Freemason NEW ZEALAND
Issue 3 (Vol. 45), September 2017
300 years of Freemasonry
A world first
www.freemasonsnz.org
Aoraki Mount Cook – New Zealand’s tallest mountain – with the Hooker Glacier in the foreground. CM Lynch
In this issue Hot Off the Press 3
PARTNERS IN FREEMASONRY Surprise presentation to Ngaroma Driver 21
Grand Master’s visits 3
Websites and social media 21
Grand Master 4
Where in the world? 21
From the Editor 2
The invisible disease revealed 22
On the road again…
President of the Board 4 Challenges or opportunities!
Chief Executive 5 Hive of industry
Masonic Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony 24
A rare occasion for Freemasons
News clips 6
Opinion: Our Masonic family 8 Have your say 9
The Royal New Zealand Returned and Service’s Association 26 Ride of Respect 28
Speak up for Freemasonry 10
What do you mean by ‘Grand Lodge’? 29
300 Years of Freemasonry 12 Grand Lodge offers hands-on, paid assistance in search for new members 13 FREEMASONS IN ACTION Wiigs in Whangarei 14 A hospital for Akaroa 15 Youth Trust Rewards Merit 16 Freemasons sponsor a Football Club 16 Masons and Maths! 17 Havelock Lodge success the result of community cooperation 18 Grand Master and First Grand Principal at plaque unveiling 18 Pioneer Lodge celebrates 175 years 19 Remembering Lodge Orakei 20
Bro Les Andrew VC DSO 30 THE FREEMASONS CHARITY Delivering charity in its many forms 32 Working for the Charity 33 Travels with our Grand Master 34 The Masonic Villages Trust 36 Enjoy a better lifestyle in retirement 38 WOW – Whanganui Opera Week 39 Freemasons Foundation Report 40 SRIA – Societas Rosecruciana in Anglia 42
Royal Arch 44 75 years in Freemasonry 46 Welcome to our newest Freemasons 47 The Last Word! 48 Service Awards 49
www.freemasonsnz.org
1
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: membership@freemasonsnz.org communications@freemasonsnz.org www.freemasonsnz.org
300 Years of Freemasonry
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 membership@freemasonsnz.org 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 tif 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 communications@freemasonsnz.org Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, communications@freemasonsnz.org Royal Arch contributions to Geoff Davies, merlin81@xtra.co.nz
Freemasonry has spread its benign influence throughout the world over three centuries and has always been a force for good and doing what our hearts and heads knows is right and proper. It has survived the ravages of human history during those 300 years and is still here today. As Freemasons, most of us know, its value to ourselves and our local communities but the time has well and truly come when we must shout with joy its values, principles and benefits to all mankind. We are, after all, as humans all sprung from the same stock, are partakers of the same nature, and sharers in the same hope. As Freemasons, we would hope that all the world could meet on the level (be equals) and part on the square (be on good terms with our neighbours). Like the cathedrals and castles of old let Freemasonry stand firm as an illustrious institution for another 300 years or better yet for time immemorial. See the Grand Masters Column and the 300 Years feature with suggestions on how we in New Zealand might celebrate 300 Years of Freemasonry. This issue of the magazine contains a feature from the Royal New Zealand Returned & Services Association, 300 years of Freemasonry, Masonic Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony – a rare occurrence, Camp Purple, Partners in Freemasonry, Freemasons in Action and all the other usual well appreciated features including another masonic crossword. I trust after reading this issue, you will use your copy of the New Zealand Freemason magazine to help you ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ and be edified, enlightened, excited and enjoy what your read. VWBro Duane Williams MBE, JP, KLJ, PDistGM
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 Fisher Print Ltd, Palmerston North Copyright © 2017 Freemasons NZ
ADVERTISING RATES PER ISSUE Description Height Width Base price
Discounted (4 Issues)
Full page
240mm
175mm
$1250
$1000
Half page
240mm
85mm
$650
$500
120mm
175mm
$650
$500
(vertical) Half page (horizontal) Banner 75mm 175mm $350
$250
Quarter page
$250
120mm
85mm
$350
All figures GST exclusive. For full advertising details contact communications@freemasonsnz.org
2
Editor Duane with Chief Executive Laurence outside Freemason House with latest NZ Freemason magazine celebrating 300 Years of Freemasonry.
Hot Off the Press 2019 Grand Installation The 2019 Grand Installation has been confirmed as 15, 16, 17 November 2019 in Wellington. Programme will include Business Session (free), Ladies Function and Welcome Function, Grand Instal lation (free), Grand Ban quet and Sunday Farewell Breakfast. Freemasons and their partners have sepa rate and con joint events.
Widows Gift Anyone from EA to Grand Master can attend. We are expecting Freemasons from the Australian Consti tutions, Sister Consti tutions and other Over seas Constitutions. More details in future issues of magazine and online.
The Freemasons Charity has continued its traditional of car ing by providing Lodges with an annual gift for their Widows. This year a royal blue pashmina scarf with discreet gold square and compasses logo. Over 3500 have been distributed so far. A small gift that says ‘we are thinking of you’.
2018 Divisional Conferences
Southern Divisional Conference
Central Divisional Conference
Northern Divisional Conference
2–4 March 2018 Methven
24 March 2018 New Plymouth
21 April 2018 Auckland
A great way to involve yourself in the management of our organisation, learn new things and have lots of fun and fellowship.
GRAND MASTER’S VISITS 26 Aug 60 Year Bar WBro Bruce Stephens and BOP Masters Forum Lodge Te Puki No 261 Te Puki
14 Sept Installation Bro Mark Luxon The Avon Shirley Lodge No 185, Christchurch
5 Sept 75 Year Certificate RWBro Athol Thorpe PGW Lodge Tawhiri No 166 Hamilton
16 Sept 150th Celebration Lodge Celtic No 477 District Grand Lodge of NZ South, Grand Lodge of Scotland Dunedin
9 Sept 70 Year Bar WBro Jack Matthews Okara Daylight Lodge No 461 Whangarei
17 Sept Choral Evensong St Mary’s in Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland
www.freemasonsnz.org
7 Oct Formal Reception of Grand Master to Ara Royal Arch Chapter, Auckland 14 Oct Amalgamation of three lodges in Hamilton and a new Charter, Hamilton 29 Oct – 1 November 300th Anniversary Celebrations United Grand Lodge of England, London in company of the Deputy Grand Master and visits to Grand Lodge of Scotland and Grand Lodge of Ireland.
3
GRAND MASTER
PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD
On the road again…
Challenges or
A
“We can continuously Improve who we are and what we are capable of achieving. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow Stronger”. — Brooke Griffin
s Grand Master, there are a number where, with whom…I of invitations received that give me trust the reports will be of the opportunity to meet brethren and interest to everyone. their ladies, and to share the enjoyment of On my return, I will be Freemasonry. Around the country, I have attending the November been received in most districts – some more Communications in than once; others it is just on the horizon. Rotorua of the UGLE (Northern District Invitations also arrive from our Sister of NZ) who will be celebrating the Constitutions and I am delighted to Tercentenary – and I can share with share the celebration with them when them stories of the London events. ever possible – to the public, we are all This edition of the Freemason magazine one big organisation of freemasons and contains more information about the pro I promote that view where-ever the op gress of our Speak Up campaign, and what portunity arises. a delight to see overseas Grand Lodges ex In October this year, I am travelling pressing interest in replicating our materi to London to participate in the 300-year als for Speak Up – it is a simple and sensi celebration of the United Grand Lodge of ble concept, and everyone can participate England, and what an event that will be! including our ladies. We are more than Freemasonry on the world stage, with all happy to encourage other Grand Lodges the pomp and ceremony that the English who wish to use our material and will be will muster. It is an occasion I am looking keeping them abreast of the program as it forward to expe develops. riencing – but im For the mo EUROPEAN PROGRAMME portantly it is also ment though, I an event which I am back on the 29 Oct Welcome Dinner – London believe will impact road! September 30 Oct Meet NZ High Commissioner (NZ House) back here in New and October will Reception – Lord Mayor of London Zealand and pro see me involved 31 Oct Royal Albert Hall – formal ceremony vide opportunities in a reception by Battersea Evolution – Reception and to Speak Up For the Royal Arch in banquet Freemasonry. Auck land, a con 1 Nov Scotland – Grand Lodge visit I expect the secration of a new 3 Nov Rosslyn Chapel 300 years’ cel Lodge in Hamil 4 Nov Dublin ebration will put ton, an Even song 6 Nov Grand Lodge visit ‘Freemasonr y’ Service at Holy 8 Nov London – meeting with in the media, in Trinity Cathedral Apollo Lodge – a University Lodge social media, on in Auckland in the television, into regalia, a celebra the mouths of commentators. It is an op tion of 150 years of Scottish freemasonry portunity for each one of us to take ad in Dunedin, visits to several Districts vantage of the heightened profile in our and lodges including an Installation in communities to promote our individual Christchurch, a meeting of the Board of lodges. To talk with the public about General Purposes and contributing to your lodge, your community, your love the governance of National Office. of and pride in Freemasonry. It is with great pride that I see our So, what are we going to do to help organisation making wonderful progress raise profile? on so many fronts – and at the same For my part, I will be providing a blog time, punching above our weight on the on our Divisional websites, giving a day by world stage. Long may that continue. day report on the UK events. While I am Fraternal best wishes to everyone in the UK I have, a busy schedule planned, – checkout that Divisional Website aiming to take advantage of a New – and don’t forget to Speak Up For Zealand Grand Master visiting Europe. Freemasonry! I will be filing photos of the events, and Mark Winger, Grand Master a brief commentary on what was done, 4
www.freemasonsnz.org
I am for the most an optimistic person, and as President of the Board I bring a ‘can do’ attitude (as do all the Board members) to turning challenges into opportunities. The areas (challenges) that the Board had agreed to focus on (Membership, Communications and Finance) are not small, but we are already beginning to see ‘opportunities’ present ing themselves as a result of actions already taken or activity that is currently underway. Membership: activities under the ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ banner con tinue to grow - with reports from around the country on a range of initiatives being undertaken, and we can already see the start of some Lodges clearly benefiting from new members being introduced. Speaking up for Freemasonry is work ing – the next challenge / opportunity we have, is to keep the momentum going. To this end, a new initiative ‘the next step’ is announced by the Grand Master MWBro Mark Winger on page 13 of this publication. This initiative provides a real opportunity for all Lodges that get involved. Communications: we are pleased to advise that we have secured the services of an outstanding individual (full details and commencement date to follow) to fill the newly created position of Head of Communications and Administration. His experience in the areas of commu nications, marketing, media relations and administration will take our current activity to the next level (and beyond!). We are also excited to announce that Duane Williams has agreed to assist us
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
opportunities!
Hive of industry
through this transition and then join us on a six-month, part time, fixed term con tract. Duane’s duties will include the continuation of the production of the NZ Freemason magazine. Also, Freemasons New Zealand will be helping to celebrate 300 years of Freemasonry with a series of activities, events and projects. I encourage you all to actively get involved in these celebra tions, they are another opportunity for us to “Speak Up’ for Freemasonry, promote who we are, what we stand for and the value we provide in our communities. Finance: The sale of the building in Willis St, Wellington has now gone unconditional and handover to the new owner will be in November. The sale reduces our existing outgo ings (and risks), and allows those savings to be invested in activ ity that will grow Freemasonry for all (e.g. the new initiative). In November the office space that National Office cur rently occupies moves to a ‘month by month’ lease. But, we are already looking for other accommodation, that better fits our needs and also (if possible) further reduces our costs. In closing I would like to thank all those I have spoken with over the last few months as I have been out visiting. Your insights and views are genuinely appreciated. Peter Benstead, President of the Board
I
t is that time in the political life of New Zealand when the elections dominate our news media and the politi cians swarm from the Beehive and hit the campaign trail. Passing that unique building so reminiscent of an old wicker style beehive I remembered a picture I saw in an old masonic symbols book and I wondered about the origins of this building in Wellington and any masonic connection. The concept design of the Beehive came from the Scottish architect Sir Basil Spence and was approved in 1964 by then Prime Minister Sir Keith Holyoake who was also Grand Patron of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand from November 1979 to November 1980 and held the rank of Past Grand Master. Initiated in Motueka Bays Lodge No.117 in 1931 Sir Keith was definitely a Freemason at the time he approved the design, whether or not this had any influ ence on his decision is unknown but the beehive has in the past been a masonic emblem used to teach a virtue to live by. This symbol is not in regular use in our Lodges or ceremonies today but some
an appropriate emblem of systematized industry. It is also a symbol of per fection as the six-sided cells of the comb provide more storage space for the honey than could any other design. It is also worth mentioning that is the 1700s when members of a Lodge left to form a new Lodge it was called ‘swarming’. The bee is industrious. He works hard and tirelessly for the swarm. He works in cooperation, and without dissension, with his fellow bees. He protects the hive, builds and is productive, and lives in a society ruled by law and order. As freemasons, we should work as a unit. No man working for himself but joining with his fellows to achieve a common goal. Each of us doing his part, his share, taking pride in his assignment, large or small. One man alone can accomplish little or nothing but by using industry and working together the greatest struc tures can be created. As to the parliament Beehive in Wellington it is certainly abuzz with activity when the politicians are in residence so in this sense it does perhaps reflect on the symbolism of industry but given the nature of opposition politics one might question whether it fits the masonic ideal of working as one team towards a shared goal so perhaps Sir Keith saw this design as providing a subtle message to his fellow politicians. Laurence Milton, Chief Executive
believe that the small silver adornment or button on the collar of our Lodge Officers is emblematic of this symbol. It is an emblem of industry but not in the modern use of this term meaning manufacturing but in the older sense of men working as a team and using labour to achieve an accomplishment. The regu lated labour of the bees working together in the hive for the common good of all was deemed by early Freemasons to be www.freemasonsnz.org
5
Logo Variations
News clips Master logo
Australian Grand Installations
Where in the world? WBro Tim Oulds RH in Madrid, Spain with a copy of the New Zealand Freemason magazine. Tim is with Onehunga Maungawhao Lodge No FOR 168. Take your New Zealand Freemason FREEMASONRY magazine on a journey around New Zealand or the World and send an inter esting photo of it and you the Editor 1 Fullto colour at communications@freemasonsnz.org
FOR
FREEMASONRY
2 Greyscale
Alternative logo
Speak up and the world will hear you!
FOR
FREEMASONRY
Our ‘Simple answers to leading questions’ 4 Speech bubble Booklet enclosed in the June issue Master colour variations of the New Zealand Freemason magazine not only went to all Freemasons in New Zealand and overseas but all recognised Grand Lodges around the world. Already three overseas Grand Lodges have sort our permission to replicate the booklet and get details on our ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ Programme but FREEMASONRY adapted for their jurisdiction with credit being given to Freemasons 7 Gold New Zealand. They areForthe Grand ultra small spaces Lodge Rhode Island, the Grand Lodge of Oregon and the Grand Lodge of Tasmania. Just goes to show – speak up and the world will hear you! FOR
10 Small
Masonic Myth Buster! FOR FREEMASONRY
3 Black Starting with the United Grand Lodge of Victoria in Melbourne 6–9 April 2018, followed by the Grand Lodge of South Australia and Northern Territory in Adelaide 20–23 April 2018, then United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory in Sydney FOR FREEMASONRY 3–5 August 2018 and finally, the Grand Lodge of Western Australia in Perth 6 Horizontal reversed 2018. 25–28 October
A great way to bust masonic myths 5 Horizontal open is to hand out the ‘Simple answers to leading questions’ Booklet produced by New Zealand enjoys supporting the Freemasons New Zealand. Australian State Constitutions. He would Also, encourage those interested to be pleased for the company of as many read it online at freemasonsnz.org/ Freemasons and Partners on each trip simple-answers-to-leading-questions- as possible. Details are sent to Lodges booklet on the Freemasons New Zealand by Circular well in advance of each website. Grand Installation, or get details from The June issue of the New Zealand communications@freemasonsnz.org. FREEMASONRY FREEMASONRY Freemason magazine contained your personal copy and addi tional copies can be obtained 8 Light blue 9 White through your District Grand Colour palette Master or Freemasons New Zealand. Dark blue Gold It is a great way to ‘Speak c100 m68 y0 k50 c10 m40 y100 k0 r0 g49 b104 r228 g160 b37 Up for Freemasonry’ and be a masonic superhero!
11 Smaller
FOR
12 Smallest
Crossword solution
6
Mark Winger Grand Master Freemasons New Zealand (The Grand Lodge of New Zealand) along with a delegation of New FOR Zealand Freemasons will be attending FREEMASONRY four Grand Installations in Australia in 2018.
www.freemasonsnz.org
FOR
Light blue c48 m0 y0 k0
Black k100
r116 g209 b246
k60 k30 k0
NEW TECH: Children at Tawhero School thank David Lewis (front) and Craig Paynton for their donation.
Readers Competition Find a set of Square and Compasses ‘in distress’ somewhere in the NZ Freemason magazine. Then send your name, address and the page number to the Editor at communications@freemasonsnz.org to receive a small prize. Good hunting while reading the magazine from cover to cover!
