000 to the monies raised.

In a special ceremony held at the hospital, Mrs Narrelle Wearing, presi-dent of the Masonelles, presented the cheques for $14,000 to Dr John Harvey, surgeon at the Burns Unit. The donation will be used to purchase one trolley bath and two treatment couches for patients suffering from burns. Congratulations to the Masonelles!

WANT TO KNOW MORE?For more information please contact masoniCare on 02 9267 9133 or email [email protected] (please note that the email [email protected] is still in operation).

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


F E AT U R E


It originated during the 16th Century in the reign of Queen Christina of Sweden. She created the Order of the Amaranth for the Ladies and Knights of her Royal Court and it soon spread to other Royal Courts throughout Europe.

In America, in 1860, James B Taylor, a prominent Mason of New Jersey, using the Order as existing in Sweden, adapted and altered its ceremonies and language so as to make it appropriate to Masonic purposes.

The Supreme Council, Order of the

Order of the Amaranth

Amaranth Inc. was organised in 1873 and is the head body whose jurisdiction covers the entire globe.

The Grand Court of New South Wales was constituted in 1947 and has juris-diction over New South Wales, Victo-ria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. The State of Queensland has its own Grand Court.

The Order of the Amaranth means many things to many people.

To its early members, it meant the

The Order of the Amaranth is a Fraternal Order for Freemasons, their wives and families.

opportunity to build upon the strong foundations of truth, faith, wisdom and charity.

To its present members, it means a challenge to build higher, and stronger, upon the foundations of fraternal love and service. It means the hand of friend-ship to those in distress. It means think-ing and remembering its members in their hour of sorrow and sickness. Most of all, it means the opportunity to serve others, to enjoy the close fraternal ties of mutual respect and understanding, to enrich our lives with friendship worth far more than gold. It means the strength, courage and inspiration to achieve a peace of mind and a degree of happiness that comes in serving a cause greater than ourselves.

A belief in the existence of a Supreme Being is necessary for members in this Order. Its lessons are pure, and its teach-ings are upright and honourable.

The obligations are based on the honour of those who obtain the degree, and are framed upon the principles that whatever benefits are due by the Masonic fraternity to the wives, mothers, daugh-ters, granddaughters, stepdaughters, legally adopted daughters, widows, sisters, half-sisters, nieces, grandnieces, aunts, great-granddaughters and grandmothers of Master Masons, corresponding benefits are due from them to the Brotherhood.

The granddaughters, nieces, grand-nieces, aunts, great-granddaughters and grandmothers must be directly related, not by marriage, to a Master Mason, who is in good standing in his Masonic Lodge.

If the objects of the Order of the Amaranth are of interst to you, please ring the Grand Secretary, Mrs Kate Redgrave, telephone (02) 9832 8442, who will be pleased to give you any further informa-tion and will be happy to supply you with the name and telephone number of a Secretary of a Court close to your home.

Where there is no court in your area, the Grand Secretary will put you in contact with an appropriate member. If you are interested in commencing a Court in your area, the Grand Secretary will supply you with the information necessary to assist you in that endeavour.

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F E AT U R E


P R O F I L E

Derek James Robson, AM, was born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1947. He completed his early schooling in Victoria before joining the Royal Australian Navy in 1963 as an apprentice at HMAS Nirimba. He trained as a shipwright and later served in various shore establishments including HMAS Tatangau at Manus Island. He also had sea service in HMAS Sydney, HMAS Melbourne and HMAS Stalwart.

Derek was selected for commissioned rank in 1976 and attended courses at the Royal Naval Staff College, Greenwich, London, and the Royal Naval Engineering College Manadon in Plymouth UK, before returning to Australia to complete train-ing as a Marine Engineer Officer in 1977.

As a Lieutenant, he served as an Engi-neer Officer in HMAS Melbourne from 1977 to 1980 before posting back to HMAS Nirimba as Training Development Officer and an exchange posting to New Zealand’s apprentice training establish-ment, HMNZS Tamaki. In 1981, he served as Senior Engineer in HMAS Torrens and in 1982, posted to Navy Office Canberra in the Directorate of Naval Training.

