NZ Freemason magazine Issue 3 September 2012 by Freemasons New Zealand

Freemason NEW ZEALAND

Issue 3 (Vol. 40) September 2012

Cups, cakes & conversation The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea

The Acacia Society is launched

www.freemasons.co.nz

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IN THIS ISSUE

Editorial 2

CULTURE

Hot news 3

Talented trio destined to take on the world 21

From the Grand Master 4

The road ahead

Life Life Lighter 5

Freemasons family health programme – 2012

News clips 6

EDUCATION For the good of the community 24 Max Harris addresses scholars

A scholar and a Freemason 26 Sam Wakelin

OPINION Pathways to the future 10

Music to the ears 26 Eric Arthur Thorpe

FREEMASONS IN ACTION

Masonic education 27 Putting the excitement back into Freemasonry

Grand Installation Q&A 12

Wellington, November 2013

HEALTH AND SCIENCE

Freemasonry makes the difference 14

From trauma to triumph 28 Madeleine Pierard and Camp Quality

The BOGP charts the way ahead

Living with Mr Huntingtons 29 A family saga Top of the south rapid response 30 Appreciation for hospital pack hero 31

Derek Ricketts O.S.M. 15 A man with vision

Looking to the future 16

The Acacia Society is launched

Cups, cakes and conversation 18

The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea

Southern Freemasonry shines 32 Presentations and recognition in Otago Uawa and the Transit of Venus 34 TRAVEL Wagons roll: The Masons are coming 36 Challenges, fun and value 38 The benefits of international visiting REGULARS Roskill Foundation 40 Royal Arch 42 In with the new 44 Service awards 45 The last column 45

18 COVER Silver service at Hutt Valley Lodge heralds The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea. PHOTO MONTAGE BOB HASTIE

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

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 distri bution should be addressed to the Grand Secretary. Queries and comments regarding content and advertising should be addressed to the Editor. Contributions to the magazine are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Contributions, including letters to the Editor, may be edited. Photographs should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tiff format. Contributions to the magazine can be forwarded through these people: Northern Division: Jack Leigh, leigh99@xtra.co.nz Central Division: Morris Robertson, mrps@ihug.co.nz Southern Division: Rob Cope-Williams, rob.cope-williams@ctv.co.nz Royal Arch: Gary Kerkin, gary@kerkin.co.nz Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November Layout by Matthew Bartlett, Wellington Printed by k&mprint Palmerston North Copyright © 2012 Freemasons NZ

GRAND MASTER’S VISITS Sept 21 Ruapehu Masonic Association Trust Opening of new wing at the Masonic Home, Wanganui Sept 22 The St Andrew Kilwinning Lodge No.79 Regular meeting –1st. degree ceremony Oct 23 NZ Pacific Lodge No.2 Wellington Regular meeting – 1st. degree ceremony Nov 24 NZ Pacific Lodge No.2 Wellington Two 50-year service award presentations: MWBro JM Pope PGM and WBro P Lillico PM

From the Editorial Committee

t is no coincidence that many of the articles in this issue have future oriented titles. Freemasonry in New Zealand is on the threshold of a new and exciting future. The Board of General Purposes has emerged from its strategic planning retreat with a clear direction of where we are heading and how we can get there. One of their important desires is the greater involvement of families, a far cry from the days when the man of the house went off to the meetings and seldom spoke of Freemasonry outside the Lodge room. How do these future plans affect this magazine? Over the past year the content and design has evolved to shift the emphasis away from portraying Freemasons to demonstrating Freemasonry in action in its community and with its families. This move, which also has been reflected in a number of eye catching covers, devoid of regalia, has drawn a wider number of appreciative readers both within the craft and out in the community. The last two issues of New Zealand Freemason have increased by four pages at a time, to now 44 plus covers. This is considered to be the maximum and any future overload will be published as web-only articles on the newly revamped Freemasons NZ website. Despite this plethora of material there are still some dark holes in the areas of regular coverage, including Greater Auckland. Are there Freemasons out there who can tell the stories of their Lodges, their people and their community? Morris Robertson, Editor

Freemasonry is … many things to many people ….

Friendship • spiritual • camaraderie • thespianism • esotericism • charity • knowledge • support • trust • social • family • spiritual growth • personal development • a way of life • integrity • public speaking • leadership training • moral virtues BOGP Strategic Review

HOT NEWS Avant Garde ten years on The Avant Garde Lodge No.503, constituted in 2003, is holding its 10th anniversary on September 7th & 8th 2013 in the Inglewood Masonic Hall. The weekend of celebrations will remember the formation of this dynamic Lodge and an open invitation is extended to Brethren who participated or visited at the Dedication. It promises to be a weekend of fun and enjoyment with old friends. The programme of events will be posted once numbers are confirmed. Please advise your intentions to bernieblack@xtra.co.nz. For more information on the Lodge go to www.avantgarde 503.co.nz.

Nuggets news In the last issue we reported on the adoption of a Freemasons NZ information evening nugget by the Sir Isaac Newton Lodge in Grantham, UK. The Lodge has reported that, as a result of the nugget evening, it had gained two candidates and one joining member.

Clive Coastal Challenge This Freemasons-supported event takes place in Hawke’s Bay on Sunday 30 September starting from Farndon Park in Clive at 10.30 am. It will cover distances of 4 and 10 kilometres. Entries will be taken on the day only for this family event with a variety of challenging obstacles en route. Suitable footwear must be worn. Proceeds will be donated to the Special Care Baby Unit at Hawke’s Bay Hospital. The entry fee is $20 per person or $50 for a family of four. Enquiries to Craig Burns phone 0274 499050.

up straight away. It has also been reported that copies of the article are circulating in New South Wales. Secretary Alan Beck reported. “Everyone made comment that they knew nothing about the Widow’s Son’s until they read the article which proves that they are reading the Freemason magazine.” The AGM of the Widow’s Son’s is to be held at Murchison, on the 27th October. All welcome. Details from Allan Beck beckas@actrix.co.nz or Peter MacDonald pete@marlinmotel.com

WA Grand Installation Brethren and partners are invited to accompany the Grand Master and Mrs Cooper to the Installation of RWBro Steven Adrian Jancec, DGM as Grand Master, United Grand Lodge of Western Australia. The celebrations, in Perth, will begin with a reception on Thursday, 1 November and conclude with a Thanksgiving Service and bus tour of the Swan Valley followed by luncheon at the Jane Brook Winery Sunday, 4 November 2012. Those wishing to join the party should contact the Grand Secretary.

New Divisional Grand Master, Southern The appointment, by the Grand Master, of VWBro Jim Harborow as Divisional Grand Master, to succeed RWBro Brian Goodman from November 2012, has been announced. Jim was initiated into Strath Taieri Lodge in December 1973 and joined Mt. Ida Lodge No.97 in 1979. He has served as Grand Steward, Grand Deacon and District Grand Master. Jim is a Funeral director. After training and working in Dunedin he and his wife, Barbara, bought the Funeral Home in Alexandra in 1990. Both Jim and Barbara take an active interest in their local community with Jim becoming a Justice of the Peace in 1998.

Movember is in November

Widows sons on a roll Following the article in the last issue the Nelson-Marlborough based group has received a lot of interest from around the country with one Brother from the Wellington district joining

Movember is all about Prostate Cancer Research and Men’s Health and is one activity that individual freemasons or lodges could use during our Freemasons ‘Live Life Lighter’ Family Health Programme in the month of November. It is supported by our Grand Master MW Bro Selwyn Cooper along with the Grand Masters of the Australian Constitutions. Freemasons New Zealand contact is Laurence Milton Chief Executive/Grand Secretary on laurencem@freemasons.co.nz. Also see details at www.freemasons.co.nz or nz.movember.com.