Bevan Conley
New Grand Son for Grand Master! Freemasons supply iPads for Schools! One of many schools in the Ruapehu District to benefit from iPads. A Freemasons District Project that in volved support from The Freemasons Charity. Year 1 pupils at Tawhero School had a pleasant surprise last week when they were visited by local Freemasons David Lewis and Craig Paynter. Mr Lewis and Mr Paynter of the St Andrew Kilwinning Lodge in Whanganui delivered two new iPads to help the children with their digital learning.
Mr Lewis told the children the iPads are to help them learn and he hoped they would enjoy them. “When you learn to use them, give me a call,” he said. “Then I will come to school and you can show me how to use them.” Assistant principal and new entrant teacher Lynette Tutty showed the visitors what the students have been learning on the devices in the classroom and said it will be very helpful to have more devices available for the children. Wanganui Chronicle
A new grandson … William Bradley Winger born 31 July … 3.14kg … 50cm … all doing well!
Working Tools of a Freemasons partner – a Toast to the Ladies and Visitors I’ll now present to you the working tools of the Freemason’s partner. They are; the time-piece, the locked front door, and the rose. The time-piece was used by the opera tive Freemason’s partner to meas ure the hours and minutes of peace and quiet they had until the Freemason returns home. The locked front door is a large instrument, solid in its construction. It is capable of fill ing, the largest of doorways, and the most persistent of door to door sales people have been kept at bay from the refusal of it to be opened. The rose is delicate of fragrance and petal, yet just below its beauty lies a sharp reminder that it’s not
to be trifled with. It was used by the Freemason’s partner to beautify and adorn the home. But, as we have met, on the pre sent occasion, as Free and Accepted or Speculative, rather than as Operative Freemasons, it is the moral conveyed in these em blems that we are called upon more particularly to regard. From the time-piece we learn of the patience exhibited by our partners; putting up with the Freemason being out until late; chores going unfinished; or their mind elsewhere and mumbling to themselves, for, if they do not get their charge right, the Director of Ceremonies will come down upon them like a ton of bricks. www.freemasonsnz.org
The locked front door teaches us a les son in security; for the Freemason, may practice, and try to keep his words secret in vain, as the partner is sharp of hear ing. But we trust them, and they treat our obligations as their own. The rose is a reminder to all Free masons to not neglect their partners and wives, and to remember all that they do for us to support us in Freemasonry. If we do not tend to the rose, it will no longer be there for us, enhancing our lives. From the whole, we deduce this moral; Patience, aided by trust, and nur tured by reciprocated love, forms a solid foundation of support for Freemasons and Freemasonry to flourish. Bro Luke Sharplin Junior Warden, Lodge Tawhiri 7
OPINION
Our Masonic family W
e are all members of one big Masonic family. A family with many siblings and other relations but all united by our membership of Freemasonry. Some of us belong to nothing more than one lodge while other belong to two or more lodges and yet other belong to one or more of the myriad of other orders associated with freemasonry. The one thing that binds us together as brothers is our membership of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand. In our human fam ily’s significant events such as birthdays, weddings funerals are time for the family to join together and to celebrate or mourn. Such events bond us together and bring us closer to each other’s. If our Masonic family acted in as similar manner, we would all be the richer for it. It is sad to report that all too often Grand Lodge does not acknowledge oth er members of the Masonic family. This is especially so when the Grand Master or his representative is not present at sig nificant events in the life of other parts of the family. It is very noticeable that when other Masonic orders hold significant events that there is no representation from Grand Lodge in attendance. Some senior members of Grand Lodge justify this nonattendance on Rule 71 of the Book of Constitution which states that “Grand Lodge recognises only the degrees of Entered Apprenticed, Fellow Craft, Master Mason, Mark Master,
Excellent Master and the Royal Arch as being pure Ancient Freemasonry.” I believe that such justification is a fallacy. Whilst Grand Lodge may not recognise the degrees of the other orders they are still part of our Masonic family and there is nothing to stop Grand Lodge being in fellowship with them. The is ample examples from overseas where Grand Lodges are in fellowship
with other orders. In England, the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England the Duke of Kent is the Grand Patron of the Ancient and Accepted Rite (i.e. Rose Croix). In many jurisdiction’s in the Americas the Grand Master is automatically given the 33 degree of The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite on assuming office. Similarly, the yearbook and website of the Grand Lodge of Scotland lists bodies which it is in Amity with Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland, Great Priory of Scotland, Supreme Council for Scotland, The Royal Order of Scotland, The Grand Imperial Council of Scotland, Sister Grand Lodges. The example of the Grand Lodge of Scotland of being in Amity (i.e. harmony,
friendship, goodwill or friendliness) is one we in New Zealand could well follow. It would cost the Grand Lodge of New Zealand nothing and would enhance their status and reputation with the other members of our Masonic family if we were to see the Grand Master or his representative attending significant events in the life of other orders with the family. Similarly, we could invite the heads of the other Orders to sit on the stage in a place of honour at Grand Communications. Let not our lead ers hide their heads in the sand and pre tend this issue will go away – lets have an open debate about it. Make it a subject for discussion at next year’s Divisional Conferences. We are one Masonic family – let us all be in “amity” with each other – let us see the Grand Master attending the enthronements and the like of other Orders. VWBro Keith Knox PGC Keith Knox is a Freemason with over 31 years’ service. He is a member of three lodges and four chapters in the Ancient and Accepted Rite. He is a Past Grand Chaplain and has been the Honorary Librarian for Grand Lodge for over 10 years. He has pre sented many lectures in the Research Lodge of Wellington and is a Kellerman Lecturer for the Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research council.
HAVE YOUR SAY Write a letter to the Editor – preferably 300 words maximum. Submit an Opinion piece – 800 words plus a 100-word author biography, and a photo. 8
www.freemasonsnz.org
HAVE YOUR SAY Inspiration matters
Dear Editor Why are we inspired by certain people or things around us? I have been thinking about this for some time. I find qualities in some people that inspire me to do good, to work hard, to write, to think and to be a better person. I am not talking about the likes of Bill Gates or Steve Jobs as I am not attracted to the lives of corporate celebrities at all. I am talking about those ordinary but humble individuals around us. Those who are so humble that they don’t even realise how kind or inspiring they are to others, lit tle acts of kindness that change people’s lives. Yes, little things matter and will shape bigger and more important things in our lives. By definition, “inspiration is a process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative. It usually results in a sudden bril liant or timely idea”. Some behavioural as pects can be explained through hormones and chemicals such as relaxation and anxi ety but, inspiration is a psychological phe nomenon. It’s not a chemical or biological process much like the feeling of love and affection. Inspiration is a drive to create. But what is it in others that inspires us? One of the biggest influencers of human behaviour is what we see other people do. We are always looking for a role model. Masonic philosophy has inspired many people and leaders over the course of its existence. As Freemasons, our philosophy requires obliged members to do all they can to make this word a better place. What initiated my Interest in Freemasonry
Dear Editor I remember as a child, tea service items on display in our sitting room. Each item had the emblem of St Swithin’s Lodge No. 1910 which was a London Lodge. One day my Grandmother mentioned that each item had been presented – one each Christmas – by the Master of my Grandfather’s Lodge. (Note: These items can now be seen in the display cabinet in the Refectory at 45 Neilson St. Onehunga, Auckland). It transpired that my Grandmother (born 1878) had lost both parents when she was only three years of age. She and her sib lings (four boys and three girls) were edu cated and supported by Freemasonry in the UK. All the girls went to very good schools and the boys to Oxford University. My Grandfather had also undergone surgery
Freemasonry encourages good men to be come better men by promoting a way of life dedicated to service to others, high ideals and benevolence. Freemason organisation consists of men from all faiths, cultures, po litical fractions and ideologies. According to Sir Richard James, the ideals of our organisation have always been as follows: Be considerate of different religious, social, and political views Uphold and maintain the principles of good government and oppose divisive or degrading influences Practice positive relationships; give and accept help when needed Value the internal qualities of a man over financial success Strive to participate with the fraternity and live a brotherly life Remain good at heart Act with honour and integrity in eve rything you do Believe in a Supreme Being and keep faith as the centre of life and Strive to leave the world a better place than when you entered it. Brethren, family and friends, there are many men and women around us who are truly inspiring individuals. Let’s thank and appreciate them for the energy they give us and strive to observe the above philo sophical ideals in our daily lives. Ali Seifuddin Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45 and died in the Royal Masonic Hospital, London. Again, Freemasonry was there to assist my Grandmother and her family. Due to my serving with the Royal Air Force I never really thought much about joining “The Craft” as I felt that it was really something of ‘A Rich Man’s Club’. Finally, while serving in Cyprus, I asked a friend -who was a Freemason- what was involved. He informed me that unfortu nately I had left my enquiry too late as his Lodge was in recession and I was due to be posted back to the UK. A few years later I met – in New Zealand – my son’s future Father-in-Law who introduced me into the old Onehunga Lodge No. 424. Since then I have tried to give something back to Freemasonry to help repay the debt that I feel my family owes to Freemasonry in general. Unfortunately, I feel that it is now easier for a total outsider to obtain help www.freemasonsnz.org
Let your Lodge Buildings Speak up for Freemasonry
Dear Editor VWBro Graham Stretz, in his Opinion piece in the March issue expresses his concerns for the future of lodge buildings. While it must be accepted that some will be inevitably lost in the future, there is an opportunity for those that remain to be used as tools in the Speak Up campaign. During a period, I had as a District Property Officer I observed many lodge buildings which presented an unprepos sessing face to their community. Drab concrete, untidy surrounds and minimal signage do nothing to encourage openness and enquiry. I am not proposing expensive makeo vers but rather a few litres of paint to brighten the facades and pick out the highlights, coupled with bold welcoming signage, could do wonders for commu nity contact. The makeover need not be expensive. Paint retailers can be engaged to recommend colour schemes and may even be persuaded to provide sponsorship. Coupled with the basic makeover it would be great to see community focussed information panels, promoting Freemasons New Zealand and The Freemasons Charity, displayed to the street. Both could provide suggested wording. It’s time to throw away the image of the ‘secret society’ hiding behind the walls and let lodge buildings “Speak up for Freemasonry.” WBro Morris Robertson FNZIA PGStdB from our Association than it is for one of our members. I feel that perhaps we should consider reinstating some of the old ideals of Freemasonry and making it easier to assist our brethren and their families where necessary. I know that most Lodges present their Widows with a small Christmas gift so why not include our Ladies as we did in the past? After all, without their support our life would be much more difficult! WBro Tim Oulds RH Editor’s Note: Please look at the figures mentioned in The Freemasons Charity pages of this issue and also note that in any case of genuine hardship by a member of our masonic family assistance can be made. The Annual Widows Gift again extended to 3500 widows this year from The Freemasons Charity. 9
New member numbers rising in District 5 Could it be the ‘Speak up’ influence? District 5, Counties Hauraki, in the Northern Division have compiled some promising membership numbers which they offer as convincing evidence that the Speak Up for Freemasonry campaign is making a real and measurable difference. District Grand Master John Lucaszewicz and his team have looked carefully at the number of new members by initiation in the District since the launch of ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ at the end of last year (6 months – January to June) and says the nineteen Candidates across his eleven Lodges is very encouraging. Of those, fifteen have been proposed, eight initi ated, seven are awaiting initiation plus four who are expected to sign the membership application. All that is a great advance on where the District was a year ago. The activity is not evenly spread. There are three Lodges each dealing with five candidates, making up the majority of the numbers. But one of these Lodges hasn’t had a Candidate for two years, another Lodge for 12 months. Maybe they were spurred into action for members by Speak Up? But John knows there will always be these variables. What it does suggest how ever is that there are Candidates out there and if speaking up is ‘doing it’ for some Lodges then there is no reason why the other Lodges can’t enjoy having Candidates to initiate too! He explains that the figures exclude Joining members. And he acknowledges some of the leads came from Grand Lodge and the Auckland District passing on enquiries from those
living in the Counties Hauraki catchment area. The influences that have created this upsurge are probably many in different proportions. But with Lodges grasping the Speak Up proposal and therefore bring ing membership activity to the fore, we’ll take it! Well done District 5. How are your membership figures looking? Got a good story? Give us the numbers – through your District Grand Master please.
FIRESIDE FOOTNOTE And talking about Speaking Up bringing membership in general to the table, the Grand Master relates hearing from the Katikati Lodge No 295 in a quiet aside, that as a result of the Speak Up spark the local fire chief has re-joined the Lodge. Well, we keep talking about brand new members but re-joiners will be fine thank you. Keep those Bay of Plenty fires burning!
‘SPEAK UP’ – WANTED IN AMERICA Enquiries from two American State Jurisdictions have recently been received by our Grand Lodge asking for the use of our ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ concept. We have been delighted to advise both The Grand Lodge of Oregon and the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island that we are very happy to allow them the use of our materials without restriction as a gesture of co-operation and goodwill. Comments from Ore gon included ‘this message hits home on the need of our current membership’ ; ‘Our thoughts center on potentially utilizing the logo and slogan to invigorate the brethren’; ‘we’re interested …
10
in the possibility of bringing the campaign to Oregon Freemasonry’. While the Rhode Islanders said ‘truly appreciated the content and layout of the booklet, definitely want to create a similar booklet for Rhode Island’. We are flattered of course but very happy to be of help to our American Brothers.Their enquiries stem from the receipt of ‘NZ Freemason’ June issue containing the ‘Simple answers to leading questions’ booklet. Our magazine itself was also highly praised.
www.freemasonsnz.org
Alternative logo
Speak Up for Freemasonry Workshops – My way FOR
FREEMASONRY
FOR FREEMASONRY
Freemasons New Zealand
By WBro Cameron Smith, Master, The Lodge of Enlightenment No 502, North Shore, Auckland
Like many members of the Craft, I applaud the “Speak up for Freemasonry” initiative of the Grand open 4 Speech bubble 5 Horizontal Master. In my view, it has many imperatives, all of which will greatly assist in promoting Freemasonry and dispelling the myths that continue to plague the Craft and contribute to its decline. Master colour variations The two booklets, “Simple answers to leading questions” and safety, unconfident men becoming confident men, sorrow at Commencing November 2016 the “Plain English Guide to Freemasonry” are useful tools, the loss of a close friend and Brother, and many, many more. acting as a reference guide to those brethren who may be After the stories have been told, I ask my two non-mason less confident in speaking openly about the Craft, of which, I friends to recount, in their own words, what they heard each suspect there are many. But these booklets don’t tell the stories Logo Variations of the Brethren say. Remember, these people are experienced behind, and the reasons why, many of us became Freemasons? in the fields of journalism and communications. Experienced If we can tell these stories then we will really be speaking up at hearing stories and knowing fact from fiction, knowing the for Freemasonry. To have the confidence to tell our stories Master logo difference between “corporate spin” and real goodwill. will make our speaking up so much more convincing and And this is probably the most let non-masons understand the real FOR interesting part ofFOReach workshop reasons why we are Freemasons, why FREEMASONRY FREEMASONRY because, in recounting what they each of us has become “so conducive to heard, it is patently obvious that the the precepts” of the Craft. feelings, emotion and enthusiasm behind each I am a great disciple of the use of story-telling 7 Gold of the stories has also beenblue conveyed to them. 8 Light as a tool to convey a message to others, par And their unanimous question is “why aren’t ticularly where that message is difficult to these stories told to the public”? ultra small Colour pale impart. Story-telling is aboutFor connecting to spaces Then discuss some of the techniques that others and helping them see what you see. It is you can use to help give you the confidence an essential human activity and someone once to tell your story as a way of speaking up for D said that “those who tell good stories rule the c Freemasonry. I have always thought that to world”. When you tell a story, particularly when FOR question FOR r0 answer a question by asking another you tell your story, you become intimately and is an extremely effectiveFREEMASONRY way of leading into a FREEMASONRY emotionally involved and those listening, also discussion about a difficult topic. How often are cannot help but become involved. L we asked a question like “what is Freemasonry c I have the privilege of conducting ‘Speak up all about”? My response to questions like this r1 for Freemasonry’ workshops for Lodges in is “what do you already know about it”? Now 1 Full colour 2 Greyscale the Auckland District. The way in which we conduct these you are both engaged in a12meaningful discussion, particularly 10 Small 11 Smaller Smallest workshops, is to have Brethren, selected from a cross-section if (as is generally the case), the person you are talking to has of the Lodge, speak for no more than 2 minutes and answer heard something favourable about the Craft. any one of these 3 questions: Alternative logo A final thought. A current idea in the world is that brands and Why I became a Freemason? organisations want ownership of one word or phrase, some Why I continue to be a Freemason? times called a ‘byline’ or ‘tagline’. Nike has ‘Just do it’, Apple, ‘Think Different’ are examples. What I like most about being a Freemason?