He was promoted to Lieutenant Commander in December 1985 and served as the Marine Engineer Officer in the modernised HMAS Derwent prior to returning to Navy Office in 1987 as the Deputy Director Engineering, respon-sible for managing ship refit packages. Promoted to Commander in Decem-ber 1987, he served as Deputy Direc-tor Defence Technical Staff (responsible mainly for the storage of fuels and lubri-cants) and as the Marine Engineer Officer in HMAS Parramatta. In 1989, he became Assistant Director Naval Officers’ Post-

ings, responsible for the post-ings and promotions of all officers up to Commander rank. He then served as Commanding Officer, HMAS Kuttabul from 1991 to 1994.

Later in 1994, Commander Robson served as the Navy’s representative on the working party leading to the very successful Defence Efficiency Review.

In November 1994, Derek had a complete change of career when he was appointed as National Secretary (Chief Executive Officer) of the Returned & Services League of Australia.

In conjunction with his employment, Derek is also the Executive Director of the Australian Forces Overseas Fund, which provides comforts and ameni-ties to all Australian Defence personnel serving overseas. He is a member of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Regional Memorials and Commemorative Grants Committees and of the ‘RSL ANZAC of the Year’ National Committee.

RW Bro Robson joined Freemasonry on 19 December 1978 in Lodge Prosperity Lewis No 474, then meeting at Summer Hill in Sydney. He is now a member of Lodge Canberra No 465, where he has served the office of Worshipful Master on two occasions. He was elected District Grand Inspector of Workings for District 103 in 2000 and to the Board of Manage-ment of Grand Lodge in 2003.

He has always had some involve-ment in community activities. While a member of the Rotary Club of Kings Cross, he organised the Rotary commit-

ment to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel Walk in August 1992, a project which raised over $400,000 for charity. He has also served as President of the Rotary Club of Canberra Burley Griffin and was named as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International in 1993.

In December 1972, Derek married Cheryl and they have three children, Jodie, Kylie and Chris.

RW Bro Robson became a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Queen’s Birthday 2004 Honours List. He has also been awarded the Australian Active Service Medal (Vietnam), Vietnam Logistic Support Medal, Australian Service Medal (PNG), Centenary Medal, Defence Force Service Medal and the National Medal.

The Editorial Committee joins with the jurisdiction in congratulating RW Bro Derek Robson AM, Assistant Grand Master, on his appointment and on the honours awarded to him as a distin-guished Australian.

was appointed as National Secretary

Derek Robson AM

Assistant Grand Master


F E AT U R E


F E AT U R E

It is a centuries-old tradition of dress, similar to Freemasons’ regalia, which also has an interesting and diverse history.

In February this year the Deputy Grand Master RW Bro Robert Peattie began practice as a barrister and required a new set of ‘regalia’. It constisted of a Bar jacket worn under the gown, a jabot, the gown and a wig. This article explains the tradition behind the various items.

Barrister’s Robe or Gown

The history of the robe goes back to medi-eval times, when lawyers retained the tunic worn by men as a sign of learning until the middle of the 14th century. Up until the Tudor period, the Barrister’s robe was closed at the front and brightly coloured but, by the start of the 16th century, the fashion was for a long, open gown of sombre colour, typically mulberry. By 1600, black had become the colour of choice for members of the Inns of Court.

On the death of Charles II in 1685, the Bar entered a period of mourning and barristers wore a special mourning gown. This was the origin of the robe worn by barristers today: with pleated shoulders

and bell-shaped sleeves tapered at the elbow with two buttons.

The modern robe or gown also has a mysterious piece of triangular cloth attached to the left shoulder, often described as ‘violin-shaped’, which is cut in two lengthways. Its origin is obscure and there exist two theories.

The first theory is that this was once a money sack for brief fees. According to legend, it is divided in half to create two segments, one for gold coins, and the other for silver. The theory is that since barris-ters did not openly get paid for their work, clients could place ex gratia payment into the counsel’s pocket literally behind their back, to save their dignity. From this is derived the saying he got a ‘backhand payment.’ Also if barristers could not see how much they were being paid, the quality of their advocacy in court could not be compromised, or that barristers’ perform-ances even depended on the amount being topped up in their pockets, situated at the rear so as not to disturb the flow of their speech as the case progressed.