FROM THE GRAND MASTER

The road ahead Last June members of the Board of General Purposes gathered for a weekend retreat to look at the strategic direction of the craft. We recognised that some of our traditional practices did not fit well in a rapidly changing world and that it was essential that we were able to embrace new generations and serve them and their needs as we had served the needs of their forebears.

he outcome of the retreat was the formulation of a plan, which will set the course of Freemasonry into the future in the form of a journey where the experience of every Freemason and their family will be enhanced. As always, our members of all ages, capability and experience are our primary focus. The broad focus of the plan, which is set out on page 14 of this issue, under the heading of Freemasonry Makes the Difference, is based on seven pillars, each of which is a challenge for our National Committees to develop in detail, in consultation with the membership. This is a journey which we must take together in harmony and a positive spirit which will not only ensure that our current Brethren are well served but will open the doors to welcome and embrace those candidates who can bring new thoughts, new challenges and a bright future for the craft. Whilst we are focussed on the fu ture we must not forget that we are surrounded by the many positive acti vities of Freemasonry that are impacting daily on our lives, so much so that this issue has been expanded in an endeavour to publish as many of them as can be accommodated.

As well as recognising the achievements of several of our long serving Brethren we also highlight the connections we have with the younger generations – our future. In the last issue we announced the Roskill Foundation’s sponsorship of NBR New Zealand Opera interns. In this issue we profile the talented three who form this year’s first intake. One of the highlights of this year was the journey Jan and I made to the East Coast to join with the pupils of Tolaga Bay Area School in their celebration of the Transit of Venus. As a result of its own efforts this school has been associated with the Transit of Venus celebrations since 2004. As Freemasons we have been proud to lend our support over that time. The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea has, once again, been staged throughout the country. The results varied with some of the most successful being those Lodges, which took the event out into their community, rather than relying on the perceived ‘step too far’ of enticing the public over the threshold of a Masonic Lodge. Overall, our preferred charity this year, Camp Quality, benefitted substantially from our efforts. During the past few months Britain

has been the centre of much pageantry, which has included the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games. In this issue we launch the first of several articles leading up to our own pageant, the 2013 Grand Installation in Wellington. I encourage all of you to start planning to be in Wellington in November next year and to join in our celebrations. One of the seven pillars in our strategic plan is Charity. We should all be very proud of the legacy of our forbears, which has enabled us to do so much good in the community and to enable so many scholars, our future leaders, to achieve their academic goals. As inflation has begun to erode this legacy it is time to boost the coffers. With this issue we launch the Acacia Society, which provides the opportunity, through future bequests to The Freemasons Charity, for Brethren to return to the future those benefits we have enjoyed in the past. Brethren, there is a lot going on in the world of Freemasonry. It is up to all of us to think and act positively about what we have achieved, are achieving and will achieve in the future and to share it all with the world around us. Selwyn Cooper, Grand Master

Live Life Lighter

Freemasons family health programme – November 2012 Nationally, Freemasons New Zealand provides two opportunities for Lodges to connect or reconnect with their local community through these national events. Most recent was The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea which is held on the 1st Saturday of each July and the other being The Freemasons ‘Live Life Lighter’ Family Health Programme which is scheduled for the month of November each year, except in a Grand Installation year when it is held in October.

ne is aimed towards charity and the other towards health and well being, both of which are cornerstone activities of Freemasonry in New Zealand. It provides Lodges with a feeling of unity knowing that fellow Lodges throughout New Zealand are trying to do something similar at the same time. Its shows the wider community that Freemasons are still here and that we still care. Elsewhere in this issue you will see some of the activities and achievements of The Freemasons Longest Morning Tea, especially when Lodges thought ‘outside the square’. What is The Freemasons ‘Live Life Lighter’ Family Health Programme all about? It’s a programme about eating, exercise and education. Namely, eating the right foods, doing sufficient exercise each day, educating ourselves on health issues and getting this message out to the wider community. It is about us as Freemasons trying to help ourselves, our partners, families, friends and the local community to understand “that we are what we eat and we are what we don’t do in the way of exercise” and that most of what ails us through obesity, being more that 100 cm around our waists, can lead to all the common health issues e.g. cancer, heart attack, diabetes and stroke. What can Freemasons NZ provide to help Lodges with ‘Live Life Lighter’?

We have a Freemasons NZ ‘Live Life Lighter’ website (www.livelifelighter.org)

which has ideas and information, we have an ideas/information sheet and an A4 Poster with a space to advertise your local activity or event, available from Freemasons New Zealand. Additionally, we have ‘Live Life Lighter’ Cookbooks – a box of 20 can be purchased at a discounted cost of $172.50 inclusive of GST which is well under $10 per book. However, as they are coffee table quality, they couldbe sold for $25, which gives profit of $327.50 per box which can be applied to your Lodge charity. Some ideas for your ‘Live Life Lighter’ event or activity

Eating: Change the time of your Refectory – eat earlier and have ‘Live Life Lighter’ meals. Arrange a social morning/afternoon tea or dinner based on a ‘Live Life Lighter’ theme. The cookbook might help. Help at a local food bank or soup kitchen or support them with dona tions of non-perishable food. Help provide healthy food to school breakfast/lunch programmes. Exercise: Stage a ‘Live Life Lighter’ Fun Walk with funds raised going to a health related charity Let your facilities being used by an aerobics/exercise group. Organise a Fun Day for children at a

local park around exciting activities which give them exercise. Join in an exercise activity at a local eldercare facility and stay for a cuppa and a chat with the residents. Education: Sell the ‘Live Life Lighter’ Cookbooks at a local fair from a Freemasons stall or give them away as gifts. Let your Freemasons facilities be used for local diabetes or blood pressure checks, etc Have members of your Lodge share brief stories about health related issues and how they overcame them. Allow one of our health partners or organisations to use your Freemasons facilities for free for one of their events. Events are more successful when you involve outside organisations like our partners – Diabetes New Zealand, New Zealand Cancer Society, National Heart Foundation and the National Stroke Foundation or indeed other health related organisations St. John, Eldercare Providers, Plunket, etc. Make the effort to involve the local community and reap the rewards both for your Lodge and the community. It is a well known fact that Lodges who make the effort to participate in a well organised event have been successful in raising their profile in the local community and we all know where that leads – it’s a self feeding (fulfilling) prophecy. VWBro Duane Williams 5

NEWS CLIPS

National IT Committee Launched Bro Brian Nelson, currently Senior Warden of The Ara Taimau Lodge, has been appointed Chair of the newly formed National Information Technology Committee. Brian, who lives in Herne Bay, Auckland, was initiated into Freemasonry in November 2008. Brian began his IT career in 1994 after several years as a United States Army Infantryman on the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Before ending his eight years of military service, his time in the military led him to some interesting aspects of the relatively new IT and communications fields as a Captain with the Army Rangers. Since then, his IT project management and consulting experience has spanned work on ballistic missile fields around the world, communications for the world’s largest semi-submersible missile radar, and to the United States Department of State where his special operations and IT skills were brought to bear to work towards ending the genocide in Darfur, Sudan. His corporate experience includes IT management roles with Computer Sciences Corporation, Boeing, IBM, and here in New Zealand with Vodafone. During these roles, he has always worked to wards building strategies and implementing IT solutions to solve opera tional needs and to allow for more effective

organisational communications. It is these skills and experience that Brian brings to his role as Chairman of the newly formed National IT Committee. Working with Don Staples, Murray Kennett, and Trevor Fulton, he will work to develop IT-based strategies aimed at both assisting Freemasons around New Zealand to communicate more effectively and helping to spread the work of the Craft through Internet and social media technologies. “Because we have such an amazing span of ages and experience in our Fraternity, there are varying levels of knowledge and comfort with using the very fast-changing technologies of today,” Brian said, “and the unknown can be scary. But, we plan on speaking with brethren from around the country to gather their experience and good ideas as we develop our recommendations. It is only by working together that we can most effectively move forward as a modern organization and attract the young Freemasons of the future.” The IT Committee, which held its first meeting in Wellington on 20 July, will work over the coming months to put form to an IT modernisation strategy – in the meantime, keep your eyes out for more on its work in forthcoming issues of New Zealand Freemason.

