NZ Freemason magazine Issue 4 December 2015 by Freemasons New Zealand

Freemason NEW ZEALAND

Issue 4 (Vol. 43), December 2015

The great Kiwi summer holiday break FREEMASONS ANNUAL REPORT

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IN THIS ISSUE

Leadership – a two-way street 20

From the Editor 2

Hot news 3 From the Grand Master 4

The past, the present and the future

News clips 6 OPINION “It’s about time” 8 Letters to the Editor 9

Freemasons New Zealand Annual Report 2014-2015 21 Grand Installations over the last 125 years 29 The Masonic and Military Order of The Red Cross of Constantine and the Orders of The Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist 30

FREEMASONS IN ACTION Run Fat Boy Run 10

EDUCATION Wisdom, Strength and Beauty 31

Land Search and Rescue Northland tracking along thanks to Freemasons 10 Country Music, Freemasonry and Local Businesses – what do they have in common? 11 Freemasons Food Vouchers 11 Freemasons racing to help Rescue Helicopter 12 “A Great Day for the Irish” 12

Freemasons Foundation 32 WW100 Gisborne Remembers Brother William Grant 34 Otago commemorates a lost masonic son 35 History of the New Zealand Registered Nurses’ Medal 35

Midland District Harmony at Work 13 Coffee on the Brain 13

Partners in Freemasonry 37 Masonic Villages Trust 38

Freemasons New Zealand – Powering Potential 14

HEALTH & SCIENCE Strokes just happen to old people – right? 40

Potter Masonic Trust 15 125TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS A ‘BEAUT‘ Day out 16 Fantastic Franklin celebrates 125 Years 16 More support for the Blind and Visually Impaired by Freemasons 17 Freemasons New Zealand 125 Years Exhibition 17 125 years ago from The New Zealand Craftsman magazine 19

Royal Arch 42

Let’s nail our colours to the mast

Masonic Trusts punch above their weight 44 REGULARS A Freemason of the Canterbury hills and the plains 46 Freemason heirloom passed on 46 New initiates 47 The back page 48 Service Awards 49

Cover picture: Kohioawa Beach, Bay of Plenty. Aidan Wojtas / Flickr

From the Editor

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND Level 6, Freemasons House 195–201 Willis Street Te Aro, Wellington 6011 PO Box 6439, Marion Square Wellington 6141 New Zealand Ph: +64 4 385 6622 Fax +64 4 385 5749 Email: secretary@freemasons.co.nz editor@freemasons.co.nz www.freemasonsnz.org

The New Zealand Freemason is the official journal of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. Unless otherwise indicated, the opinions expressed and the advertising content are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy of Grand Lodge. Articles appearing in this journal may be reproduced without permission provided acknowledgement of the source is made and a copy of the publication is forwarded to the Grand Secretary. Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution should be addressed to secretary@freemasons.co.nz or the Chief Executive PO Box 6439, Marion St. Wellington 6141. Queries and comments regarding content and advertising should be addressed to the Editor. Contributions to the magazine, preferably in electronic form (e.g. MS Word documents) are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Photographs should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tiff format. Contributions may be edited in order to fit space available and to achieve overall balance. Letters to the Editor should not exceed 300 words. A guidance sheet for preparation of publishable material is available on request from the Editor. Contributions should be forwarded to editor@freemasons. co.nz Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, editor@freemasons.co.nz Royal Arch contributions to Geoff Davies, merlin81@xtra.co.nz Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November Layout by Bartlett Projects, Wellington Printed by Wickliffe (NZ) Ltd. Copyright © 2015 Freemasons NZ

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et’s say Freemasonry has been in New Zealand for 178 years under a variety of Constitutions and let’s say it has been organised under one Constitution The Grand Lodge of New Zealand for the last 125 years. Then what have Freemasons done for New Zealand in that time? It would be hoped it has … helped tens of thousands of men to improve themselves by association with like-minded men endeavouring to adhere to fundamental principles of goodness, caring and honesty, not only for the sake of themselves but their families, their friends and their community. It would be hoped it has … helped focus and build communities in the infancy of this country and still provides the glue that helps hold them together today. Freemasons are usually involved in all aspects of their local communities. It would be hoped it has … helped nearly every community in New Zealand, with local charitable and community projects, supported by local Lodges. Helped big causes, and small, the length and breadth of the New Zealand. Helped those in need, especially the elderly, the young and the vulnerable. Helped, where only the recipient knows of that help, to maintain privacy and dignity. It would be hoped it has … helped on a national scale with the University Scholarships, Medical and Scientific Research especially but not limited to Paediatrics, Gerontology, Neurosurgery and Oncology, the advancement in the Arts and Sciences and the provision of elder care facilities, open to all, throughout New Zealand. This is all because every Freemason believes in loving his neighbour, helping anyone in their time of need and those universal truths that are necessary for the survival and advancement of humankind. The secret of Freemasonry is to take the talents we possess and improve ourselves so that we’ can do our best’ for all those around us; in whatever way possible. In the last 125 years has all this passed? … well it will if we don’t continue doing what we have been doing and telling those good news stories and the stories of what it means to be a Freemason. This issue contains a lift-out Executive Summary of the Annual Report, lots of Freemasons in Action and 125th Activities, a feature from the Stroke Foundation, the oldest New Zealand Freemason and something from our partners. Fifty two pages that will delight, educate, inform and enlighten us! Summer is almost upon us and in the great kiwi tradition; enjoy the break with family and friends and think of others needs in this festive season. See you in 2016 refreshed and energised to take on all that the New Year needs from us as men and Freemasons. VWBro Duane Williams MBE, JP, CLJ, P Dist GM

Besides being a Freemason, Duane is a Justice of the Peace and a volunteer at the Home of Compassion Soup Kitchen.

HOT NEWS Ceremonial Review Committee

Appointment of new Southern Divisional Grand Master RWBro Rob Angelo has been appointed Divisional Grand Master for the South ern Division by the Grand Master taking over from RWBro Jim Harborow. Rob is Christchurch-based which places him in the middle of his very large Division and was previously the Grand Superintendent of Works.

Annual Report A new look Executive Summary Annual Report is enclosed within the December issue of the New Zealand Freemason magazine which is a lift out. This has reduced the costs of production and post age but still places it in the hands of every mem ber. A full Annual Report is available online and printed version on request.

Grand Installation 2016

Central Division – Saturday 5 March 2016 Palmerston North – Convention Centre. Southern Division – Friday 11 – Saturday 12 March 2016 Queenstown – Copthorne Hotel.Board Tracing Freemasons ToolboxElectronic Card Northern Division – Saturday 9 April The tracing boards are a great education tool. However in many lodge rooms the 2016 Manukau, Auckland – Novotel Ask your District Grand Master picturesfor haveadulled or are not easily viewed. Airport Hotel. Freemasons Toolbox Card which points lodges haveDivisions now installed aare TV assupplying an electronic tracing board which provides all their memyou directly at the FreemasonsSeveral Toolbox an up-lift to the lodge room. This allows display of the three tracing boards including on the Freemasons New Zealand website bers with full details separately. an additional dulled board for the 3 degree, plus the e. of m.. They are all being held a little earlier www.freemasonsnz.org/tools with over Implementing this idea is easy to achieve: 120 ideas and more being added regu- this year to allow any Remits passed by screen TV – a at 42inch 106 mmconferences screen is the minimum a majority allorthree to be larly it a great place to get ideas 1.to Purchase help a flat desirable size. Also purchase a wall mounting bracket. you, your Lodge or your District. The put in place before the Business Session Freemasons Toolbox is an initiative of of The Grand Installation in November 2. Select a position to mount the TV in the lodge room. If you wish to avoid 2016 work where other Remits mayoutlet. go up. the Strategic Pillars Team. additional electrical this needs to be near a power While the This review is underway and submis sions from members and lodges on our ceremonial can be sent to crc@freemasons.co.nz.

existing lodge room layout will often dictate the position it is best placed where there is free space in front to view it.

THE FREEMASONS

TOOLBOX

3. The TV is best mounted vertically

TOOLBOX

centred about 1800 above floor level.

LEARN

‘Bring a Kin’

Electronic Tracing Board

Night 4. The images are placed on the TV

by plugging in an USB stick. These can be obtained by emailing

Host an Amazing Race

mem.chair@freemasons.co.nz

ENGAGE BELONG

Hold a ‘Rusty Trowel’ Night

MEMBER TRANSFER

Don’t lose that Freemason!

LEAD

toolbox card.indd 2

Lodge project that does not cost any money

King Solomon’s Temple evening

‘Exploring the Tools’ evening

Elevator Speech



Early bird applications are rolling in for our Grand Installation being held on 18–20 November 2016 which can be done either online via the Freemasons New Zealand website or by completing the application and posting to the organisers. Regular part payments can be arranged also to spread the cost out between now and then. Everyone from EA to GM welcome including partners.

2016 Divisional Conferences

VISIT

freemasonsnz.org/tools

30/09/15 3:24 pm 1 toolbox card.indd

30/09/15 3:24 pm

GRAND MASTER’S VISITS Dec 14

The Beta Waikato Lodge No 12, Hamilton – 150th Anniversary Celebrations Mar 5 Central Division Conference, Palmerston North Mar 11–12 Southern Division Conference, Queenstown

Mar 31–Apr 5 United Grand Lodge of Victoria, Grand Installation, Melbourne Apr 9 Northern Division Conference, Manukau, Auckland

THE GRAND MASTER

The past, the present and the future I

t has been a brilliant year and one where we have achieved so much. The focus of the Board of General Purposes throughout the year has been to ensure Freemasonry keeps in touch with the times. The Board’s goal has been for the Craft to remain relevant and viable with good stewardship. Following recent changes, there is now a clear distinction between the Board’s role of governance and that of the National Leadership Team under the direction of the Chief Executive RWBro Laurence Milton whose responsibility is to manage our day to day operations. These changes will see a structure designed to ensure communications will improve and the needs of lodges and brethren are in clear focus. During the last few months, Diana and I have continued to travel widely, making another trip to Australia to attend the Grand Installation of Western Australia held in Perth. Although Diana had previously visited Perth, it was my first visit and it is certainly a place we would like to visit again. The new Grand Master of WA is MWBro Bill Babe who was born and educated in NZ. He qualified as a doctor at Otago University and practised medicine as a GP in Dunedin prior to moving to WA. The weekend’s activities were very enjoyable and, as always, we benefitted from interaction with our Australian friends. We would like to record our appreciation for all of those NZ Freemasons and their partners who accompanied us on this visit. We attended two events in the Hutt Valley in September. The first visit was

to a concert to raise funds for some specialised medical equipment for the Hutt Hospital and was well supported by the Freemasons of the Wellington/ Hutt Valley lodges. The Theme of the Concert was around country music and was hosted by the well-known NZ singer and entertainer Frankie Stevens. Frankie and all of the many artists gave of their time freely and the whole event was a huge success with the impressive sum of $39,000 being raised. Congratulations to all those involved. The other visit was to the 125 year anniversary dinner hosted by Hutt Valley Lodge. This event was again well supported and I am sure all of those who attended had a most enjoyable time with some fine food and wine. We have also travelled to the South Island and attended two great events one held in Nelson and the other in Blenheim. Arriving at Nelson Airport, we were met by Graham and Heather Steer and transported to our hotel in a beautifully restored ‘mauve’ American Cadillac. We felt like famous celebrities. One of the purposes of our visit was to join with the presentation of a support car to the Nelson/Marlborough Helicopter Rescue Service. The Rescue Service was thrilled to receive the car and I learnt that other equipment had been presented by the Lodge in previous years. Following this presentation the District Grand Master Bruce Pagan drove us to Blenheim to a “BEAUT” afternoon tea held by the Lodge of Unanimity to celebrate the 125th anniversary. We were well entertained by singers from a barber quartet and then participated in a glorious afternoon tea during which I was presented with a cheque towards the purchase of Daisy Players. Since September we have made a number of visits to the Auckland area. We joined with Titirangi Mt Albert Lodge in their Centennial Installation Meeting and Dinner which was well supported by many of the Brethren and this added to the

success of the celebrations. The following day we attended a church service at the Mt Roskill Retirement Village Chapel. Towards the end of September we were again in Auckland and attended a celebration to recognise the achievement of WBro Francis Davis who had completed 75 years’ service to Freemasonry. WBro Davis who is a resident of the Ranfurly Veterans Village and is I believe at present, the longest serving Freemason. At a morning tea with his family which included his grandchildren and Brethren who had travelled from the Coromandel we duly celebrated the marvellous occasion and his magnificent achievement. On the same day of this celebration we also attended the Auck land Uni ver sity Chancellor’s Dinner in the Alumni Marquee on the lawn of the Old Government House. It was a glittering affair and the Freemasons were acknowledged for the generous contribution to the University. One of the highlights of the dinner was a piano duet performed by two students which I found to be absolutely stunning. In October we were again in Auckland to celebrate the 125th Installation Meeting of The Franklin Lodge. The meeting was well supported and it was a pleasure and privilege to be present and support the celebrations. More recently I attended Lodge Takahe in Christchurch and I am grateful to the Master and the brethren for allowing me to use their normal meeting night to invest RWBro Angelo as the Divisional Grand Master of the South Island. Prior to this investiture they completed a prearranged 3rd degree working on Brother Laforteza. At the conclusion of the evening I travelled to my accommodation on a real high and I questioned myself as to why I felt this way? I concluded that there were many contributing factors. Firstly, the Shirley Masonic Centre is a warm, modern and inviting venue. Secondly the high standard of the degree working was a pleasure to witness and clearly much work and rehearsal had gone on behind the scenes. The excitement of Bro Laforteza and the manner in which he conducted himself was compelling

and in such an atmosphere it was a real pleasure to invest RWBro Angelo. Looking forward to 2016 we have some major events commencing with the three Divisional Conferences. I cannot emphasize the importance of these Conferences as they provide the opportunity for all the brethren of each Division to have input and influence in the future direction of Freemasonry. As a Lodge Master and Warden it is particularly important that you attend. Whilst there will be an agenda for each conference, it is sometimes the informal discussions during breaks like for lunch, that provides an opportunity to share experiences and learn from each other. At the last Conferences there was a good attendance of Master Masons and I would like to see an even greater attendance of such brethren in 2016. Next year we will be calling for nominations for the active Officers of Grand Lodge. In the recent appointment of the Divisional Grand Master for the South Island those nominated were required to go through a new process

developed by the members of the national ‘Organisation Development Pillar’ and the Chief Executive. Each candidate was given a full day of training by a professional trainer so they understood the role and the commitment they would have to make as Divisional Grand Master. Following this, there was a further day where they were required to make a presentation to a selection panel chaired by the Deputy Grand Master and which included the President of the Board of General Purposes, the Chief Executive and myself as Grand Master. The feedback we received following the interviews was that the process was considered to be very professional, fair and robust. Next year we will be calling for nominations for Officers of Grand Lodge and it is intended to adopt a similar process of training and interview for those nominated. I would like to record my appreciation for the contribution and commitment made by RWBro Jim Harborow during his term as the Divisional Grand Master of the South Island and to wish him

well for the future. I would also like to congratulate RWBro Rob Angelo as he takes over the role and starts his journey as Divisional Grand Master. There are two further retirements worthy of mention: RWBro Terry McConnell, who has completed his term as Superintendent of The Freemasons Charity, and VWBro Warwick Roberts who has completed his term as a Board Member. Both have made valuable contributions to the Craft and I thank them for the dedication to the work of their respective roles. As this year draws to an end, it is clear that Freemasonry is very much alive. Much has been achieved but of course there is still much to do next year and in the years beyond. I look forward to your continuing support. 2015 has been a memorable year for NZ Freemasons for many reasons. Thank you all for your support. Diana and I wish you all a very happy Christmas and holiday season, together with a very prosperous and healthy 2016. John Litton

to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the Blind Foundation in March, and in May were at the Opening of the Freemasons Park at the BLENNZ (Blind and Low Vision Educations Network of NZ) at Homai Campus in Manuewra. The Transitional Cathedral in Christchurch provided a fantastic venue for the start of our own 125 Anniversary celebrations in June, when the Scholarship Presentations took place, together with the 125th Anniversary Dinner and the unveiling of the restored first Grand Master’s grave at Linwood Cemetery. Our visits to Australia on three separate occasions this year – to Adelaide, Sydney and Perth – have all been most enjoyable and we have felt very privileged to be able to be the ambassadors for New Zealand on these occasions. We are very grateful to those who have accompanied us on these visits. My gratitude is also extended to the amazing ladies (and some men) who have assisted the Cancer Society and the Child Cancer Foundations and Neo-Natal Babies with their knitting and crocheting, those

who have painted ‘hope stones’ for patients undergoing treatment for cancer, and also a very big ‘thank you’ for the thousand or so poppies that I received to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Landings on Gallipoli in WWI, which enabled me to create three displays for Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. I have been overwhelmed by all the support I have received. On a personal note, this year has been particularly special for John and me with the arrival of a beautiful little granddaughter at the end of September and we have a little grandson expected towards the end of December, so Christmas will be very memorable this year! With every good wish for a wonderful Christmas and all that you want in the New Year.