The second theory is that the trian-gular cloth is a derivative of the mourn-ing hood introduced following the death of Charles II, in keeping with traditional mourning dress of the time. This was cast over the barrister’s left shoulder and held in place by a long tassel known as a lirip-ipe, originally held in the left hand. This liripipe has survived on the robe until today and is now represented by the strip of cloth that hangs down the front of the modern gown.

Why do barristers wear robes?

The appearance of members of the legal profession in robes or gowns has often raised the question of why they adopt this style of dress.

Left: The ‘mysterious’ triangular cloth on the back of the barrister’s gown


F E AT U R E


Jabot or BandsIn 1640, lawyers swapped their neck ruffs, the fashion of the era, for plain, linen ‘falling bands’ to conceal the collar of the shirt. The bands were originally wide and tied with lace at the front, but by the 1680s they had become two rectangles – as worn by barristers today.

Like the barristers robes and its appenditures, their origins are clouded in mystery as well. The quirkiest theory is that the two rectangles represent the tablet of Moses. The most likely answer however, is that they were a sign of learn-ing, as they were also worn by doctors and clergymen.

The Wig

Lawyers began wearing wigs as a fashion item along with the rest of British society in 1663. Charles II returned to England from France and brought with him the trend of the ‘periwig’ from Louis XIV’s court.

The most fashion-conscious members of society tried to outdo one another with larger and larger wigs, hence the phrase ‘bigwig’. Even today, judges and QCs still wear the long, full-bottomed wig – the spaniel look – on ceremonial occasions to indicate their position.

Three styles of legal wig survived the fashion trends of the 17th and 18th centuries and are still in use at the Bar:1 the long full-bottomed wig, as

described above;2 the bob-wig, or ‘bench’ wig, which

has frizzed sides rather than curls and a ‘queue’ (looped tail) at the back. This is worn by judges in court, and

3 the tie-wig, the most common style worn by the majority of barristers today. The tie-wig has a fuzzed crown, with rows of curls, known as ‘buckles’ along the sides and back and a looped tail at the rear

In the time of King Charles II, all lawyers wore the full-bottomed wig, but these were abandoned by barris-ters around 1740 in preference for the smaller, lighter tie-wigs. By the 19th century, the tie-wig became the hairpiece of choice for barristers, and is still being worn today.

Senior or Queens Counsel

‘Queens Counsel’, or as they are now referred to ‘Senior Counsel’, have always worn different gowns to junior barris-ters – traditionally a lace and tufted robe. By the early 18th century, this was resigned to ceremonial costume only. The preferred dress for everyday court appearances became a silk gown – hence the term ‘silk’ used to describe a QC.

Called to the Bar

Originally the Court room was petitioned off or enclosed by two bars or rails; one of which separated the judge’s bench from the rest of the room; the other segregated both the bench and the area for lawyers engaged in trials from the space allotted to the public and those appearing before the Court.

Advocates, or counsel, were called before the court and came to the ‘bar’ and were admitted into the sealed off area of the Court hence the term they were ‘called to the bar’, that is, given the privilege to appear, speak in the presence of the judges as ‘barristers’.

Far left: Also worn by doctors and clergymen, the jabots or bands are a sign of learning. Left: The wig is generally worn on ceremonial occasions.

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F E AT U R E


THE Homes.THE FRANK WHIDDON MASONIC HOMES OF NEW SOUTH WALESABN 49 082 385 091POSTAL ADDRESS: LOCKED BAG 14, MINTO DC 2566 FACSIMILE: (02) 9827 6699 • PHONE: (02) 9827 6666 • E-MAIL: [email protected]

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

FRIDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2004An invitation is extended to Masons and their wives to attend the 6th Annual General Meeting of the Homes which will be held at the Easton Park Complex, Cnr Canterbury and Belmont Roads, Glenfi eld, commencing at 1.30 pm.

REGISTERED NURSES

Due to the ever diminishing pool of registered nurses available in New South Wales ‘The Homes’ has had to develop a number of strategies to ensure that there are adequate qualifi ed personnel to meet the needs of our residents.

Some of these strategies are:-

• the awarding of three undergraduate and three post graduate nursing scholarships

• commitment to developing a Learning Organisation

• recruitment of overseas trained Registered Nurses Currently we have recruited fi ve nurses from Africa, four from Zimbabwe and one from South Africa. Two of these nurses are situated in Wingham, where they were warmly welcomed by the whole community and three have just arrived at Easton Park, Glenfi eld. There are a further three nurses expected from Africa by the end of the year.