Good deeds in Dargaville The Superintendent of The Freemasons Charity, RWBro Terry McConnell and Past Northern Division Grand Almoner, VWBro Ray Laurence paid a visit to Dargaville on 26 May to experience the work, which had been done by Te Pono Lodge No.203, which has maintained a good relationship with the Community Health Trust. During the visit they the

upgraded Skin Clinic in the Medical Centre, saw the Auto Pulse CPR machine, for use in emergencies when there are few staff available, and were apprised of several items on the Dargaville Hospital’s wish list.

Ray Laurance, Trust CEO Debbie Evans, Terry McConnell, Jen Thomas, Operational Manager, Dargaville Hospital)

John Lazar New Masonic history with a West Coast flavour Doug Stapleton, PADGM South Island EC, has written several Masonic histories particularly relating to Westland. His latest book, John Lazar: Small in stature – Large in Life was released in August. The author writes: In the history of New Zealand Freemasonry few men achieved what John Lazar did, within the few short years that he lived in New Zealand. He was born in Edinburgh in 1803, moved to London, married in 1825 and came to Australia in 1834. In Sydney and Adelaide he managed and owned theatres, wrote and acted in many productions. He and his wife Julia

NEWS CLIPS

had ten children. Three died in England, three more on the ship to Australia, and four were born in Australia. He was initiated, passed and raised in Sydney in 1836, and soon afterwards moved to Adelaide, where he was both an alderman and Mayor of Adelaide. He became Deputy Provincial Grand Master for the English Constitution, and officiated at many installations and lodge and chapter consecration. He, his wife and one daughter came to Dunedin in the 1850›s where again he was most active in freemasonry, as well as becoming Town Clerk for the City of Dunedin. In 1866 the family moved to Hokitika, when he was appointed the first Town Clerk for Hokitika Municipal Council. He was active in his Masonic career until his death in 1879. He was the instigator in several of the West Coast lodges and chapters being formed, and gave his name to Lazar Lodge 1689EC at Kumara. I calculate that he was either Installing or Consecrating Master at some 200 ceremonies in New Zealand from Auckland to Invercargill. After his death the Masonic fraternity donated funds to erect a large monument over his grave at Hokitika Cemetery. This has been maintained in excellent condition for the past 120 years.

Copies of the book can be obtained from Doug Stapleton, 112 Stafford Street, Hokitika 7810. Email: francess@quik.co.nz Special offer for Freemasons $25.00 including P&P.

WBro Ross Jennings , Master, Bro Dylan Eymael EA, WBro Jim Annear RH, VWBro Allen Glasson DistGM, and WBro Alister Church DistGDC.

A double happy night In Timaru There would not be many nights in a Lodge when an initiation of a Lewis would be followed by the presentation of a 60 year badge to a member of the same Lodge. Well that is what happened in Lodge Timaru No. 196 on Thursday, 17th. May last when Bro David Eymael, Junior Warden, witnessed his son Dylan (19) being initiated as a Lewis into his Lodge. This was a memorable moment for both father and son and also for the other six Lewis’s who were in attendance. The evening was enhanced by the presentation of a 60 year badge to

WBro James Annear RH, who is a very active and capable member of Lodge Timaru. Whilst our District Grand Master, VWBro Allen Glasson, made the presentation of the small lapel badge along with some very complimentary remarks, he graciously granted the presentation of the actual 60 year badge to WBro Alister Church, Wickliffe District Grand Director of Ceremonies and an old friend for many years of James Annear. WBro Annear suitably replied to both of the presenting Brethren in his usual forthright and competent manner. Eoin Dryden

Spirometer service support

Patients from towns north of Gisborne with respiratory conditions no longer have to travel to the city for spirometric tests. A donation from Lodge AbercornTuahine No.76 al lowed UEWA practice nurse, Hazel Nelson, to buy a spirometer for the East Coast Clinic. This machine meas ures the air capacity of the lungs and how much bronchial tubes have narrowed. It can also tell the difference between chronic obstructive lung dis ease and asthma. The spirometer saves tra Nurse Hazel Nelson using the spirometer at Tolaga Bay Health Clinic.

vel ling costs and time. Previously, the consultant would have to look at the data and write a letter to the patient. If the inhaler needs changing this can now be done on the same day rather than the previous ten-day turnaround. It also provides a service to volunteer firemen who previously had to travel to Palmerston North for testing. Mrs Nelson wrote to some 40 boards and companies seeking funding. Her call was answered by the Lodge which, with the support of The Freemasons Charity, provided the $2,300 needed. To quote Mrs Nelson “Our sincere thanks to The Freemasons Charity for this funding which will assist with the wellbeing of our patients on the Coast.” 7

NEWS CLIPS

Departing gifts With a membership declining to twelve Whangamata Lodge No.459 has surrendered its Charter with the remaining members joining Waihi Lodge. As parting gifts to the community the Lodge is dispersing its assets in the local area. One such gift is a defibrillator for the Tairua Volunteer Fire Brigade. They have also earmarked funds for a tracking device for Pauanui Search and Rescue to be used for people with Alzheimer’s who become lost.

Pictured from left are Counties and Manukau District Grand Master VWBro Dave Robinson, MWBro Selwyn Cooper, Bro Jackson Dowie, WBro Grant Dowie, WBro Les Dowie and Bro Ethan Dowie.

Sons shine in Franklin family turnout Rising sons of the Dowie family are brightening the outlook at Franklin No.58, one of the more enthusiastic Auckland lodges. There is Grant, son of Les, then come Ethan and Jackson, sons of Grant. And they all had parts to play, along with the Grand Master, MWBro Selwyn Cooper, on the night of Jackson›s initiation before sixty brethren at Pukekohe. WBro Grant, the sitting Master, delivered the obligation, his father WBro

Les, Deputy Master of the Lodge gave the reasons for his grandson›s preparation, and brother Ethan took care of the charge after initiation. The first degree tracing board was explained to Jackson, three entered apprentices from other lodges and six Lewis’s aged from 20 to over 80 assembled in the East to be introduced to the new initiate. In a special touch, the Grand Master presented Bro Ethan with his Master Mason’s certificate. Jack Leigh

Future viewing assured

Max Wilson-Flavell, 6, tests his remote with Grand Master, Selwyn Cooper. PHOTO COURTESY MANUKAU COURIER

With Freemasons funding, seventy new televisions have been donated to South Auckland’s Kidz First Children’s Hospital just in time to beat the switch from analogue to digital, which would render the existing 12-year-old sets obsolete. “Hospital can be quite isolating for patients so TV helps them stay in touch with the outside world” according to inpatient service manager, Marlene Stratton who added, “Life without television in a children’s ward would be a chal lenge as it provides entertain ment, especially for those who are unable to leave their beds. They are also useful in settling a child down and provide a distraction for parents from the ‘not so pleasant aspects’ of a hospital stay.”

Whangamata Past Master, Snow Jenkins, presents a defibrillator to Chief Fire Officer, Chris New and members of the Tairua Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Invercargill Lodge reaches 100

New Zealand Grand Master MW Bro Selwyn Cooper presents a Lodge Waihopai No.189 Centennial Jewel to WBro John Pryde while watching on is the Master of Lodge Waihopai, WBro Bruce Smithies. May 2012 marked the 100 years of Lodge Waihopai and began with a Friday night “Meet and Greet”. A Centennial Jewel was presented to Lodge Waihopai members at the Centennial Meeting held on Saturday May 26. The Saturday meeting was followed by a banquet and a church parade on Sunday morning.