‘Speak Up for Freemasonr
I also ask two non-mason friends of mine, (a male and female, At the end of each workshop, I ask the Brethren to see if, hav after all, 50 percent of the “Speak up for Freemasonry” audi ing heard the stories told, they can come up with a word or FOR ence, are female), one of whom is a very experienced journal phrase that exemplifies the Craft. Here are some of them: FREEMASONRY ist and the other, an expert in the field of communications, to “Doing well by doing good” FOR FREEMASONRY listen with a ‘non-masonic’ ear, to what each of the Brethren “Good doing good” has to say. “Doing good…together” 4 Speech bubble 5 Horizontal open So, what happens? Simply, each of the Brethren just tell their Do you have any others? story, in their words. And with all the feelings, emotions and enthusiasm they have for the Craft. Stories life-long Master colourabout variations friendships, trust, the Lodge being a sanctuary, a place of WBro Smith has been a Freemason for 18 years and has a sales and marketing business background.
www.freemasonsnz.org
11
I
t all began in London when four Lodges formed a Grand Lodge in 1717 at a time when Freemasonry was already spreading throughout the world, with its current 5 million members, now found in just about every country on the planet. What a great achievement for Free masonry around the world and a testa ment to the longevity of our institution based on the values of tolerance, care, kindness, honesty and trust as our guid ing principles and when added to by fellowship, a philosophy for life, personal development and charity go to make up what we know as Freemasonry. Freemasonry came to New Zealand in 1837 with a meeting on a ship in Akaroa and the first Charter was issued from one of the Sister Constitutions in 1842 and the formation of our own Grand Lodge of New Zealand in 1890. We should use this occasion to ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ by letting the public know that Freemasonry has been around for 300 years with ageless values and is still very active in New Zealand.
Our Grand Master MWBro Mark Winger and Deputy Grand Master RWBro Graham Wrigley have been invited to the 300th Anniversary celebrations of the United Grand Lodge of England in London from 29 October to 1 November 2017 along with other delegations from all recognised Grand Lodges from around the world.
Royal Albert Hall.
Lord Mayor of London, Mansion House.
The 300th Anniversary Programme is as follows
29 October 2017 – Welcome Dinner 30 October 2017 – Morning Meeting with the New Zealand High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae at NZ High Commission, Haymarket and an Evening Reception with Lord Mayor of London at Mansion House. 31 October 2017 – Afternoon 300th Anniversary Celebrations at Royal Albert Hall followed by an Evening Reception and Banquet at Battersea Evolution. 1 November 2017 – Farewell Breakfast
Both the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master will also be visiting, the Grand Lodge of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Grand Lodge of Ireland in Dublin, whilst in the United Kingdom. Our Grand Master will be providing a daily blog on Divisional Websites of his masonic travels on this momentous occasion for Freemasonry. Freemasons can follow the 300th Anniversary Celebration with a delayed live stream by registering beforehand at www.rah300.org streaming on 31 October 2017 taking into account NZST.
United Grand Lodge of England, London.
NEW ZEALAND FREEMASONS SHOULD TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE 300 YEARS OF FREEMASONRY New Zealand Freemasons should also take the opportunity to celebrate 300 years of Freemasonry with Lodge ac tivities, events, social functions and charitable works involving their local communities so we can all ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’. Here are some ideas Find ways to celebrate 300 years – a birthday party to which local children are invited, Invite the families of past 12
members to join the Lodge for a function, do something special with your Lodge Widows and their families, do something with our Sister Constitutions, give away 300 of something to the community e.g. 300 school breakfasts/lunches for low decile schools, 300 scarves, hats, socks to under-privilege children, 300 children’s books to schools or libraries, etc. Have a Lodge open day with historical displays, or an activity or event held in www.freemasonsnz.org
the Lodge Buildings. Or a re-enactment for members and/or the public, or combine with one or two community organisations on a project or activity that culminates during that time or host an unrelated community activity within your Lodge Buildings. 300 Years of Freemasonry lets ‘shout it out’ in words and actions in New Zealand.
Photo by Quin Stevenson on Unsplash
300 Years of Freemasonry
Grand Lodge offers hands-on, paid assistance in search for new members Grand Master MWBro Mark Winger has announced the next step in his ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’ project – a Grand Lodge offer to individual Lodges of handson, custom-made, practical advice and organisation, including financial assistance, to attract new members.
T
he ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry New Membership Plan’ will offer Lodges a proven-by-experience method of find ing people in their own communities who could be potential members and progressing that interest to the point of the ‘candidate’ signing an application for membership. The Plan also includes as sistance for new Candidates both in the period leading up to their Initiation and in the first year of their membership. The object of the initiative is to acti vate Lodges who don’t have the member ship numbers, who may be lacking in both expertise and financial resource, or who otherwise find it presently dif ficult to take positive action to increase their membership in their communities. The offer is open to ALL Lodges and can be adapted to suit different types of communities. There is nothing completely new in the suggested plan of action. It is taken from successful systems and methods already used and proven to produce enquiries and membership. The offer is comprised of:
Agreement on all aspects of imple menting the New Members Plan will be sought with Lodges wishing to proceed. The initiative will be handled as a partnership between the Lodge and a team from its Division
so that the members of the Lodge are fully informed and understand all details involved and it is mutually agreed to proceed. The plan is based around a special public meeting for ‘interested’ men where an explanation of Freemasonry, its form and structure and what Freemasonry offers its members, is presented. The Meeting would be promoted, at Grand Lodge expense, to the local community through suitable media and PR. The agenda for the meeting and a plan on how it should be organ ised and managed will be provided. Two or three expert Brothers ap pointed by the Division will act as a team to work with the Lodge in ar ranging and managing the Plan and conducting the meeting. Costs would be covered by Grand Lodge. The two primary sources of Candidates aimed for are friends, family, associates and colleagues of existing members as well as the gen eral public in the Lodge catchment area. The plan will be adapted to suit indi vidual Lodges recognising the par ticular circumstances of each Lodge. Most Worshipful Brother Winger em phasised his wish that Grand Lodge should offer not just guidance and www.freemasonsnz.org
direction but practical assistance. He said ‘Many Lodges are pressed if not struggling to operate with small numbers. I recognise that and think it’s time to offer more than just words of encouragement. I see those who are doing well and want the ideas that can make a difference put to work where they are most needed. This is something new but we need something new!’ He went on to say the New members Plan is a way of extending the ‘Speak up for Freemasonry’ project from in dividual members to the whole Lodge where a Lodge can show support for members efforts and work together on speaking up for our future. It can make the Membership question a collabora tion between members, the Lodges and Grand Lodge, each sharing the respon sibility for the health of the Craft. In today’s circumstances it is considered this to be appropriate rather than leave Lodges to fend for themselves in the present membership environment. The intention is to run a number of these “Speak Up’ meetings around the country between now and the end of the year and to use the results to continue the programme into 2018. Divisions will work with District Grand Masters to es tablish where the first meetings are held. In the meantime if a Lodge wants some action then it should call its District Grand Master as soon as possible. And don’t say ‘Oh we’ve tried that before’! 13
Freemasons in action Wiigs in Whangarei On Saturday 15th July, more than 200 Freemasons from across New Zealand, with their wives, family, and friends entered a specially erected Lodgeroom in Toll Stadium, Whangarei to celebrate 100 years of service by identical twin brothers, Bruce and Bryan Wiig. Originally from Bluff, both men were initiated into Freemasonry on the 15th July 1967 in Lodge Fortitude No 64. Over the years, they have both moved away with Bruce now living in Auckland with wife Carol and Bryan in Whangarei with wife Marie.
This event was hosted by the “out of town” Lodge Coromandel No 14, who first admitted the local District Grand Master, Kevin Burch with due Masonic Ceremony. Then followed the Grand Master for New Zealand Mark Winger who was accompanied by the Divisional Grand Master Northern Division, Gary Salmon. The District Grand Master from the Grand Lodge of Scotland, John Aldcroft, together with the Assistant Provincial Grand Master Grand Lodge of Ireland, Rex Newton, and Brian Westhead, District Grand Master United
Grand Lodge of England were among the distinguished guests who added to this colourful line up all wearing their regalia. Wives, family, and friends joined the men for the remainder of the event in the Lodgeroom. There are 33 degrees or steps that a member of Freemasonry can achieve and as a further mark of respect for the Wiig brothers, three senior members of various higher degrees also attended Along to enjoy the event were seven other holders of a 50-year service badge, with one due for the presentation of his 70-year bar in September this year. With the two Wiig brothers that is a combined total of 470 Masonic years of caring for our communities in New Zealand in one place on the same day. Along with the presentation of the la pel badges, personal letters of congratu lation, and certificates, the wives, Marie and Carol were presented with flowers and shawls as a way of saying thank you for their support of their husbands over the last 50 years. Following these for malities, the men removed their regalia and the temporary Lodgeroom fittings were “packed up”. After the traditional Masonic toasts and replies a superb meal was served which concluded with the cutting of a very large 50th anniversary cake. A fantastic conclusion to a shared celebration of Freemasonry in the lives of two great New Zealanders. John McDonald, Northtalk 14
www.freemasonsnz.org
A hospital for Akaroa The rising pitch of the sirens awakens the senses. It’s a 111 call for help and the Akaroa emergency services are being alerted, the volunteers are on notice. What will it be? Medical emergency? A fire? A rescue? Or perhaps a dramatic road accident requiring a full turn-out? Whatever it is, help is needed, and needed fast. In response the Volunteer Fire Brigade must be ready, ready for anything, and that readiness includes the support services. There’s always a doctor on duty/callout and they can only guess what that siren sound means, it might be a straight medical emergency or perhaps involve some mountaineering skills to access a vehicle over the side of the road and down the hill. The windy hill road to Akaroa is not for the faint-hearted! And that’s the best of the hundreds of kilome tres of Peninsula roads. Up until the earthquakes of 2011 Akaroa had a highly respected hospi tal and although not equipped to the standard of the city hospitals, filled an important gap in local medical support. Besides the 24 hour service, there were beds for overnight cases and respite care. Many speak highly of their recuperation at Akaroa having been sent there after medical procedures at in Christchurch. Since that fateful earthquake day Akaroa health services have had to make do, shifting their base as space became available. Pompellier House, a retire ment rest home, was pressed into service to fill the gap but its days are numbered. Adding to the pressure is the influx of cruise vessels unable to use Lyttelton, often bring more than 10,000 extra people to the harbour. Thus the normal population of 600, swollen to some 4,000
with summer vacationers, increases to over 14,000; that brings many problems as a good percentage of visitors are older people. One com ment put the incident rate at averaging more than three per day during the summer/cruise ship period. This Health Hub is not just for the few locals, the need is to cater for the visitors who provide the majority of emergency call-outs, to make it safer for everyone, whether on one day or short stay visits, emergencies don’t know the difference. Add to that the congestion on the roads in and around the Bays, and to and from the City. The pressure on the health facilities can be huge. Akaroa and the Peninsula folk have banded together to push for a restoration of the Akaroa Hospital and while this will not be fully realised, the local DHB has agreed to build a Health Hub, provided the local community chip in with some $3 million. Thus an Akaroa Health Hub Fund Charity has been established to which The Phoenix Lodge No 43 has undertaken to contribute substantially. A commit ment has been made to donate in excess of $50,000 to the Fund for the purchase of equipment and pro The Phoenix Lodge No 43. vision of amenities. As of August (2017) there is over $13,600 in the Lodge Health Hub Fund with a further $10,000 allocated by the Canterbury Masonic Charitable Trust. In recognition of the com mitment, Naming Rights for the A&E Room at the new health
www.freemasonsnz.org
Hub have been obtained in the name of Freemasons New Zealand to recognise the wide support from Freemasonry. The Phoenix Lodge No 43 whose mission statement is to be “A Robust Member of the Akaroa/Banks Peninsula Community”, seek to make this a suc cessful Freemasons New Zealand effort. The Lodge seeks your help to reach their first step target of $25,000, before any Trust subsidies are added. Contributions from individuals, Lodges or via Lodge Projects should be made to The Phoenix Health Hub Fund, P.O. Box 15, Akaroa 7542 or direct to Heartland Account – The Phoenix Lodge No.43 – Charity: 03-1783-0501892-21. All donations will be handled with strict confidentiality however Charity receipts are being issued to all identified donors. Akaroa Health Hub Limited, the fund ing body for the proposed Akaroa Health Hub, is a registered charity; Registration number: CC50204. IRD charity rules ap ply to donations over $10. VWBro TD Carrell, Phoenix Health Hub Funding Committee
15
Freemasons in action Youth Trust Rewards Merit Recently the Ruapehu-Manawatu Masonic District Youth Trust was able to assist Wanganui student Jackie Hazelhurst to achieve her goal of at tending the United World College International School of Asia in Japan. United World Colleges are group of 14 merit-based International’ second ary schools located around the world. The course Jackie will be attending is for two years, and is aimed at students who demonstrate community involvement and leadership. Jackie could demonstrate these at tributes by her involvement in Student affairs at the Wanganui High School where she is currently Head Girl and as a member of the Whanganui District Councils Youth Committee. In addi tion, Jackie is very much involved in Environmental issues along with Sports and Cultural activities both at school and in the community. For further information on the Ruapehu-Manawatu Masonic District Youth Trust and its criteria for applica tions contact the Trust Chair, VWBro Darol Pointon (drlmp@xtra.co.nz) or the Trust Secretary RWBro Colin Johnson (colin.johnson@xtra.co.nz).
Darol Pointon with Jackie Hazelhurst at presentation.
16
Freemasons sponsor a Football Club Ngatiawa-Russell Lodge No 345 sponsors local Soccer Club Team and it may be a world first in New Zealand! The story … talk about ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’. Nick Font is an English expat who has lived in New Zealand for 9 years and has been involved with North Wellington Football Club, mainly through my son playing for the club at various grades throughout that period. I am also a dedi cated Freemason of many years standing having been initiated into Wraxall Lodge in Somerset in 2001. I currently belong to Ngatiawa Russell Lodge and have had the honour of serving as Master on two occasions. In 2015 I saw an opportunity whereby my two great passions of football and Freemasonry could be combined. It came to me whilst sitting on the terrace at Alex Moore playing fields in Johnsonville watching the NWFC second team play. At the time Ngatiawa Russell Lodge was looking for ways of promoting itself within the local community and my at tention was drawn to the sponsors logo of the North Wellington football jersey. I thought “What if?”. A couple of months later the Lodge committee had been per suaded and I entered into sponsorship negotiations with the club. The result is that we are now into our second year of sponsorship of the NWFC first team, which plays in the Wellington Capital Premiership. The first team is currently third in the league and got to the quarter finals of the Chatham Cup (NZ’s equivalent of the FA Cup) last season.
www.freemasonsnz.org
The NWFC first team is known as Ngatiawa Russell North Wellington and their shirts bear the name of the Lodge and the Square and Compasses. The club plays in claret and blue thanks to original team strips which were donated by Aston Villa FC. A common denominator is the fact that both NWFC’s club rooms and Ngatiawa Russell’s Lodge rooms are on the same street in Johnsonville in the northern suburbs of Wellington. NWFC’s home ground is also at the end of the street. As far as we know, this is the first time anywhere in the world that a Masonic Lodge has sponsored a local football team and it is something which all members of Ngatiawa Russell Lodge take great pride in. By the same token, the Ngatiawa Russell North Wellington first team can take pride in the fact that when they line up for kick off on a Saturday afternoon, they are representing not only a great local football club, but also a great local Masonic Lodge. Ngatiawa Russell Lodge have been part of the local community for over 25 years following the merger of Ngatiawa Lodge (Est 1949) and Russell Lodge (Est 1923). The Lodge has over 40 members and we meet at the Freemasons Centre in Philip Street, Johnsonville on the first Wednesday of each month. Nick Font
Masons and Maths!