NAME BADGES

The Homes are able to provide Name Badges for brethren of a number of different Orders including Craft Lodges, Royal Arch, Rose Croix, Secret Monitor – all with the appropriate insignia.

Name Badges for other organisations are also available.

Ladies’ Name Badges with a magnetic clip are available – $11.00 incl. GST

Styles of Badges are as follows:-

• 1 line (name only) – $5.50 incl. GST

• 2 lines (Lodge and name) – $7.70 incl. GST

• 2 lines (as above) plus Square and Compasses – $11.00 incl. GST

Inquiries to Marilyn Taylor (see above for contact details)

HOMES’ SERVIETTES

White serviettes in packets of 500, with either blue or red printing of the Homes’ logo are available free of charge to Craft Lodges, Royal Arch and Rose Croix Chapters. They are available from the Administration Offi ce at our Glenfi eld Complex or where serviettes are required to be posted, a charge for postage will be necessary. Inquiries to Marilyn Taylor

PROJECTS

LADY CUTLER GARDENS -GUILDFORDCommunity Room – commenced

EASTON PARK - GLENFIELDNew Kitchen – under construction

Administration Offi ce & Dining Room – Tender Stage

LARGS LODGE - LARGS.4 Self-care units – commenced

LAURIETON HAVEN AGED CARE COMPLEX – LAURIETONNew retaining wall and fencing - under construction

Stembile Mandaa and Abigail Mizeko at the Morning Tea welcoming them to Wingham.

F E AT U R E


The following advice is given to make it easier for authors to get copy into this magazine and reduce time needed by members of the editorial committee to complete their work.A: Abbreviations are needed, use the

correct term such as Bro, W Bro, VW Bro, RW, MW, WM, DGIW, RGC. If in doubt, check.

B: Brevity. Avoid lengthy sentences, don’t use flowery language or repetition. A brief story still gets the message across and allows room for other news.

C: Copy, such as stories, where possible, should be typed and double spaced. A handwritten report invites errors, espe-cially with names. Don’t use words or phrases known only to your group, Lodge or area. The Freemason is read by many non-Masons.

D: Deadlines are important to publish a magazine on time. Check the dead-line for your magazine and ensure your copy/photo is delivered before time. Watch the spelling of dates. This magazine uses 2 February as its style, not February 2nd.

E: Everyone who reads the magazine should find entertaining items. Make your story enjoyable.

F: First sight is important. The first sentence in a story should attract the reader with a desire to continue reading. The major facts should start the story, the lesser facts at the bottom. The opening should summarise the story.

G: Generate enthusiasm to make your report interesting.

H: Help the editor by checking your copy and correcting mistakes.

I: Information should be accurate and informative. Don’t guess, if it cannot be confirmed, leave it out. In an article, the order should be news, background and comment. What’s the story about, how newsworthy is it.

J: Join short sentences together but not at length. Break up long sentences to give more impact.

K: Know the facts. Give readers knowl-edge.

L: Learning is knowledge. Will the readers learn anything from your article. Use capital ‘L’ for Lodge.

M: Margin your stories. Margins should be wide to allow room for editing notes. Use a capital ‘M’ for Mason.

N: Names are important. Where a name is unusual, repeat it in brackets such as Ethan (Ethan). If a word is an uncommon word, check the spelling in a dictionary. Never guess. All proper names start with a capital as in John Smith from Sydney. A capital is NOT used for ordinary words such as member, committee, speech.

O: Opening sentences carry a story. Refer to first sight.

P: Photographs must be interesting and identified. Name the people, place and time and include attached to the photo. Make the subjects the centre of the photo, not the background. DON’T WRITE ON THE BACK OF PHOTO-GRAPHS AS IMPRINT COMES THROUGH.

Q: Quotes are acceptable when properly used in a story. If in third person, use past tense such as... ‘John Smith said he would continue’. A direct quote

should be written as... ‘Let’s talk about it,’ W Bro Smith said. If the quote continues, it is not necessary to repeat the speaker’s name.