From Diana

hat a fantastic year this has been! I totally agree with John that it has been outstanding. So many Lodges have gone to extraordinary lengths to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the start of the NZ Constitution and make it a very special occasion. Their fundraising has also been very impressive and it is just wonderful how much has been done to support the Blind Foundation. The original target of providing 125 Daisy Players to the Foundation has been far exceeded – the response of all Lodges has just been truly amazing! John and I have had some wonderful experiences moving around the country this year and have been privileged to be part of some really memorable, and sometimes emotional, occasions. Particular highlights have been the presentation of 70-year jewels to Reg Duff and Clarrie Brown in New Plymouth, and a special Certificate to the longest serving Freemason, Francis Davis from Auckland, marking the 75 years since his initiation. We were honoured to be invited to Government House in Wellington

Diana Litton

NEWS CLIPS

Lodge Photo Competition Freemasons New Zealand are wanting to get an up to date photo of your Freemasons Lodge, Hall, Centre or Complex; so we can add it to the Lodge Locator on the Freemasons New Zealand website, use it in the New Zealand Freemason magazine, etc. A good quality high resolution photo especially of the exterior and also one of the interior would be appreciated and it can be emailed to communications@ freemasons.co.nz with the name of your Lodge. A small prize to those who send a picture in!

Alex pictured with the Terracotta Warriors and fitting right in.

Where in the World? WBro Alex McKenzie of Pakuranga Lodge took his June Issue of the NZ Freemason Magazine to China and was seen with it on The Great Wall of China and in the Terracotta Warriors Tomb of Qin Shi Huang first Emperor of China.

Get a picture of you and the NZ Freemason taken somewhere around New Zealand or Overseas to show how far it travels and what interesting or exotic locations you and it have been to! Photos to editor@freemasons.co.nz

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once every three years, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” International Volunteer Day is 5 December

The Freemasons Charity Jewels These were first introduced in November 2013 A great way to support The Freemasons Charity and honour a member of your Lodge who has done great work in the way of charity and benevolence and/or sterling work for Freemasonry in general. They come in three levels – Bronze (Merit), Silver (Appreciation) and

Gold (Recognition) depending on the awardees contribution to charity and freemasonry, and, on the monetary contribution Lodges can afford to make to The Freemasons Charity. Bronze is $275, Silver is $375 and Gold is $550 which includes GST. Any Freemason in receipt of any one of these beautiful Jewels would be honoured indeed. Guidelines are available from Free masons New Zealand and applications involve a covering letter and cheque sent to The Freemasons Charity well before date of presentation. This contribution along with Installation Collections, Lodge Donations and Bequests all add to the capital base of The Freemasons Charity – Our Charity.

New Grand Superintendent of Works VWBro Graham Strez has been appointed Grand Superintendent of Works as at 6 November 2015 by the Grand Master. Graham comes from Auckland and is a director of Architect Associates. He has been a Freemason since 1998 and is a Past Master (twice) of The Lodge of the Liberal Arts. He was previously the Northern Division Property Officer.

NEWS CLIPS

75 Years a Freemason! You are a long time a Freemason

Strategic Pillars Workshops Two trial workshops developed and organised by the Strategic Pillars Team were held in Auckland and Wellington recently. Approximately 33 first time Masters, first time Wardens and new Master Masons participated in a three session programme interspersed with dinner. The programme covered Leadership, Membership and Community Engage ment with lots of discussion, sharing of ideas and activities. Participants all agreed that the work shops were worthwhile and very useful to them. These workshops will be rolled out to all Divisions in 2016.

Presenters were Mark Hall Leadership Pillar, Warwick Bell Membership Pillar and Rob Crabtree Community Engagement Pillar.

Francis Davis, 96, has spent 75 years as a Freemason.

Freemason Francis Davis clocks 75 years being New Zealand’s longest serving freemason. Francis Davis, 96, is the longest serving active member of Freemasons New Zealand with 75 years under his belt at the Hauraki Plains Lodge. The former Mangere man was officially recognised for his service on September 30. Freemasons New Zealand Grand Master John Litton presented Francis with his 75 Year Certificate as the organisation celebrated its 125th Anniversary. “The Freemasons have got a little bit more open now,” he says. Freemasonry began about 300 years ago in Europe when stonemasons formed a group to share their skills with worthy apprentices. The first New Zealand meeting was held in 1837. The philanthropic organisation has evolved but still keeps the same principles of kindness, care and honesty. Affectionately known as Chum, Francis was born in Wellington and grew up in the small town of Kaihere in the Hauraki Plains. “It was pretty rough in those days. There were no roads.” His father was a Freemason and ran the Kaihere store.

Supporting the Freemasons Deposit Scheme Freemasons New Zealand has a great tool for its membership in the form of the Freemasons Deposit Scheme which has been running since 1977. The Freemasons Deposit Scheme is managed by Heartland Bank which is 100% New Zealand managed and has roots that go back to 1875. The Freemasons Deposit Scheme is a three way partnership between Freemason depositors, Freemasons New Zealand and the Heartland Bank. It is open to Freemasons, their families, their connections and their businesses, Lodges, Masonic Charitable Trusts, etc.

The Scheme provides competitive interest rates and Freemasons New Zealand receives a commission based on the total amount deposited. This commission is over and above the interest paid to depositors so it does not affect their investment return. Freemasons New Zealand receives about $350–400,000 in commission each year which it uses to fund the extras that the membership would like to have. Our Capitation Fees come in at $500,000 per annum and only pay for the administration costs of running Freemasons New Zealand. So we can see how important the Freemasons Deposit Scheme is to Freemasonry in New Zealand and how it has a role in keeping our annual Capitation Fees down to a generally inflation proofed figure only.

Heartland Bank not only supports the Freemasons Deposit Scheme but provides annual Scholarships for the children and grand-children of Freemasons, support for the NZ Freemason magazine, and support for Freemason organised sporting events. They have a number of products which offer very competitive interest rates and can be contacted on freemasons@heartland.co.nz or 0508 373 362. Freemasons New Zealand is not a pro moter of and does not guarantee the obligations of Heartland Bank Limited in relation to Heartland Bank deposits.

OPINION

“It’s about time” WBro Michael Wooding Past Master of The Avon Shirley Lodge No 185. Has been a Freemason since 2003. He is currently Dist GDC for Pegasus District No 25 in Christchurch. Michael’s career has mainly been as Air Traffic Controller previously working at New Plymouth, Palmerston North and Christchurch Airports now based at Woodbourne in Blenheim looking after both civil and airforce movements.

istory records many successful people who overcame huge obstacles to achieve outstanding results. A childhood hero of mine, Sir Peter Blake, was an inspirational leader who had to rebuild after disaster struck. It was during the 1st leg of the 1981-82 Whitbread Around the World Yacht Race that Sir Peter and his crew of sailors found themselves mid race with a broken mast. It would have been easier to give up; as surely the race was over for them, but mid ocean (and with good leadership followed up by good action) the crew of “Ceramco” reassembled the remains of the sailboat and sailed to the finish line. The way they responded when things did not go well earned them the respect of their peers, and the world. Like all good teams they never gave up, and working against the clock they managed a respectable elapsed time. After the event, Sir Peter went back to the drawing board. He never gave up on his goal, and was always surrounded by a great crew of good sailors.

Lesley and Michael Wooding are both involved in the sport of sailing and owned several yachts including dinghies, trailer yachts and a keelboat. Served on several club committees and extensively fundraised for regatta events.

The old Shirley Lodge clock which stopped working 4.34am, 4 September 2010 (7.1 earthquake).

What makes a great crew? Having a well-defined game plan, and a vessel that can be relied upon, is paramount. Every member has their position, understands their role, and accepts accountability. There is pride and good training. The likes of Blake’s crew did not get to go to sea unless they were good men to begin with. And finally there is good Communication, which must flow both ways to be effective. But great sports teams, like this one, do not win all of the time, and it’s what they do when things don’t go their way (rather than when things do go their way) that truly defines them as great. John Lennon once wrote “Life is what happens to you whilst your busy making other plans”. Blake’s crew certainly learned what this phrase is all about. The former Dean of Christchurch, The Reverend Peter Beck, wrote to the Christchurch Press recently saying that a sniff of change is in the air, and he praised what is being achieved and planned by folk in the community. A very positive outlook, during what has been a very frustrating time, through the impasse over the Christchurch Cathedral. Recently I took the opportunity to pop back to Christchurch for a visit. Christchurch has had much change forced upon it by the earthquakes, and the Christchurch CBD rebuild is now in full swing. I was keen to see progress, and as I drove towards the CBD I noted many differences to the past. The oneway traffic system had been altered, ancient landmarks had gone, and road cones lay everywhere. I found myself a bit lost. However, I did see plenty of repair work taking place, along with many new buildings popping up, which

is wonderful to see. But it’s about time! Like my wife’s parents own Insurance settlement, the wheels of Insurance settlement in Christchurch turn very slowly. This is a disaster in its own right. Freemasonry in Christchurch has not been left unscathed by the earthquakes either. Districts 25 and 26 have adapted well, and will continue to do so. A new Freemasons Centre has been built. It is a wonderful building, and credit goes to those who made it happen. And yet, whilst no design will please everyone, it is a focal point and that brings tranquility for those who chose its final form. That evening I attended the Installation of Worshipful Brother Clive Fletcher, and learned about Clive’s journey to the Masters Chair. Clive had made Senior Warden before (in the UK and again in New Zealand) and, through no fault of his own had, to step back from going forward and accept change. But he never gave up on his dream. 28 years after starting out, he took the next step to the Masters Chair as his Father and Uncle had done before him. Sir Peter Blake went on to eventually win the Around the World Yacht Race and then The America’s Cup. For those of you who remember the hey-day of New Zealand sailing, it was like we were all travelling through time together as part of the crew. We felt the anguish of failure, and then the sweetness of success. We are living at a time of unprecedented change. Sometimes a hassle and other times a blessing and we need to change and adapt. When change is forced upon us we need to keep moving forward. Likewise when we are faced with change by design we can embrace it or run the risk of being left behind. WBro Michael Wooding

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR What the NZ Freemason magazine did for me

What I have achieved thanks to my Freemasons University Scholarship

Dear Editor

Two months ago I came to the conclusion that Freemasonry here in NZ was nothing more than an expensive over0- 65s social club and for me here in the Waikato it was. I looked around at my local and district lodges and asked myself what any of these lodges had done for its communities in the last 18 months, and the answer was very little, in fact, nothing. I know this is true because I asked many of them. I was questioning my own reasons for being a Freemason, were we not supposed to be a charitable organization to do acts of charity and benevolence? As far as I could see we were doing nothing except a lot of self-important back slapping! I looked at what the local Lions and Rotary where doing in my local community and it put us to shame, I decided that was it. I resigned, no one really asked me why, and it was just accepted, I guess that old adage of “Don’t ask and you won’t get upset” came into effect again. In the period I was unattached, I read my NZ Freemason magazines from cover to cover and saw what many of the lodges throughout the country where doing and it’s marvellous, they were real Freemasons, I had to wonder why Lodges in my own district were not taking these lodges lead and being proactive? Surely they read the NZ Freemason magazine, surely they too must ask themselves why they are not as active or at least trying to be as active as some of these other lodges. I would ask all brethren out there to ask yourselves what your lodge has done in the last year. Projects in the community need not cost money, organizing a visit to the local old folk’s home and taking some of the residents out for a few hours, or doing some work on local community projects, maybe even teaming up with Rotary or Lions on a joint project. Stop calling yourself a Freemason and be one! Ok, I know some people will say, our lodge donated $100 to this or $500 to that, but that’s just money, anyone can do that, we need to get out there, to show the public what sort of people we are and what we stand for, maybe if we did we wouldn’t be struggling for members like we are! If all you want to do is go to lodge sit amongst yourselves have a sandwich and go home, join the RSA it’s cheaper, they have courtesy transport, and subsidized meals and drinks too. Thanks to the NZ Freemason magazine I have now re-joined my mother lodge with a rekindled passion that I hope that in the short time I have remaining here in this country I may be able to make a difference for the better of my community, like I see so many other lodges doing up and down our two islands. WBro David Freeman

In 2011 I was honoured to be awarded a Freemasons Postgraduate Scholarship while I was undertaking study toward a PhD at the University of Canterbury. I am writing to reiterate my gratitude for this award and to let you all know of my progress since then. My research centred on spectral CT, a nascent medical imaging technology that offers several exciting potential benefits. These include improved detection of dangerous plaques in blood vessels and reduced x-ray exposure, among others. I performed this research as part of the MARS Research Group at the University; this group is continuing to make progress as a world leader in this field. After a little more than three years, several earthquakes, two international and several local conferences, and two weeks at Virginia Tech (USA) I was relieved in July 2013 to submit my PhD dissertation, entitled “Contributions to Spectral CT”. In early October I was thrilled to

successfully defend it. After completing my studies I spent a few months teaching software engineering at the University whilst completing some research. Then I took a position as a Software Developer at ARANZ Geo Ltd, a Christchurch company that sells geological modelling software all over the world – moving from medical imaging to geology, that is transferable skills in action! I am still working there, taking on responsibility, and being recognised as a valuable member of a fast-growing team. In addition to writing software, I am reviewing the work of other developers and mentoring younger employees. I also volunteer as a tutor for Code Club Aotearoa, an organisation teaching children how to write software. I would like to again thank the Lodge for your generous support during my studies. This support allowed me to focus completely on my work and has led to my success today. Kindest regards, Alex Opie

Making changes to the Ceremonial Dear Editor We could make our ceremonies more interesting, flow better, and less longwinded by adopting elements of other Masonic rituals. Consider what happens when a New Zealand lodge raises a candidate to the Third Degree. It must typically spend 30 to 40 minutes opening and closing in all three degrees. The time spent opening and closing in the First and Second Degrees is totally unnecessary and serves only to make our meetings tedious. The Swedish Rite has a better approach. Swedish lodges can open in the Third Degree, transact business, Raise a candidate, and then adjourn to the refectory after closing in the Third Degree. Changes to the ritual must be avoided if they could potentially undermine the dignity of our ceremonies without producing any significant benefits. For example, some Freemasons argue that the language used in our ceremonies needs to be updated. That argument is

dubious. True, the style does tend to be flowery, and it recalls an earlier time and place, but it is also beautiful and elegant. Many of the longer charges are masterpieces of metaphor and allusion. These qualities help preserve the mystique of our Masonic ceremonies and make the charges memorable. The men who wrote our ritual in the late 19th Century were writing something that would bring the English and Scottish lodges in this country together. In the second decade of the 21st Century when membership is declining, the imperative is different. We need a ritual that younger and newer Masons will find more enjoyable. This can be done quite easily, not by modernising or making innovations, but by adopting some of the interesting little practices to be found in the rituals of other Masonic jurisdictions. WBro Robin Loomes Editor’s Note: Submissions to the Cere monial Review Committee can be made to crc@freemasons.co.nz 9

FREEMASONS IN ACTION Run Fat Boy Run District 19 has a project to raise money for the Kapiti Coast Coastguard’s new boat where we have agreed to provide money for the electronics suite (around $50k) and have come up with the “Run Fat Boy Run” concept. The idea is a simple one “Run Fat Boy Run” is a concept that can be employed by any Lodge or District and piggybacks an existing event, such as a walk or a run, in the community on a sponsorship basis. It can be a model for fundraising and has many advantages such as: No organisation of the event itself No risk in relation to existing funding Requires Freemasons to engage with the community at large to gather sponsorship and thus gets the message out there that we are engaged in useful community-centric projects Starts the conversation about Freemasonry and may potentially lead to more good men joining the Craft It promotes fellowship and family activity and the opportunity to

include other non Freemasons in our activities Ideally the activity would be undertaken in matching and obviously “Freemasonry” branded apparel getting further attention within the community Improved health of our own members The opportunity to raise significant amounts of money from what is effectively a crowd funding model We chose the Rimutuka Incline half Marathon run by the Trentham Harriers as the first event. Contained within the event were a 7km walk/run, a 14km walk/run and a 21km half marathon walk/run, so something to suit most ages and abilities. It was a great day weather wise and small group of Freemasons and their wives and families turned up led by P Div GM Steve Salmon and participated in the various events. Around $2000 was raised for the project. As this concept has replaced the “Live Life Lighter” event it would be

great to see a much wider participation from Freemasons and their families and friends, from both within District 19 and further afield, in our next event which will be the “Cigna – Round the Bays” on 21st February. This event has a 6.5km walk, a 10km run and a half marathon for the brave! So Brethren, dust off those running/ walking shoes, get the date in the diary and let Mick Turner (mick@zeusinternational.com) know that you will be turning up. Remember, it’s a District project for a very good cause, lets get this done. Editor’s Note: This would work in any District or Lodge.

Land Search and Rescue Northland tracking along thanks to Freemasons Land Search and Rescue Northland (SAR) is a non-profit service helping to search not only for adventurers but people suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s, or autism. Northland Freemasons donated just under $20,000 with the assistance of The Freemasons Charity to help purchase Wander Search tracking equipment. It started as a Lodge Hatea project that got extended to all of Northland. The equipment consists of radio tracking units including aerials, batteries and chargers and a number of locator pendants which can be worn as wrist straps or around the neck. The pendant contains a small radio transmitter

which constantly sends out a pulse on its own individual frequency. If the person goes missing the radio pulse can often be detected up to three kilometres away by a trained operator using the direction finding equipment. Grant Adams from Rescue far North stressed how effective the locators are – provided the users do not discard them. The equipment does not depend on GPS or on cell phones. They are VHF radio transmitters. Dementia patients do not realise they are lost and they behave in illogical ways, going over hills rather than round them, heading for water, which can be dangerous, and crossing roads rather than walking

Bob Vartan, Sheryl Mai (Mayor of Whangarei) and Grant Conaghan.

along the side of them, and such people are quite unprepared for the weather. One in ten searches is for someone with Alzheimer’s. If not found within 24 hours 6% of Alzheimer’s patients die. Fifty thousand people have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and this number is set to double in the next twenty years. If you have concerns for a relative who is likely to wander into danger, contact: Northland Search and Rescue, PO Box 1361, Whangarei or Peter at 027 309 6909 email pj.smith@xtra.co.nz The presentation was well attended with Her Worship the Mayor of Whangarei, Sheryl Mai; Grant Conaghan, Land Search and Rescue, Northland; Grant Adams, Rescue Far North; Bob Vartan, District Grand Master; Tim Barry, Master Lodge, Hatea; and 35 Freemasons and their partners.