NEWS CLIPS

70 Year Jewel

WBro Charles Christiansen RH, seen here receiving his jewel from the Grand master, MWBro Selwyn Cooper, was initiated into The Alpha Lodge No.81, Cambridge on 14 July 1942. He was installed as Master on 14 May 1963. In August 1980 he joined The Waikato Research Lodge and in August 2008 he was entered on the Roll of Honour.

Supporting stroke recovery specialists Since the year 2000 the Horowhenua Masonic Village has operated a rehabilitation service for stroke victims. This is a Unit where they use advanced techniques and specialist training to help stroke survivors resume a good quality of life after the stroke. Over 80% of the residents have suffered a stroke. The focus of rehabilitation is not to just survive the stroke, but to resume a life of good quality and dignity. The unit was evaluated in 2007 by the University of Auckland and then won the Mid Central Health award for Excellence in Service. In 2008 it won national awards for quality and care. This is one of the few Stroke Recovery Units in the North Island and the staff concerned are longterm employees. To maintain this service level it is important that the specialist staff are exposed to high quality training and contact with internationally recognised peers. With the opportunity for two specialist nurses to at tend a specialist con ference in Sydney, but The Hospital Supervisor, Sue Maney is handed the cheque by United Horowhenua Lodge Master, Barrie Buck, observed by Lodge Almoner, Jim Hall. The two recipients, Adrienne Court and Kelly Byrnes are delighted to receive the Freemasons support

having no funding available, the local lodges, United Horowhenua and Otaki commenced fund raising and, with the support of the District Grand Master, VWBro Jim Watt, an appeal was made to other Lodges in the Kapiti-Wellington District. As a consequence the appeal, with assistance from The Freemasons Charity, was fully subscribed. On 26th July United Horowhenua Master, Barrie Buck presented a cheque to the Hospital administration to meet the full cost of the August Conference registration, travel and accommodation for the two nurses. He said, “We are fortunate to be able to keep good quality staff in our area and have them manage a Stroke Recovery Unit that is the envy of its peers.” The project was oversubscribed and, with the agreement of the contributing Lodges, the excess funds were applied to a new wheelchair for the Village.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Grammar by any other name In 1890 the founders of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand embarked on the difficult task of forming a new Grand Lodge from three existing constitutional formations. The story of the politics in achieving this outcome is a story in its own right but the founding committee had the sense to adopt the constitution of the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) mutatis mutandis (Latin “…with those things having been changed which need to be changed.”) The UGLE Books of Constitution for 1873 and 1896 are quite remarkable for more than being the source document(s) for our constitution – the later edition is half the price (1/-) of the earlier with almost identical binding. More important though is the use of the term Grand Officer. Although the term Grand Lodge Officer is often seen in this country it appears to be an example of poor grammar rather than a legitimate term from the parent constitution. It is similar in many ways to terms such as the Royal Queen or the wet water. In fact, if the term Grand Lodge Officer is valid then Grand Lodge Master, Grand Lodge Secretary and District Grand Lodge Master should be equally valid. Already I can sense cries of “typical pedantic PGLec” but let’s pause a while. In RWBro Greg Goding’s presentations around the country he has talked of cringe factors. Surely the language and grammar of the Craft is something that we can tidy up with little effort if we really do want to attract educated young men. Freemasonry is engaged in the major challenge of organisational change as it moves into its fourth century of existence. The task ahead always looks huge but professional change consultants always have an answer to the question, “How do we eat an elephant?” The answer is of course, “One bite at a time”. By taking care of the small things ultimately we will address the large issues. Jeff Allan PGLec 9

OPINION

Pathways to the future On 2nd April WBro John Francis was installed as Master of the Research Lodge of Ruapehu No 444 and, in keeping with tradition, delivered a short paper, which forms the basis of this Opinion piece.

suggest that many of our Brethren associate Masonic research with events, both real and imagined, that happened long ago, I further suggest that need not be the case. Indeed, I believe there is much to be gained from examination of the comparatively recent past. Why, for example, did Lodges stop publicly advertising their meetings sometime early in the twentieth century? What prompted Freemasonry to turn inwards and to become more secretive at about the same time? What did Freemasonry do to alienate the press which appears to be the situation today? A study of these and other controversial questions, together with the events that provoked them, must surely benefit the Craft today. In the commercial world of the latter half of the twentieth century, researchers married their activities to those of people concerned more with development and progress. The result was that Governments acknowledged the combination of research with development to be a potent force, essential to the continuing growth and well-being of the nation and, of course, the organisations and societies that practised it. It is my hope that Masonry someday will venture into this field, not in the expectation that a host of innovations eventuate to possibly confuse and confound our society, but, rather that by identifying the

cause of any problems we will be able to correct the errors of our own making. Similarly, I believe that well considered and researched ideas submitted to a receptive, fair minded Craft could well lead to changes that just might modernise the way we do things. Every installed Master acknowledges that the instigation of any change in the fabric of Freemasonry is solely the prerogative of Grand Lodge, and so it should be; but might not different view-points, reached by way of research into associated truths, come in time to benefit a discerning and forward thinking society? In 1813 the United Grand Lodge of England ended nearly a century of bitter wrangling between its two factions by some inspired word-play that incorporated the Royal Arch into the Craft. I am not aware that we in New Zealand have any such wrangle today within our ranks, but that historic acknowledgement must act as a beacon signalling that good will and openness of mind guarantees progress and harmony. The lesson conveyed is that innovation, or the willingness to innovate, is an essential element to progress and guarantees survival. By way of illustration many of us are of an age to remember Kolynos toothpaste with its heyday during the Second World War. The packaging was to say the least, atrocious, an

John Francis – Royal Arch Mason.

ugly green and yellow! The rather gross marketing slogan was “Half an inch on a dry brush.” The competitors emphasised ‘whiteness’ with both their packaging and their claims for what their product could and would do. Kolynos, which stuck with the ‘old’ image was consigned to history about fifty years ago. Could this analogy be applied to Freemasonry as the fate awaiting the Craft? We are an ageing society where some reminisce about the wonderful social occasions they enjoyed when they first joined the Lodge, but now complain that nobody organises such events today. Memories are fine, but it is actions that count. The Relay for Life in a very short time has attracted the support of many Freemasons and is spoken of as being a great social occasion as well as a charitable event that demonstrates to the community that the Craft is prepared to do something for the less fortunate. In Queensland and Western Australia I have seen Freemasons, wearing suitably emblazoned caps or jackets, manning booths selling raffle tickets intended to benefit named Charities. It seems to me to be a simple and practical way of raising their public profile while at the same time benefitting a local charity. It may not make them better Freemasons, but it

might be viewed as a practical application of the principles stated in the Charge in the North East; I have not seen or heard any adverse comment on the activities of these Brethren and so wonder if this might be something to be endorsed as an approved activity for our own fund raisers? Freemasons began arriving in New Zealand possibly from the 1830s and, although Bro Joseph Banks walked on these shores in 1769, by 1890, when our Grand Lodge came into being, English, Irish and Scots Freemasons were quietly promoting the concept of brotherly love, relief and truth that is the cornerstone of our fraternity. Since then, by way of gift, bequest and prudent investment, what is now The Freemasons Charity, Masonic Trusts and some of our Lodges, have become comparatively wealthy and thereby able to be a major influence in caring for the aged, in medical research and in promoting both education and the arts. They also assist needy and deserving individuals as well as a huge variety of charities, their ability to do so made possible by the continuing support of members, accumulated wealth and the skilled administrators from within our own ranks. My concern is that, with a falling membership, there looms the possibility that in time the administration of our charities might devolve upon some faceless individuals in a Government Department, perhaps it could even be lost forever in some grand gesture by a vote hungry politician. Readers may take that as an extravagant and theatrical statement, but I hope I have alerted you to the peril that awaits us if we do not attract competent and qualified professionals to join us as Craft Masons. I am firmly of the opinion that we can do so by talking to the sort of people that we need. There are accountants, bankers and lawyers who would be interested in the possibility that, by becoming a member of the Craft, they may in time earn the right to administer, or more correctly, influence the administration

of our charitable funds. It is a privilege given to very few men. We just have to conscientiously set about finding such men and encouraging them throughout

their Masonic career. There will be a trigger point that will convert curiosity into active participation; we just have to find it.