R: Re-writing of stories takes up valuable time. It is often necessary when stories are badly written, repetitive and missing facts or people’s titles. Remember each journal has its own style.

S: Sentences should be mainly short, no more than 30 words. Remember, space is always limited. The focus of the story should be appropriate, informative and topical. Plan what you are going to write, complete an outline and then put the story together in order of importance.

T: Try to read a copy of the magazine to which you will be submitting an item and study the style that is used. Then put your item together.

U: Use enthusiasm. Only you can put enthusiasm into your article.

V: Verity is essential. Nothing beats the truth.

W: Who will supply more information if it’s needed? Always have a contact name, phone or email number included with your story. If they or you are not available, leave details of an alternative person. Write your story where it is quiet, it generally helps concentration. Write your item as soon as possible after the event because time can play tricks with memory.

Address all articles to: The SecretaryPublications Committee, United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT, PO Box A259, Sydney South, NSW 1235.

The ABC of a good storyStyle is as important to a publication as its content. Dull, boring copy, wrongly illustrated and cramped into a small space will turn a reader away.


L A D I E S PA G E

The girl said her name was Annie, and that she’d been left there when her family died of the plague. She was crying because she couldn’t find her doll. The psychic rushed out and bought a toy, which she left on a chest, hoping it would provide comfort to Annie. Since then, many visitors have brought dolls and teddies for the little ghost.

If that story isn’t enough to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, then you can settle down and listen to an audio re-enactment of the night of terror that the family of Thomas Coltheart spent in the next Close. One wet and windy night, a whole series of visitations trou-bled the family, who cowered in terror as ghosts of people, animals and severed limbs rushed through their home.

Further down the close, the ghost of the Black Lady is said to walk, and, if you are still feeling brave, then visit the room where, in 1535, Alison Rough murdered her son-in-law. Those with a strong stomach can ponder on her feel-ings as she was drowned in the Nor Loch for her crime.

After scaring us witless, Fiona Camp-bell took us back to the recreated Close

Down the Royal Mile – haunting memoriesPart II – Denise Wallace continues her spine-tingling trip into Edinburgh’s underbelly and its ‘most haunted place’: Mary King’s Close.

itself, where we huddled in small groups well away from the shows. No one talked much as they walked past the house of Andrew Chesney. He lived there alone in the abandoned Close until he left in 1901.

From there it’s a short walk up the steep slope and back up the stairs and into the 21st century.

Walking out into the fresh air, it is worth peeking into one of the inhab-ited uncovered Closes, like Fleshmarket Close, that still shoot off the Royal Mile. I don’t know whether I believe in ghosts or not, but I was left with the feeling that the dust I brushed off my coat wasn’t the only thing from the 16th century that I’d brought back. Looking around at the coffee shops and bustle, I gave thanks for a life of sanitation, lighting, plumbing and comfort.

And, in passing, remembered the short, gloomy lives of the people who lived here a long, long time ago.

Bibliography– Photos from Internet source.– Script taken from interview with

Denise Wallace

RW Bro Desmond Scotcher

PSGW

Consultant-Arranger

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M A S O N I C C R O S S W O R D 1 6


ACROSS

5 Some union icons found in 4 down (5)

8 Two biblical epistles have been written to these people of 4 down extraction (10)

9 Crazy characters from Lane Cove form a meeting relative to the Craft (8)

11 Often Richard provides more than is needed to ameliorate (6)

12 Tool charge is complicated for this historic American excavator (12)

15 See 22 down

16 One of 4 down turns Cid back with an alternative (5)

19 Another of 4 down is buried in the compost that is abbreviated (3,9)

21 4 down cuts an arrangement for this one (6)

23 Unseat Nero with the department head (8)

25 & 20 down Sir, her shop number transfers to a county cricket team (10,6)

26 Detests reorders with haste (5)

DOWN

1 Initially on two accounts, inter alia, is found a sprig of evergreen (6)

2 See 22

3 The loan is set up to buy fuel (7)

4 Number of regal commands in allusion to 21,16,5,8 and 19 across architecturally (4,5,6)

5 For the time being remit in certain order (7)

6 Even inner air is close (4)

7 Its put up after a member of 9 across loses final direction (10)

10 Shack up with OIC in bath (7)

13 I join English football code initially to drop out (10)

14 Tourers stride out (7)

17 N.S.W. seen to show recency (7)

18 Tip heap over to find inscription (7)

20 See 25 across

22, 2 down & 15 across Solid excuse down to the metal (4-4,5)