Serving a local need
Children cheering about more maths homework has teachers at a Marlborough school smiling. Pupils at Blenheim School whooped Lodge Te Puni organises a variety show to fund bladder scanners with delight when members of the Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity hand ed over a $3500 donation 5th to theMarch school. members of Lodge Te Puni presented two bladder scanners On Wednesday Theto money will be used to ensure each District Health Board. This was the result of a fundraising the CEO of the Hutt Valley child at the school hascombined a subscription to effort by the Lodges of the Hutt Valley. School assembly with Freemasons. a special mathematics app to help them learn online. For four members of the 148-year-old Blenheim School principal Denyse two-month trial of the app which had Freemason’s Lodge, attending the special Healy says the money pays for three already proven successful. assembly was a step back in time as they years of subscriptions which the school “It really helps to up the kids’ basic returned to their old stomping ground. could not have paid for. facts, because you learn them through W. Bro TR McKenzie, Master of Lodge Lodge president John Crouch, was a A special assembly at Blenheim School Te Puni, repetition. And kids love it, because with W. Bro Raythe Keenan Graham Dyer, Valley former pupil at the Alfred St school. He with Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity presenting kids generally likeHutt competitive games. It’s DHB CEO with one of the two portable says he was delighted to return to make members, who donated $3500 to help bladder updated regularly, so we’re not using a scanners, looking on is the donation which was made in the very pupils with their maths. maths book Pete Chandler Huttthat’s Valley 60-years-old. DHB COO. A bladder scanner. room where he once sat as a schoolboy. “It has two components; there are BELOW “The Masonic Lodge have just been “When I first got a letter from the head workbook lessons and teaching clips amazing. We do struggle for money mistress explaining about Mathletics, I they can watch if they are having dif sometimes and this makes a huge dif was a bit confused. Obviously, there was ficulties with a particular concept, and ference as far as educational equipment nothing like that about when I was at there’s a more fun component, where goes,” Denyse says. school as we didn’t have computers back they can compete with mathletes around The donation was made by Blenheim then. the world,” she says. members on behalf of their own lodge “When some of my fellow lodge mem The skills learnt in the workbook and and the Nelson Marlborough Freemasons bers explained what, it was I could see tested in the quizzes were in line with and also national body Freemasons New couple of Lodge members’ Craft and outside, including the benefits straight away,” he says. the national maths curriculum. Senior Zealand (and The Freemasons Charity). immediate family, who work for the his very own successful at son the and school been given a Marlborough Express singing his had Group, DHB, had indicated that staff were fund pupils
A
raising for equipment that was in short supply for their Patients. The nurses of Mapu Unit and the Community Health Services had started selling cakes and undertaking other fundraising efforts to purchase a bladder scanner. The members then brought the Units’ plight to the Lodges and a number of Brethren also indicated that they had been hospitalised recently and had to wait for the only scanner to become available for their treatment. Lodge Te Puni decided to hold a Variety Show to raise funds to complete the purchase of at least one bladder Presentation with Freemasons. Marlborough Express scanner. WBro Ray Keenan approached many talented artists both within the
‘The Auzzie Boys.’ A plethora of acts was assembled, from juggling, dancing (ballroom, rock-n-roll, traditional Polish), musical acts and even the piping in of a Haggis with the traditional address. Audience participation was encouraged and, during intermission, food and drink was available for purchase. Along with some very sought after prizes for raffles, the support for the show was outstanding. The money raised on the night was, with the help of The Freemasons Charity,Mathletics able to purchase website. two bladder scanners valued at over $13,000.00 each.
As always it was a tight knit team, encompassing members of the Lodges from the Hutt Valley, wives and partners, and the nurses from the DHB that made this occasion the success it was. Thanks are due for the support of local businesses, individuals and the performers along with The Freemasons Charity for help in providing such necessary equipment for the health and wellbeing of the wider community. WBro Mac McKenzie
Seize good photo opportunities, concentrate on ‘action’ not ‘satisfaction’, get names for captions, make notes. If media comes ensure that they are looked after and opportunities set up.
www.freemasonsnz.org
Act quickly to spread the word, send press release and captioned high resolution photo, focussing on a newsworthy aspect to local media, district and divisional newsletter and NZ Freemason.
AFTER
Ensure someone is responsible for publicity, arrange for a photographer, plan photographs, involve recipients and find a hook that would interest local media.
DURING
BEFORE
Publicity for your community events – 3 steps
17
Freemasons in action Havelock Lodge success the result of community cooperation A partnership between the Havelock Masonic Lodge and Havelock Menzshed has resulted in new beds and bedding for the only Residential Addiction Centre above Christchurch in the South Island. St Marks began as a Residential Alcohol Centre in a deconcentrated church in Blenheim in 1988. Since then the success of the Centre has meant it has evolved into providing treatment for all addictions and, although well supported by the community, the Centre has had a constant struggle to maintain the best service possible for the residents while making provision for extensions to its premises to accommodate the demand.
Lodge members were aware of the situation and asked the Manager at that time, Lois Miller, what was the Centre’s greatest need. Consequently, the Lodge asked the Havelock Menzshed if they would be willing to build a Child’s Fort which could be raffled. Over $3000 was raised and with a subsidy from The Freemason’s Charity, presented a cheque for $7441 to St Marks on 29 May at a delicious roast sdinner prepared and served by the Residents. The current manager, Peter Rijhnen, thanked the Lodge for their support and said how grateful the residents are. He mentioned that he had stayed in the Centre after the November earthquakes and what an uncomfortable night he had experienced. IPM Ian Cameron thanked the Lodge members for their support, in particular WBro Ross Harvey and his wife Linda who had spent many hours selling tickets at every supermarket in Blenheim and surrounds. ABOVE Child’s Fort built for Havelock Masonic Lodge by Havelock Menzshed. It raised $7441 for 2016 Master’s Charity. LEFT IPM Ian Cameron, St Marks Board Chair Jim Hasseldine, St Marks Manager Peter Rijhnen, WM Chris Bowhill.
FAR LEFT Grand Master Mark Winger (C) with First Grand Principal Brian White (L) and Jim McLaggan (R). LEFT Jim McLaggan, Master of the Lodge and Past District Grand Master and son of the late Barry McLaggan Past Grand Master, and Jill McLaggan, unveiling the plaque.
Grand Master and First Grand Principal at plaque unveiling Grand Master Mark Winger and First Grand Principal Brian White were pre sent at the plaque unveiling for the late Barry McLaggan Past Grand Master. Barry in his time had been both Grand Master for Freemasons New Zealand and First Grand Principal for the Royal Arch. 18
Said Mark Winger – “To the brethren of Piako Lodge, thank you for creating this tribute to departed merit – may it shine as bright as a beacon, attracting inspiration and encouraging industry so that those who pass through these portals will be reminded of the outstand ing leadership and motivation of Barry www.freemasonsnz.org
McLaggan and be driven to imitate the qualities and virtues that he displayed”. (in an extract from his speech). The unveiling was on Sunday 9th July 2017 at Piako Lodge No 160 in Morrinsville in the presence of his wife Jill, family, Freemasons and friends.
Pioneer Lodge celebrates 175 years
T
he first lodge to operate in the new land, the New Zealand Pacific Lodge was opened in Port Nicholson, Wellington in November 1842, under a provisional warrant issued by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master. The founders of the Lodge were twelve men prominent in the business and public life of the settlement. The founder and first Master, WBro George Smith, born 1808, came to New Zealand on the ship Sir John Falstaff, arriving at Port Nicholson on June 16 1841. He was a Past Master of The Royal York Lodge of Perseverance, No. 7, London. George Smith died in Dunedin in 1881, having moved there in 1854 where he founded and opened the first Lodge. The New Zealand Pacific Lodge pros pered from the day it opened. By the end of 1843 the membership had grown to 42. 175 years on New Zealand Pacific Lodge No 2 prepares to celebrate its very special anniversary with a series of
WBro George Smith.
community events. The programme is subject to being finalised.
Thursday 23 November. A cer emonial lodge meeting at Philip Street, Johnsonville with official reception of the Grand Master, MWBro Mark Winger Friday 24 November. A social function for freemasons, partners and friends at the Wellesley Boutique Hotel, Wellington open to all Lodges. Saturday 25 Novem ber. A meet the neighbours morning. Saturday 25 November. Dinner at Wellington Club, cur rent and past Lodge members get precedence. The Grand Master and the Mayor of Wellington, Justin Lester, have accepted invitations. Any reader who is a past brother of New Zealand Pacific Lodge, or has had other connections with the Lodge and wishes to be kept informed of the planned events is in vited to contact WBro Bill Taylor, Email: nzp2secretary@gmail.com
Comprehensive professional funeral services from a locally owned business. • Pre planning and pre-payment options available • Bereavement support • Headstones and plaques NIK STRAUGHEIR
www.harbourcityfunerals.co.nz OPENING IN PARAPARAUMU, KAPITI COAST, Mid 2018
Wellington: 04 387 8301 | Lower Hutt: 04 570 0111 | Upper Hutt: 04 528 8924 www.freemasonsnz.org
19
Remembering Lodge Orakei
The scholarship that continues its name Lodges, which surrender their Charter often, have substantial funds, which, as in the case of Lodge Orakei, they like to apply in a manner, which ensures that the Lodge is not forgotten.
L
odge Orakei was dedicated in Remuera in September 1924. Five years later it moved to central meeting rooms in St. Benedicts Street, Newton. One of the Lodge’s greatest benefactors was Brother Oliver Needham, who bequeathed a substantial sum to the Lodge, enabling it to support many charities. Other funds were added to it and, despite some share market set backs, the fund has performed well over time and its management now rests with The Freemasons Charity. This move was described by former Lodge Orakei member, Warren Howard, as necessary to avoid high costs associated with a stand-alone charity. With falling numbers Lodge Orakei handed in its Charter in 2000. Using its surplus funds the Auckland Masonic Education Foundation was set up with the objective of providing financial assistance to those within the Auckland Angela, Daniel and Tony Carson. Region who were undertaking education or learning. In 2009 the Foundation set up the Freemasons and Space Sciences. The term Formal Orakei Scholarship to continue the name Sciences includes Computer Science, and intentions of the Lodge. Mathematics and Statistics. The objective of the scholarship is to support excellence in education and to Daniel Carson – 2017 Scholar encourage scholars to use their skills and Daniel attended Hamilton Boys’ High abilities within New Zealand, and more School from 2010-2014 achieving Level particularly within their communities. 3 NCEA with Excellence. In 2014, when Subject to the suitability of applicants, he was Deputy Head Boy, he received NZ the grant is made on an annual basis. Outstanding Scholar for exceptional per Preference is given to those continu formance in NZQA exams – Scholarship ing their studies, either within engineer in Accounting and Physics, Outstanding ing or the natural and formal sciences. Scholarship in Biology and Chemistry. He Natural Sciences include Life Sciences, is currently in his last pre-clinical year at Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics
20
University of Auckland study ing a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) Daniel was O’Rorke Hall Top for 2015, recognising his having achieved the highest grade point average possible at UoA by gaining A+ grades (90% and above) in all eight first year Biomedical Sciences pa pers. Throughout 2016 Daniel was a tutor for Biomedical and Health Sciences at O’Rorke Hall and, with two other students, he tutors a group of forty students weekly, covering academic content and general study advice. Daniel is currently a tutor for MedView, tutoring first year students who are applying for admission into the Medical Programme at UoA, mainly Biology and Physics His involvement includes Cub Scout Leader at Chartwell Scout Group in 2014 and Youth Services Team Assistant Leader at the 20th NZ Scout Jamboree in 2013. He was also accepted to attend the 21st NZ Scout Jamboree as part of Host Corps over the New Year in early 2016 After completing his 5th year at UoA in 2019, Daniel intends to undergo the Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) programme. This is a one-year course dedicated to research in Health. This programme is integrated into MBChB so that he can return to complete his Bachelor in Medicine the year after meaning he will graduate in 2021. He would then like to pursue a career in Surgery. Morris Robertson
Partners in Freemasonry Surprise presentation to Ngaroma Driver
N
garoma’s interest in Freemasonry peaked when her husband, WBro Paddy Driver, was installed as Master of the Rawhiti Lodge. She got involved by enlisting the help of the Ladies to sup port the Lodge at various fund raisers and installations. The highlight for Ngaroma was the Rawhiti Lodge 125th Anniversary function where she was responsible for organising the visiting ladies’ activities as the Master’s wife. She was to tally amazed at the support she received from ladies from around the lower North Island and was re ally inspired by Dianna Litton. While Ngaroma found organising the la dies programme took her out of her comfort zone,
her feeling of achievement at the success ful conclusion was really great. Following his term as Master, Paddy became the Secretary/Treasurer of the Lodge and Ngaroma assisted him by delivering notice papers and newsletters to the members. As a result, she got to know them well and was able to update the Lodge on their health status and any issues that they may not have been aware of. When WBro Arthur Law retired as Lodge Almoner, due to poor health, it was sug gested that the Lodge should approach Ngaroma to see if she was inter ested in being the Lodge Almoner. Ngaroma accepted the challenge and is now the Rawhiti Lodge Almoner.
The Lodge realized that one of the advan tages of having a woman as an Almoner was the fact that many of the widows were able to discuss things more openly. A further advantage has been the regular contact she has with the ladies while de livering the Lodge papers. She provides a monthly report for the members and has represented the Lodge at the District Almoners meetings held in Napier. At a recent Lodge meeting, Ngaroma was asked if she could attend and prior to the opening. She was escorted into the Lodge room where she was presented with an Almoners Badge from The Freemasons’ Charity by VWBro. Paul Brittin, the Eastlands Ruahine District Charity Officer. Admitting to being nervous when she went into the Lodge, she was blown away with the presenta tion and feels very proud to be involved. VWBro Paul Brittin
Website and social media We know that the partners of Freemasons are quite often more ‘tech saavey,’ when it comes to computers, tablets and smart phones as well as websites and social me dia, so we need your help in spreading the good word about Freemasonry. Please visit us, then follow us or like us and get others to do so. Website: www.freemasonsnz.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ nzfreemasons or www.facebook. com/partnersinfreemasonry Twitter: www.twitter.com/ freemasons_nz Instagram: www.instagra.com/ freemasonsnewzealand LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/ company/freemasons-new-zealand Issuu: www.issuu.com/fmnz All of these are a great way to ‘Speak Up for Freemasonry’.
Where in the world? The picture shows Wendy Boase, wife of WBro John Boase overlooking St. Michael’s Mount situated in Mounts Bay, Penzance Cornwall. The castle dates from approx. 1100 AD. and The Mount attracts over 65,00 visitors each year.
John is a member of St. Levan Lodge No. 5134 EC meeting in Penzance and also a member of The Gate Pa Lodge No.407 meeting in Tauranga. With family living in New Zealand, John and Wendy are regular visitors. 21
The invisible disease revealed Through Camp Purple, children find that they are not alone Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic autoimmune diseases that affect the digestive system, collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Both cause debilitating pain, hospitalisations, repeated surgeries and a severely reduced quality of life. New Zealand has the highest incidence rate of IBD in the world. It is estimated that nearly 20,000 New Zealanders live with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, most diagnosed in their formative and most productive years, between the ages of 5 and 35, causing disruption to their education, work, social and sexual lives.
I
BD causes more disability than all chronic back pain, slipped discs, machinery accidents, rheumatic heart disease, and mental impairment. The degree of disability in IBD patients is comparable to severe asthma and is more severe than Type 1 diabetes and epilepsy. Despite this, IBD remains a
closet disease, shrouded in silence and relatively unknown. The Crohn’s & Colitis New Zealand Charitable Trust (CCNZ), was established in early 2010 to respond to the needs of Crohn’s & Colitis sufferers across New Zealand. From that small but dedicated group of individuals, led by WBro Brian Poole QSM (EC) the Trust has grown with Crohn’s & Colitis Support Groups now operating in 12 regions throughout New Zealand, working collectively to ward the goal of offering support through fellowship, education and participation in fundraising. The Trust’s mission is to pro vide support to those affected by Inflammatory Bowel Disease and their families through sup port services, patient education, professional education and pa tients’ rights advocacy. It pro motes public and professional Finding each other.
22
www.freemasonsnz.org
awareness of IBD, its risks and treatment. It funds IBD research in New Zealand to find better therapies and, ultimately, a cure. People affected by Crohn’s & Colitis suffer pain, symptoms of malabsorption, multiple surgeries, and other associated problems including liver disease, arthri tis, eye and dermatologic problems. The disease strikes the young, sometimes in the very early childhood years, affecting their education and social development. As adults, there can be a tremendous impact on their ability to work full time and raise a family. Dealing with IBD as a child is es pecially challenging. It means missed school days, hospitalisations, and, often, social isolation. That is why CCNZ or ganised the first NZ based summer camp for Children and Teenagers with IBD in January 2015.This year’s camp was held at El Rancho on the Kapiti Coast and the next camp, in January 2018, will be at Camp Adair in the Auckland region. In the first year, 44 children attended,
Adventure sports.
this year 57, with over 60 children expected next January. Many of these children have never been to camp due to their disease. Most have never met another child with the same ill ness. The camp gives the children and teenagers a chance to experience fundamental elements of childhood, the ability to play outdoors, to learn independence, nourish self-esteem, challenge them selves physically, and be proud of their accomplishments. While an important part of the camp experience for these kids is their interaction with compas sionate and fun volunteers, the camp al lows these children to be campers, enjoy the outdoors and have fun instead of being “IBD patients”. Most importantly, it lets the children know that they are not alone. It is heartwarming to see the
One child captured what Camp Purple was all about: “I enjoyed talking to other kids going through the same conditions as me because I didn’t know a lot of people with Crohn’s, because I am the only person in my family with Crohn’s disease. Its not that I want more people with Crohn’s, but I loved knowing that I wasn’t alone. I loved all the activities not only because they were fun but because it made everyone trust one another more.”
children interacting with their peers who understand what it is like to be on lifelong medication and live with this disease that no one wants to talk about. The camp would not be possible without the team of 30+ dedicated vol unteer staff and professional staff, many of whom are adults also living with IBD. These volunteers and professionals, including four gastroenterologists and five nurses, all give up their holidays and pay their own expenses to provide a safe environment for the children.
Water sports.