John Francis – A man for all seasons I was initiated at Lodge Maniapoto No.206, Otorohanga at the Christmas meeting 1964, having travelled from Franz Josef for that purpose. Lodge Ross took care of my second and third degrees. The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No.47 became home until 1989 when I joined Lodge Rangitane No.369. In 1991 I was installed as WM and have since served another two terms as such. I was attracted to Royal Arch Masonry in 1977 where I have served in several senior offices. I have always been fascinated by history and the facts behind the more public face of events. The Research Lodge of Ruapehu has encouraged me to explore both legend and fact and to present my views to public scrutiny. I do not claim that my deductions are unerringly correct, but rather that they encourage others to look more closely at aspects of our fraternity they may have accepted for no other reason than “it has always been so.” With an education focused on art I joined an advertising agency on leaving school although my talents directed me towards administration. Compulsory Military Training in 1951 gave me the opportunity to change direction and I joined South’s Book Shops eventually managing shops in Wellington, Auckland and Hastings. In 1956 I was fortunate to be accepted as the first trainee manager in the newly formed Tourist Hotel Corporation of NZ. Following assistant manager positions at Wairakei Hotel and The Hermitage, I became manager of Hotel Waitomo and the Caves in 1962. In 1964 I was posted to Franz Josef Glacier to oversee the completion of the new hotel and later be confirmed as its first manager. With a growing family, city life beckoned and I became community Public Relations Officer for the City

of Palmerston North in 1967. After subsequent periods in the insurance and newspaper industries I became office manager of a structural engineering company where I remained until retire ment. I met my wife Heather while at The Hermitage and we enjoyed a very happy marriage until her death in December 2005. My son and his family live in Rotorua while my daughter and her family are in Perth, Western Australia. My hobbies include sketching, flyfishing and writing. A back problem has limited these activities of recent times but hopefully recent surgery will enable me to move more freely and return to normal life.

Fishing success.

GRAND INSTALLATION Q&A Time to plan for this great event – your questions answered

The 2013 Grand Installation will take place in Wellington from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 November. For colour and pageantry its will be up there with the Opening of Parliament or the Trooping of the Colours. There are advantages to be had from early registration as explained amongst the questions and answers which follow. What is The Grand Installation? This is the Installation for the new Grand Master and Investiture of his Grand Officers together with the business of Freemasons New Zealand. Being a national event it is open to all New Zealand Freemasons.

Who can attend The Grand Installation?

What are the venues in Wellington?

Anyone who is a member of Freemasons New Zealand, from Entered Apprentice to Grand Master. Also, many of the events are for our partners, family and friends and The Grand Installation itself is open to the public.

How often does The Grand Installation happen? It now only happens triennially (every three years) so you wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to participate, to catch up with old friends, make new ones, network, enjoy some really great social events with you and your partner, have a fun weekend and experience what’s new in Wellington.

The Michael Fowler Centre and the close by Amora Hotel.

What about Overseas Freemasons? All the Australian Constitutions send delegations plus some representatives come from other Overseas Constitutions.

Is there an Early Bird deal? Yes if Packages paid in full between 1st August 2012 and 30th June 2013 (with a $50 per person non-refundable deposit being paid) there is a generous discount.

What happens at The Grand Installation? The Grand Installation and ancillary activities, consist of a Welcome Cocktail Party, Business Session, Seminars, Workshops, Presentations, Ladies Function, The Grand Installation itself, a Grand Banquet, Church Service and Farewell Lunch.

What Packages are being offered this time around? Either an all-inclusive Registration and Accommodation Package or an all-inclusive Registration only Package. These cover both Delegate and Partner or Delegate only.

Is there any insurance to cover a sudden change in plans? $20 per person and conditions apply.

What is the reason for these all-inclusive Packages? Getting the best deal possible, not having to pay for events individually or even missing out on some of those events.

Will all Grand Lodge Officers be invested? Yes all Grand Lodge Officers will be invested on this occasion. However, anyone unable to attend will have the opportunity to be invested in his Division/ District at a later time.

Can these Packages be paid off over time? Yes you can arrange to make monthly contributions to spread the load.

Can you tell me more about this? The Registration and Accommodation package covers entry to all events, entertainment, food and beverages at all events and accommodation, including breakfast, for two nights (Friday and Saturday) at a choice of two hotels, Amora Hotel 4.5 Star and West Plaza Hotel 3.5 Star, both close to the venues, the Waterfront and central Wellington. The Registration Only package only covers entry to all events, entertainment, food and beverages at all events.

VW Bro Duane Williams; Wellington photos by Morris Robertson

How do I register? By submitting the Registration Form online via the Freemasons New Zealand website (www.freemasons.co.nz) or Completing a Registration Form enclosed with New Zealand Freemason or Upon request to Freemasons New Zealand, PO Box 6439, Marion Square, Wellington

Further questions? Send them to the Editor and they will be answered in the next issue of New Zealand Freemason. 13

FREEMASONRY MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

The Board of General Purposes charts the way ahead Over the weekend of 16–17 June the Board of General Purposes met to develop a Strategic Plan for the development and enhancement of Freemasonry in New Zealand over the period 2012–20. This is only the beginning of the process. The challenge now is for each of the National Committees, in consultation with the wider membership, to plan, develop and implement the changes necessary to provide the working tools for successful and growing Lodges. The Strategic plan is focused around seven Pillars each representing an area for discussion and development. They are:

Organisational Development

Charity

We will ensure a robust administrative base for Freemasons New Zealand, which is properly resourced under the respected banner of recognised values and ideals.

We will ensure our resources, experience and expertise are directed to the benefit, promotion, advancement and wellbeing of our brethren and their families as well as the wider community.

Leadership

Membership

We will enhance, nurture and promote brethren to develop to their full potential resulting in advancement, fulfillment and enjoyment within the craft

We will attract and retain highly motivated, engaged and diverse men to be part of our organisation.

Education We will provide the means and the environment in which brethren can improve their knowledge, capability, understanding and their appreciation of Freemasonry

Community Engagement We will use our recognised brand, culture, resources and experi ence to work within our communities, to promote understanding and acceptance of Freemasonry, our principles and aims.

Communication We will ensure, through the use of our recognised brand, the delivery of our fundamental ideals and principles to our brethren, their families and to our wider community

Strategic direction As a membership driven organisation, our focus for the next five years will be to enhance and improve the experience of every Freemason and their families. Members of the BOGP in discussion.

Derek Ricketts O.S.M.