24 Leave out every other worm diet (4)

Solution next issue © ads

Solution No. 15

Cartoon Corner


S E RV I C E C E RT I F I C AT E S

75 YEARS SERVICEPEREIRA, GEORGE HARRY Lodge Fidelity King Solomon 101

60 YEARS SERVICEAGLAND, ATHOL Lodge Baulkham Hills 958

ATKINSON, ROY Lodge Urbenville Bonalbo 354

BELLAMY, COLIN Lodge Beecroft 359

FENNEY, JAMES Lodge Enterprise 400

GREENWOOD, KEITH Lodge Mindaribba 307

HOWELL, WALTER Lodge Tranmere 712

STREET, ESBERT The Lodge Federation 196

THOMAS, DAVID Lodge Bronte 507

TICKLE, WILLIAM Lodge Hiram 213

50 YEARS SERVICEABBOTT, REGINALD Lodge Wyong Tuggerah Lakes 247

ALLEN, ALBERT The Hills Lodge 1025

ANDERSON, RONALD Lodge St Andrew 33

BAIRD, OWEN Lodge John Williams 148

BATES, GEORGE Batemans Bay Daylight Lodge 1013

BEDFORD, WILBUR Lodge Ivanhoe St.George 143

BENNELL, KEITH Lodge Brotherhood of Kuring-gai 230

BEVAN, WILLIAM Lodge Silver City 141

BEVERIDGE, MALCOLM The Old Sydneians’ Lodge 639

BOOTS, EDGAR GARNET Lodge Laurieton Haven United 1031

BRIDGEFOOT, NEIL Lodge Olympus With Prosperity 278

COWELL, KENNETH The Hunters Hill Lodge 139

CURRY, ALLAN Lodge Education 814

DAVIES, TERENCE Lodge Baden Powell 646

DAVIS, JACK Lodge Beecroft 359

DICKINSON, ALEXANDER Lodge Tamworth 652

DRANSFIELD, RONALD Lodge Mindaribba 307

ELDRED, GEORGE Lodge Olympus With Prosperity 278

GEDDES, DONALD Lodge Young Burrangong 20

GIBSON, JOHN Clarence Valley Daylight Lodge 1011

HADDON, DAVID Lodge Baden Powell 646

HART, JOHN Lodge Jersey 204

HATHWAY, CLIFFORD The Peel Lodge 209

HELPS, ROGER Lodge Mindaribba 307

HENDERSON, NORMAN Lodge Samaritan 50

HILL, GORDON Lodge Chelmsford 261

HILL, NELSON Lodge Wentworthville 350

HOCKEY, CLAUDE Great Lakes Daylight Lodge 994

HUGHES, RONALD Lodge Tomalpin 253

KOCH, LESTER Lodge Saratoga 937

LEGGE, WILLIAM Lodge Thespian Lewis 804

LEMAIRE, JAMES Lodge Sirius 292

LLOYD, FREDERICK Lodge George C. Gollan 865

MACKENZIE, EDWIN The Lodge Federation 196

MASON, MARCUS Lodge Southern Cross 91

MAY, CECIL Great Lakes Daylight Lodge 994

MCANALLY, ALLEN Clarence Valley Daylight Lodge 1011

MCDONALD, ROBERT Clarence Valley Daylight Lodge 1011

MCLENNAN, GRAEME Lodge West Epping 731

MURRAY, JOHN The St. George Lodge 328

MURRAY, QUENTIN D94

NEVILLE, KEITH Lodge Manoora Technology 432

PAGE, PETER Lodge Young Burrangong 20

PHILPOTT, TERENCE Batemans Bay Daylight Lodge 1013

RIGBY, NOEL Lodge Warringah 83

RITCHIE, CECIL Lodge Kirrawee 903

ROBSON, HENRY Lodge Southern Cross 91

SOWDEN, STANLEY The Goulburn Lodge of Australia 58

SPINKS, FRANCIS Lodge Education 814

STATE, GEORGE Lodge Education 814

THOMPSON, WILLIAM Lodge Tomaree 878

THORPE, COLIN Lodge Friendship 158

WADE, SYDNEY Lodge Barellan 386

WALKER, MAX Lodge Star In The West Sedgwick 189

WARRAN, LESLIE The Lodge Of Transition 9999

WHITECHURCH, HAROLD Lodge Tomalpin 253

WILSON, MAURICE Lodge West Epping 731

WRIGHT, HARVEY The Lachlan Lodge 142


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Become a club member to enjoy a 10% discount onaccommodation, meals, beverages & special events.