Country Music, Freemasonry and Local Businesses – what do they have in common? The answer is simple – lots thanks to The Freemasons Charity Country Concert! In August this year on a wet Saturday night, the Lodges of Districts 19 & 21 and the Wellington District of the Royal Arch banded together to host a Country Charity Concert in aid of the Hutt Valley Hospital. Lead by Ray Keenan and his band of merry men and woman, they organised a fabulous concert that was hard to beat. All the performers, mostly country musicians, graciously volunteered their own time to come along and provide the entertainment. The local Hutt Valley businesses also contributed prizes for raffles and they too supported the event. Mr Frankie Stevens, television and stage performer, who happened to grow up in Wellington, was the MC for the night and did a wonderful of job of keeping the show flowing and making the night enjoyable for all. Some of the performers included: Hutt Valley Ukulele Orchestra – This amazing group of maybe 40-plus musicians opened the concert and set the scene. Lead by the very able Justin Read, sang songs we all new and even invited members of the audience to come on stage and dance! The Rimutaka Trail Band – This phenomenal band is made up of some of New Zealand’s finest country musicians. They not only played for their very own Tracey McAra but also provided musical accompaniment for a number of acts. They were outstanding! Kim and Dusty – Acoustic Duo, who have been bringing their whisky harmonies to Wellingtonian’s since 2013,

when Dusty moved to Brooklyn. The duo played a blend of Country, Blues, Bluegrass and Folk music. This couple were enjoyed by all and were kept very busy during the break. The Harbour Capital Chorus – This group of blokes took a break from their National’s preparation weekend to entertain. They sang the two numbers they were going to use at the National competition so the group was lucky enough to get a preview on what was the come! Our Chief Executive Laurence Milton was part of this group. Amazing voices and great harmonies. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, John De Burgh stepped up to the mic and mesmerised the audience some more. John runs the NZ Country Music Radio and is well known in the country music scene. His preference is for a laid back, easy listening style. John has been a Freemason. Krista Thompson - Krista, originally from Christchurch, flew in from Australia just for the concert. She is a well experienced musician and has won awards from all over – including the NZ Golden Guitar. The Miti Family – Closing the event was an outstanding family group of three performers. Well known for their tight harmonies, silky smooth notes and cleverly constructed melodies. The Miti’s final number ‘Hallelujah’ bought some in the audience to tears. Wow! So what were the results of all this talent? A great show for the 300 or so people who attended. A lot of fun for the performers. A most importantly, with the

help of The Freemasons Charity, about $39,000 was raised for a new Ultra Sonic Wound Debriding machine for the local Hutt Valley Hospital. A machine that will bring new standards of wound care for all those in need from within the Greater Wellington Region. Glen Houlihan

Marton New World owner Brendon Shoebridge, Master of Lodge Rangitikei No 38 Graeme Hill, and Mayor Andy Watson.

Freemasons Food Vouchers Rangitikei Lodge, through The Free mason’s Charity and New World Supermarket Marton has generously donated a large number of $50 New World food vouchers destined for local people who suffered flood damage in June. New World has donated a third of the cost of the vouchers, to complement the generosity of The Freemason’s Charity. Mayor Andy Watson accepted them on behalf of the Mayoral Flood Relief Fund. The mayor said, “It gives us the opportunity to go back to homeowners who have suffered dramatically during the flood. Both the Rangitikei Lodge and New World Supermarket Marton are to be commended for their continuing generosity towards the local community.” Ashley Williamson 11

FREEMASONS IN ACTION Freemasons racing to help Rescue Helicopter The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust is cruising in style after a generous gift from the local Freemasons. The trust was donated a new car that will allow pilots to get to and from jobs at the helicopter base quicker. ‘‘It allows the

crew to respond a big faster,’’ says chief pilot Tim Douglas-Clifford. He said in the past it had been an issue when pilots were rushing to get to base in their own cars. ‘‘It’s pretty hard to say to [police] who they are and that they are bona fide in what they are doing.’’ The new car was also about building awareness about the work the trust does. He said the Freemason had given the trust much support over the years. General manager Paula Muddle said it was fantastic that a group like the Freemasons saw value in what the trust did. ‘‘The car was something that was on our wish list.’’ The trust is still fundraising

for a new helicopter winch which the team says will help them save more lives around the region. Crew member and winch operator Paul ‘‘Ernie’’ Bryant said a winch was crucial to the helicopter’s operation. Many rescues involved people at sea, on mountains, or at the bush clad Sounds, where landing was impossible. Not being able to winch someone could mean a further wait of hours for rescue, involving other emergency resources and potentially putting people’s lives at risk as their health deteriorated or weather conditions changed quickly. ‘‘If you can’t land, it’s your only method of extraction – and there are a lot of places you go where you can’t land.’’

“A Great Day for the Irish” As it drizzled in Auckland last Saturday 24 October 2015, reminiscent of an autumn Dublin day, the Brethren gathered at the Airedale Street Lodge rooms to witness the Installation of a new Provincial Grand Master for New Zealand under the Grand Lodge of Ireland. Right Worshipful Brother Roland J. Whyte after fifteen years as Provincial Grand Master in New Zealand formally welcomed delegations from the Provincial Grand Lodge of South East Asia, the Districts in NZ under the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the United Grand Lodge of England and also Senior Brethren of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. Approximately 200 Brethren from all Constitutions rose to receive the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, Most Worshipful Brother Douglas T. Grey, accompanied by the Grand Secretary, Right Worshipful Brother D. Barry Lyons and after being welcomed by the outgoing Provincial Grand Master took the Chair of the Provincial Grand Lodge of New Zealand to conduct the Communications and to Install Andrew Gareth McGregor as the new Provincial Grand Master. The ceremony was splendid and conducted in the usual Irish style of relaxed dignity which is always much admired by the other Constitutions. After Right Worshipful Brother Andrew 12

was obligated and raised he stood on the Centre and a musical item was beautifully rendered by WBro Donald Trott accompanied by WBro Brian Crone. This was an emotional point in the ceremony and was a time of reflection for all of the Brethren present. Andrew was then invested with the insignia of his high office and placed in the Chair by the Grand Master. The implements of his office were presented by the Past Provincial Grand Master. The Provincial Grand Master then invested his Officers for the 2015/16 year. After he addressed the Brethren and undertook to maintain and even enhance the relationships which exist between Brethren of all Constitutions throughout the country. Before close of the Communications the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge Ireland addressed the assembly and announced that Brother Roly Whyte was promoted to Past Grand Warden. He expressed his delight with the warmth of his welcome to New Zealand and his enjoyment of everything which had been arranged. While the fine ceremony was being conducted, many of the Ladies were being well entertained in the refectory with afternoon tea. The formal Banquet in the evening at the Langham Hotel was a glittering affair attended by over 220 Brethren and Ladies during which interesting and humorous speeches (as expected from

New Provincial Grand Master RWBro Andrew G. McGregor, flanked by the Grand Secretary, RWBro D. Barry Lyons and the Grand Master MWBro Douglas T. Grey, all Grand Lodge of Ireland.

the Irish) were given by Frank Griffin Provincial Deputy GM, the Grand Master Douglas Grey, the Past Provincial GM Roly Whyte and finally the PGM Andrew McGregor. Other activities surrounding this full day kept the visitors from Ireland, Kuala Lumpur, Adelaide and from around New Zealand busy and happy. It was a wonderful weekend and a satisfying win over the Springboks added a little more icing to the cake. The last Grand Master to come to New Zealand was the 7th Earl of Donoughmore in 1970 and it was to be hoped that it would be less than 45 years before another Grand Master came from Dublin to visit. Roly Whyte, Grand Lodge of Ireland – Provincial Grand Lodge of New Zealand

Midland District Harmony at Work The Midland District Masonic Choir had a new experience in September, when they became involved in a Charity Concert in the town of Waimate. The Waimate District had instituted a fund raising effort to build a Community Stadium Complex in the area, and the organisers approached the Choir with an invitation to produce a concert as a contribution to this fund raising. We were informed later that the concert had realised close to $1500.00 towards the Stadium Complex. The Choir Members readily agreed, and were then informed that the Catholic Basilica would be available for the performance and that some supporting artists would be available for the occasion. Needless to say that the event was well patronised by the local residents and outlying districts, and in conjunction with two musical groups from Roncalli College in Timaru and a young guitar virtuoso, from Waimate, the evening proved to be a resounding success. The Choir also welcomed the assistance of

the delightful soprano voice of Mrs Rose charity. It must be mentioned here that Struthers, who joined in with three of the Midland Masonic Charitable Trust the choir items, and the compare for the always make a generous donation of evening, Mr Noel Burns, with his own $500.00 to each of these concerts. It has wit and then his solo “How Great Thou been conservatively estimated that in Art”. excess of $50,000.00 has been realised This Midland District Masonic Choir through this Choir and given back to the has now been in existence for some 28 District. years, and enjoys the friendship and What a way to go, for those who good fun associated with the learning enjoy the blending of voices together in and singing together. The numbers harmony. total around 20 members and the average age of the choristers is 76 or 77 years. The Choir produces an annual concert which is performed both in Timaru and Ashburton, and the proceeds of each of these Midland Masonic Choir members performing at the Catholic Basilica, Waimate, including Mr Rose Struthers and Choirmaster concerts is always WBro Alan Kerr OSM (fourth from right). donated to a local

Coffee on the Brain The Coffee Trailer of the Brain Injury Association is back in action. Thanks to a donation of $25,000 from the Northland Freemasons the former trailer, used to foster public awareness

and to help raise funds and to assist in rehabilitation, has been replaced by a newer model. The Lodges raised $10,000 which was subsidized by another$10,000 from The Freemasons Charity and the Grand Masters District Grant of $5,000 also from The Freemasons Charity. On 10 October Freemasons and their wives were invited to see the trailer at Headway House, home of the Northland Brain Injury Association. Bryan Wiig, former District Bryan Wiig, Freemasons, Vikki Herdmann BIA Secretary, Grand Master, praised the work Alex Stewart BIA Founder (inside), Iain Watkins BIA of the Association volunteers President (inside), Don MacDonald Freemason, Rex Ford, and said it was well worth Freemason, Carlo Lang Treasurer, BIA

community support. The Freemasons had enjoyed making a contribution and had learned something about the essential help provided for those who have suffered brain injury. Everyone was impressed by the vehicle – and by the coffee! Said Association President Iain Watkins, “You quickly lose customers if you don’t provide the quality – coffee drinkers are very discerning. You’ve got to get it right!” The trailer was in action on Labour weekend and on bonfire night and over the summer it will be a familiar sight around Whangarei.

Central Division Conference Saturday 5 March 2016 • Convention Centre, Palmerston North Conference Pack and online registrations: www.themasons.org.nz/div/ Contact divsec.central@freemasons.co.nz

Freemasons New Zealand –

Powering Potential Powering Potential is a joint science programme by Freemasons New Zealand and the Royal Society of New Zealand. Forty of the brightest secondary school science students have been selected to attend the inaugural event Powering Potential in Wellington 13–16 December, which will seek answers to some of New Zealand’s future problems. Organised by the Royal Society of New Zealand and supported by Freemasons New Zealand, Powering Potential will bring New Zealand’s most promising science students together to work out how to solve challenging issues facing the country. They will be supported and guided by scientists and mentors. The students will work in teams of three to five on problems that have been submitted by science organisations. They relate to a wide range of areas critical to New Zealand’s future, from the environment to health. The students will research, investigate and collaborate to solve the problems they have been given. They will also visit GNS Science to meet with scientists and learn about the skills they have used to solve science problems. The Royal Society of New Zealand offers expert advice to government and the public, recognises excellence in research and scholarship in science, technology and humanities, promotes science and technology education, publishes peer-reviewed journals, administers funds for research and fosters international scientific contact and cooperation. www.royalsociety.org.nz

“The students will need to think outside the square and use their creative capabilities to find solutions. At the end of the four days each team will present its findings at a special function,” says Andrew Cleland, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Each student was required to submit an in-depth application, which focused on their own science research or outlined how they have contributed to an area of science in their school or community. The students were selected because they are serious about going on to study science at a tertiary level and also have a passion and thirst for the world of science. Andrew Cleland says: “the calibre of the 80 students who applied was excellent and some tough decisions had to be made by the selection panel to get the number down to 40.” Grandmaster of Freemasons New Zealand John Litton said: “Freemasons New Zealand is absolutely delighted to be involved in Powering Potential in partnership with the Royal Society of New Zealand. “Education is a cornerstone of freemasonry. Our organisation is all about self- improvement and having the courage to make changes for the benefit of all. Powering Potential is a perfect fit for us and we are excited about the next 3 years.” All costs for the students, including social activities, are covered by the Royal Society of New Zealand and Freemasons New Zealand. Freemasons New Zealand via The Freemasons Charity is contributing $30,000 per year for the next three years. The students selected to attend Powering Potential are:

FAR NORTH: Isabella Francis, Grayson Javins and Shani Eisenmann, Kerikeri High School. CENTRAL NORTH: Emma Barnes, Whangarei Girls’ High School. 14

AUCKLAND: Alysha Johnson, Avondale College; Chantelle French, Onehunga High School; Sarah Liu, Epsom Girls’ Grammar School; Yasime Dai and Georgia Lala, Auckland Diocesan School for Girls; Parie Malhotra, Mount Albert Grammar School; Oxana Repina and Miranda Tong, Rutherford College; Michael Jessup, Pakuranga College; and Adam Good, Waiuku College. WAIKATO: Joshua Green, Cambridge High School; Alex Kennedy, Hamilton Boys High School; Scehnaz Hussain, St Peter’s School, Cambridge. BAY OF PLENTY: Clementine Davis, Mount Maunganui College; Devon Whitmore, Tauranga Boys’ College; Jonathan Everett, Whakatane High School; Loren Skudder-Hill, John Paul College, Rotorua. HAWKE’S BAY: Coco Kerkhoffs, Karamu High School; Grace Duncan, Hastings Girls’ High School. TARANAKI: Samuel Parker, Waitara High School. WELLINGTON: Tess Breitenmoser, Wellington High School; Catherine Pot, Onslow College; Cherie Vasta, St Oran’s College; Jonathan Wu, Wellington College; Dinura Perera Tawa College. NELSON: Kara Hamilton, Nayland College; Joshua Richards, Collingwood Area School; Sabine O’Neill Stevens and Lucy Watts, Nelson College for Girls. CANTERBURY: George Watson, Darfield High School. OTAGO: Philip Anderson, King’s High School; Meran Campbell Hood, Logan Park High School. SOUTHLAND: Timothy O’Neill, Verdon College; Brianna Nally and Michael Zhang James Hargest College, Invercargill.

Looking over ‘the Hub’ feature at Freemasons Park with its tactile central compass and garden beds

FREEMASONS PARK

- all the dreams come true

FREEMASONS New Zealand

They knew it would work. There was no doubt amongst the people at BLENNZ (Blind and Low-vision Education Network New Zealand) that an ‘outdoor learning environment’ would make a significant difference in the curriculum of the Homai school for blind youngsters.

he outdoors to blind children is a scary, foreign place. Very big. Without boundaries. No controls. No security. So anything that would help the pupils make their way in the unknown ‘outside’ would be a great learning tool. They had the land. It was right outside the windows of their modern building, always beckoning to be filled with a park for their children. But with constantly tight operating budgets they could never afford the cost. Then one day the Freemasons appeared and like magic, Freemasons Park, the dreamed-about sensory playground became a reality. Through the Freemasons of the South Auckland area, the Potter Masonic Trust was introduced to BLENNZ and a partnership of mutual benefit blossomed. But the story has a second, equally exciting, chapter that is now developing. They said it would work but oh how it has worked! Freemasons Park was officially opened just six months ago in May this year but impact it has already made has been far greater than expected. The teachers are ecstatic about the remarkable influence it is having. The interaction between the children has improved beyond measure. The growth in their level of independence is amazing.

“The teachers are ecstatic” One of the main activities at Homai are the ‘immersion’ classes. These coach 13 – 20 year olds to cope with every-day living alone. They come from all over the country in groups of around 10 with their regular teachers and sometimes parents to spend a live-in week at Homai. They learn about cooking, cleaning and

On the ‘Mound’ shopping - and learning to be outside too. And they love Freemasons Park. Can’t get enough of it. Why so much enthusiasm to be outside? This too was forecast. It has captured their imaginations and provided freedoms that they haven’t had before. And they are relishing them!

“It has captured their imaginations” Freemasons Park is a big space. It is designed with many sensory ‘guide posts’. Pathways that are marked by different textures and surfaces at measured spaces along their ways, so becoming oriented is eased. Being outside in a big space also allows another exciting experience – singing and shouting out loud! Then there’s the ‘Mound’ a low rise of earth with grass and three or four low levels. A roly-poly down the Mound is proving a real thrill. And there are many more special features in this place that is changing the lives of the special kids that come to school here. Many more!