A MAN WITH A VISION Past Master of Scinde Lodge Derek Ricketts was born at the family farm in Gloucestershire, England. He was the youngest in the family after two sisters. Times were hard in the 1930s and the family farm was lost in the depression. He had to leave school at an early age; working in farming until he met his wife, Audrey, a New Zealand girl, and emigrated to Napier in 1956.

erek started a paint shop in Tara dale and then joined the Mitre 10 chain in 1975, opening shops in Hastings and Napier and sharing a shop in Paraparumu under the Scott and Ricketts Mitre 10 Mega banner. It is this business experience that has benefitted Scinde Lodge. Derek was initiated into Scinde Lodge No.5, the oldest Lodge in Hawke’s Bay, on 19 May 1959. He moved up through the ranks to became Master in 1968, later Director of Ceremonies and served almost a decade as Lodge Secretary. He was awarded Roll of Honour in 1995. He was also a Past President of The Rotary Club of Taradale with over 40 years’ membership and was honoured with a Paul Harris Fellowship,

Derek Ricketts

Grand Master’s Order of Service to Masonry In recognition of his outstanding service to Freemasonry in the Hawke’s Bay for the 53 years as a member of Scinde Lodge and an enthusiastic supporter of all aspects of masonic activities and for his effort in promoting the principles of best practice in recruitment, property and business arangement for the betterment of the craft.

Derek Ricketts provided something very special to Scinde Lodge: a vision to provide a secure financial future of his Lodge, and the drive energy and commitment to carry it out. He identified issues that are still common amongst many Lodges today, principally that income from a few side orders or other Masonic Lodges that use a Lodge building is not enough to cover quality maintenance, improvements, insurance and running costs in a building that future Masons would be proud to call their Lodge. He promoted an idea to sell its 1932 Lodge Building, become a tenant in The United Lodge of Napier No.21’s rooms and use the money from the sale of its old art deco building to build a commercial business that would provide an annual income. Within 17 years, Scinde Lodge transformed its $200,000 into a $2 million debit free business. The final stage of Derek’s vision is to build a brand new Lodge complex with its additional

Presentation of O.S.M Award to WBro Derek Ricketts by MWBro Selwyn Cooper.

rental income to take Scinde Lodge into the next 100-plus years as a Lodge that will attract younger men and will stand the test of time. Derek, along with others, promoted a membership drive in Hawke’s Bay that has seen many new Brethren enjoy the benefits and fellowship that Freemasonry has to offer. WBro Ricketts RH was presented with the Grand Master’s Order of Service to Masonry, at the July 2012 Scinde Lodge’s regular meeting, by Grand Master MWBro Selwyn Cooper, in front of about fifty Scinde Lodge brethren and an equal number of Hawke’s Bay Masters, visitors and Grand Lodge Officers. Derek said he was lost for words, he no idea of what was coming and he would certainly have something to tell his wife Audrey when he returned home from Lodge. He thanked the Grand Master and those who made it happen. He felt humbled and honoured on behalf of his Mother Lodge. WBro Gary Severinsen QSM Scinde Lodge’s commercial property, Napier.

Looking to the future — The Acacia Society is launched An opportunity to continue the dream of our forbears Thanks to the contribution of our forebears, and from Lodges and individuals over the years, The Freemasons Charity has $28.5 million in capital funds. The current budgeted annual income comprises an estimated $1.3 million return on investments, $70,000 contributions from Lodges and $1,000 from estates. However, inflation is slowly eroding the ability to apply the income to the many varied and worthy activities, which are supported by the Charity. Thus, new initiatives are being formulated to boost the capital sum and the first of these, The Acacia Society, is launched with this issue of New Zealand Freemason and the enclosed brochure. The Freemasons Charity and its predecessors

A “Fund of Benevolence”, first reported in 1891 with a credit balance of 231 pounds, has existed in various, and often multiple, formats since the Grand Lodge of New Zealand was formed. In 1892 the Widows and Orphans Benevolent Fund was established followed by the Aged and Indigent Masons Fund in 1897. Six years later these were amalgamated into the Aged Masons, Widows, and Orphans Fund. Voluntary contributions were sought, principally at Installations, with the proposal that a contribution of one penny per day, per Mason would be appropriate. These plus other funds, each with their own Board, were set up over the years. In 1961, with the various funds being seen as cumbersome and confusing, Grand Lodge merged them into one entity known as The Fund of Benevolence which served the Craft well for forty years until 2006 when, in conjunction with new decentralised decision making, it was rebranded as The Freemasons Charity. For a more detailed history go to Issue 1, 2010 [Vol. 38] of New Zealand Freemason, which can be accessed on-line at www. freemasons.co.nz Project activities

With the restructuring of the network of benevolence officers and the role 16

of the Divisional Grand Almoners, The Freemasons Charity is able to provide swift assistance to those in need and to Lodges whose members are undertaking projects in their community. On the national scene The Freemasons Charity implements projects such as Hospital Packs distributed to hospital emergency departments, partners IHC in distribution of support material and continues an annual distribution of gifts for our Masonic Widows. Major activities have included subsidised defibrillators and the provision of Navman GPS units for St John Ambulances throughout New Zealand. Scholarships

From a scheme which had its origins in Auckland in 1978 the Freemasons University Scholarships programme has grown to one which, over the last 34 years, has funded 986 university and postgraduate scholarships, totalling almost $4 million, making the programme, which is fully funded by The Freemasons Charity, one of the country’s largest privately funded

scholarship programmes. The criteria for selection are clear, requiring an outstanding performance in academic studies and a strong active involvement in our community. The presentation of these scholarships, together with others such as the Freemasons Science Travel Awards, generate a large amount of publicity and goodwill for Freemasonry.

Research activities

To commemorate the Centenary of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand an appeal was launched in the early 1980’s to constitute the Masonic Chair of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Auckland. Thirty years later a new accord was signed to recognise the continuing support for medical research aimed at enhancing the life of the elderly in our community. At the same time a joint grant was announced by The Freemasons Charity and The Roskill Foundation to the Auckland University Department of Ophthalmology to assist research into the treatment of age related macular degeneration, the leading cause of irreversible visual impairment in people over 60 years. At the other end of the life span in 1990 an appeal was held in order to establish a Paediatric Fellowship at the University of Otago, to enable focussed research into issues affecting babies in the first two decades of life. Several of these Fellows are now world leaders in this field. Partnerships

In order to maximise the benefits and impact of like bodies there is now a new spirit of co-operation between The Freemasons Charity, The Roskill Foundation and the Potter Masonic Trust. By working together the three entities can,

in the name of Freemasonry, extend their reach across a wider section of the community in the most effective manner. Likewise, partnerships with The Royal Society of NZ, IHC, St John and Universities in New Zealand, have enabled the benefits of the Charity to extend far beyond what it would be able to achieve on its own. Future funding

In the six years since the launching of The Freemasons Charity the assistance to those in need has more than doubled. Lodge and national projects have increased and these are on-going op portunities to promote Freemasonry through edu ca tional scholarships and research partnerships. While the ability to fund these activities has relied heavily on the income from past contributions the time has come for the present generation, in the spirit of their forbears, to boost the fund. Bearing in mind that this is not the best time to be seeking monetary contributions, particularly from our older Brethren on fixed incomes, The Freemasons Charity has formed The Acacia Society, which,

A sprig of Acacia is a significant symbol within the Masonic Brotherhood. At funerals of a Mason it is placed on the casket as a sign of brotherly love and fellowship.

Bearing in mind that this is not the best time to be seeking monetary contributions, particularly from our older Brethren on fixed incomes, The Freemasons Charity has formed the Acacia Society, which, while offering benefits to its members during their lifetime, will not commit them to any financial contributions during that period. while offering benefits to its members during their lifetime, will not commit them to any financial contributions during that period. The Acacia Society

As recognition for making a bequest to The Freemasons Charity participants will, if they so choose become entitled to enjoy the fellowship and benefits of The Acacia Society. Membership will entitle its members to wear the Acacia pin and to receive regular information and personal invitations to Freemasonry events. The enclosed brochure sets out how to arrange for a bequest contribution to The Freemasons Charity, which is after all, your own charity. Morris Robertson

Cups, cakes and conversation THE FREEMASONS LONGEST MORNING TEA

Sausage sizzle in Levin.