As the objective is to provide the Camp at absolutely no cost to the camp ers’ families, fund raising for the camps, costing about $70,000 each, is a constant strain on the organisation’s budget. Amongst the donors for this year’s camp was New Zealand Pacific No.2 Lodge. Past Master, Adrian Douglas, who visited on behalf of the Lodge reported back. “I was privileged to visit the camp for the afternoon and the following dinner. I was struck by the stories, courage and tenacity of the children attending. They all deserve a medal.” In the words of the Trust Co-Chair, Gastroenterologist Richard Stein. “Every child deserves to feel like just that – a child – and we want to ensure that at the core of every child’s experience is positivity, optimism and shared tri umphs. In a post-camp questionnaire 100% of the children responded that they would recom mend the camp to other kids with IBD. Every volunteer has volunteered again for next year.” Richard Stein gave a recent presenta tion to NZ Pacific Lodge on IBD, its effects, particularly on the lives of the affected children and the positive ben efits of the Camp Purple experience. NZ Pacific Lodge s contemplating further support and if any brother or Lodge, particularly in Auckland, would like to become involved with next year’s camp as a sponsor, volunteer or visitor please register your interest with WBro Brian Poole Email: poole.family@xtra.co.nz. Phone 04 4786531 Your participation would be warmly received and any contributing funds raised by the Lodge will be eligible for a 1:1 subsidy from The Freemasons Charity. Morris Robertson with thanks to Richard Stein
Horse riding.
www.freemasonsnz.org
23
MASONIC FOUNDATION STONE A rare occasion for Freemasons
A
Masonic Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony was held on Saturday 19th August 2017 at the Masonic Villages Trust, Woburn Complex, Lower Hutt, Wellington lead by the Grand Master Mark Winger. A Lodge Meeting hosted by Lower Hutt Lodge (RWBro Bill McCarroll PGW was in the Chair as their Master)
24
was held prior to the Foundation Stone Laying and closed afterwards to facilitate the visit of the Grand Master. The Foundation Stone Laying Cere mony was open, by invitation, to the pub lic, residents of the village, Freemasons and their partners and among the dig nitaries was His Worship the Mayor of Lower Hutt City Ray Wallace.
www.freemasonsnz.org
Grand Master Mark Winger wel comed everyone to this auspicious occa sion, the ceremony was then conducted, Past Grand Master Mike Pope gave an address on Freemasonry and the Masonic Villages Trust which covered three questions for the information of the guests – What is Freemasonry?, What do Freemasons do? and What have
LAYING CEREMONY Freemasons done today? (full address can be found on our Freemasons New Zealand website www.freemasonsnz.org along with a video of the ceremony) and everyone then adjourned for afternoon tea and entertainment in the nearly completed Apartment Extensions. The Foundation Stone Laying cer emony followed antient masonic cus tom with the stone having cement
applied with a trowel, then the founda tion stone was tested with a square, a level, a plumb rule and a gavel for ac curacy and strength. It was then blessed with corn, wine and oil. Completed with the all-important prayers and odes. The Masonic Villages Trust is one of the largest charitable age-care providers in the southern North Island. It has 457 residential units and apartments and 4
www.freemasonsnz.org
care facilities with 227 beds spread over Wellington (Lower Hutt), Horowhenua, Wairarapa, Palmerston North, Foxton and Taranaki and is looking to possibly expand to Wainuiomata with 110 resi dential units and 60 beds. Photos by Brooke Woollett InPhotography and Duane Williams
25
The Royal New Zealand Returned Supporting those returning from recent military deployments
F
rom the late 1980s to 2014, New Zealand has created veterans in greater numbers than at any other time since the end of World War Two. Of the estimated 41,000 returned service personnel, 30,000 have served overseas since the end of the Vietnam War (1974) – and this number is growing. Amongst many of the New Zealand public, there is little or no experience or appreciation of what many of these men and women, who served in the post-Vietnam era have encountered. The impact those military experiences have on them and their families when they return home or are discharged from the services and enter civilian life, are a mystery to most New Zealanders. Terms such as ‘peace-keeping, stabil ity and support’ are used these days to describe ‘tours of duty’ in Angola, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Bougainville, Solomon Islands and the like. These terms replace words which in earlier generations carried greater significance; words like ‘war, conflict and battle’. Sadly the impact of these ‘tours of duty’ are similar, if not worse than those of earlier generations. The RNZRSA is working with others to change the wide spread perception that veterans of recent deployments travel an easier road, and serve in more controlled environments than New Zealand soldiers of the past.
26
The nature of operational service has changed since the 1960s due in part to the way modern conflict is fought in today’s operational theatres. Today, our servicemen and women go in to environ ments where the enemy cannot be easily identified, where there is no definitive frontline. They still carry significant weight on their back and around their
www.freemasonsnz.org
bodies that their forebears knew far too well. They spend hours, weeks and months confined in ships, aircraft and all number of vehicles with the subse quent stress and strain on their bodies and minds. Often they can be exposed to a range of environmental risk factors like disease and toxic chemicals, while constantly on guard from threats hiding among the local population that erupt violently, with little warning – like IEDs that can be activated at distance with the flick of a switch. For today’s veterans, operating for months at a time in the modern sea, land and air combat environment, without a break can take a considerable toll. This toll is often amplified by the requirement to conduct multiple operational tours. The RNZRSA relies heavily on its volunteer support advisers to keep in touch and support those who have left the defence force in their area. It is very clear from the numbers of the post-1974 veterans who are not engaged with tradi tional clubs, that more relevant ways of connecting are needed, in addition to the more traditional methods. We are work ing on this. A large number of these ex-service men and women float under the radar. The RNZRSA understands that it has a lot of work to truly become the safe, trusted ‘go to’ organisation of choice for them, and to be able to understand and offer relevant support in timely ways. Perception is important and this needs to be changed so that younger veterans see the RSA as an avenue for support, in whatever shape this may take. The provi sion of timely and appropriate support is the prime focus of the RNZRSA National Office coordinated, support network. It is challenging but vital work that is done in the main, by volunteers. The need for change in the perception of veteran When most members of the public hear the word veteran, they think of the trenches of WW1, the battles for Europe or the Pacific in WW2, or the steamy jungles of South East Asia. They think of old soldiers!
and Service’s Association and reclaiming the title of ‘Veteran’
Conflicts that the Defence Force of to day is involved in between conventional forces and irregular, insurgent forces, are characterised by a level of complexity and uncertainty different to our forebears. But these conflicts are no less dangerous and stressful because of this. The current perception of a veteran has not been helpful for those returning from more operational deployments, especially if they are in need of help or support to manage post traumatic or other stress injuries. There is one ‘battle’ they have all fought, and that’s coping with death, the suffering of innocents, injuries and illnesses and adjusting to life after operations overseas. This ‘battle’ continues after military personnel tran sition out of the military. It can be tough for those serving. In some ways, soldiers’ sailors’ airmen
and women are better prepared for conflict than for the peace of home life. Witnessing the suffering of civilians, particularly women and children, takes its toll on anyone who sees it. Almost all ex-service men and women have muscle and bone injuries that last a lifetime. These injuries occur during both training and operational deploy ments and they often worsen with age and never let you forget your time in the forces. Our veterans never forget what happens to their own comrades overseas– those who die or are injured – physically or psycho logically – protecting those who cannot protect themselves. They are worthy of the title veteran, they should be proud of their service to our country and their country should be proud of them as well.
The RNZRSA exists to provide support and remembrance. Support to all those who have served their country in our armed forces and to their families. It is no small commitment to sign up to serve your nation wherever the Government requires, sadly this commitment of ten creates challenges that last far longer than actual service. Our veterans, both old and young, deserve as much support as we can pro vide. Remembrance is a part of this support. These ceremonies are a way of saying thank you those who have served our nation, in whatever way they have, for their commitment and sacrifice. They are an important part of the culture of New Zealand. Lest we forget.
RSA IN A SNAPSHOT RSA was founded in 1916, by soldiers returning on the first ship back from Gallipoli. Across New Zealand, RNZRSA has: 182 local member RSAs, with About 100,000 members, made up of current and former service personnel, their families and supporters. RSA exists to support New Zealand’s current and former military personnel and their families, and to remember all those who served and sacrificed.
New Zealand has about 41,000 living veterans of opera tion deployment. Of these, 30,000 served in New Zealand’s 42 operations since the Vietnam War. Tens of thousands more New Zealanders have served, without recognised operational deployment – but have done everything from Cold War submarine surveillance to disaster relief.
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning We will remember them. www.freemasonsnz.org
27
Ride of Respect The third annual Ride of Respect NZ was held on 23 April 2017 in 13 different parts of the country. This year the event was attended by over 1800 riders and pillion passengers among which were many of the Widows Sons Masonic Motorcycle Association who also hosted four of the rides.
O
n the day alone there was just over $18,000 split between 34 RSAs. Other money raised on the day from la pel pins and ride patches totalled $6500 and this money is given as a ‘one off ’ to a cause chosen by the people taking part in the ride. This year it was decided that this money should go to the RSA on a national level. In the 3 years since the inception of the ride in New Zealand we have almost doubled in numbers attending and have so far given away nearly $67,000 of which some of that money has paid for a
visitor’s area at the Rannerdale Veterans Home in Canterbury, some has helped smaller standalone RSA’s to keep their doors open for another year to provide somewhere for our service personnel to go to, and the majority of it has been used on the health and welfare of our returned service personnel. The support we have received from Freemasons throughout New Zealand has been outstanding because, although the ride patches are only sold to those that take part in the actual ride, the lapel pins have been available to anyone
who wished to support the cause, and many masons, particularly around the Wellington region, have been fantastic in coming forward to buy them. We are hoping that 2018 will be the biggest ride yet as it will mark 100 years since the end of the Great War and it would be great to be able to give away even more money so if you see a ride being organised in your area then please come along, have a look and support your local RSA. Neil McKee
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Partners, who are Associate members of the Widows Sons, prior to the Nelson Ride of Respect. Rough Ashlars Chapter at the Nelson event. Daughters of the riders laying a wreath at the tomb. Motorcylists on the steps at the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” at the National War Memorial, Wellington.
28
www.freemasonsnz.org
What do you mean by ‘Grand Lodge’? T
he Silver Fern is recognised as a symbol of New Zealand. Looking closely at the fern, we see each frond is an intricate connection of many parts. There is a central stem from which several side stems grow and on each of these side stems grow many individual leaves, all similar but slightly different in size, some perfect, some damaged. Every side stem and every leaf is similar in shape to the main frond, some closer than others as a faithful reproduction of the overall shape of the fern. Looking even closer at each individual leaf you will see that even here there is the same overarching shape. So it is with Freemasonry in New Zealand, where the main stem is the governing body within a Division, the side stems are the Districts and the individual leaves are the individ ual Lodges within each District and within each Lodge are the individual Freemasons. All having the same root, the same basic shape, the same aim to grow and be happy. Every individual leaf, side stem, and main stem of a Silver Fern frond has a part to play in being part of the mothertree. In return, the mother tree supports and nourishes the growth of all parts right down to the tiniest tip of every leaf. The consistency of shape within the tree makes you wonder if there is a mysteri ous, unseen overarching law that tells every part of the Silver Fern to behave and grow in a certain manner and not to become like an Oak tree or any other kind of tree. In Freemasonry our mysterious, unseen overarching law is Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Our main stem is Grand Lodge which should motivate and encourage our three Divisional governing bodies who in turn connect their Districts, who in turn connect their Lodges who in turn connect every individual Freemasons in New Zealand. Every individual Freemason, Lodge,
District and Division has a part to play in Freemasons New Zealand. We look to Grand Lodge for leadership and guid ance BUT what do we mean by “Grand Lodge”?
Grand Lodge gets the blame for all ills in NZ Freemasonry so we need to be clear on what you and I mean by this term “Grand Lodge”. Do you mean the Grand Master? One of his functions is to represent us at important meetings abroad in other Constitutions and so assist in maintaining the universality of freemasonry. Is he to blame for the things you have been told by “Grand Lodge” that you cannot do? Or do you mean the Grand Master and the current team of Active Grand Lodge Officers? Are they the ones stopping your Lodge doing things? You would probably agree that it is neither of these two options that Freemasons mean when they blame “Grand Lodge”. So, is it The Board of General Pur poses who is to blame? For newer breth ren this is our equivalent of a Board of Directors who decide the strategy that NZ Freemasonry will follow. It consists of eight Freemasons: a chairman known as the President of the Board, Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, one
www.freemasonsnz.org
representative from each Division (not the Divisional Grand Master), Grand Registrar who is our legal advisor and Grand Treasurer who advises on finan cial matters. The strategy that they dis cuss keeps us in line with masonry universal and decisions are passed to the National Leadership Team (NLT) for implementation. The NLT consists of five Free masons, the CEO is chairman, three Divisional Grand Masters and the chair of the National Operational Advisory Team (NOAT). These Freemasons are responsible for masonry throughout New Zealand and carry the responsibility for run ning our organisation, maintaining standards and motivation through out New Zealand. They are all Grand Lodge Officers – so is it these men that Freemasons mean when they blame “Grand Lodge”. The NOAT which consists of 6 Freemasons; a chairman, Grand Almoner who brings knowledge of current state of relief and charity throughout the country, myself as head of the National Education Committee to inform on the latest ma sonic educational activities and those planned for the future, and a representa tive from each Divisional Grand Master. This is to close the loop and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. NOAT’s function is to advise on the NLT’s ideas on how to implement the Board’s strat egy, we think these through and report back on how to make it happen. It is then up to each Divisional Grand Master to make it happen in his Division through consultation with his District Grand Masters and their operational teams. If part of a Silver Fern tree dies, the rest of the tree will probably survive and in time grow new shoots. So it will be with Freemasonry in New Zealand. VWBro George Allan PGLec, Chair, Education Committee
29
Bro Les Andrew VC DSO O
n Monday 31 July 2017, one hundred years to the day when Corporal Leslie Wilton Andrew, serving with the NZEF in the Battle of the Somme, was ordered to recapture a machine gun emplacement in the village of La Basse in Belgium, a plaque was unveiled at Wellington’s central railway station to honour his actions that resulted in him being awarded a Victoria Cross and to recognise that he was a former railway employee. Les Andrew was born in Ashhurst in 1897 and after schooling in Ashhurst, and later in Wanganui College, he left to take up employment as a clerk with the Railways Department. In October 1915, he enlisted in the 2nd Wellington Regiment; the start of a thirty-sevenyear Army career. He was nineteen years of age when he sailed with the 1st New Zealand Expeditionary Force and by July 1916 was in England as an infantry Private. The Battle of the Somme had started on 1 July 1916 and Pvt Andrew was amongst those sent when the NZEF was mobilised later that month. In September, with wounds to the neck and throat, he was among the casualties, but by January 1917 he was promoted to Corporal and was engaged in the fighting in Ypres. July 1917 saw the Wellington infantry given the task of recapturing the village of La Basse which had been won and lost by them in the previous month. By 31 July the German’s had heavily refortified the village with barbed wire entanglements and extra machine gun posts. Cpl Andrew’s platoon of fifteen men was assigned the task of eliminating one of the most effective machine gun sites; the one on top of village inn. The attack started at 0350 hrs but the attack ers were soon thwarted by a machine gun hidden in a fence line near the railway. Andrew’s platoon suffered eleven casual ties and while the wounded took refuge in surrounding shell holes, Cpl Andrew lead the remaining men in his platoon along the railway line to get on the flank of the gun. This deed was written up by the war correspondent Malcolm Ross where he stated: To attempt to take the post from the front meant that he and his remaining little band would be wiped out all together … coolly sizing up the situation, he led his 30
party around for a quarter of a mile on their stomachs through some thistles and attacked the German position from the rear. As soon as they got close enough the intrepid quartet threw bombs at the crew and rushed, killing four of the enemy and put the rest to flight. Leaving two of his men with the cap tured machine gun, Cpl Andrew and Pvt Ritchie then chased the fleeing Germans towards the two-storied building. A ma chine gun post in a trench at the entrance was overrun and put out of action. This allowed a big gun barrage to completely destroy the building and its occupants and thus the objective of his platoon’s assignment. By 0500 hrs the New Zealanders had recaptured the village. The next day Cpl Andrew was pro moted to Sergeant and was recalled to England to undergo officer training. He graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant in March 1918. Meanwhile his deeds at La Basse had him recommended for a Victoria Cross, which was approved by the King on 6 September 1917. He married a nurse after the armistice and returned to New Zealand in 1919.