A grateful Barbara Whitely, Senior Manager, School and Residential Services, said

‘We needed a space that would provide all our children, whatever their needs, with a space to explore, experience and socialise, to build their independence but which protected and nurtured them too. In Freemasons Park we now have what we dreamed for.’

Planting

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND

125th Anniversary Celebrations A ‘BEAUT‘ Day out The six lodges in Marlborough combined to support the Blind Foundation project by holding an afternoon tea on 20 September 2015. Billed as “A Beaut Idea” (an acronym for Big Entertaining Afternoon Undertaking”) a gathering of between 60 and 70 Freemasons including wives, partners and widows were entertained by members of the award winning Marlborough Sounds Chorus who performed a number of familiar songs in close harmony. The Grand Master, Most Worshipful Bro John Litton, accompanied by his wife

Diana, was warmly received on this, their first visit to the Nelson Marlborough District. Representing the Blind Founda tion, Dennis Dixon brought along a Daisy Player to illustrate the uses and benefits of the equipment. By way of a symbolic gesture, each of the Masters give the Grand Master a daisy, as illustrated in the picture accompanying this item. A collection taken during afternoon tea has yielded sufficient funds for the purchase of another daisy player. Max Currie

Warren (Rowdy) Robertson – Waitohi No. 111, Chris Hobbs (Eckford No. 334), Alistair Windleburn (Wairau No. 42) Nigel Kennington (Awatere No. 292), Andy Wrighton (Secretary) (Havelock No. 104) and John Crouch (Unanimity No. 106.)

Fantastic Franklin celebrates 125 Years There is just something really nice about walking into a function and there is a buzz in the air, the room is full, people are chatting away freely to each other and generally enjoying the atmosphere. That’s what I experienced on arriving for my Lodges Installation on 15 October 2015. Our ladies, including the Grand Masters wife Mrs Diana Litton and visitors were enjoying a movie at our local Accountants Office, yes you read right, the Accountants Office and from what I hear, that function was very well received. Our Lodge was first known as Franklin Lodge No 2138, consecrated under the English Constitution in 1875 and transferred to the then newly formed Grand Lodge of New Zealand in 1890, now celebrating 125 years as The Franklin Lodge No 58. To mark this auspicious occasion we invited The Grand Master to attended (through the appropriate channels of course) and to our delight, our invitation was accepted. Imagine the impact this alone had on our Master Elect Bro. Raad Jawad and the newer, younger Brethren of our Lodge. We had some trepidation as to whether we would have a good attendance and in fact if the night would go well, but our fears soon were put firmly to rest. The Lodge received a very good number of visitors representing Lodges from the District and beyond, filling just about every seat. 16

Our Master WBro Chris Leigh received the District Grand Master VWBro Michael Hattie, in the appropriate manner, welcomed him and handed over the control of the Lodge, not without a smile or two, as he relinquished the Chair after two years as Master. Our District Grand Master then received The Grand Master, MWBro John Litton. What a sight to see as the doors were opened wide and a procession of very distinguished and many high ranking Grand Lodge Officers entered lead by our own Districts Grand Stewards. Then it was time for the Grand Master to enter and be received and I watched

Banquet held in Franklin Lodge rooms (rather than the dining room).

our Master Elects’ chest swell with pride as the Grand Master was received in the manner befitting his status. This is something not witnessed very often, I’ve been a Freemason for nearly thirty years, with a family membership spanning three generations and 136 years. I have only seen a handful of Grand Masters entrances into Lodge; it’s a spectacle not to be missed. The Installation Ceremony proceeded and Bro Raad Jawad was presented, duly installed as our Master. He was invested with the Masters Apron of my late Father and proceeded to invest his Officers with the confidence that I knew he was capable of. How many times have we seen newly installed Masters rise to the occasion and just take control of their nerves? At the conclusion of the ceremony the Lodge rooms were vacated and prepared. The precision was amazing, chairs and furniture were moved, tables already pre-laid were then brought in one after another and the Refectory was set ready for the entrance of The Grand Master and Mrs Litton, who were welcomed with applause. The nights speeches were well received, kept short and to the point. Again like the start of the evening there was a buzz in the air, people were chatting away and smiling and the general consensuses I heard was that it was a really good night, enjoyed by one and all. WBro Alan Kelway DC

125th ANNIVERSARY

More support for the Blind and Visually Impaired by Freemasons Funds to train guide dogs for the blind have been bolstered with money raised by the Freemasons Lodge Howick. Theresa Liebenberg, the Blind Foundation’s community fundraising executive visited Howick, with retired guide dog Frayser, to accept a $3300 cheque raised by the 45-strong local group. “Often we just see the money side of things,” Ms Liebenberg said. “As community fundraisers we have to inspire people to donate. I am in awe. You are inspired and you inspire people.” The Howick Freemasons have been making donations to the Foundation’s puppy training scheme for several years, Lodge Howick almoner, Noel Ryan says. This year’s donation was assisted by the Howick Freemasons Charitable Trust and The Freemasons Charity which is the national charitable arm of Freemasons New Zealand.

The Grand Lodge of New Zealand is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. Given that the Blind Foundation is also 125 years old this year it chose the Foundation as the recipient of a national appeal to all its members and Lodges, Mr Ryan says. Freemasons assistance programmes during the anniversary year have included major financial support to build a $1 million sensory garden for children at the BLENNZ (Blind & Low Vision Education Network) Homai School at Manurewa. An appeal to Freemasons Lodges nationally has also provided funding for 125 ‘Daisy’ disc players. The players are borrowed from the Blind Foundation which operates a national library of recorded books. Other funds have been donated towards recording more spoken books for the Foundation’s library

GUIDE DOGS: Theresa Liebenberg, the Blind Foundation’s community fundraising executive, accepts a cheque from Freemasons Lodge Howick almoner, Noel Ryan with eightyear-old retired guide dog, Frayser. Times photo Marianne Kelly

Freemasons New Zealand 125 Years Exhibition

eld at the Aotea Centre in central Auckland 9–15 October 2015, which involved the Square and Compasses Travelling Museum, being a reflective look at the last 125 years of The Grand Lodge of New Zealand. It

was organised by a number of Districts in Auckland and had a great number of visitors mainly the general public. The Square and Compasses Travelling Museum has since moved on to the Waikato Museum in Hamilton.

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND

125th ANNIVERSARY

125 years ago from The New Zealand Craftsman magazine Australia spread to New Zealand, involving 8000 unionists, and a commission on “Sweating” reported on employment conditions. In early December 1890, the first “one man one vote” election in New Zealand was held – with the first political party (Liberals), winning 56% of the 136,000 votes cast. John Ballance succeeded Harry Atkinson as Prime Minister – both were Freemasons, as were a number of other Members of the House of Representatives. New Zealand Freemasonry in 1890

New Zealand in 1890

Economically, New Zealand had been experiencing a long depression – in the 1880’s for the first time there was a net flow of migrants out of the colony. Nevertheless rail and industrial development, and in particular refrigerated meat exports were helping to turn the country from reliance largely on wool. New Zealand was still a cluster of separate regional economies. Total population was around 660,000, including about 44,000 of Maori descent. Life was hard, particularly for new arrivals. During the year a maritime strike in A French Connection

One of the matters considered at the first Communication of the new Grand Lodge in July 1890 was a Lodge established by the Grand Orient of France. Grand Lodge declared the Lodge to be irregular – visitation was forbidden, and members given a month to resign or be struck off by GLNZ. It had been reported that the first Master was Sir Robert Stout, DDGM of Otago and Southland, EC, and the SW Bro The Honourable John Ballance.

At the beginning of 1890 there were about 143 lodges in New Zealand, under the English, Scottish and Irish constitutions, with a number of regional District or Provincial Grand Lodges. Some lodges were dormant, others were being formed. The establishment of new Grand Lodges in other territories, and in particular Nova Scotia, South Australia and New South Wales was known to New Zealand freemasons, and a group met in Wellington in February 1889 to promote and advance the establishment of a United Grand Lodge of New Zealand. There followed a period of intense debate, with some vehement in their opposition, instructions of disputed validity to lodges, and refusal to accept a majority vote of members, under a belief that any 3 members dissenting could retain the warrant and all property of the Lodge. In April 1890 the Grand Lodge of New Zealand was constituted with 41 Lodges with 1,236 members. By the end of 1890, 67 Lodges adhered to the Grand Lodge of New Zealand, including two (Rawhiti and Tararua) consecrated in November 1890. Recognition by other Grand Lodges was a major issue for the new Grand Lodge – by the end of 1890 recognition had been given by Grand Lodges of New South Wales, The Grand Orient of Italy, Grand Lodges of Victoria and Tasmania. Others soon followed, but it was to be some time before recognition

was granted by England, Ireland and Scotland – that took until 1913. Lodges were spread through the country, and, as now, visits from neighbouring lodges were common. Visits from further afield were still difficult, with some visits by Grand Lodge officers being arranged to cover a number of lodges with overnight stops. Rail was increasingly available, and coastal shipping was also often used – visits between lodges in main centres were regularly reported. Membership records indicate that many members moved for employment reasons, becoming a member of another lodge. In 1890 membership was expanding – a sample of 25 lodges showed an average of 7 new members for the year, with an average age of initiates and joining members of 34. Double degree ceremonies were common, and there were a number of meetings where two different degrees were worked on the same evening – the ceremonies must have been shorter than now! Some Lodges organised Balls, which had good attendance; many lodges had their own musicians.

Henry Thomson, First Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand 1890 and previously Past District Grand Master for Canterbury, English Constitution.

LEADERSHIP PILLAR

Leadership – a two-way street A

generally accepted definition of leadership is: the process whereby one individual influences other group members towards the attainment of defined group or organisational goals. The role of leadership in a voluntary organisation presents a special challenge. Freemasonry being a voluntary organisation it is important to recognise that the formal power or authority relationship in the craft is one that is freely accepted by the members and cannot be abused. There is no employment (pay) relationship at play. Leadership or influence is accepted by members in part because of a positive relationship between them i.e. they respect, like or admire the leader. The latter part of the definition is the crucial part, I believe. The influence exercised by the leader must have a valid purpose that is aligned to the aims and objectives of the organisation and in line with its values, tenets and principles. In an article in the NZ Herald in July 2015, Dr Michelle Dickinson, an Auckland University nanotechnologist, was quoted on her views on leadership following the receipt of a Blake Leader Award at this year’s Sir Peter Blake Leadership Awards. “To me, leadership is ensuring I’m sure of my values, beliefs and

priorities so those who might want to fol low my path have an open door and clear direction to a place that empowers them to be the best they can be.” It is important to recognise that influence does not only flow from the leader but operates in both directions. Leaders do influence but they are equally influenced by their assistants. A leader is defined by followers; without followers one cannot be a leader. The consequence to the above is that as a voluntary and membership driven organisation we must all be leaders if freemasonry is to survive and succeed into the future. We all have a leadership part of play, be it by the formal office we hold in the lodge, the experience and knowledge we bring to the craft, by the maintenance of the tenets and principles

we profess to adhere to or simply by encouraging and supporting others on their masonic journey. When a new member is raised he is admonished that ‘In the character of a Master Mason, you are henceforth author ised to correct the errors and irregularities of Brethren and Fellows, and guard them against a breach of fidelity’. That is a call to leadership. We face challenging times with an aging membership demographic and the challenges faced by all volunteer organisations – the competition for and the difficulty in recruiting new members. In the June 2015 edition of this magazine Warwick Bell showed how recruiting

new members can be made easier. It behoves us all to accept that challenge and be leaders in identifying suitable men and sow the seed of Freemasonry. Another challenge faced by most lodges is recognising the value of planning for the future. If we are to be an attractive organisation and retain the newly initiated members we should demonstrate that the lodge not only has a plan for its future but there is a plan for their future. Members will more likely be retained if the lodge has a progressive vibrancy about it. This can be demonstrated by a plan for renewal of the lodge accommodation, an active benevolence programme, a well-structured rehearsal programme, an attractive refectory amongst the other important matters that must be continually reviewed and planned for. It is well recognised that an organisation that fails to plan, plans to fail. If there is no planning in evidence, I suggest that your personal leadership is to enquire why not and make constructive suggestions for a successful future. Finally, none of us has all the answers; however, somewhere someone has the answer (or part of it) and the on-line Toolbox is a good place to start. It is our individual responsibility to be leaders, recognise where we can contribute and actively support other leaders in their respective roles. Mark Hall, Leadership Pillar Chair

Southern Division Conference Friday & Saturday 11–12 March 2016 • Copthorne Hotel, Queenstown Contact divsec.southern@freemasons.co.nz

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND

Annual Report 2014–2015

FREEMASONS New Zealand

‘FREEMASONS PARK’

opened at School for blind Testing the swings! Paul Gibson, Mark Winger, Karen Stobbs and the Grand Master

An outdoor learning facility which will dramatically improve the development o blind children, was officially opened late last month at the Homai school, Manure Auckland. The new facility has been named Freemasons Park.

A major advance in learning and a joy for the children to use, the Park has been built over the last six months with major funding assistance from Freemasons, principally the Potter Masonic Trust. It has enabled BLENNZ – the Blind and Low-Vision Education Network of New Zealand, to provide a facility to give the children ‘Learners’ at their Homai hub, more support in the development of their physical and sensory abilities. With assistance from The Freemasons Charity, local Freemasons in the South Auckland area have also made a substantial contribution to the three-year project of making ‘the dream come true’ for the administration and staff of the school.

Principal guests among the 200 who attended the opening function at the school included our Grand Master MW Bro John Litton, Deputy Grand Master and Chair of Potter Trust, RW Bro Mark Winger, Disability Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission, Mr Paul Gibson, Principal of BLENNZ, Ms Karen Stobbs and Bob Clarke, Mana whenua Kaumatua of the school. Many other Freemasons including the Trustees of Potter Trust, BLENNZ teachers and staff, ‘Learners’, their families and carers were present and all toured the new facility after the speeches, the unveiling of the Freemasons plaque and the ribbon was cut.

Freemasons Park is a featu Anniversary celebrations o New Zealand being officia in Christchurch this mont blind community’s needs w recognised with a donatio Foundation of NZ, raised throughout the country, to players (Daisy Players).

Clockwise from top left:

Scooters for fun! ; The Potter GM ; Full house ; Inspecting t ing features ; The herb garden guides Amandeep Singh at th ‘This Park is Open!’ Alan Gib

Freemasonry makes the difference 1

CONTENTS Grand Master’s introduction Grand Master’s introduction

President’s report

Overview Strategy for growth The Freemasons Charity The year ahead Appreciations

Office holders

Grand Lodge Trustees Board of General Purposes National Leadership Team

Financial statements

Summary statement of financial performance Summary statement of movements in equity Notes to the summary financial statements Summary of financial position Auditor’s Report

he Grand Lodge of New Zealand has this year celebrated 125 years of Freemasonry. From its earliest beginnings when Henry Thomson was the first Grand Master, through to the current day, Freemasonry has a proud record of achievements. As society changed, so too did the craft. New Zealand faced World Wars, a Great Depression, cultural changes within society, technical and en gineering revolutions through modern isation, and of course the opportunities and innovations of the electronic and computer age. The craft has generally recognised those changes and adapted to the new environments, and as we celebrate our 125th anniversary, it is timely to reflect on

the successes of the past, and look to the opportunities of tomorrow. Evolution is an integral phase of the continued success of an organisation, and as Freemasons we too must change with the times so as to remain relevant, effective, and vibrant. In recognising this change, we must not however un dermine the fundamental principles on which Freemasonry is based as these are enmeshed into the fabric of civilised society and are as relevant today as they were 125 years ago. I exhort each Lodge and every Free mason to accept this challenge, and, as we collectively celebrate 125 years of achievements to date, we also plan for the progress we must make tomorrow. John Litton, Grand Master

ABOVE At the restored grave of the first Grand Master is the 77th Grand Master of Freemasons New Zealand, John Litton centre, with past Grand Masters, from left: Selwyn Cooper; Mike Pope; David Mace; and Barry McLaggan. Near destroyed in the Christchurch earthquakes, Freemasons – particularly those from The Phoenix Lodge No 43 – restored the gravesite at Linwood Cemetery and gathered to acknowledge the service of Henry Thomson, the first Grand Master installed in 1890. Mr Thomson also served as Mayor of Christchurch from 1878–79 and was Member of Parliament from 1881–84 for the then Christchurch North electorate.

President’s report Overview The outstanding accomplishment of the 2014–2015 year was the celebration, by Freemasons throughout the country, of the anniversary of the first meeting of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. From smaller local initiatives through to the national project supporting the Blind Foundation, the anniversary was proudly and effectively promoted in a very public manner. Freemasons pledged to donate 125 DAISY players to the Blind Foundation. Digital Accessible Information Systems (DAISY) players are portable, easy to navigate reading devices. They help to give the visually impaired a reading experience similar to that enjoyed by the sighted. The player holds up to six books or 40 continuous hours of reading. Its CD lets you skip from page to page, chapter to chapter and book to book. As at the date of this report, that total has been well and truly exceeded and donations continue to flow in. In addition, The Potter Masonic Trust, in conjunction with the lodges of Counties Hauraki District and aided by The Freemasons Charity, contributed close to $500,000 towards an interac tive children’s playground facility at the Homai College for the Blind in South Auckland. Other events occurred at venues around the country, all both celebrating 125 years, and assisting those who are visuallyimpaired. This created a sense of pride within the Lodges.

in a slimmed down Board of General Purposes which now has a clear focus on Governance of the organisation, supple mented by a beefed up Leadership Team managed by the Chief Executive which is charged with the Operational side of the craft. The Leadership Team includes each Divisional Grand Master, who partici pates as manager of the Division under his control. It is operational and has the resources of Grand Lodge at its behest, including, for example, access to the Grand Superintendent of Works should advice be needed on any Lodge building issue, or the Grand Treasurer if financ es are an issue, or the Grand Registrar if some legal question is in need of consideration. These changes within Grand Lodge will see a streamlined structure designed to ensure the needs of Lodges and Freemasons are in clear focus, and are the basis of the decisions and directions that are made. The Board of General Purposes has, as part of its Governance role, identified

Chief Executive Laurence Milton with the online Toolbox consisting of a collection of ideas and resources to expand Lodge activities and enhance the experience of being a Freemason.

three principal areas of focus – Finance, Membership, and Communication. Finance – the Board wants to see fiscal prudence in all aspects of the Grand Lodge operation. Not merely cutting costs for the sake of it, but ensuring our modest funds are sparingly used, and then only for those outgoings which are essential for the craft.