United Horowhenua sizzle draws the crowds Although the United Horowhenua Lodge, Levin, held its Longest Morning Tea a week late is was for a good reason. The Lodge decided to move away from their own building to the District Community Centre, donated by the Council, on a day when it was available. This well advertised function, being close to town, drew the best crowd seen since the beginning of the event. The next good move was to attract the passers by with a sausage sizzle. With many products having been donated, all that was needed to complete the picture were the tables laden with goodies capably served by a team of ladies. Over 150 people passed through the venue, The event raised the target sum of $1,500 which, with the anticipated 1:1 subsidy from The Freemasons Charity, will contribute $3,000 towards the hospital shuttle bus. 18

Throughout New Zealand on the morning of Saturday 7 July, give or take a few variations in time and date, the Freemasons Longest Morning Tea was enjoyed in Lodge rooms and public venues. Funds were raised for a variety of charitable causes, principal among them being Camp Quality, which organises camps for children between 6 and 16 years of age who have cancer. From the known results, and with the 2:1 subsidy offered by The Freemasons Charity, about $18,000 was raised for Camp Quality. Attendance and outcomes varied throughout the country. Those Lodges which were innovative, promoted their events and went out into their community fared best. Others are encouraged to learn from the successful examples and next year think outside the square, plan their events well in advance and devise innovative means to draw the crowds. What follows is a representative sample from information gathered from participating lodges.

The Mid Central Health Board has gradually centralized all hospital services at Palmerston North. All patients needing Hospital examination, treatment or specialist consultations, have to travel at their own expense to that city. Many do not have reliable transport or, in the case of elderly persons, may not be permitted or capable of the drive. The shuttle bus service is operated by a local not for profit trust and relies entirely on community funding. In the words of the Lodge “Freemasons is a community organisation - and we chose this year to assist another Community based organisation that does not receive any Government assistance.” Shopfront in Wairoa Like United Horowhenua, Lodge Waikaremoana, which was supporting the Wairoa Dialysis Society, decided to change things a little and, rather that expect the public

to come to them, the Lodge went out to the Public. They used a vacant shop in Wairoa’s main shopping street where the set up their goodies. The morning was a deemed success as it was the first time Lodge Waikaremoana had participated in the Longest Morning Tea. Regrettably they did not receive the hoped for support from the weather. Shantytown experience Far away from Wairoa on the South Island’s West Coast lies Shantytown’s Masonic Lodge building, which is a replica of the Greymouth Masonic Lodge room, now demolished, which was gifted

Eugene (8) and Rosa (4) enjoy the cake on offer. WAIROA STAR

at the Snow Farm between Wanaka and Queenstown. Shantytown Lodge.

to Shantytown by the Lodge in 2000. This new building is used by two lodges - Advance and Mawhera. The building was the first Masonic Hall in an outdoor museum in New Zealand. A small group of Advance - Mawhera Brethren and wives were in attendance at the Lodge rooms in Shantytown where we they had tea, pikelets and biscuits ready for visitors to the village. As the morning wore on there was a steady stream through the door, some just looking, others perhaps a little curious and a couple with whom they had a good discussion about Freemasonry. Contributions were collected for Canteen Kids.

Wickliffe District ring around

Also in the Dunedin area, six Wickliffe District Lodges, Hiram, Aurora, Research Lodge of Otago, Roslyn-Morning Star and Waverley plus the Scottish District Grand Master and his wife and brethren from Lodge St Patrick held a combined morning tea in the Dunedin Masonic Centre. Boosted by telephone calls by District Grand Master John Dennison’s wife, to every wife and widow of Dunedin Lodge members, there were 66 people in attendance. The Neonatal Unit knitting was on display and funds were raised for Camp Quality and the local Neurological Fund.

Enjoying southern hospitality.

Alan Grant demonstrates the training gear.

Mosgiel readies for the snow Meanwhile, across the Southern Alps, Lodge St John gathered at the Mosgiel Freemasons Hall to host The Longest Morning Tea in the local area. Eighteen brethren, wives and families were present to hear a very interesting presentation from Mr Tom MacDonald, Manger of their beneficiary, Camp Quality South, who had travelled from Oamaru for the occasion. Following morning tea the group were entertained by WBro Allan Grant who spoke on preparing, organising and training for the Ski Orienteering competition to be held at the end of July

Ladies Lounge opened in Blenheim North to Cook Strait where the Blen heim Masonic Centre took the oppor tunity to have their updated Ladies Lounge, formerly a storage area beside the kitchen, opened by Marlborough District Mayor, Alistair Sowman. Simone Hill of Cinnamon House Design

Simone Hill looks on as Mayor Alistair Sowman cuts the ribbon.

who donated her services to design what she describes as the “intensely feminine” room undertook the design and colour co-ordination. The motivation for her gift came about because her father was a Freemason, and she has good memories of his time in the Craft. The lounge is available for public hire as a venue for events and celebrations. The Marlborough Sounds Barbershop Chorus under the baton of their Director, Rod Bird, entertained the seventy guests, representative of lodges in Marlborough. The Chorus is renowned for its close harmony singing and the members were generous in their support for the Longest Morning Tea. Hawke’s Bay conviviality Moving now between the wine regions of Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay, the brethren of Lodge Omarunui, together with brethren of the Hawke’s Bay Daytime Lodge, jointly welcomed around fifty brethren and visitors to the Taradale Masonic Centre for the Longest Morning Tea. Those present enjoyed a convivial hour or two together, socialising and enjoying a splendid array of home baking provided by the brethren and their partners, on a typically sunny, if cool Hawke’s Bay Saturday morning. A collection, made during the morning was donated to the Hawke’s Bay Youth Orchestra. Across town Scinde Lodge, despite newspaper advertising, experienced only a small turnout of members and visitors. Their objective was to raise funds to provide local schools with a St. John first aid kit for their field trips and outings. Afternoon tea in the Wairarapa For expediency on the day, United Lodge of Masterton held their Longest Morning Tea fundraiser on the afternoon of Saturday July 7th. This was well attended by Lodge members, their wives, partners, friends and Lodge widows. It was a very happy occasion, the theme of the day being “baby photos” of the current Lodge 19

members. After afternoon tea, provided by members, there were 8 baby photos and all present had a go at matching photos to names, with small prizes for the winners. Causing greatest amusement was the vote for “cutest kid”. There was lots of discussion and laughter with funds raised for Camp Quality. Masterton has always enjoyed their longest afternoon tea and will continue to support this great fundraising idea.