Plaque at Wellington Central Railway Station.
www.freemasonsnz.org
Back home he was promoted to Captain and over the next twenty years had post ings to Taranaki, Wellington, India and a promotion to Major. With the outbreak of WWII, he had a rapid promotion to LtCol and the command of the 22nd Battalion which saw service in Greece, Crete and North Africa. He was given temporary command of the 5th Brigade during their action in Libya where he once again showed his outstanding leadership in the battle for Menastir. He was later awarded the DSO for showing outstanding courage, skill and leadership and owing to his efforts the brigade was brought through a very difficult fourteen days. He returned to New Zealand in 1942 to take command of Area Wellington with the rank of Colonel. He commanded the New Zealand contingent in the 1946 Victory Parade in London, was promoted to Brigadier in 1948 and retired in 1952 to a life with his wife and family. His proud claim was that he had held every rank from Private to Brigadier (except for Quarter Master Sergeant) in his long service career. He died in 1969 and was buried with full military honours in the RSA Lawn Cemetery in Levin. In 1922, whilst serving in Taranaki, he was initiated, passed and raised into his father’s lodge, St Andrew Kilwinning No 79 in Wanganui. VWBro Colin Heyward, PGLec Compiled from information in “The Great War 1914–1918 Victoria Cross Freemasons” by Granville Angell
For work in the greater Wellington region
port Proud to sup Zealand! w e N s n o s a Freem The team at QPG Ltd are experienced, efficient, and always professional. You can be sure you will receive a high quality of service, with great attention to detail and clear, accurate quotes.
• Exterior Painting • Interior Painting • Commercial • Residential • Educational sector work • Paper hanging • Spray-painting • Annual property care programmes
Phone 04 577 2127 or 027 282 7557 Email steve@qpgltd.co.nz www.qpgltd.co.nz
www.freemasonsnz.org
31
Delivering charity in its many forms Behind the scenes at the Office The Freemasons Charity (TFC) is an integral part of Freemasons New Zealand, and it relies heavily on a robust relationship with Brethren within Lodges, Districts and Divisions. As a registered charity, it maintains considerable investments as a source of income, with a focus on providing funds for charity and community projects within New Zealand. In the last issue of New Zealand Freemason the role of The Charity Management Committee was explained. In this article we describe how its wide range of activities are managed on a day to day basis In short there is a permanent staff of one full time Charity Administrator, Sheila Hicking, assisted by part time Administration Assistant, Shelley Newson. Backing up these two hard working and dedicated staff members are a team of volunteers, lead by the Grand Almoner, Bob Monson, who in turn is supported by the three Divisional Grand Almoners, Brian Crone, Mike Kendrick and Les Brenssell. Beyond these key people are the District and Lodge Charity Officers. Supporting the office is Communications Advisor, Morris Robertson, who is tasked with writing stories for publication in New Zealand Freemason, editing The Freemasons Charity Herald and providing material for the Divisional web sites. Sheila Hicking’s role includes working closely with the Grand Almoner to con nect TFC both internally and externally with the membership base and the public at large. The role also provides backup
to the work of the Divisional Grand Almoners, and assists them in their role of guiding Charity Officers and Lodge almoners, and promoting the Charity in Lodges and Districts. The requirements of the office are quite extensive. It provides advice and admin istrative support to The Freemasons Charity Management Committee and the Grand Lodge Trustees in their role as active Trustees of various separate Trusts such as Potter Masonic Trust, Rankin Educational Trust and a recent addition, the Lawson-Smith Education Trust.
Sheila Shelley and Morris discuss the forthcoming Charity Herald.
Day to day work includes check ing and processing of applications for individual and project grants and the maintenance of robust records, while ensuring that TFC and the other chari table trusts administered by the Grand Lodge Trustees continue to be compliant with all charity tax and other legislative requirements. Communication and development
The office communicates regularly with the Divisional Grand Almoners by pro viding assistance and support in a timely manner and to ensure that all inquiries from Lodges and Districts are referred to Divisional Grand Almoners for ac tion. This requires regularly informing the Brethren through the internal com munication channels on the activities of TFC, and ensures that a positive external profile is maintained. Looking at the longer term the office works closely with the Grand Almoner to establish 3-5 year objectives for the Charity and develop annual plans and budgets. On an ongoing basis the office proactively provides and implements a mar keting and communication plan for TFC as well as monitoring opportunities for funding to support the Charity, which includes the Acacia Society, whereby Brethren can register there intention to leave a bequest to the Charity. With an eye to future developments there is a need to maintain awareness of, and investigate, projects that may be appropriate for the Charity to support. Recognition of Lodge Widows is an im portant and satisfying part of the work, especially through the selection and distribution of annual gifts.
Summary of TFC budget and expenditure.
32
www.freemasonsnz.org/charity
Working for the Charity Charity Administrator Sheila Hicking
Sheila, who was born and brought up in a small west country town in Wiltshire, England, emigrated to Australia as an 18year old on a 2-year adventure, had great fun, forgot to go back and then made Australia home. She met a Kiwi, who, as most do, wanted to return home to New Zealand and came to Wellington in 1997 where she initially had a career in the supply of hotel and catering equipment. Sheila received an introduction to New Zealand a sporting nation through a job with Canterbury of New Zealand in Porirua, a lot of fun and a lot of good looking casual wear at discounted prices! The taste for the charitable world came from a 3year “part time” position as Executive Officer of The Fundraising Institute of NZ. In that time she gained a huge respect for fundraisers and the work they undertake. A requirement to go back to full time work again brought her to answer an advertisement – Administrator with charitable focus – and the rest is history. That, says Sheila “believe it or not will be eleven years ago, this coming October. In those years, I have gained huge admiration for our brethren working in their communities, the difference they make in their communities…because they can.”
Broadly speaking
The broader activities of the office include managing and overseeing the Free masons University Scholarship programme and the associated presenta tion ceremony. Similarly, the office man ages the Heartland Bank Freemasons Scholarships and the more recent Lawson-Smith Veterinary Scholarships. Likewise, there are relationships with Universities and other external agencies with projects to which TFC has provided financial support.
Sheila and Shelley at work.
Shelley was born, raised and still resides in Lower Hutt. She has three children, Joshua, who at 21, has just graduated as a Commercial Pilot, Bradley, 16½, in Year 12 at secondary school, who is a rugby referee and Samantha who is 11 and in her last year at primary school. Prior to joining The Freemasons Charity, Shelley was a full time Office Manager for a Private Investigation and Security Consultancy company for near ly seven years. She then set up an office at home and ran the “offices” for two Private Investigators, one based in Auckland and
the other in Wellington, while also look ing after babies of teachers at her kids’ school. When her youngest was about to start school, Shelley decided it was time to return to a “real job” outside of home, but one which would enable her to be there for her children before and after school. The position of part time administra tive support to Sheila for the past six years is a role she enjoys. As Shelley says “I enjoy my interaction with a variety of different scholarship recipients each year and I am still amazed and impressed with the amount of good that the brethren do in and for their community.”
As well as the delivery of services the office has a role in the management of an investment portfolio currently valued at $30 million, producing an income for TFC and the other serviced Trusts of $1,300,000 PA which is distributed through various programmes and lodge projects, with a primary focus in the sup port of individuals in need There is regular liaison with a number of individual Masonic Trusts through out the country and with the largest of the Masonic Trusts, The Freemasons Foundation, formerly known as The Roskill Foundation.
Oversight of University Research Fellowships, including Gerontology, Paediatrics, Neurosurgery and Oncology falls to The Freemasons Charity office as do the links with the partnerships entered into with the Blind Foundation, Camp Quality, The Royal Society, St. John and the Universities of Auckland and Otago. The Freemasons Charity, its associated Trusts and partnerships as well served by this small but very dedicated manage ment staff and the chain of volunteers who support them. Morris Robertson
Administration Assistant Shelley Newson
www.freemasonsnz.org/charity
33
Travels with our Grand Master Our Grand Master Mark Winger has now been on the go for nearly a year and here is a pictorial view of the journey so far in his visits to celebrate and support Lodges in New Zealand and promote Freemasons New Zealand and Freemasonry within New Zealand and to our Sister and Australian Constitutions. Auckland Reception Board of General Purposes Wellington Reception Masters Forum – Wellington Service Badges/Bars Pukekohe Iconic 3rd Degree Eketahuna Grand Installation Freemasons Tasmania Royal Arch Grand Convocation Christchurch Service Award Omakau, Central Otago Masters Forum, Ashurst, Palmerston North Southern Division Conference, Methven Northern Division Conference, Auckland 125th and Masters Forum, Kaitaia Central Division Conference, Wanganui Freemasons University Scholarship, Parliament, Wellington 300th UGLE South Island, Christchurch Service Bar to PGM Christchurch and Joint Fraternal Meeting Ashburton Board of General Purposes, Wellington Rugby Social, Northshore, Auckland PGM Plaque Unveiling, Morrinville Twin Service Badges, Whangarei Service Badge and Masters Forum, Dunedin
34
Dining Lodge Meeting and Dinner, Cambridge Foundation Stone Laying, Masonic Villages Trust, Lower Hutt Service Bar and Masters Forum, Te Puki Installation, Wellington 75th Certificate, Hamilton 70th Service Bar, Whangarei Board of General Purposes Installation and other meetings, Christchurch 150th GLS South island, Dunedin Choral Evensong St Mary’s in Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland Reception by Royal Arch, Auckland Royal Society NZ Research Honours, Auckland Service Bar and other activities, Waimate, South Canterbury New Lodge (amalgamation of three), Hamilton United Grand Lodge of England 300th Anniversary, London Visits to Grand Lodge of Scotland, Edinburgh and Grand Lodge of Ireland, Dublin 300th UGLE North Island, Rotorua www.freemasonsnz.org
MASONIC SERVICES OF WAIKANAE We renovate and repair Masonic jewels and regalia for all degrees and constitutions in New Zealand. If it’s broken, we may be able to fix it.
GEMLINK Dennis D. Blacklaws Qualified Gemologist, Diamond-Grader, Internationally Qualified Jewellery Appraiser
Services include Gold and silver plating. Repair and renovation of Masonic aprons, collars, sashes, gauntlets etc. Repair and re-ribboning breast and collar jewels. Supply and engrave back plates for refurbished PM jewels.
For information and advice contact Joe Hatwell joseph.hatwell@paradise.net.nz 04 905 2273 or 027 549 7198 PO Box 278, Waikanae
04 566 3668 www.gemlink.co.nz dennis.blacklaws@gemlink.co.nz 10 Laings Rd, Lower Hutt
Freemasons out and about in business and leisure and home
T
aking advantage of events open to the public is a great way to create interest in Freemasonry and to demonstrate to the public that Freemasons are still here and still care about their communities. Lodge Arawa and Lodge Rotorua combined their efforts to “Speak Out for Freemasonry” at the Rotorua Home Show 1416th July 2017. Lodge Apanui had a stand at the Whakatane Business and Leisure show on 18-20th August 2017 at the Whakatane Memorial Hall. Overall a very successful presence at the shows and in ‘Speaking Up for Freemasonry’ with a number of genuine enquiries. We are planning a range of activities for the weekend, apart from the celebration itself. Register your interest now to be kept informed of our plans. Email randebutler@inspire.net.nz
www.freemasonsnz.org
35
THE MASONIC VILLAGES
Bar West in stage one of Woburn Apartments has been joined by the many community facilities in stage two that make the Apartments a great place to live
Boutique development completed
A Masonic Stone Laying Ceremony took place at Woburn Apartments, Lower Hutt, in mid-August and will be followed by the opening of the second stage of the development in late September. Both events will be covered in the next edition of NZ Freemason.
Woburn Apartments is the latest and most ambitious development for The Masonic Villages Trust and its charitable operating company, Masonic Villages Limited.
Although Woburn Apartments caters for a relatively affluent demographic, this does not mean a change of direction for the Trust, says chief executive Warick Dunn.
Woburn Apartments manager Chris Wilson says residents have been enjoying the 47 apartments in stage one since they were completed in February 2015. About half the 39 apartments in stage two have been sold off the plans and residents will soon be moving into their new homes.
The Trust has major developments underway at its Levin and New Plymouth villages. It is also exploring the possible development of new villages, or mergers with existing villages, in towns where there is strong community support for its charitable offering. One of these is a potential Masonic Village in Wainuiomata, another – less affluent – suburb of Lower Hutt.
In stage one, residents had access to two conservatories, a small library, a ‘men’s shed’, and a bar and lounge looking over the Hutt River. However most of the community amenities are in stage two. The new reception, with its two-storey atrium, gives the Apartments a sense of style. Then there’s the lounge bar, gym, art & craft room, café, library, snooker room, movie theatre and indoor bowls areas.
36
“We provide people from all walks of life with quality alternatives to the large facilities offered by commercial operators, at a price they can afford. Also, unlike the commercial operators, we offer quality rental units at our Levin, Palmerston North, Foxton and Masterton villages.
“This is a high quality boutique development. We are large enough to offer residents a full range of activities. At the same time we are small enough for them to maintain their individuality and for the concierge and me to be responsive to their needs,” Wilson says.
“In so doing, the Trust performs an important social role. For many residents, a big selling point is the fact that Masonic Villages Limited is a charitable company. Any surpluses we make are used to improve facilities and services for the benefit of older people.”
Woburn Apartments is located in Wai-iti Crescent, one of the smarter addresses in Lower Hutt, next door to the highly regarded Woburn Masonic Care rest home and hospital.
If you are interested in Woburn Apartments as a potential retirement living option, contact Chris Wilson, tel: 04 978 2591. Email: woburn@masonicvillages.co.nz
TRUST
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.
Men’s sheds help men’s health
Both Wairarapa Masonic Village in Masterton and Woburn Apartments, Lower Hutt, have close connections with local men’s sheds. At Woburn Apartments, a men’s shed is an integral part of the Masonic Village. In Masterton, several residents of the Wairarapa Masonic Village are members of the Henley Men’s Shed, where members have designed and built special letter boxes for Village residents. These are weather-proof, easy for older hands to open and able to take an A4 magazine. “Sixty letterboxes have been delivered and installed in the Village and I’ve ordered 30 more. They’re excellent,” says Village manager Irene Bull The letterboxes are among several community projects the Shed is involved in, but the real benefits of men’s sheds lie in the health benefits of comradeship and company, according to The Shed magazine. “On retirement it is common for men to become lonely and feel they are lacking in purpose. Many members and their partners have Woburn Apartments’ resident John Beauchamp works on a scale model of an 18-foot classic steam boat in the men’s shed at Woburn Masonic Village
seen an overall improvement in their overall health and outlook [as a result of participation],” the magazine says. Woburn Apartments resident John Beauchamp says it was the men’s shed that sold him on the Apartments. “That – the boutique scale of the development – and my north-facing apartment with all-day sun.” It’s thanks to Beauchamp that the Woburn Apartments men’s shed is very well equipped. About 90% of the gear is his, with the Apartments providing a drill press and small tools as required. Henley shed member Murray Campbell with a newly assembled letterbox for Wairarapa Masonic Village
Photo: The Shed magazine, www.theshedmag.co.nz
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.
“Personally it is great to be able to assist other residents with the maintenance of their personal possessions. Also, I can make the minor repairs or do the refurbishment needed to turn spare furniture into a saleable item for the Red Cross,” he says. Throughout his career as an officer in the Royal Navy, Beauchamp’s hobbies were model engineering and wood turning. Retirement has enabled him to devote more time to these hobbies, including model steam engines. This in turn led him to build a scale model of an 18-foot classic steam boat, which he has worked on in the Woburn Apartments men’s shed. Many of the Apartment residents make good use of the men’s shed, including resident Brian McAdam, who together with wife Barbara is a keen motor-homer. Last summer Brian parked his son’s motorhome in the Apartments’ carpark while he used the men’s shed to work on the internal fittings.
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
37
Enjoy a better lifestyle in retirement Heartland Bank is the proud partner of the Freemasons Deposit Scheme, and is New Zealand’s largest Reverse Mortgage provider
I
f you are retired (or soon to be), you may be concerned about having suf ficient income to fund a comfortable retirement. You are not alone. Rising living costs that are outstripping superannuation payments means that many of your fel low retired Kiwis face a potential short fall in retirement savings. There is a potential solution, however, and it is based on home equity. Many seniors have significant untapped wealth tied up in the value of their home. In the past, to access that value there was often no alternative but to downsize or sell. The good news is that there is a type of mortgage - called a Reverse Mortgage - that allows you to unlock the equity tied up in your home, without having to sell it. Over the past decade, Reverse Mor tgages have become a more popular financial solution. More and more Kiwi seniors are using them to cover day to day expenses, or do more in retirement such as travel, help their families or reno vate their homes. Funding your retirement
Established population trends and the mass retirement of the ‘baby boomer’ generation mean that more people than ever are now either retired or approach ing retirement. If you’re part of this ‘seniors’ group, having enough income to fund a com fortable retirement might be a real challenge. New Zealand Superannuation (‘NZ Super’) provides the first pillar of a re tirement income. A retiree living alone receives $390 per week, while a couple
jointly receives $600 per week.1 New Zealanders are encouraged to save for retirement, so that we can ‘top-up’ our NZ Super to enjoy the level of comfort we were accustomed to during our work ing lives, and to pay for those little extras that aren’t affordable on NZ Super alone. The Financial Services Council has said that New Zealanders need to save upwards of $300,000 for retirement. For many, saving such a large amount isn’t a reality. Sixty per cent of people aged 65 years and over rely entirely or almost entirely on their superannuation.22 Many seniors however are ‘asset-rich’, despite not having a high level of savings. They’re likely to own their home, which is where the bulk of their wealth is tied up. If you’re a senior homeowner, there is the option to turn some of that equity in your home into cash with a Reverse Mortgage. How do Reverse Mortgages work?