Strategy for Growth Throughout the past 125 years, New Zealand has faced challenges and chang es at both international and local levels, where the environment in which we op erate faces new pressures and demands. The craft has adapted to the challenges over the years, and must continue to do so as we progress into the years ahead. Part of this change has occurred within Grand Lodge itself by a recogni tion of the need to separate Governance from Operations. This has resulted

Learning to operate a DAISY player are Freemasons Tony Smith of Red Beach and Rick Pullin of Silverdale with the assistance of the Blind Foundation’s Community Development Manager, Joy McClintock.

Membership – it is trite to suggest that this topic is fundamental to our future. The Board has asked the Leadership Team to place this as one of the three top items of importance, to develop strategies to attract retain and enthuse members, to deliver the tools and resources needed by Lodges and Freemasons to achieve immedi ate and positive results. Communication – the emphasis placed on twoway communication, to enable Freemasons to see and understand what decisions are be ing made by the Board, and for the Board itself to have a clear line from brethren through their Divisions to the Board. Two way communication within the craft, but also the contin ued emphasis on raising our profile externally so that the power of good that is being done in our name is known to the world. The Leadership Team has the ability to call on the assistance of the Pillar Committees to assist it in delivering on these three objectives within each Division.

Charity Administrator Sheila Hicking with a selection of gifts which have been given to Masonic widows.

The Freemasons Charity In this 125th Anniversary Year, The Freemasons Charity launched itself into the celebrations in the way it knows best, by con tinuing the tradition of caring. Our charity sought projects worthy of the 125th tag, and with the support of local Freemasons, suc ceeded on a number of fronts. The DAISY player project was a major focus, but so too the wide range of other activities actively pursued by The Freemasons Charity on our behalf through the year. There is, by way of example, the daytoday business that the Charity undertakes, the provision of support to those in need in our local communities, individuals both inside and outside our organisation, support to the Masonic

widows and to our aged Masons, con tinuing to offer unswerving support for our local Lodges working on projects in their local communities, advising them on how to market their project to local media, and encouraging them to “speak louder about what we do”. The growing support of education continued through a variety of scholar ships. The range of students now offered support by Freemasons starts with the secondary school students (offered science scholarships through the Royal Society), includes the children and grandchildren of Freemasons attending secondary schools (through the grateful sponsorship of Heartland Bank) to the tertiary scholarships offered as the flag ship Freemasons University Scholarships, and extending to the PostDoctoral Freemasons Rutherford Scholarship (funded by the Freemasons Foundation). Education is recognised by Free masonry as a cornerstone of the good health of the world in which we live – knowledge and learning engenders understanding which in turn leads to tolerance and cooperation. These recip ients are the leaders of tomorrow, and they will remember that Freemasonry recognised their talents early in their ca reers and provided them with assistance on their journey.

Frankie Stevens played host to this Hutt Valley Country Charity Concert organised by several Lodges in the Hutt, Wairarapa and Kapiti-Wellington Districts. The show featured more than 15 local, regional and national acts including this year’s winner of the Gore Golden Guitar Award. Funds raised from the evening and contributed by The Freemasons Charity have enabled the purchase of a debridement machine for the Hutt Valley District Health Board. Debriding machines are used to enhance the wound healing process with wounds often healing up to 300% faster.

The year ahead The Governance and Operations of Grand Lodge have been set on a clear and firm footing. This will drive results which Freemasons and Lodges will see at a local level. The Pillar Committees have been very busy this year and they have been holding seminars and instructive forums in some Districts and have laid a solid foundation for that work to contin ue this coming year. Over 120 tools to assist Lodges to im prove and develop have been published on the Grand Lodge website. The chal lenge for the year ahead is to increase participation in the work that the Pillar Committees are doing and to focus Lodges and Districts on improving the three objectives identified by the Board of General Purposes: Membership; Finance; and Communication. If each Lodge focusses on making these their own objectives, then we will see traction at all levels. In the interim, the Divisional Conferences are recommended as the prime venue for Freemasons to commu nicate their views, comments and sug gestions. The craft has faced challenges throughout its 125 years, and has adapted its operations to meet those changes. We must not steer away from making brave decisions as to how we can modify our operations to better suit the environment in which we operate. Our forefathers overcame the challenges of their era, we must do the same today. We look forward to the Grand Installation to be held in 2016 in Wellington. Freemasons and their ladies and partners should plan to attend that event as it is the showcase of Freemasonry in New Zealand, and as it only occurs

once every three years, it is another reason to take pride in Freemasonry and our organisation.

Appreciations With the passage of an other year, we also look to record our appreciation for those who have played a role in the development of Freemasonry in New Zealand. We record thanks to Rob Angelo for his sixyear commitment to the role of Grand Superintendent of Works and particularly acknowledge his work post the Canterbury earth quakes (which compelled building owners to look at their buildings in a completely different light). Jim Harborow, Divisional The 2015 Freemasons University Scholars with keynote speaker Prof Emeritus Martin Devlin, Grand Master John Litton and Grand Master (Southern), Superintendent of the Freemasons Charity Terry McConnell completes his threeyear following the presentation ceremony at the Transitional term in November 2015 Cathedral in Christchurch. and we record our indebt edness for the considerable commitment Freemasons who have contributed time he made in managing the vast Southern and energy in promoting the craft within this fine country. Division. We can learn from the past as we Appreciation to Terry McConnell plan for the future. We can celebrate who has completed an enthusiastic fouryear commitment to the role of the milestones of yesteryear while we the Superintendent of the Freemasons prepare for the challenges of tomorrow. Charity and to Warwick Roberts, And yes, we can make a difference if each who retired from the Board after six one of us assumes personal responsibili years providing valued input to Board ty for the future of our Lodge, practises Freemasonry according to its principles, deliberations. After 125 years we have taken the lux and works with peace, love and harmony ury of reflecting on the achievements of in furthering this magnificent institution. Graham Wrigley the past, celebrating the many wonderful President

Office holders Grand Lodge Trustees: Chair, Mark Winger; David Mace; Leslie Green; Selwyn Cooper; Barry McLaggan; and Michael Scott. Board of General Purposes: President, Graham Wrigley; Grand Master, John Litton; Grand Registrar, John Pritchard; Grand Treasurer, Raymond Burgess;

As at 30 June 2015 Superintendent of the Freemasons Charity, Terry McConnell (retires November 2015); Divisional Appointees – Northern, Warwick Roberts (retires November 2015); Central, Russell Pratt; Southern, Terry Carrell. In attendance Chief Executive, Laurence Milton.

National Leadership Team: Chief Executive, Laurence Milton; Divisional Grand Masters – Northern, Tony Smith; Central, John Peryer; Southern, Rob Angelo; Grand Superintendent of Works, Graham Strez; Superintendent of the Freemasons Charity, Terry McConnell (retires November 2015); Grand Secretary, Richard Lodge. 5

Financial statements

The full set of accounts for the 2014â&#x20AC;&#x201C;15 financial year can be viewed or downloaded at www.freemasonsnz.org. Copies are also available from the Membership Administrator, Freemasons New Zealand, Level 6, Freemason House, 195â&#x20AC;&#x201C;201 Willis Street, Wellington, PO Box 6439, Wellington 6141. Telephone 04 385 6622 or Email secretary@freemasons.co.nz 6

Freemasonry makes the difference 8

Grand Installations over the last 125 years

Date Location Venue Grand Master 30 Apr 1890 Christchurch Oddfellows Hall Thomson 6 July 1891 Wellington Freemasons Hall Thomson 27 Apr 1892 Auckland Masonic Hall Niccol 28 Apr 1893 Auckland Masonic Hall Niccol 25 Apr 1894 Wellington Masonic Hall Bell 29 Apr 1895 Wellington Freemasons Hall Boulcott Street Bell 30 Apr 1896 Dunedin Choral Hall Moray Place Barron 28 Apr 1897 Invercargill Masonic Hall Barron 28 Apr 1898 Christchurch Choral Hall Seddon 24 Apr 1899 Hokitikia Town Hall Seddon 26 Apr 1900 Auckland Freemasons Hall Russell 25 Apr 1901 Christchurch Choral Hall Russell 30 Apr 1902 Wellington Town Hall Williams 5 May 1903 Auckland Federal Hall Williams 4 May 1904 Dunedin Garrison Hall Burton 10 May 1905 Palmerston North Lyceum Theatre Burton 9 May 1906 Christchurch Choral Hall Plunket 8 May 1907 Invercargill Victoria Hall Plunket 6 May 1908 Auckland Royal Albert Hall Plunket 5 May 1909 New Plymouth Theatre Royal Plunket 11 May 1910 Wellington Town Hall Griffiths 10 May 1911 Christchurch Choral Hall Griffiths 8 May 1912 Dunedin Burns Hall Thompson 14 May 1913 Auckland Town Hall Thompson 13 May 1914 Christchurch Choral Hall Dougall 12 May 1915 Wellington Town Hall Dougall 10 May 1916 Auckland Town Hall Nicholson 1917 (Invercargill) No Communication Nicholson due to national strikes 8 May 1918 Wellington Town Hall Herdman 28 May 1919 Christchurch Colosseum Herdman 3 May 1920 Invercargill Victoria Hall Ross 11 May 1921 Auckland Town Hall Ross 29 Nov 1922 Christchurch Colosseum Jellicoe 28 Nov 1923 Wellington Town Hall Jellicoe 26 Nov 1924 Auckland Town Hall Massey 28 Nov 1925 Dunedin Grand Festival Hall NZ Fergusson & South Seas Exhibition 24 Nov 1926 Wellington Town Hall Fergusson 30 Nov 1927 Christchurch Caledonian Hall Fergusson 28 Nov 1928 Dunedin Her Majestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Theatre Fergusson 27 Nov 1929 Auckland Town Hall Clark 26 Nov 1930 Christchurch Municipal Concert Hall Bledisloe 25 Nov 1931 Wellington Town Hall Bledisloe 23 Nov 1932 Auckland Town Hall Bledisloe 22 Nov 1933 Dunedin Town Hall Bledisloe 28 Nov 1934 Wellington Town Hall Esson 4 Dec 1935 Christchurch Civic Theatre Esson 25 Nov 1936 Dunedin Town Hall Galway 24 Nov 1937 Auckland Town Hall Galway 23 Nov 1938 Christchurch Civic Theatre Galway 29 Nov 1939 Auckland Town Hall Ronaldson 27 Nov 1940 Wellington Town Hall MacDiarmid 26 Nov 1941 Dunedin Town Hall MacDiarmid 25 Nov 1942 Wellington Memorial Hall, Wgtn College Teagle 24 Nov 1943 Christchurch Civic Theatre Teagle 22 Nov 1944 Dunedin Town Hall Newall 28 Nov 1945 Auckland Town Hall Smith 4 Dec 1946 Christchurch Civic Theatre Flavell 12 Nov 1947 Wellington Town Hall Girling

Date 24 Nov 1948 23 Nov 1949 29 Nov 1950 28 Nov 1951 26 Nov 1952 25 Nov 1953 17 Nov 1954 30 Nov 1955 28 Nov 1956 27 Nov 1957 26 Nov 1958 25 Nov 1959 23 Nov 1960 22 Nov 1961 21 Nov 1962 27 Nov 1963 25 Nov 1964 24 Nov 1965 23 Nov 1966 22 Nov 1967 27 Nov 1968 26 Nov 1969 25 Nov 1970 24 Nov 1971 22 Nov 1972 28 Nov 1973 27 Nov 1974 26 Nov 1975 24 Nov 1976 23 Nov 1977 22 Nov 1978 28 Nov 1979 25 Nov 1980 25 Nov 1981 24 Nov 1982 23 Nov 1983 28 Nov 1984 27 Nov 1985 26 Nov 1986 25 Nov 1987 23 Nov 1988 22 Nov 1989 30 Nov 1990 29 Nov 1991 27 Nov 1992 26 Nov 1993 25 Nov 1994 25 Nov 1995 22 Nov 1996 28 Nov 1997 27 Nov 1998 26 Nov 1999 24 Nov 2000 22 Nov 2002 13 Nov 2004 24 Nov 2006 21 Nov 2008 19 Nov 2010 16 Nov 2013 19 Nov 2016

Location Venue Grand Master Auckland Town Hall Allen Dunedin Town Hall Allen Christchurch Civic Theatre Guiness Wellington Town Hall Barclay Dunedin Town Hall Smith Auckland Town Hall Campbell Christchurch Civic Theatre Thompson Wellington Town Hall Cavell Auckland Town Hall Faber Rotorua Regent Theatre Faber Wellington Town Hall Taylor Christchurch Civic Theatre Taylor Dunedin Town Hall Martin Auckland Town Hall Martin Rotorua Town Hall Prideaux Wellington Town Hall Prideaux Christchurch Town Hall Hawker Dunedin Town Hall Hawker Auckland Town Hall Redwood Rotorua Regent Theatre Redwood Wellington Town Hall Porritt Christchurch Civic Theatre Porritt Dunedin Town Hall Porritt Auckland Town Hall Porritt Rotorua Regent Theatre Bate Wellington Town Hall Bate Christchurch Town Hall Shuttleworth Dunedin Town Hall Shuttleworth Auckland Town Hall Donaldson Rotorua Town Hall Donaldson Wellington Town Hall Ashby Christchurch Town Hall Ashby Invercargill Centennial Hall Knox Auckland Logan Campbell Centre Knox Rotorua Civic Theatre Dick Wellington Michael Fowler Centre Dick Christchurch Town Hall Duncan Invercargill Centennial Hall Duncan Auckland Logan Campbell Centre McManemin Hastings Tomoana Showgrounds McManemin Wellington Michael Fowler Centre Richmond Dunedin Town Hall Richmond Christchurch Town Hall Orr Palmerston North Manawatu Sports Stadium Orr Auckland Aotea Centre Norton Nelson Trafalgar Centre Norton Wellington Michael Fowler Centre Holmes Hamilton Waikato Convention Centre Holmes Christchurch Town Hall Hammond New Plymouth TSB Stadium Hammond Auckland Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Pope Dunedin Town Hall Pope Wellington Michael Fowler Centre Ross Christchurch Town Hall Inder Auckland Town Hall Mace Wellington Michael Fowler Centre McLaggan Christchurch Town Hall Barker Auckland Town Hall Cooper Wellington Michael Fowler Centre Litton Wellington TSB Arena, Queens Wharf

The Masonic and Military Order of

The Red Cross of Constantine

and the Orders of The Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist

he Order of the Red Cross of Constantine as worked today was first documented in 1865, when its constitution was formally established by Robert Wentworth Little in England. The Order worked in New Zealand under the English Grand Imperial Conclave from 10 July 1931 until 11th August 2012 when the Grand Imperial Conclave in New Zealand was formed. To become a Member of the Order of the Red Cross of Constantine in New Zealand a Brother must be, or have been, a Royal Arch Mason and subscribe to a belief in the Christian religion as revealed in the New Testament. There are three degrees worked, namely: 1 Knight of the Red Cross of Constantine

The degree relates the legend of Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity after the Battle of Saxa Ruba in 312 AD when he saw a Cross in the sky. The core of the degree involves the secret doctrine involving the Labarum or banner of victory. The lecture of the degree relates the Roman College of Architects. 2 Knight of the Holy Sepulchre

Christian tradition tells us that St. Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, discovered the True Cross on which Christ was crucified along with two others. It was by Divine intervention that she was able to discern the True Cross from the others. This legend is the basis of this degree and the candidate takes part in a vigil in the sanctuary of the Holy Sepulchre.

3 Knight of St. John the Evangelist

This degree is always conferred along with the preceding one and together make up the internal appendant degrees of the Conclave system. The ritual deals with the tradition of a certain discovery made at the ruins of the first Temple and the subsequent formation of the Knights of St. John. The Masonic interpretation of this legend is most interesting and attempts to explain the Craft and Chapter degrees in an exclusively Christian sense. There are also two further degrees, those of Viceroy of a conclave and Sovereign of a conclave. The purpose of the Constantinian Orders are to com memo rate the first elevation of Christ ianity from the position of a despised and proscribed heresy to that of a legally recognized The Jewels of the and honoured reOrder of the Red ligion, to cultivate Cross of Constantine. the social virtues, appeal to the intellectual and moral qualities, preserve as far as possible the customs of the fraternity and bring about good fellowship and understanding between all branches of Masonry. There is 12 Conclaves meeting under the Grand Imperial Conclave in New Zealand they are: Dunedin No.1 meeting in Dunedin Auckland No.2 meeting in Otahuhu Devon No.3 meeting in Stratford Canterbury No.4 meeting in Christchurch

Southland No.5 meeting in Invercargill Hawkes Bay No.6 meeting in Taradale, Napier Wairangimoana No.7 meeting in Northcote Waikato No 8 meeting in Morrinsville Constantia No.9 meeting in Helensville Bay of Plenty No.10 meeting in Te Puke Pelorus No.11 meeting in Blenheim Wellington No.12 meeting in Johnsonville. And under the English Grand Imperial Conclave: Te Awe Awe No. 247 meeting in Palmerston North.