Membership Enquiries 02 9284 1000

Rare ly i s accommodat ion with a centra l Sydney locat ionand f ive star atmosphere offered at such an affordable rate.

Owned and operated by the NSWMasonic Club

Cello's Heritage ListedRestaurant

The RFBI is proud to announce the completion of its 50 bed aged care facility at Kurri Kurri. The refurbishment of the Moonby House Nursing Home will be completed at month’s end as will the 15 bed Lyall Green Lodge which is an addition to the 27 bed Tamworth Cottage Homes. Basin View’s 50 bed aged care facility is expected to be completed by December with a fi tout to follow.

The RFBI has purchased the 44 bed Strathlea Nursing Home in Armidale to complement the 34 self-care villa village. Once Basin View is occupied, the RFBI will then operate 885 aged care places and 910 independent living units. In total, the RFBI will then care for approximately 1981 senior citizens plus a further 95 senior citizens through the Community Aged Care Packages. This is the RFBI’s testimony of the charitable works of Freemasonry.

The RFBI is constantly seeking VOLUNTEERS to support its activities. Please contact Ann King or Alex Shaw on 9264 5986 to register your interest.

The RFBI invites you to leave a BEQUEST IN YOUR WILL to enable the charitable works of the Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution to continue. Please contact Head Offi ce for an appropriate form.

FREECALL1800 803 584

View our extensive range at www.blashki.com.auor email [email protected]

OPENING HOURS...

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 10AM – 5PM OR BY APPOINTMENT

Our skill and attention to detail guarantee regalia of only the fi nest quality for your requirements.

LEVEL 4, 379-383 PITT STREET, SYDNEY NSWPH: 02 9264 8900 FX: 02 9261 8819

• FRATERNAL • ACADEMIC • • CORPORATE • MUNICIPAL • • LEGAL • ECCLESIASTICAL • • MILITARY • DRESSWEAR •

Section ACard No. 1 @ $7.50 per 10 cards $

Card No. 2 @ $7.00 per 10 cards $

Card No. 3 – Floral correspondence @ $6.00 per 8 cards $

TOTAL $

I enclose a cheque for $

(payable to ‘NSW Masonic Auxiliary’)

Section BChristmas donations towards the work of the NSW Masonic Auxiliary.I enclose my cheque for $

(payable to ‘NSW Masonic Auxiliary’)

Name:

Address:

Postcode: Phone:

Please send order to: Mrs. B. Smith, 268 Trafalgar Street, Annandale NSW 2038 Tel: (02) 9660 4696 (after hours)or Mr. Les Berry Tel: (02) 9579 555720

04 O

RDER

FO

RM

No. 2Xmas

Baubles

No. 1Xmas Bells Card Pack

No. 3Floral

CorrespondenceCards

Cut along dotted line

NSW Masonic AuxiliaryThe 2004 Xmas Cards are available at the following prices (postage included). Proceeds from the sale of these cards will be donated to Careflight Medical Rescue Helicopter Service.

No. 1 Xmas Bells Card Pack Cost per 10 $7.50

No. 2 Xmas Baubles Cost per 10 $7.00

No. 3 Floral Correspondence Cards Cost per 8 $6.00

To place your order, please complete Section A and return it with your cheque made payable to the ‘NSW Masonic Auxiliary’.Should you purchase your Christmas Cards elsewhere, but would like to support the work of this Auxiliary by making a Christmas Donation, please complete Section B and return it with your cheque, made payable to the ‘NSW Masonic Auxiliary’.

freemason oct04 - australija

Documents

communication of grand

grand chaplain

sister grand lodges

assistant grand master

n s e rt s

e sforeword

i s s i o n s tat e

rw bro graham austin