A Reverse Mortgage is a loan especially designed for the needs of seniors. It al lows people aged 60 and above to con vert part of the equity in their home into cash that can be used for a wide range of purposes. Unlike a standard mortgage, you are not required to make regular repayments (although you are able to do so at any time). The loan balance will grow over time due to the interest compounding. The loan is repaid when you sell the 1 Based on the rates for an ‘M’ tax code as at 1 May 2017 on www.workandincome.govt.nz 2 The Tax Barrier to Retirement Prosperity in New Zealand 2013, Financial Services Council.
Heartland Bank’s lending criteria, terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. 38
property, move out, or when you pass away. An important point to consider is that with a Reverse Mortgage you continue to enjoy full ownership of your home. You remain the registered owner of the property at all times. Just like a standard home loan, a mortgage will be registered on the property as security for the loan. To be eligible for a Reverse Mortgage, you need to own your home outright, or have a standard mortgage small enough to be paid off by the proceeds of the Reverse Mortgage (there are other lend ing criteria as well). The amount of money you can access with a Reverse Mortgage is usually determined by two factors: your age and the value of your home. How are NZ seniors using Reverse Mortgages?
A Reverse Mortgage can be used to pay for almost anything to make life easier and more comfortable, including: Additional money for day-to-day expenses A new car Home improvements Travel and holidays Healthcare and medical expenses Helping children or grandchildren Loan and debt consolidation If you would like to find out more about Reverse Mortgages, visit our website at www.seniorsfinance.co.nz or give Heartland Bank a call at 0800 488 740.
WOW – Whanganui Opera Week New Zealand Opera’s Residential School in Whanganui
January is always set aside as the N Z Opera School’s two-week residential school at the Wanganui Collegiate School for aspiring New Zealand Opera singers many of whom have gone on to become artists in overseas companies and with the New Zealand Opera Company. Simon O’Neill, now a highly sought after Wagnerian tenor, Phillip Rhodes, a much in demand bass-baritone, Bianca Andrew and very busy and well regarded mezzo soprano and now the Pati brothers to name a few. Both are tenors from Solo Mio have been engaged in two different main San Francisco Opera’s 2017 stage productions of Rigoletto and La Traviata have all attended at various times in the school’s 23-year history. There are a number of well-respected sponsors and private trusts and donors who enable the School to operate every year. High on this list is the Freemason Foundation whose sponsorship provides funding for fees for the New Zealand pia nists and coaches. These highly profes sional musicians are the backbone of the
School and are well regarded throughout the country. Welcome too is the grant from the United Lodge of Wanganui, whose breth ren and wives, along with visitors from Auckland’s Lodge of the Liberal Arts, led by MW David Mace Past Grand Master and Mrs Mace, experience a special evening presented by one of the School’s international teachers, whose presence at the school is supported by the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation as is the final con cert Great Opera Moments in the Royal Wanganui Opera House. Wanganui’s WOW, Whanganui Opera Week, our local support team are pivotal in ensuring the marketing and promo tion to a wide audience locally and in re gions beyond. Their committee is deeply involved in the School’s progress. A day at the School commences at 7am with exercise consisting alternately with Yoga and a fast walk lasting about 50 minutes. After breakfast, there is a twohour session of an acting and movement class in which all 22 students participate enabling each’ under direction, to interreact with each other as if ‘on stage’. By 11am it is individual tutorials with teach ers and coaches in the disciplines of vocal development, languages and acting. All lessons are ‘one on one’ with only the
teacher or coach and a pianist present. Visitors may observe at the discretion of the participants’, which is usually granted. By 5.30pm it is time for admin and tutorial staff to meet when the progress of each student is discussed and any problems addressed. Following the even ing meal, a masterclass takes place in the Prince Edward Auditorium from 7.30 till 9.30pm with all students and staff attending. Four students are put through their paces each evening and two of these classes are open to the public who turn out in their hundreds to observe. Over the years Whanganui audiences have be come very perceptive of vocal technique and are supportive of the experience. A recording specialist documents these ses sions so that the student has a CD of their work to remind them of the session later. The School’s focus is the students and all the staff are passionately committed to doing everything they can, in the fort night, to develop the God-given talents of each carefully selected and auditioned student. It is an honour and a privilege to be at the cutting-edge development of these fine young singers and a thrill to have such support and involvement from Freemasons. Donald Trott, Executive Chairman Photos: John Wansbrough
See Freemasons Foundation pages for advance details on the 2018 programme.
www.freemasonsnz.org
39
REPORT A Whanganui opera holiday anyone? If you aren’t planning to go to Whanganui these summer holidays, think again. Because for anyone with even an inkling of passion for live opera, a week in January in that lovely historic city is the time to lap up the wide range of opera occasions on show.
T
his is when the cream of the country’s emerging opera talent assemble each year at the New Zealand Opera School to be coaxed and cajoled by top-level local and international trainers in the art and where, after some years of lesser assistance Freemasons Foundation is now the major supporter. The two weeks of the event feature a variety of public performances. You can hear opera in the Collegiate Chapel and Auditorium, while dining in city restaurants, having lunch in an Edwardian mansion and at the culmination of the school, in the Freemasons Foundation concert ‘Great Opera Moments’ in the Whanganui Royal Opera House. Founder, W Bro Donald Trott, the School’s Executive Chairman says New Zealanders can be proud of the resource and the results that the school, its students and its sponsors make possible. ‘Every year our country is producing a number of great singers joining this demanding profession. We are certainly singing above our weight!’ The School is very popular with the people of Whanganui and offers a great deal of public exposure for Freemasonry. Whanganui Freemasons have taken advantage of our connections in recent years with a social event in conjunction with the School for their members, friends and families which have been well attended and thoroughly enjoyed. So, if you haven’t yet planned your holidays for the summer what about heading to Whanganui? All details are online at www.operaschool.org.nz | www.whanganuioperaweek.nz But book early, public performances fill quickly.
Events Schedule – 10th to 20th January CONCERT AND LUNCH WITH THE EMERGING ARTISTS
Wednesday 10th, 12 noon, Heritage House, Hill Street For bookings call Royal Whanganui Opera House 06 349 0511
PUBLIC MASTER CLASSES
Friday 12th & Monday 15th, 7.30pm, Prince Edward Auditorium at Whanganui Collegiate For bookings call Royal Whanganui Opera House 06 349 0511 CHAPEL SERVICE
Sunday 14th 11.30am, Whanganui Collegiate Bookings not required. Reserved seats can be arranged Call Bro Donald Trott 0274 587 411
THE CAFES (Bookings essential)
Wednesday 17th 6.30pm The Red Lion Inn The Big Orange Elements The Oaks, Quality Inn
06 348 4080 06 348 4449 06 345 7028 06 345 8309
‘FREEMASONS GREAT OPERA MOMENTS’ CONCERT
Saturday 20th, 7.30pm, Royal Whanganui Opera House For bookings call Royal Whanganui Opera House 06 349 0511
Stinging students into brain study Brain Bee, a Year-11 secondary school competition devised to encourage students into the sciences, particularly neuroscience at University, was again hosted by The Centre for Brain Research. This year it attracted 169 students from 27 schools across the North Island. The Foundation has been providing assistance for the event for much of its 11 year history. Individual Winner of the 2017 Brain Bee Challenge, Jemima Po of Diocesan School, receives her prize from University of Auckland Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart McCutcheon (left) with Associate Professors Maurice Curtis and Debbie Young.
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 website? www.freemasonsfoundation.org.nz Comments to judith@freemasonsfoundation.org.nz
Brain disease research
Outstanding young scientists pursue our goals An innovative investigation by Doctoral Scholar Carlene Newall de Jesus is focussed on the potential benefits of dance for older New Zealanders with cognitive impairment and the part it may play in the onset of dementia. While great potential is indicated, Carlene has had to develop informed and detailed design techniques to collect, measure and report, as well as to transfer the data to computer. The trial is now underway.
Our continuing aid in the search for treatments and even cures for devastating neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s and Parkinson’s is currently funding three outstanding young post-graduate researchers at the University of Auckland’s Centre for Brain Research. The investment is substantial.
Carlene Newall de Jesus
Each of these 4-year projects is furthering the understanding of how the brain is affected in these diseases, maintaining the University’s reputation as a pioneer pushing the frontiers in this specialised field.
The title of Doctoral Scholar Brittney Black’s work is ‘Characterising Neurons in the Human Globus Pallidus in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s Diseases’.
Dr Malvindar Singh-Bains
Dr Malvindar Singh-Bains is a Doctoral Research Fellow highly qualified in brain neurochemical studies. Her mission is to uncover potential new drug targets for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. She is working with cerebellum brain tissue samples using a tissue microarray machine (also funded by Freemasons) comparing samples with and without disease. Exciting early results are pointing to brain immune cells and blood vessels being targeted for new drugs.
Brittney’s highly promising work has revealed exciting neuron behaviour in the globus pallidus that could reinvent the way the basal ganglia is thought to operate. She presented her findings at the International Basal Ganglia Society Meeting in Merida, Mexico. The University says ‘We never know when we will stumble upon the puzzle piece for preventing or even slowing the progression of brain diseases and this is why our research is so critical’.
Brittney Black
Speaking Up for rugby injuries T
o support a project increasing public awareness of the Craft was good but to make a contribution to help injured players of our national sport at the same time made the decision easy. Especially when the ‘Lions’ (The British & Irish ones that is) were in town! As a result The Lodge of Enlightenment No 502, from the North Shore of Auckland, ran an open-to-all, big-screen showing of the All Blacks Test match and a considerable sum was presented to the NZ Rugby Foundation, a charitable Trust supporting players suffering long-term disabling injuries while playing the game. The attendance entry fee raised some of the funds and we dobbed in the extra. Famous guests (B G Williams for example, not to mention our Grand Master) added lustre while Freemasonry’s contribution to rugby’s Hall of Fame was noted – Kel Tremaine, Fred Allen, Bob Scott, Ron Jarden to mention a few.
41
SRIA – Societas Rosecruciana in Anglia T
he Rosicrucians date back to the 16th century when Europe was breaking free from the dogmatic influence of the church that told people what to think and how to think it. The story goes that 5 young men in Germany wanted to think their own thoughts about how science and nature worked, which they had to do in secret because of the influence of the Inquisition. The traditional his tory tells that their leader, Christian Rosencreutz, made a journey to the centres of learning in Arabia studying philosophy and other topics and on his return the Brotherhood resolved to do likewise and help others in the world, returning each year to reunite. The found er’s name – Rosencreutz – translates as Rosey Cross, the Rose being a symbol of silence and secrecy, the Cross being a very ancient symbol of a belief in a Supreme Being since before the Christian era. The modern equivalent of this philo sophical society has Rosicrucian branch es in many countries world-wide: the Rosicrucian Society of Scotland started around 1860 and warranted that of England in 1867, now known as the SRIA means Societas Rosecruciana in Anglia. One of the early members was Bro Wynn Westcott (founder of the Golden Dawn) who was Secretary General in 1887 and became the Grand Master known as the Supreme Magus from 1892-1925. The SRIA website is at www.sria.org and lists all the SRIA meeting places known as Colleges. In New Zealand, there are currently four Colleges; Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Hawke’s Bay. The aim of the SRIA is to afford mu tual aid and encouragement in working out the great problems of life and in searching out the Secrets of Nature: to fa cilitate the study of philosophy founded upon the Kabbalah and the doctrine of Hermes Trismegistus; to investigate the meaning and symbolism of the wisdom, art and literature of the ancient world. 2017 is the 150th anniversary of the Society’s foundation and to celebrate there will be a conference in Wellington 42
on the afternoon of 14 October 2017 at the Wellesley Boutique Hotel. The conference will ex amine a wide range of aspects of Rosicrucian Freemasonry and of the Society itself, especially in Taken at Sirius College, Wellington in 2017 during an New Zealand. The conference is official visit of the Supreme Magus. From left: The open to all interested Freemasons Supreme Magus (Grand Master equivalent), The Junior and non-freemasons. All Substitute Magus (Grand Junior Warden equivalent), the non-members are welcome Chief Adept of New Zealand (Provincial Grand Master equivalent), the Sufrigan (Deputy Provincial Grand to attend and take part in dis Master equivalent) cussions. There is no charge for the conference. For those who’d like to attend the meal after Membership of the SRIA is lim wards dinner will cost $45 ited to Freemasons but there are including wine. The meal other Rosicrucian Organisations will need to be booked in that accept ladies and men who are advance – see below. non-freemasons.
C om e a n d c el ebr a t e t h e 150 t h A n n i v er sa r y of t h e f ou n di n g of t h e Soci et a s R osi cr u ci a n a i n A n gli a i n 186 7 on Sa t u r d a y 14 t h Oct ober 20 17 i n W el l i n gt on . F or 150 y ea r s ou r Soc i et y ha s sou gh t t o pr eser v e t h e m y st i c ci r c l e a n d spr ea d t h e di f f u si on of li gh t i n t he w or l d. P lea se c om e a n d see a n i n t er est i n g ser i es of pr esen t a t i on s a n d ev en t s i n clu di n g: Con n el T ow n sen d
P hi l I v a m y G eor ge A l la n A n d m or e
R oel v a n L eeu w en
T h e c el ebr a t i on i s en v i si on ed a s a n a f t er n oon of en qu i r y , ca m a r a d er i e a n d l ea r n i n g. I t w i l l be open t o a ll F r eem a son s. W e w i l l con cl u d e w i t h a t w o cou r se m ea l f or $4 5 i n clu di n g w i n e on t h e t a bl e. T h i s ev en t w i l l be h el d a t W el l i n gt on ’s spec t a cu la r W el lesl ey B ou t i qu e H ot el M a son i c L od ge r oom s. T h e m ea l w i l l be pr ov i ded by t he W el lesl ey ’s ex cel l en t r est a u r a n t . h t t p:/ / w w w .w el l esl ey bou t i qu ehot el .co.n z T h e W el l esley i s i n t h e c en t r e of t h e ci t y a n d ha s a ccom m oda t i on f or ou t of t ow n v i si t or s.
Si r i u s C ol lege i s ha v i n g i t s I n st a l la t i on on F r i da y 13t h Oct ober a n d y ou a r e h ea r t i ly i n v i t ed t o t h i s a s w el l . P l ea se R SV P a s soon a s possi bl e so t h a t w e ca n det er m i n e n u m ber s. E v en i f y ou ca n ’t c om e i t w ou l d st i l l be v er y good t o h ea r f r om y ou . T o con f i r m a t t en d a n c e, of f er a pologi es or en qu i r e f or m or e i n f or m a t i on t h en 0 21 0 27 86 0 21 pl ea se con t a ct m e a t : n i ck jbest @ gm a i l .com
www.freemasonsnz.org
Central – making oils.
Southern – lake trip.
Northern –minigolf.
www.freemasonsnz.org
19
R E G A LI A SUPPLIES
We manufacture and offer Masonic and Fraternal regalia supplies for all Masonic orders Find your local agent & view our online shop at
www.regaliasupplies.co.nz John Wilson Snr John Wilson Jnr
sales@regaliasupplies.co.nz
022 456 4657
www.freemasonsnz.org
43
A memorable night
C
anterbury Royal Arch Chapters held a combined meeting under the Charter of Rose and Thistle No 35 in Ashburton earlier this year at which they acknowledged Bro Bruce Dunbar from the Timaru Chapter as an Excellent Master. Representatives from every Chapter in Canterbury participated in the cer emony, which led to some interesting variations!
The occasion was enhanced for us all by the candidate being the son of the late REComp Kelvin Dunbar, well known in Canterbury and beyond. Bro Dunbar said that he thoroughly enjoyed the ceremony and the story surrounding the Degree, and regretted that he had not joined Royal Arch Freemasonry years earlier. Eoin Dryden
From left: REComp Denis Gordon (Grand Jeshua), EComp Marlon Aragon (Worshipful Excellent Master), Bro Bruce Dunbar and REComp Paul Johnston (Grand Superintendent).
125TH ANNIVERSARY 1892–2017 New website www.royalarch.org.nz requires re-registration
E
other detail in). This will bring you to the Register an Account page, where you’ll be able to fill in all your details. Your username will need to use lowercase letters – the rest of the fields can be as per normal. After you’ve filled in all the
44
www.royalarch.org.nz
very Royal Arch member needs to re-register for the new website – un less you have recently registered. Visit www.royalarch.org.nz, press the Login button, then press Create an Account (without putting any
fields, tick ‘I am not a robot’ and press Register. Within 24–48 hours (but usually much sooner), you’ll get your username and password details for logging in.
It’s a quasquicentennial!