Most Illustrious Knight John David More Grand Sovereign, and Right Illustrious and Eminent Knight George Peter Rhode Deputy Grand Sovereign, at the Annual Communication at Helensville in September 2015.

Wisdom, Strength and Beauty Freemasons will be familiar with the three pillars of Wisdom, Strength and Beauty and their representations of King Solomon for his wisdom as told in the VSL, Hyrum King of Tyre for his strength in supporting King Solomon with materials for the building of God’s house and Hyrum the Widow’s son for the beautiful workmanship he introduced into the construction of the building. Did you know that it takes a minimum of three pillars to support a structure and prevent it from falling down? Try it for yourself.

very one of our masonic lodges is supported by the three pillars of wisdom, strength and beauty: the wisdom of the Master and Past Masters, the strength of our younger brethren, and the beauty in our ceremonies and practice of brotherly love. Imagine a Lodge with a wise Master and Past Masters who make really good decisions on financial matters, communications within the Lodge and with other Lodges, future ceremonies and educational events, membership and every other topic – this would be a good Lodge to belong to. Now, if that same Lodge was really active and every member was having a really good time at every meeting – would this attract new men to become Freemasons? And if in that same Lodge every member was eager to learn about masonry and the ceremonies, and play his part in every degree ritual, study groups, quiz nights and other social events – would this be a good Lodge to belong to? On the other hand, imagine a Lodge in which no-one makes wise decisions, all decisions are poor for whatever reason. What is going to happen to this Lodge eventually? What if this Lodge never had any new younger members - what is going to happen to this Lodge eventually? And what is going to happen if the ceremonies are poorly performed, members don’t learn the correct actions and words, timing is poor and no-one really bothers to get it right. What is going to happen to this Lodge eventually? If you don’t have all three pillars of

Wisdom in our Past Masters, Strength in our newer members and Beauty in performing our ceremonies it is likely that the Lodge will fall down eventually. In the Opening ceremony the WM turns to the IPM and asks him the Master’s place and why he is placed there. The reply is, “…. to open the Lodge and employ and instruct the Brethren in Freemasonry”. So I ask, does your Master do this? Yes he will open the Lodge but does he instruct you in Freemasonry? There are probably many Past Masters who will read this and think that because they have already been in the Master’s chair that they know enough about Freemasonry and don’t want to be “instructed” any further.

The greatly respected German philosopher Goethe (who lived from 1749 to 1832) made a powerful point when he said that “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.” We need the Past Masters to use the wisdom gained through their years of experience (in professional business as well as masonic) to lead our Lodges into a living future. There will be some tough calls to make for the good of

their Lodge’s future in particular and for Freemasonry in New Zealand in general. One of the difficulties with using our experience is that we do use the same thinking over and over again. One of the greatest wise thinkers of our time Albert Einstein said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them”. So, we need our Past Masters to think outside the box that contains our financial and membership problems and that isn’t easy at all. We may need a fresh look at the strength of our newer Masons and how we sometimes don’t listen to their needs and requirements for newer approaches to masonic evenings instead of repeatedly simulating degree ceremonies. Einstein went on to describe insanity as “Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”. The beauty of our ceremonies would be greatly enhanced in some Lodges with members taking their Freemasonry more seriously in generating a greater personal ability to learn the work and understand the spirit behind our ceremonies. Is the problem that Freemasonry doesn’t mean much to some men, that it is only a veneer, exists only in some actions and not others? Is Brotherly Love only skin deep with some men and does not exist in their inner being? Brotherly Love must not be theoretical and just words, it has to work in practice and be real. It says so in the VSL (Book of St John). George Allan Chair of the Education Pillar

Northern Division Conference Saturday 9 April 2016 • Novotel, Auckland Airport, Manukau Contact divsec.northern@freemasons.co.nz

REPORT Freemasonry on show at Ko Awatea conference The on-going support from Freemasons Foundation for Ko Awatea, the centre for health system innovation and improvement at Auckland’s Counties Manukau Health, was on display at the APAC Forum in September.

his conference, managed by Ko Awatea, attracts hundreds of delegates and is Asia Pacific’s premier healthcare conference. Delegates attend APAC to meet and hear from some of the great minds in health improvement, share the work they have been doing, and learn from leading-edge initiatives taking place in healthcare organisations across the world. As a major partner we made the introductions of the ‘STAR’ speakers on stage in the main auditorium at the Sky City Conference Centre. On behalf of the Foundation and Freemasonry, W Bros Rick Pullin and Logan Waite not only carried out the task of introducing the speakers but also had something to say about Freemasonry and our connections with the health care sector!

W Bro Logan Waite (right) introduced Star speaker Emeritus Professor Charles Vincent from London, an eminent and renowned clinical psychologist who has spent a lifetime in healthcare safety - with our David Mace and Judith Miller

Ko Awatea was created in 2011 with the aim to bring about a transformation of the health system to achieve excellent healthcare using a collaborative approach to encourage innovation, quality improvement and knowledge transfer.

OBITUARY

He served us well - Kerry Hoggard On behalf of the current Trustees of the Foundation we express our deep regret at the passing, last month at Auckland Hospital, of W Bro Kerry Hoggard, a previous Chairman of Northern Masonic Association Trust Board. Kerry was 74.

As one of New Zealand’s most successful businessmen over a long period, his death attracted considerable comment in the media. Recognised for his vision and astute commercial business mind, his reputation was built on the growth and success of the international listed entity NUFARM in which he had spent his working life. He stepped down as its chairman in 2010 after 53 years with the company. Kerry was named New Zealand Business Leader of the year in 1998. Harness racing was also a passion and he bred and raced horses for many years. At his death he had been on the Board of the Auckland Trotting Club since 2003 and President since 2013. He was the driver of the change to secure the Club’s future financial 32

security with the residential and commercial developments now taking place at Alexandra Park Raceway at Greenlane. They will remain a legacy to his vision. Kerry was a Past Master (1981) of The Lodge of Peace No 322 and became a Trustee of NMATB in 1992. He succeeded Jack Christie as Chairman in 1996 when change was in the air and directed the Board through the difficult decisions that needed to be made about our resources and capabilities in continuing to operate both the Redwood and Roskill Villages. He completed that task and concluded his term in 2006. A quiet but efficient manager, he always had time to listen to other opinions. A man of great intelligence, outstanding business talent and a loving and generous family man. He served us well. We offer our sincere sympathy to his wife Marilyn, son Andrew and the Grandchildren.

Charity Registration No CC27639

The Foundation can be contacted at PO Box 113144, Newmarket, Auckland 1149. Telephone: (09) 520 6414 or email: info@freemasonsfoundation.org.nz Looked at our new website? www.freemasonsfoundation.org.nz Comments to judith@freemasonsfoundation.org.nz

New Freemasons Post-Doctoral Fellowship Announced Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce has announced the recipients of the prestigious 2015 Rutherford Foundation Trust Awards including the latest Freemasons Fellowship.

n the Minister’s announcement, on the official website of the NZ Government beehive.govt.nz, Mr Joyce said ‘This year’s recipients are ten of New Zealand’s most outstanding emerging researchers, working in fields from health to marine ecology.

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The awards will allow them to further hone their knowledge and skills, and New Zealand benefits from the high quality of science they are able to produce”. The Rutherford Foundation Trust was established by the Royal Society of New Zealand in 2008. It aims to develop the skills of New Zealand’s most promising young researchers by providing them with early career support It is supported by $1 million in annual government funding along with contributions from the Cambridge Commonwealth Trust, the Cavendish Laboratory, Antarctica New Zealand, and Freemason Foundation. The Freemasons Postdoctoral Fellowship enables recipients to undertake a fulltime research programme on topics concerned with aging. The 2015 recipient is Marsilea Harrison who will study at Imperial College London, for researching the treatment for osteoarthritis to find ways to stimulate cartilage cells to grow and repair damaged joints. Marsilea attended the University of Auckland and completed a PhD in science in 2013.

Writers Festival Inaugural support to Fellow update continue The success of this year’s Auckland Writers The inaugural recipient of the Rutherford Foundation Freemasons Festival has convinced us to continue our association with this community cultural project, again committing to being the major supporter of the Schools and Family part of the programme for 2016.

Foundation Post-doctoral Fellowship in 2009, Dr Nicola Jackson of Auckland, keeps in touch with us regularly. Nicola has recently returned to New Zealand and joined Caldera Health as a Senior Scientist to work on the development of prostate cancer diagnostic tools using next generation sequencing technology.

Orchestra programme inspires young talent Freemasons Foundation is fostering new opportunities in tuition, composing and performance for young orchestral musicians as a major supporter of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s INSPIRE programme. Begun in 2013, the programme gives the players the chance to sit alongside the real professionals while they play in rehearsal and perform in concert. They can attend master classes, compete in instrumental competitions and talk to visiting soloists among many other activities all providing invaluable experience for their future careers. The Foundation’s support of young orchestral musicians began some years ago with a small contribution to The Lodge of the Liberal Arts annual concert of fine music by the Auckland Youth Orchestra. Our help lifted this community project into prominence at the Auckland’s Town Hall. Now with the APO ‘INSPIRE’ programme directly targeting not only the talent in the Youth Orchestra but the University School of Music too, we are happy to be making a real difference to young musicians throughout the wider Auckland area.

Inspire A programme to support young musicians aged from 13 to 25 years, in partnership with the University of Auckland School of Music and supported by the Freemasons Foundation.

Artwork: “Sound of the generation” – Gabriella Morton

Gisborne remembers Brother William Grant

n the 30th of August 2015, brethren of Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No. 76 and special guests joined parishioners of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Gisborne, to honour our late Brother William Grant who was killed at Gallipoli on the 28th August 1915. At the time of volunteering for army service, the 55 year old Brother Grant was the minister of St Andrew’s Church in Gisborne and also Junior Warden of Lodge Abercorn No. 76. As part of wider WWI centenary commemorations a service was held in St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Wellington, on the 28th August 2015 in honour of Services Chaplains who paid the supreme sacrifice. This service was attended by brethren of the Masonic fraternity and the date, August 28th was deliberately chosen as it was on that date in 1915 that William Grant lost his life, the first chaplain to do so.

Members of Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No.76 after the service.

The guests of honour at the Gisborne service on Sunday, 30th August were descendants of Reverend Grant, principally his grand-daughter Mrs Joyce Buckley accompanied by her daughter, two sons and younger members of the family. Chaplains from the three branches of the armed forces were present to lead the service.

Brother Grant volunteered for service as a chaplain and left Gisborne in August of 1914. By April of 1915 he had arrived at Gallipoli and it was here that his true mettle as a man and a freemason came to the fore. He gave assistance to any soldier who needed it, regardless of rank and irrespective of whether they were ally or enemy. Here was a man who truly met everyone on the level. While serving at the front, Chaplain Major Grant did not seek privileges of age or rank, happily living and sleeping alongside those soldiers he set out to serve, no mean feat for one his age. Brother Grant was a prolific correspondent, writing a series of letters to the local newspaper as well as to friends and family in New Zealand. Consequently his legacy lives on in the letters he wrote to the Poverty Bay Herald and they give a clear and concise picture of conditions at the battle front. In his last letter to the Lodge Secretary he expressed his regret at not being able to attend the Lodge Installation where he would have been invested as Senior Warden. He did, however, arrange for a donation of One Pound to the Widows and Orphans fund to be sent on his behalf by a friend based in Cairo. He also wrote of losing all his kit upon landing at Gallipoli including his Masonic Bible, and he requested a replacement volume to use in his ministry to the troops. Sadly, Brother Grant was killed before his letter and financial contribution arrived in Gisborne. It is believed

he was shot while tending to a wounded Turkish soldier. As a mark of respect the chair of Senior Warden was left vacant for twelve months and a photograph of the lamented brother was hung above the chair and it remained there for some 70 years, surely a mark of a man who lived respected and died regretted. The pound note was never banked and Reverend Grant’s letter, along with the banknote, is still held in the Lodge archives. The collected letters of Chaplain Major Grant were first printed in 1915. Thanks to the efforts of Miss Marie Burgess and financial support from Lodge Abercorn Charitable Trust, the book was re-published and launched at a gathering following the commemorative service at St. Andrew’s Church. Copies of the book are available from St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 176 Cobden Street, Gisborne, 4010 (ph 06 868 5513) at a cost of $25.00 plus p&p. Researched and written by WBro R J Bos, Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No 76.

Otago commemorates a lost masonic son A dedication ceremony by the Lodge Peninsula Kilwinning No 696 on the Register of the Grand Lodge of Scotland who undertook to commemorate the death 100years ago at Gallipoli of a lodge member Lance Corporal John Geary a Junior Deacon in our Lodge at the time of his death. The lodge with the approval of the Geary family undertook this memorial service exactly 100 years after his death on 8 August this year, it consisted of a gathering at the local bowling club of

family members, Freemasons from a variety of constitutions in Lodge Regalia, the local fire service in dress uniform and the local Kaumatua, the assembly left the bowling club at 12.45 and marched the 400 metres to the Portobello Historical Society rooms on the main Portobello Road led by a Masonic Piper, in all there were approx 200 people in attendance, where a dedication service was undertaken and a brass plaque unveiled on the Anzac memorial stone on the grounds of the Portobello Historical Society rooms. This was covered and reported on by the local paper the Otago Daily Times and gave very good exposure to the craft in general in the community, and was hugely successful for the local lodge with the support of the many sister lodges attending.

Brian Swift Lodge Peninsula Kilwinning No 696 SC

History of the New Zealand Registered Nurses’ Medal The NZRN five pointed star medal dates back to when New Zealand first introduced the Nurses’ Registration Act on 12 September 1901, being the first country in the world to legally require nurses to be registered.

All nurses who train and qualify for Nursing Registration in New Zealand are awarded with the NZRN medal. It is worn with honour, distinction and pride and the deep meaning and history behind it is held close to many Kiwi Nurses hearts. The medal has always been a great way to pick out the Kiwi Nurses when working abroad too! Designed by Mrs Grace Neill, the appointed Assistant Inspector of Hospitals in New Zealand in 1895. Mrs Neill was successful in having the State Registration for Nurses Act passed. A block at Wellington Regional Hospital is named after her. The star encloses a Red Cross as an emblem of the blood and the Cross of Christ. The white background stands for the purity expected in the life of a nurse; blue stands for honour and loyalty, and gold for charity. The Medal was designed as a symbol of service in the alleviation of suffering.

Nurses who qualified for registration received the Five Pointed Star badge (sometimes referred to as the NZ Registered Nurses’ Medal). Originally, to register nurses had to be 23 years of age and have had three years’ training as a nurse in a hospital, including training in theory and practise and to sit a State Examination. On passing the examination and upon payment of one pound the nurses received a certificate and a badge inscribed with their name and the date of registration. Mrs JJ McNab and Mrs GM Sides of Timaru designed “The Creed” below, outlining the meaning behind the NZRN medal. The Five Pointed Star

The Hand: That my hand shall ever extend to help, comfort and relieve the sick and suffering. The Foot: That my feet shall not falter, loiter nor linger, when journeying to alleviate the suffering of the sick.

New Zealand nurses and doctors at a military hospital in France.

The Knee: That my knee shall bow to the Almighty Creator in asking for guidance and aid in my endeavour to relieve the suffering of the sick. The Breast: That my breast shall be a safe and sacred repository for any secret entrusted to me or divulged through sickness or delirium or otherwise obtained. The Head: That I will constantly pursue and study the secret arts; that I will exercise my knowledge to the benefit of those suffering bodily or mental distress, and will disseminate such knowledge amongst others as my preceptors authorise and direct. Bryan Wiig Editor’s Note: The Five pointed Star Creed sounds very masonic! 35

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Partners in Freemasonry Hello, my name is Brigita Sehgal and I am the wife of the 125th Master of The Ponsonby Lodge No 54, WBro Jeasy Sehgal. Freemasonry plays an important role in my husband’s life and he is truly committed to its principles, which I completely support as well. I consider the foundation principles of freedom and all-inclusiveness within Freemasonry even more important in the global society of today, where people from different cultures and background invest themselves towards the betterment of the whole society. Through various means of charitable and sponsorship roles. This is a worthy cause, which supports personal, ethical and spiritual values of its members as well.

What does Freemasonry mean to you?

I believe Freemasonry is a way of life, it’s not a hobby or a club where you get together once a month for a gathering, rather a way of being. It’s about thinking of others before oneself, helping another person who needs assistance or simply being there for companionship. How are you involved in Freemasonry?

I was raised in my family with my father and Grandfather of Lodge Te Puni No. 315. I then married into the Houlihan family of Freemasons of Lodge Mana No. 352 For the last two years I have been the wife and proud supporter of the Hutt Wairarapa District Grand Master. Why is Freemasonry important to you?

It wasn’t until earlier this year at the Central Divisional Conference that I learnt the magnitude of support the Freemasons of New Zealand provide to New Zealanders after viewing the video of University of Auckland’s appreciation

Often I’ve been asked ‘how do I feel about my husband’s involvement (in Freemasonry)’ and I’m always happy to clarify how I truly support him. Despite of being a male only organisation, there are a lot of activities running in the background that are done by Freemason’s

of the contributions to their neurology research; it was very humbling to know that I am part of this organisation. Do you think Freemasonry is relevant in today’s society?

Absolutely, more so now than in the last 125 years. Today’s society is so focussed on what’s the next big thing at such a fast pace and in my opinion, without a great deal of consideration for one another.

wives and partners. Via these social activities and gatherings ladies establish good connections and get involved in some of the charitable activities themselves. If someone’s partner is looking to join, I would advise that it is most commendable as they will find friends with likeminded members that will offer support whenever it is required. As a couple we’ve established many friendships of true value. Five years ago, we got married in the first ever masonic wedding in a masonic lodge and with masonic ceremony, which shows our dedication and has been a great highlight of our involvement. These memories will be always genuinely cherished. Brigita Seghal

Take a moment to reflect on what happened in the Christchurch communities after the big earthquakes how neighbours considered one another and local communities are now more considerate than years before. If young New Zealand men where to become Freemasons I believe our society would be the better for it. What would you say to other people whose partners are looking at joining?

What have you got to lose? Have more opportunities to go out for dinners, lots of events to attend and make new friends. Your partner will enjoy the comradery of belonging to this organisation and you can be as involved as you want or not at all. What has been the highlight of your involvement so far?

Now you have put me in a tricky situation so I am going to offer two highlights. The first one is sitting in the gallery watching my husband being installed as the District Grand Master and the second was being in attendance as my father was awarded the Roll of Honour. Andrea Houlihan 37

The Masonic Villages Trust is a charity set up in 1960 by Freemasons in the southern North Island to provide care and services for older people. Since then, the Trust and its two charitable operating companies, Masonic Care Ltd and Masonic Villages Ltd, have earned an enviable reputation for great care and great communities.

Aged care crisis looming

The failure of the government to properly fund aged care is likely to become a crisis in the not too distant future. According to Ministry of Health forecasts, by 2022 there will be a severe shortage of care beds in parts of the country. Some say the crisis will arrive earlier. It will have its greatest impact on frail older people with limited financial resources.

residents who can afford to pay for extras that are not funded by government. We are doing this with our care suites at Horowhenua Masonic Village and Glenwood Masonic Hospital in Masterton, as are other providers in their new village developments.

Warick Dunn, chief executive of The Masonic Villages Trust, says few new care facilities are being built because government funding for residential care hasn’t kept up with the cost of providing that care.

“These premium facilities help satisfy the growing expectations of more affluent residents for space, privacy and choice and help providers to balance their books. But it raises questions about how dignified, quality care will be provided to older New Zealanders who can’t afford the extras.”

“A recent independent review of the economics of the sector suggests that current revenues are 20% below the levels required to rebuild and renovate existing facilities or to fund new developments. Indeed, many smaller providers have become so uneconomic they are being forced to close their doors,” he says. “In response to this financial reality, more than half the country’s aged care providers are now providing facilities that are intended for

At present, a person in DHB-funded residential care has their accommodation and care paid for bythe government. To offset this, the government gets the resident’s national super, less a small amount for personal spending, says Dunn. “Those whose only income is national super cannot afford to pay for

Residents and carers getting some fresh air outside the care suites at Glenwood Masonic Hospital, Masterton By 2022, it is predicted there will be a severe shortage of care beds in parts of the country. It will have its greatest impact on frail older people who can’t afford ‘extras’

care in excess of DHB requirements. For their part the care facilities can’t afford to build facilities that are solely reliant on DHB funding.”

Those whose only income is national super cannot afford to pay for care in excess of DHB requirements. For their part the care facilities can’t afford to build facilities that are solely reliant on DHB funding.

He says the looming crisis has been deferred by a recent emphasis on caring for older persons in their own homes through what is known as the ‘ageing in place’ policy. This policy, which is fully funded through DHBs, has social and fiscal advantages. “But caring for people in their own homes for longer is not a permanent solution to a lack of residential aged care beds. Ultimately many of the frail elderly get to the point where they can no longer live safely in their own homes and need residential support, such as that provided by Masonic Care rest homes and hospitals. “Already, our staff are finding that people who, under this policy, have stayed much longer in their homes have much higher levels of dependency than those who entered residential care only a few years ago. Many need facilities like electric hoists, mechanised beds and sophisticated wheel chairs. These are expensive and only partially funded by the DHBs. Only with the support from generous donors like local Lodges and the Freemasons’ Charity can our Trust afford to fund these.” Dunn says that if under-funding is to be addressed, it needs to provide for both ‘business as usual’ as well as the higher dependency levels of residents. “In addition, it needs to address the deplorable situation applying

to wages and salaries for care facility staff across the sector. Government underfunding means their pay does not reflect the commitment, skills and responsibilities associated with caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. “When the Terra Nova equal pay case is concluded, it is likely the government will have to substantially increase its funding. While this is entirely proper, it will doubtless make it more difficult for the government to find the funds to bridge other aspects of the funding shortfall. “Our society has high expectations of how all citizens should be treated when age, declining health and frailty mean they are no longer able to take care of themselves. So I certainly hope the government of the day will see the justice of our case. “But if current funding models remain, quality residential aged care will eventually only be assured to those who can afford to pay for it.”

Trust merger goes well

The retirement facilities operated by the Manawatu Masonic Association Trust have been successfully merged into The Masonic Villages Trust. In The Masonic Villages Trust’s 2015 annual report, chair Bill Arcus says the merger has resulted in cost savings and has enhanced the professionalism of the whole operation. The Trust now has 227 care beds and 348 retirement villas and apartments, making it one of the largest charitable retirement village operators and aged care providers in the lower North Island. The directors believe it is in the interests of the Trust to expand its operations so that older New Zealanders can continue to choose a charitable provider for their care and accommodation in retirement. As part of this strategy, the Trust has this year completed stage 1

Like to join? The trustees of The Masonic Villages Trust would like more people who support its work to become members. Chief executive Warick Dunn says a lot of people volunteer their time to help residents and it would be great to have them join the Trust. Also, family members of residents are among the Trust’s strongest supporters, so it would be good to see them joining too. Membership is open to all and costs only $20 a year. It’s one of the main ways the Trust has of keeping supporters informed and involved. Members also review the work of the Trust and elect Trustees at each annual meeting. To join the Trust, contact Warick Dunn, warick.dunn@ masonicvillages.co.nz or phone 04 569 8512.

of Woburn Apartments in Lower Hutt and has begun groundworks on stage 2. Elsewhere in Hutt City it is looking at whether it could provide the suburb of Wainuiomata with a retirement village and hospital. It is also working with the Taranaki Masonic Trust, with which it may one day form a closer relationship.

ANNUAL REPORT 2015

• TRUST OFFICE

63 Wai-iti Crescent | Lower Hutt 5010 T: +64 4 569 8512 | E: trust@masonicvillages. co.nz • GLENWOOD MASONIC HOSPITAL 74 Upper Plain Road | Masterton 5810 T: +64 6 377 0221 | E: glenwood.inquiries@m asonicvillages.co.nz • HOROWHENUA MASONIC VILLAGE 685 Queen St East | Levin 5510 T: +64 6 368 8144 | E: hmvadmin@masonicvill ages.co.nz • MASONIC COURT PALMERST ON NORTH 13 Clausen Street | Palmerston North 4412 T: +64 6 358 9399 | E: Barbara@manawatuma sonic.co.nz • TE AWAHOU MASONIC VILLAGE 79 Main Street | Foxton 4814 T: +64 6 363 5888 | E: villagemanager@manaw atumasonic.co.nz • WAIRARAPA MASONIC VILLAGE 35 Edith Street | Masterton 5810 T: +64 6 378 7391 | E: irene.bull@masonicvillag es.co.nz • WOBURN MASONIC VILLAGE 63 Wai-iti Crescent, Lower Hutt 5010 T: +64 4 569 6839 | E: christine.townsend@m asonicvillages.co.nz

In the annual report, Arcus said he was disappointed by the Trust’s financial results for the 2015 year which, because of a change in accounting policies, resulted in a comprehensive deficit of $4.2 million. This was largely due to a $6.3 million write down in property assets. The Trust made a $1 million cashflow surplus and an underlying profit (EBIDA) of $906,000.

The Masonic Villages Trust Head office: 63 Wai-iti Crescent l Woburn l Lower Hutt 5010 New Zealand l Tel +64 4 569 8512 l www.masonicvillages.co.nz warick.dunn@masonicvillages.co.nz

Strokes just happen to old people Christina Lloyd shares the story of her brother Alan, who had a devastating stroke aged just 32.

y brother Alan is a pretty typical Kiwi bloke in many ways – had a job at a local service station, enjoyed flicking on the TV at the end of a shift and relaxing on the couch for the evening. In the weekends he’d watch movies or get into a good book. Every now and then he’d organise an outing for a couple of elderly residents in a local rest home. He’s a bit of a softie like that. It was always a bit of a family joke that Alan had only one favourite vegetable – the potato. And the more deep fried the better! True, his diet was pretty shoddy. Takeaways for dinner five nights a week and chips, sausages and pies in between. He wasn’t really looking after himself and doctors had warned him that his high-salt, high-fat, overly processed diet was making his blood pressure dangerously high and that he needed to make some major changes to avoid the real risk of a stroke or worse. Alan, as many 32 year olds would, figured there would be plenty of time to sort it out … after all, he was still a young man in the prime of life, right? On the day that it happened, Alan had taken his folks out on their Sunday

outing during the day and went to bed as usual, but must have woken in the early hours and known sovmething was wrong. Just before his speech went completely he managed to call out loudly enough to wake Mum. She arrived in his room to find that he had tried to get out of bed only to have both legs collapse underneath him, leaving him slumped against his desk. Fortunately, Mum immediately recognised the signs of a stroke and called an ambulance. When the ambulance arrived Alan was lapsing in and out of consciousness and by the time they got to hospital he was totally non-responsive. The doctors advised us that Alan had suffered a serious stroke. The haemorrhage in his brain was so severe that it was pushing one half of his brain into the other side of his skull. The doctors prepared us for the worst – Alan was in a bad way and his prognosis was grim. Even if he did pull through, he would possibly remain in a vegetative state for the rest of his life. We were pretty much preparing to say our last goodbyes when thankfully he rallied and his condition began to stabilise. But

he still took a full month to wake up from his non-responsive state. That was July 2013. Today, Alan still hasn’t fully recovered his speech. The entire right side of his body is paralysed and he needs help with washing, getting dressed and just getting around each day. He uses a wheelchair now and lives in a home as he needs pretty constant care just to do the most basic day-to-day stuff. We were introduced to a Community Stroke Advisor while Alan was still in hospital. She has been very helpful in pointing out what services are available – both in caring for Alan but also helping the rest of us understand and come to terms with what has happened. I had experienced high blood pressure with both my pregnancies and I guess I always knew that losing weight was a good idea – but it took what happened to Alan to really galvanise me into action. First, I’ve quit drinking alcohol – not that we were big drinkers but I knew it was just extra calories I didn’t need so that was relatively easy. I also joined Weight Watchers so I had some encouragement to make the changes to my diet that needed to be made. Then just 2 weeks after Alan’s stroke I

– right?

heard an ad on the radio for a half marathon for charity. The idea got stuck in my head that day and pretty soon I’d managed to persuade my younger brother to join me and together we completed our first half marathon. I feel great and I know that I am making immediate and beneficial changes to both my blood pressure and general wellbeing. I already knew that making these changes was a good move but Alan’s experience has given me a renewed focus … and so many more reasons to keep up the good work.

Reducing risks and improving outcomes Reduce your risk of stroke 1. Check your blood pressure regularly 2. Don’t smoke 3. Reduce your salt intake 4. Eat healthily (limit fatty, sugary, salty foods) 5. Move more - be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week 6. Maintain a healthy weight 7. Limit your alcohol intake 8. Check your cholesterol level and follow any treatment advised by your doctor 9. Get checked for atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular heartbeat) and follow any treatment advised by your doctor 10. If you have diabetes, manage your condition well.

Act FAST and save lives

‘There’s nothing you can do about stroke.’ That’s what many people think - but they’re wrong. Up to half of all stroke cases could be treated with clot-busting drugs (thrombolysis or tPa) if they arrive within three hours of the stroke’s onset at a hospital where they can be scanned and given the drugs. In many cases this can reduce the damage done by the stroke or even reverse the symptoms entirely. Even if tPa isn’t an option studies show that the faster you get help the better your outcomes after stroke. Speed really is of the essence which is why it’s so important that as many people as possible can recognise a stroke when they see one. The FAST message is an effective way for people to recognise three key stroke signs and to act fast if a stroke is suspected. See a stroke. Look for these signs:

F – FACE – Is their face drooping on one side? Can they smile? A – ARM – Is one arm weak? Can they raise both arms? S – SPEECH – Is their speech jumbled or slurred? Can they speak at all? T – TIME – Time is critical. Call 111 immediately. If you see any of these signs, get help fast. A stroke is an emergency. Call 111. For more information on the FAST message see strokewise.org.nz/see/ Help us save lives and improve outcomes

The Stroke Foundation is the national organisation in New Zealand dedicated to reducing the incidence of stroke, improving treatment outcomes, and supporting those affected by stroke. The Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that supports a team of Community Stroke Advisors and dozens of stroke clubs throughout New Zealand. We run education and awareness campaigns and Stroke Foundation Community Stroke Advisors throughout most of New Zealand work with stroke survivors, their family, whānau and carers to ensure people achieve the best possible outcome after stroke. We provide this service for free. The vast majority of our funding comes from donations. If you would like to help us continue and expand our work, you can donate at stroke.org.nz/donate or phone us on 0800 78 76 53. With thanks to Fraser Pettigrew, National Communications and Promotions Manager, Stroke Foundation of New Zealand

Let’s nail our colours By First Grand Principal Geoff Davies

lthough you will be reading this some time in December, at the earliest, I am writing it in November, and November is the annual White Ribbon Month in New Zealand. I hope you know what White Ribbon is but if not, here’s an explanation taken from the White Ribbon website (whiteribbon.org.nz): The White Ribbon campaign in New Zealand is a meld of the White Ribbon Day movement in Canada and the United Nations International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women, which is celebrated on 25 November each year. Our aim is to eliminate men’s violence towards women by encouraging men to take ownership of this important issue and model good behaviour that can change attitudes and behaviour. In 2015 our focus is on sexual violence and the issue of consent. The campaign has activities through out the calendar year with an increased focus in November. White Ribbon is driven by a campaign team and community groups in towns and cities throughout New Zealand, while events and activities are increasingly supported by businesses, cultural groups, sporting teams, local government and a wide range of community and government agencies. With the goal of eliminating men’s violence towards women, White Ribbon “aims to change men’s attitudes and behaviours, predominantly through men talking to men”. It asks individual men to “make it clear to other men that you do not tolerate violence towards women”. White Ribbon is a deliberate attempt to undermine the social norms of men who support violence, and strengthen male norms that are non-violent. Here are a few of their statistics to give you some idea of the extent of the problem of men’s violence to women 42

in New Zealand. (These figures are from 2013, but sadly, the anecdotal evidence is that there has been no improvement.) One in three women will experience partner violence at some point in their lives. Less than 20 per cent of abuse cases are reported. Over 3500 convictions are recorded against men each year for assaults on women. On average, 14 women a year are killed by their partners or ex-partners. Police attend a family violence incident every five and a half minutes. Family violence accounts for half of all reported serious crime. In 2013 Police recorded 95,101 family violence investigations (provisionally 94,300 in 2014).

White Ribbon Trust patron Judge Peter Boshier, former Principal Family Court Judge (and newly-appointed Chief Ombudsman for New Zealand) summed it up like this in a recent magazine article: “White Ribbon is simply put, a campaign operated mostly by volunteers such as me in New Zealand which asks men to accept responsibility as the perpetrators of most family violence, and to start exerting pressure to achieve attitudinal change. For as long as we have ‘mates’, friends or acquaintances who think it is all right to abuse their partners because there is no social pressure to the contrary, we will continue to experience family violence in epidemic proportions.” What has this got to do with Royal Arch Masonry or Freemasonry in general?

Well, this is a men’s problem. And we are an organisation of men. I suggest that we could perform a great service to our communities, and showcase the values of Freemasonry, by stepping up, as men, and helping to do something about it. We are not only an organisation of men, but we are one of men with high ideals and strong values, in every aspect of our lives. We are men with a strong commitment to Charity, and Charity is not just about money. As Craft Freemasons we have this to say about the practice of Charity: “Our traditions occupy a unique place in our society; we employ our resources, experience and knowledge in the promotion of excellence” (Strategic Direction 2013-2018). Another Pillar of our Strategic Direction is Community Engage ment. Here we recognise that Freemasonry does not exist in a vacuum: “to maintain, grow and develop our image and brand within the community we need to build sustainable, long-term and

to the mast positive partnerships with key community stakeholders”. Over the next few months I will be asking our Chapters to consider undertaking an initiative, at any level they consider suitable, to show our communities what sort of people Freemasons are. We have networks, we have buildings, we have men of all stripes who are husbands, fathers, grandfathers etc – but most of all, men of integrity and strength who stand for doing the right thing. This is a “right thing” for us to do. I am asking Royal Arch Companions to take the initiative in this, but to me, it is one for all Freemasons, and so I am also suggesting to Chapters that their first step is to talk to the main Lodge or

Lodges in their communities with a view to a joint activity. At this point, you might well be saying “What is it that we can actually do? Is it about donating money?” We can donate money if we wish, but there is much, much more that can be done with the resources at our disposal. Have a look at the White Ribbon website. It has a wealth of suggestions to suit any configuration of people and resources, and what White Ribbon itself can provide, such as speakers for local events. Many such speakers are official White Ribbon Ambassadors, in addition to their day jobs. The long list of leaders in their fields who have accepted the role of White Ribbon Ambassador

includes Prime Minister John Key, Police Commissioner Mike Bush and the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Tim Keating. We all want to attract good men to join Freemasonry, and once members, when they are qualified and ready, to take the next step and join a Royal Arch Chapter. I believe giving an example of what being a good man actually means in practice, will reflect well on both the Royal Arch and the Craft in the public eye. But most of all, we just might help address an appalling problem that exists in every single New Zealand community. Wouldn’t that be something!