W
airarapa Chapter No 10 celebrated its 125th Anniversary in fine style at the Masterton Masonic Centre and later at the Solway Park hotel on July 22. The First Grand Principal, MEComp Brian White, was in attendance, along with Second Grand Principal REComp Ken McQueen, who is a member and PZ (four times!) of the Chapter; REComp Ken Burt, Grand Superintendent of the Wellington District, and a large number of members and visiting Companions. The Chapter opened, received senior officers, and closed in order that ladies and others could be present for the event, and proceedings began with a welcome from First Principal Tony Russell (who is serving his third term in the role). Highlights of the meeting were a pres entation on Royal Arch Freemasonry by the Central Division Grand Lecturer, REComp Geoffrey Coker, and the his tory of the Chapter, given by EComp Don Staples. It is of note that this Chapter has always been the only one in the Wairarapa. The Chapter also made a very gener ous and welcome donation of $500 to the Jubilee Memorial Scholarship Fund, and took much pleasure in the announce ment by Ken Burt that Chapter stalwart Malcolm Oldcorn was to be awarded Special Grand Rank in the 2018 appoint ments and promotions in Grand Chapter.
Malcolm has been the Chapter’s Director of Ceremonies for a mere 26 years! The group then adjourned to the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park and enjoyed a very convivial evening featuring a superb three-course dinner. Proposing the toast to the Chapter, Ken McQueen focused on the men who have supported and enjoyed Royal Arch Freemasonry in the Wairarapa in and through the Chapter over the years. “This Chapter has had many eminent men, dedicated and hard-working, pass through its portals,” he said. “We have amongst us some who have served the Chapter for 40 years and more, and along with them we remem ber the characters whom we have shared our time with in the Chapter. Long may they stay in our hearts and memories. “We look forward to the next 125 years, and I cannot doubt that our future conduct, and that of our successors, will be calculated still to increase the lustre of our justly esteemed Chapter.” A beautiful 125th birthday cake was cut by a top-table team of Brian White and Tony Russell. The Chapter’s well-deserved repu tation for “characters” is clearly thriv ing, judging by the number of such Companions and others present who made the most of a well-organised, ex cellent event.
From left: Ken McQueen, Brian White, Tony Russell and Ken Burt.
Brian White and Tony Russell cut the cake at Solway Park. Graeme Evans
VEComp Warren Oakly, EComp Barry Gillum (the Chapter’s longest-serving member at over 45 years), and VEComp Ewan Peat (the oldest member at 84 years of age).
The Order of the Silver Trowel
T
he Annual Convocation of Grand Chapter in Christchurch this year featured the inaugural working in New Zealand of the Order of the Silver Trowel, a degree for installed Thrice Illustrious
Masters of Cryptic Councils which is wellknown in many overseas jurisdictions. The working was carried out by a visit ing team from the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Victoria for eligible
The candidates and the team from Victoria after the working at the Shirley Freemasons Centre.
www.royalarch.org.nz
brethren of Grand Chapter, operating as the Grand Council of Cryptic Masonry of New Zealand. The degree (also known as the Degree of Thrice Illustrious Master) is renowned as one of the most beautiful in Royal Arch Freemasonry. It covers the final and dying days of King David and his desire that his son, Solomon, should be anointed King after him. The team from Victoria delivered an outstanding working, and the long Charges were flawlessly recited without any ritual books in sight. It was a Masonic highlight for all the candidates and the Victorian team have our grateful thanks for the tre mendous effort made on our behalf. 45
75 YEARS IN FREEMASONRY RWBro Athol Thorpe, PGW
T
o have been in Freemasonry for 75 years and still be actively serving, is an achievement for which only a select few can be acknowledged. To still be will ing to attend his various memberships is something to envy, especially when in his nineties. It is believed there are only two others in New Zealand at present, who have achieved that milestone. Right Worshipful Brother Athol Thorpe is an inspiration, and to the many Masons he has helped, he is a Masonic father figure, a mentor and someone who definitely helped keep Masonry alive for a great number of people, including my self. He just needed to show by example and that’s what he did for me when I was wavering about my membership of the fraternity. A few carefully chosen words at the right time saved this member from leaving. When I asked Athol if he would do it all again, the answer was a quick yes and when you consider his achievements in Masonry you can only wonder at the
46
mark he has made on the fraternity. He said he was lucky to have had the sup port of two wives, Valerie and Beth, who allowed him to participate fully in the Craft. Athol married Beth after Valerie died a few years previously. He and Valarie had one son. His younger brother, is also a member of Lodge Tawhiri. Herbert Athol Thorpe was born 22 May 1924, in Forest Lake Road, Hamilton and still lives not far away in the suburb of St Andrews. He was initiated as a Lewis into the Te Marama Lodge No 186 in Ngaruawahia on 7 September 1942, passed on 11 January 1943 and raised to Master Mason on 25 February 1943. His father and grandfather, both Masons, were present. In 1946 Athol resigned from Te Marama Lodge after he got lost in a classic Waikato fog while travelling back to Hamilton late one night. He joined Lodge Tawhiri No 166, which at that time, was a Railway Lodge in Frankton Junction, and he is still a participating member, after 71 years. He well remem bers the tornado that destroyed the Kent Street lodge rooms in 1948 and he was instrumental in the Lodge’s eventual move to the present premises in Barton Street, central Hamilton. He became the Master of Lodge Tawhiri in 1955 and went on to become a Grand Steward in 1973, Senior Grand Deacon in 1981, Assistant Provincial Grand Master 1990, and became a Past Grand Warden in 1998. He is involved with other masonic Orders namely the Royal Arch and Cryptic Council, Rose Croix, Knights Templar and Secret Monitor. Asked if he had time to participate in other activities outside of Masonry and he explained that he had been Commodore of the Hamilton Cruising Club. He had been an active member of Jaycees and was part of the representa tive team of New Zealand servicemen who went to the Islands to celebrate the anniversary of the war in the Pacific.
www.freemasonsnz.org
Athol retired from work as an Insurance Agent in 1976 at the age of 51 after his doctor gave him six months to live. He did, however, continue and in tensify his Masonic duties and he’s been 41 years in active Masonic service since that diagnosis. You have to wonder if the doctor forgot about the determination and perseverance of this man that we can all admire for his achievements and dedication to Freemasonry. At the regular meeting of Lodge Tawhiri No 166 on Tuesday 5 September, the Grand Master, MWBro Mark Winger, presented RWBro Athol Thorpe with a certificate marking his 75 years in Freemasonry. WBro Neville Ballantyne, PM Lodge Tawhiri No 166 Photos by Len Jeffrey
Welcome to our newest Freemasons May – July 2017
Fitz Flores New Zealand Pacific No. 2 Benjamin Belisario The Beta-Waikato Lodge No. 12
Kerehama Reynolds The Ashley Lodge No. 28
Kurt Haldane The Ashley Lodge No. 28
Dennis Hughes The Ashley Lodge No. 28 Matthew Clements The Saint Andrews Lodge No. 32 Sylvan Filliol The Victory-Wakatu Lodge No. 40 Cyril Collier The Victory-Wakatu Lodge No. 40
Michael Baker The Phoenix Lodge No. 43
Lawrence Lotze The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54
Jonas Malig The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54
Owen Jackson The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54
Stacy Goldsworthy The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54
Alan Lotze The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54
Martin Greaney The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61
Paul Heathcote The St Andrew Kilwinning Lodge No. 79
Bejun Bagongon St Augustine Lodge No. 99
Nicolas Zapata Lodge Dunstan No. 103
Daryl Brighouse The Havelock Lodge No. 104 Jamie Williams Marlborough Lodge of Unanimity No. 106 Thomas Findlater Lodge Winton No. 108 Tereice Hope Lodge Torea No. 121 William Callan The Tauranga Lodge No. 125
Logan Kitney The Crown Lodge No. 138
Nelton Daza Lodge Rotorua No. 153
Nathan Todd Lodge Tawhiri No. 166
Alys Johnson Lodge Tawhiri No. 166
Ryan Caraig Lodge North Harbour No. 182
Thomas Jones The Avon Shirley Lodge No. 185
Michael Montesclaros Lodge Albany Takapuna No. 202
Jason Telford United Forces Lodge No. 245 William Wright Lodge Parahaki No. 269
Ivan Presquito Unity Lodge No. 271
Andrew Anderson Unity Lodge No. 271
Shawn Hill Lodge Haeata No. 272 Christopher Byrne Lodge Wanaka No. 277 Brian Griffiths Lodge Tuakau No. 278 Wiremu Henare Lodge Kororareka No. 304 Christopher Hughes Westminster Lodge No. 308 David Shalom The Lodge of Remembrance No. 318 Scott Taylor The Lodge of Remembrance No. 318
Trent Barrett Browns Bay Lodge No. 346
Shaun Zukor Browns Bay Lodge No. 346
Christian Graham Lodge Frimley No. 359 Shatty Philip Lodge Hillcrest No. 363
Jaydeep Chahal Lodge Otahuhu No. 387
Gregory Fowler Lodge Otahuhu No. 387
Bryce Quedley The Wayfarers Lodge No. 389
Peter Fuller Lodge Tironui No. 400
Jayden Kernahan The Gate Pa Lodge No. 407
Timothy Sherry Lodge Waikanae No. 433
Francisco Lopez–Marambio The United Lodge of Otago No. 448
Jose Daplian The United Lodge of Wanganui No. 468
Michael Edward The Lodge of The Liberal Arts No. 500
We offer a very warm welcome to our new members and wish them a long and happy experience in our wonderful fraternity. Membership is the key to our future so let us ensure they receive the direction and guidance to fulfil all their expectations.
The younger face of Freemasonry Grand Master Mark Winger at ceremony for one of our newest members Bro Alex McWatters, supported by two other young freemasons who gave charges during his ceremony, at Manukau-Westmere Lodge in Auckland. Bros Mark Gruebner, Alex McWatters, Mark Winger Grand Master and Nav Kumar.
47
The Last Word! Freemasons New Zealand Crossword
Solution page 6
Across
Down
5 Motto on Coast of Arms ‘In the Lord is all our…?
1 What is the son of a Freemason called?
6 How many years has the Freemasons University Scholarship been running (two words)?
2 Who sits at the right of the Senior Warden (two words)?
7 Name of District that generally covers Greater Dunedin?
4 Initials of a Grand Lodge celebrating its 300th Anniversary?
8 Black and White square on front cover of NZ Freemason magazine is a what (two initials and a word)?
7 Where is National Office or the Grand Secretariat based?
3 Masters Column represents which noble order of architecture?
11 What does the Maori word Kororareka (incidentally the name of a Lodge in the Bay of islands) mean? 12 Only Lodge in New Zealand to hold an outdoor Installation (two words)? 13 Treasurers Jewel?
9 Where did the first ‘masonic meeting’ occur in 1837 in New Zealand? 10 Surname of President of the Board? 11 The tessellated border on the pavement represents what? 14 How many make a Lodge perfect?
15 The Three Principle virtues? 16 The Foundation Stone is usually found in what corner of a building (two words)? 17 The rough and perfect…? 18 Name of a Lodge with a peripatetic Charter or warrant?
Not a Freemason? 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 en quire at Freemasons New Zealand: www.freemasonsnz.org, communications@freemasonsnz.org, 04 385 6622 or write to PO Box 6439, Marion Square, Wellington 6141.
Now that is a Masonic Building! The George Washington Masonic National Memorial opened in 1932 is situated in Alexandria, Virginia just outside Washington DC and is a splendid tribute to the United States of America’s first President in 1791. Washington was a Freemason as were many others who signed the Declaration of Independence. He laid the Foundation Stone of the US Capitol Building in Washington DC in 1793. 48
www.freemasonsnz.org
SERVICE AWARDS May – July 2017 70 YEAR BADGE
Bro Douglas Colin Hardy MM The Taranaki Daylight Lodge No. 455 *
60 YEAR BADGE
WBro James William Thompson PM
New Zealand Pacific No. 2
WBro Rodney Harrison Wimsett PM
Scinde Lodge No. 5
RWBro Evered Hugh Hadfield Goodall PGW
WBro Sydney Raymond Bennett PM
St Augustine Lodge No. 99
Bro William Leslie Stewart Thomson MM RH
The Wallace Lodge No. 129
VWBro Bruce Barton Mackwell P Dist GM
Bro Robert Graham Murray MM
Lodge Waverley No. 226
RWBro John Anthony FitzHerbert P Prov GM
Lodge Te Puke No. 261 *
WBro Bruce Maxwell Stephens PG Std B
Lodge Te Puke No. 261
WBro Peter Graeme Muir PM
Lodge Wanaka No. 277
Bro William Oakes MM
WBro Winsbury James Robinson PM
The Victory-Wakatu Lodge No 40
The Avon Shirley Lodge No. 185
Lodge Howick No. 314 The Lodge of Peace No. 322
50 YEAR BADGE
Bro Frederick Barry Gillum MM
United Lodge of Masterton No. 19
WBro Neville Johnston Day PM
United Lodge of Masterton No. 19
WBro Murray Albert Martin PM
The Hiram Lodge No. 46
VWBro Gordon Donald Barkman PG Lec
The Hiram Lodge No. 46
WBro Logan Frederick Packer PGS
WBro Barrie Kevin Denham PM
VWBro Alistair Henry Church PG Lec
WBro Lindsay Charles McKenzie PM RH
WBro Kenneth Latymer Humphrey PM
Bro Henry Edward Houston MM
WBro John Bruce Wisely PM
WBro Bruce Harrison Wiig PM
WBro Max Neil Morton PM
Lodge Haeata No. 272
WBro David Alister Park PM
Lodge Awatere No. 292
Bro Geoffrey Robert Moss MM
WBro Richard Inall Wallie Simpson PM
WBro Norman Francis Just PGO
Bro Verdun Trillo MM
WBro Malcolm Raymond Brightwell PM
VWBro Bryan Olaf Wiig P Dist GM
The Te Aroha Lodge No. 52 Lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No. 76 Lodge St John No. 84 Lodge Arrow Kilwinning No. 86 Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No. 109 The Forest Lodge No. 116 The Wallace Lodge No. 129 Lodge Manurewa No. 222
Westminster Lodge No 308 The Lodge of Peace No. 322 Lodge Mana No. 352 Lodge Rangitane No. 369 The Gate Pa Lodge No. 407 Lodge Hatea No. 431
* since deceased but presented
www.freemasonsnz.org
49
Invest in the the Invest in Freemasons Scheme Freemasons Deposit Deposit Scheme to Zealand to invest invest in in New New Zealand Heartland Bank is proud to be the Freemasons Deposit Scheme partner.
Heartland Bank DepositScheme Scheme partner. Heartland Bankisisproud proudto tobe be the the Freemasons Freemasons Deposit partner. With roots stretching back to 1875, Heartland Bank has a proud history
With roots stretchingback backto to 1875, 1875, Heartland Bank has history With roots stretching Heartland hasa aproud proud of providing families, small-to-medium sizedBank businesses and history farms of providing families, small-to-medium sized businesses and farms ofwith providing families, small-to-medium sized businesses and farms with financial solutions to help them achieve prosperity. with financial solutions to help them achieve prosperity. financial solutions to help them achieve prosperity.
Through our partnership built on shared values, Heartland Bank is
Through ourpartnership partnership built on on shared values, Heartland Bank is is Through shared working our with Freemasonsbuilt New Zealand to values, support Heartland the Craft inBank local working withFreemasons Freemasons New New Zealand Zealand to support the Craft in in local working with to support the Craft local communities, while providing Freemasons and their families with communities, while providing Freemasons and their families with communities, while providing Freemasons competitive interest rates on their deposits. and their families with competitive interestrates rateson ontheir their deposits. deposits. competitive interest
To find out more about Heartland Bank and the Freemasons Deposit To find out more about Heartland Bank and the Freemasons Deposit
ToScheme, find outsee more andNew the Zealand Freemasons Deposit the about inside Heartland front coverBank of the Freemason. Scheme, see the inside front cover of the New Zealand Freemason. Scheme you can contact a dedicated Heartland Bank Freemasons Alternatively, HeartlandBank BankFreemasons Freemasons Alternatively,you youcan can contact contact a a dedicated dedicated Heartland Deposit Scheme representative on 0508 FREEMASONS (0508 3362) 62) Deposit FREEMASONS(0508 (050837 3737 33 DepositScheme Schemerepresentative representative on on 0508 0508 FREEMASONS 33 62) ororemail emailfreemasons@heartland.co.nz. freemasons@heartland.co.nz. or email freemasons@heartland.co.nz.
www.heartland.co.nz | 0508 FREEMASONS www.heartland.co.nz | 0508 FREEMASONS Freemasons New Zealand is not a promoter of and does not guarantee the obligations of Heartland Bank Limited in relation to Heartland deposits. of Heartland Bank’s Disclosure Statement and Investment Statements are available Freemasons NewBank Zealand is not Copies a promoter of and does not guarantee the obligations of Heartland Bank Limited in relation from www.heartland.co.nz orBank’s by calling 0508 FREEMASONS 37 33 62). to Heartland Bank deposits. Copies of Heartland Disclosure Statement and(0508 Investment Statements are available from www.heartland.co.nz or by calling 0508 FREEMASONS (0508 37 33 62).