SUPREME GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER OF NEW ZEALAND 124th ANNUAL GRAND CONVOCATION

Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre Mt Wellington, Auckland 18, 19 March 2016

www.royalarch.org.nz 43

Masonic Trusts punch above their weight We have many Masonic Charitable Trusts throughout New Zealand (probably numbering nearly 50) who are doing similar good work in the community. We publish this particular list to show the breadth of giving by Freemasons to non-masonic community organisations and the share diversity of those groups and to hopefully generate ideas for future charitable projects and giving by Lodges and Districts throughout New Zealand. A separate article shows by way of example the length of service many Freemasons put into these Masonic Charitable Trusts.

2015 Otago Masonic Charitable Trust Grants North Otago The Order of St John Waitaki Out of School Care St Paul’s Presbyterian Church Duntroon Development Assn

$6258 Two Pedi-Mate Child restraints New computer for Administration New sound system Build a Bridge across the “Springs” outlet

Central Otago Alexandra & Districts Youth Club Alexandra Clyde Union Church Alexandra Hockey Alexandra Kindergarten Alexandra Pipe Band Alexandra Toy Library Aspiring Beginners Clyde Historical Museum Harvest Community Garden Roxburgh Squash Club

$24,455 Uniforms for Youth workers Projector Face Protection Masks Smart TV Chanters & Reeds Replace slide & climbing wall Heating system Computer, printer & accessories Fencing Installation of Heaters

GEMLINK Dennis D. Blacklaws Qualified Gemologist, Diamond-Grader, Internationally Qualified Jewellery Appraiser

Southland Multi Sclerosis St Gerard’s School Teviot Tae Kwon Do Terrace School Wakatipu Youth Trust

South Otago Balclutha Kindergarten Clutha United Swimming Club Kaitangata Primary PTA Assn Litchfield Park Clutha RDA Milton Kindergarten

$4869 Electricity into Technical Room Purchase Stop Watches Basket swing for playground Horse Crush Maori Resources = Books/Puzzles

Greater Dunedin Dunedin Women’s Refuge Carers Society Otago Royal Dunedin Male Choir Kaikorai Valley College Otago Model Engineering Dunedin Gymnastics Academy Dunedin Senior Chinese Assn TS Nimrod Sea Cadets Palmerston Guiding Club Otago Heritage Bus Society Special Olympics Otago Dunedin Red Cross Choir Kings High School Rowing Fortune Theatre Dunedin Tap Dancing Volunteering Otago Mornington Scout Group

$24,530 Replace Water Heater 2 x lightweight transit Wheelchairs 2 x new Pieces of music Library Books Freestanding Stove Safety Crash Mat Drums & Uniforms & Computer/Printer Repairs to Boat Shed (Doors) Compass’s & Tables Restoring a newly purchased Bus T-Shirt tops Materials to make new uniforms 4 pairs sculling oars for Quad Electrical tester Portable Sound System 2 x Laptops & a Desk-top Computer Kitchen crockery

Other Five Foodbanks in North, Central and South Otago “Elwing” Youth Development Course Port Chalmers Marine Lodge Bursary Dunedin School of Art = Fred Staub Open Art Boock Estate Fund – last 10 months

Grand Total to Date

04 566 3668 www.gemlink.co.nz dennis.blacklaws@gemlink.co.nz 10 Laings Rd, Lower Hutt

Double Glazing holiday home Mobile Storage unit for Laptops Gear Bags Assistive Technology for Disabled Children Uniforms for Youth Workers

$4000 $7190 $5000 $10,000 $38,846

$125,153

The Dunedin Senior Chinese Association was one of the many happy recipients of a Otago Masonic Charitable Trust grant.

The end of an era The formation of The South Auckland Masonic Charitable Trust Inc was the brainchild of the late RWBro Frank Woodward, PDep GM and came to life in the early 1970s. Approximately 35 years ago Bro Mark Bridgman, a young Freemason from the Sir Walter Scott Lodge No 15 in Thames decided to join in the activities of the Trust. He was appointed as a Trustee and shortly thereafter became the Deputy Chairman. On the retirement of RWBro Woodward, Mark served a lengthy term as Chairman of the Trust, maintaining his role as a Trustee when he eventually stepped down from that position. With the formation of the Retirement Villages Act in 2003 it was decided to transfer the property assets of the Trust to South Auckland Masonic Properties Limited and Mark was appointed a founding Director of the company, meanwhile maintaining his role as a Trustee of the Trust. Such has been the involvement and commitment of RWBro Mark Bridgman PGW to the benevolent activities of the South Auckland district in all its various forms over the years. Early this year Mark decided that it was time for him to take a well-earned rest and at the recent AGMs of the Trust and the Property Company a presentation was made to Mark in recognition of the faithful service he has given. It should be noted that during this time he also served terms on the old Board of Benevolence (now The Freemasons Charity) and he still shares his musical talents as Organist at selected Installations throughout the South Auckland region. During the time of his involvement Mark has seen the Trust value grow from zero to an asset base of some $19m and he can be most justifiably proud of what he has helped to establish and maintain.

Derek Meredith

GRAND INSTALLATION 31 MARCH - 3 APRIL 2016 and you are invited! Freemasons Victoria invites you and your guests to the Grand Installation of RWBro. Don Reynolds as Grand Master You are also cordially invited to the Grand Banquet and associated functions . Book your tickets today! Ticket information and details can be found at http://www.hpe.com.au/freemasonsvic.htm or call High Profile Events on (03) 9596 6662

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RWBro Mark Bridgman PGW with the Chairman of the South Auckland Masonic Charitable Trust Inc., WBro John Lukaszewicz, P Asst GDC presenting a Certificate from the Trust.

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A Freemason of the Canterbury hills and the plains

ugust 2015 heralded the magnifi- (M&PM) Lodge No 130 where he cent achievement of 70 years’ ser- undertook to critique, write and review vice in Freemasonry for RWBro Dr Roy the Questions and Answers volume that Wade PGW. many Freemasons admire and rely on. Roy joined Freemasonry as an initiate He has over the years mentored a numof Cashmere Lodge No 271 while he was ber of younger Freemasons in Masonic a Medical student training to be a doctor. education and etiquette, and was at the Early in his masonic career Doctor forefront of the Canterbury Masonic Wade moved to Methven where he was Education programme in the 1980s. the sole GP for the town as well as being a Of interest, the M&PM library in the busy Freemason and during his recollec- new Shirley Freemasons Centre has been tions he commented on the many nights named the Roy Wade Masonic Library he was at lodge and a knock on the door in honour and respect of the magnificent saw him excusing himself and speeding work done over the decades by RWBro off to deliver a baby or atWade. tend an accident or attend RWBro Wade has some chronic illness in the held a number of posts town. in Grand Lodge, notably In later years he and Grand Lecturer, Assistant his family moved to Provincial Grand Master Christchurch where he and received elevation to continued to practice Past Grand Warden in medicine and at the same 1994. He is also involved in time he involved himself the Rose Croix and is a 33 deeply in Freemasonry. Degree Mason. Roy has been very Roy Wade with A dinner was held Ray Duncan PGM. involved in the research to mark the occasion aspect of Freemasonry of achieving 70 years in and has during the decades been instru- Freemasonry and one of RWBro Wades mental in the Masters and Past Masters daughters and other members of the

Roy Wade with daughter.

family were able to be present to witness the event and at the same time get a full appreciation of the love and respect that Freemasons have for Roy Wade. A mixed gathering of 60 people including Freemasons and their wives, family and Roy’s medical research colleagues attended the evening where a great time was had by all. One of the unique aspects of the presentation was that the bar to the Service badge was presented by MWBro Ray Duncan PGM. That in itself was not unique however as it turns out MWBro Duncan presented the 50 year, 60 year and now the 70 year presentations to Roy, a Masonic trifecta. Brian O’Neill

Freemason heirloom passed on

n 13 May 2015 RWBro Arnold Bloxham PDepGM was invested with his 50 Year Service Badge. It was a badge which was presented to his Uncle Spencer (Penny) Watson in 1979 an occasion when Arnold was present. Spencer Watson joined Freemasonry in Opunake at the Ikaroa Lodge No 115 in 1929, was Master in 1939 and was called up for the Second World War before he finished his term as Master. Spencer also received a Bar to his 50 Year badge. The badge is sterling silver and gold plated.

Spencer’s father and brother were Freemasons and Arnold’s father, another uncle and brother in law were all Freemasons too. Arnold’s father and brother in law also attained the Chair. Arnold was his father’s senior steward in St Matthews Lodge No 355 (now closed) when his father passed away a year later. The highlight of the evening was Arnold having his wife and family present to witness the special occasion.

LEFT WBro Spencer Watson in Uniform. RIGHT RWBro Arnold and his family.

NEW INITIATES

Fitzgerald Flores Stephen Chapman Nathan James Jermaine Presquito Adam Farr Philip Martin Jason Bartle Christopher Vizor Nathaniel Cross Derek Brown Richard Heald Jason MacKenzie James Loretan Murray Otway Stuart Banks Eric Tanghal John Souter James Stevenson Bernard Nunez Jason McColl Iain Warren Campbell Wood Carl Findlater Jeramaine Marsh Kirby Gue David Mitchell Jeremy Marshall Brent McKinnon Kristian Cabrera Rhys Meredith Kenneth Hunt

New Zealand Pacific No. 2 Lodge of Unanimity Sumner No. 3 Lodge of Unanimity Sumner No. 3 Southern Cross Lodge No. 6 Manukau-Westmere Lodge No. 24 The Saint Andrews Lodge No. 32 The Lincoln Lodge No. 33 Waihenga St Johns Lodge No. 37 The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No. 47 The Te Aroha Lodge No. 52 The Greytown St Marks Lodge No. 53 The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54 The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61 The Alpha Lodge No. 81 Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85 Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85 Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85 The MacKenzie Lodge No. 93 Lodge St John No. 94 The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98 The Havelock Lodge No. 104 Lodge Winton No. 108 Lodge Winton No. 108 Lodge Waihi No. 112 Thistle Lodge No. 113 Te Awahou Lodge No. 133 The Crown Lodge No. 138 The Crown Lodge No. 138 Lodge Rotorua No. 153 Lodge Rotorua No. 153 Lodge Ahurewa No. 181

Ryle Dela Cruz Ronnie Paltao John Montero Derek Cornwell Herbert Hesketh Bougette Galicia Jason Akehurst Peter Catt Timothy Crace Clint Cooper Paul Buddle Neil O’Brien Mohammed Al Jiab Kurt Buckingham Jonathan Ball Kenneth Powe Adam Gibbons Jonathon Davis Darin Peters Joseph Cross Anton Strydom Ben Fitzgerald Michael Goodman William Mahon Daniel Moran Alan Hay Iglecio Bontilao Franklin Masagca Rolando Tan David Nelson

Lodge North Harbour No. 182 Lodge Clinton No. 183 Lodge Takapuna No. 202 Lodge Manurewa No. 222 Lodge Nelson No. 288 Lodge Switzers No. 223 Lodge Doric Brighton No. 236 Lodge Arawhaiti No. 267 Herbert Teagle Lodge No. 300 Herbert Teagle Lodge No. 300 Lodge Howick No. 314 Lodge Te Papa No. 316 Lodge Pa-Ka-Ma No. 319 Lodge Herne Bay United No. 340 Browns Bay Lodge No. 346 Lodge Windsor No. 377 Lodge Arawa No. 406 Lodge Kawerau No. 422 Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 Lodge Hatea No. 431 Lodge Whitianga No. 443 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448 Lodge Idris No. 452 United Horowhenua Lodge No. 464 Lodge Arowhenua No. 473 Lodge Arowhenua No. 473 Lodge Arowhenua No. 473 The Lodge of Enlightenment No. 502

Initiations between August and October 2015

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Interested? Freemasons are ordinary men in the com munity, 21 years and over, of all religions and backgrounds, who share a concern for human values, moral standards and the rights of individuals. Ask one to be one… or enquire at Freemasons New Zealand: www.freemasonsnz.org, secretary@freemasons.co.nz, 04 385 6622 or write to P O Box 6439, Marion Square, Wellington 6141.

Jolly knight and former editor of New Zealand Freemason Morris Robertson, with his issue of the magazine, somewhere in France.

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The first ten people to email editor@freemasons.co.nz with the make of this car – which picked up the Grand Master in Nelson recently – will receive a small prize.

SERVICE AWARDS 70 YEAR BADGE WBro Harry Grimshaw Booth PM RWBro Roy Taylor Wade PGW

The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54 Unity Lodge No. 271

60 YEAR BADGE WBro David William King PM Bro Nelson Sargood Webster MM RH

The Ashley Lodge No. 28 The Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45

WBro Basil John Gimblett PM

Lodge Otangaki No. 70

WBro William Raymond Logie PM

Lodge Dunstan No. 103

WBro Albert William Crow PM

Lodge Winton No. 108

RWBro Ian James Nathan PGW

The Taupiri Lodge No. 118

Bro Gladstone Thomson Hall MM Bro Leslie Bruce Orr MM WBro Godfrey Ian Francis Thorpe PM WBro Anthony David Delves PM Late WBro John Curtis PM * VWBro Ian Stanley Bundo PG Lec

Hinemoa-Kairangi Lodge No. 122 Roslyn Morning Star No. 192 Lodge Te Puke No. 261 Lodge Mt Maunganui No. 376 Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448

Late WBro Maxwell Roy Styles PM *

Meridian Lodge No. 449

WBro James Victor Reilly PM

Meridian Lodge No. 449

WBro Peter James Scowcroft PGBB Late WBro Neville Mark Winiata PGD *

The Henderson Meridian Lodge No. 463 United Horowhenua Lodge No. 464

50 YEAR BADGE WBro James Douglas The Ara Lodge No. 1 Sjogre Strong PM WBro Kenneth John Scinde Lodge No. 5 McLennan PG Std B WBro Wallace Owen Soal PM The Caledonian Lodge No. 16 WBro Peter William Morris PM Hercules Lodge No. 36 VWBro Graeme Sydney Hill PG Lec Lodge Rangitikei No. 38 WBro Ronald James Hanley PM Lodge Wairoa No. 55 VWBro James Desmond The Advance Mawhera Sweeney PGDC Lodge No 61 WBro Alan Hunt P Asst GDC The Lion Lodge No. 114 WBro David Aynsworth Cullen PM The Waipa Lodge No. 119 WBro Edward William Hinemoa-Kairangi Lodge George Green PGBB No. 122 WBro Alan James Polaschek PM Lodge Otaihape No. 142 Bro Graham Nash MM Lodge Otaihape No. 142 WBro Maurice Ashley Walker PM Golden Bay Lodge No. 144 WBro Leonard John Hodren PM Rongotea Lodge No. 146 WBro William Lewis Waikaka Lodge No. 151 Arnold Spittle PM WBro Desmond King Lodge Rotorua No. 153 Macartney PM WBro John Osler Gemmell PM Lodge Waikaremoana No. 158 WBro John Taggart PM RH Lodge Timaru No. 196 Bro Frank Allan Peter Holder MM Lodge Omarunui No. 216 WBro Graham Arthur Gilbert PM Lodge Omarunui No. 216 WBro Francis Ian Ralph Lodge Manurewa Wiseman PG Swd B No. 222

*Presented prior to their passing

WBro Reginald Alfred Taia-Raukawa Lodge Herb Mansford PM No. 229 Bro John Michael Culmer MM Lodge Te Puke No. 261 WBro Gavin John Cook PGD Lodge Arawhaiti No. 267 WBro Terence Walter Lucas PM Unity Lodge No. 271 WBro Trevor John Barker PM Lodge Katikati No. 295 VWBro Samuel Joseph Lodge Howick No. 314 Burns P Asst Prov GM WBro Graham Fisher Kent PGBB The Lodge of Peace No. 322 WBro Martin Berridge Spencer PM The Lodge of Peace No. 322 Bro Alexander Mair Dow MM Lodge Waiheke No. 367 WBro William Francis Malin MM Lodge Orewa No. 370 WBro Maxwell T Kimball Gray PM Lodge Mt Maunganui No. 376 WBro William Smith PM Lodge Windsor No. 377 WBro Christopher Wyn Lodge Albany No. 404 Billing P Dist GDC VWBro Lindsay M Roycroft Lodge Hamutana No. 437 P Asst Prov GM WBro Thomas Richard Lodge Whitianga No. 443 Whittle PG Std B WBro Brian Arthur Lawson PM Pegasus Daylight Lodge No. 450 Late WBro Dennis Frederick The Hawkes Bay Daytime G Whittle PM* Lodge No.453 VWBro Ivor Charles Wesley PG Lec Lodge United Taranaki No. 456 WBro Graham Leslie United Horowhenua Morow-Griffin MM Lodge No. 464

August â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 2015

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