to Shannon English, a student at St Oran’s College to assist her in attending the China Stars International Friendship Games in China next Easter and playing in the hockey tournament. The Wellington Masonic Youth Trust The Camp Quality Team at made the grant possible. the Wellington function. Well over 100 attended the gathering, including several residents the funds raised was Camp Quality, which from Stokes Valley who responded to Hutt Wairarapa District has adopted as the lodge’s flyer drop, plus a huge new a charity for this year’s projects. Stokes Valley magic sign placed at the kerbside to attract Over the Rimutaka Hill from the people into the lodge rooms. The widows Tea and cakes in Wellington Wairarapa, Stokes Valley Lodge put of Stokes Valley Lodge organised the Five Wellington Lodges, Westminster, on something different. Magician catering. Zetland, Homewood, Taia-Raukawa and Nigel Kennedy along with his threeAquarius combined forces to stage their months old pet rabbit entertained Hutt Valley grandeur event for the benefit of Camp Quality. about sixty youngsters, mums, dads and Further down the valley a very successful Once again the Wellesley Boutique Hotel, grandparents to thirty minutes of pure Longest Morning Tea was organised in home to three of the lodges, served the magic. It was reported that even refreshments with panache using the rabbit was bemused. silver cake stands, fancy cups and This was a morning tea with saucers. Guests were entertained a difference – craft stalls, the by David Trott’s skill on the magic show and a model railway keyboard. While the numbers exhibition, complete with a of Freemasons and their families railway modeller showing the attending were disappointing audience how it is done. The there was a good turnout from craft stallholders were selling Camp Quality volunteers. a variety of goods, including By means of a $500 donation hand-made greetings cards and from each of the participating art works. Lodges, paper money donations at The brethren and families the door, a raffle, a donation from Hutt Valley silver service. from Lodges Mangaroa and an anonymous benefactor and a Trentham joined in the fun and 2:1 subsidy from The Freemasons were in attendance for the presentation the Petone Masonic Hall by the Hutt Charity, $15,000 was raised for Camp of a set of 15 ukuleles to Barbara Hay, Valley, Te Puni and Lower Hutt Lodges. Quality. Principal of Koraunui School in Stokes Between 65-70, widows and friends as Elsewhere in the Wellington Region Valley, courtesy of a grant from The well as Masonic wives and brethren were NZ Pacific, Coronation and Ngatiawa Free masons Charity. As a lead-up present. Comments from those present Russell Lodges combined to host their to the presentation, a young ukulele were very positive with all saying they event at the Johnsonville Masonic Centre player entertained the crowd. This was would return next year and bring friends, with entertainment by a jazz duo. There followed by a grant presented by District the more the merrier. was much interest from visitors and funds The Ladies of the Lodges supplied the were collected for the Johnsonville Food Grand Master, VWBro Warwick Bell, food and brought their Bank and the Johnsonville and Newlands best china and silverware. Toy Libraries. Lodges Mana Windsor, Five of the brethren together with The Order of the Eastern dressed in their ‘Tails’ to star and Masonic Widows enjoyed a acts as waiters. WBro convivial morning at the Porirua Lodge George Allan provided the rooms noting, “it was all about caring and background music on the sharing with others.” piano. The beneficiary for Morris Robertson

A selection of the craft stalls at Stokes Valley Lodge’s Longest Morning Tea.

Talented trio destined to take on the world

As a student, Kieran Rayner regularly busked on Lambton Quay, Wellington, to help his finances. One lunch time a Freemason, Ken Stokes, encountered him, resulting in his being engaged to perform at the Westminster Lodge Christmas dinner held on the Tugboat Restaurant in Oriental Bay. That was Kieran’s second encounter with Freemasonry. His third encounter, along, with Bianca Andrew and Edward Laurenson, was being selected for the inaugural Freemasons Dame Malvina Major Emerging Artist Programme. This extension to the partnership between The Freemasons Roskill Foundation and the NBR New Zealand Opera was announced at a function in Wellington in May and reported in the June issue of New Zealand Freemason. In this issue we tell the story of these three artists who have ambitions to perform on the world stage. Kieran Rayner … and a taste of Shakespeare Born in Miramar, Kieran moved to Kapiti at age eight. Artistic talent runs in his family, his great-grandmother, a noted NZ landscape artist, his grandmother an international filmmaker and his mother a London-trained actress and voice teacher. Kieran first performed in public when he was eleven in a Coasters Musical Theatre production. “I loved it so much, I began singing lessons the following year, and haven’t stopped since. That year, age 12, I won the National Freemasons Smokefree

Speech Competition, funnily enough using singing to punch home the message. During his secondary school years Kieran sang in the Paraparaumu College Music Road show, a yearly touring production, alongside a wide variety of other activities, from acting and debating to tap dancing and football. In 2005 he was chosen, with 22 others, for the Shakespeare Globe Centre, New Zealand Young Shakespeare Company, to spend two weeks in London, rehearsing and performing at the Globe Theatre. In the 7th form he was Paraparaumu College Arts Captain and produced a charity student variety show. By then, as he says,

“I knew that of all the things I did, music was simply the greatest joy - it was my future.” Kieran recently graduated with Distinction in a Postgraduate Diploma of Music (Classical Performance Voice) from the NZ School of Music, studying under Emily Mair and Margaret Medlyn, concurrent with a BA in English Literature. His performing career has encompassed an eclectic range of styles, including Music Hall and period dance. Some recent highlights include performing in this year’s Dame Malvina Major Foundation Gala Concert, Beet hoven’s Missa Solemnis (Vector Wel 21

Age 12 after winning Freemasons Smokefree Competition, with Minister of Health, Annette King.

As one of Fagin’s boys from Oliver Twist – Coasters Musical Theatre 2000.

Graduation, 2010.

lington Orchestra), Handel’s Messiah (Hamilton Civic Choir), Bach’s St Matthew Passion (Orpheus Choir), and operatic roles in Handel’s Alcina and Rossini’s The Journey to Reims with Opera in a Days Bay Garden. Since 2008 he has sung in eight operas with the New Zealand Opera Chapman Tripp Chorus. Last year he won 1st prize for Modern Chanson in the Alliance Française Song Competition giving him a week studying French song at the Conservatoire de Musique in Nouméa, New Caledonia. He has since been engaged to perform there professionally in November. Kieran is very much looking forward to experiencing the Emerging Artist programme. In his words, “singing is a joyful, integral part of my life, and I aim to make it my profession. Exquisite music and dynamic stagecraft meet in opera, and this is why I love it; the combination can evoke such powerful emotions. After the Emerging Artist programme, I intend to audition across Europe to further my vocal studies. Funds and fortunes willing, I will find good teachers, and set up a base overseas from which to launch a professional opera career.”

out to Lowry Bay, Eastbourne. Her formative years were spent at Queen Margaret College, and later Marsden Collegiate, both in Wellington. With the long distance between her house and the school in the city, she would get up early in the morning to catch a lift with her father. “This was how my love of music was fostered; my Dad has varied musical tastes – everything from country and western, blues, classical and folk music – and he would play me all sorts of things on the stereo. I liked to sing along to country songs and make up harmonies, and I was always interested in the emotional integrity of music” she says. Bianca played lead roles in school musicals and it was also during this time that she fell in love with the French language, and consequently French music. She was passionate about French, English, Art History, Classical Studies and Music.

Bianca says,“the great thing about operatic singing is that it brings together all these passions into one profession – languages, history, stories, symbolism – that is why it is the perfect job for me.” Apart from opera, Bianca’s other special interest is astronomy. She is fascinated by outer space, stars, and our place in the universe. Her favourite place to visit is the Carter Observatory in Wellington. Bianca began her Bachelor of Music at the New Zealand School of Music in 2008, and completed her Postgraduate Diploma of Music in 2011, where she studied under Margaret Medlyn. In her words, “I’m so happy to now be an Emerging Artist with New Zealand Opera – it is a wonderful confirmation of my love for opera, and I am excited about all that I will learn in the coming year. Looking towards the future, I would

Bianca Andrew … and a fascination for astronomy Bianca was born in Wellington in 1989, the first of four children. They lived in a little house in Ngaio before moving Bianca Andrew.

Bianca at the grave of French composer Francis Poulenc, Paris 2011.

love to study a Masters degree in London at the Guildhall School of Music, and in five years’ time I hope to be working as a professional opera singer in Europe. I will always have a special love for French mélodie, and I hope that I can take that love and share it with others as a recitalist and writer one day.”

Edward Laurenson … a portfolio of musical theatre Edward was born in Auckland and grew up in the family home in Remuera. After attending Auckland Grammar School he completed a Bachelor of Commerce double majoring in Information Systems and Operations and Supply Chain Management and an Honours Degree in the latter at the University of Auckland. While at Auckland Grammar Edward sang with the Barbershop Chorus and Quartet, played the saxophone with the Concert Band, and sang in his first production, as Marius in Les Miserables. He fondly recalls his early experiences of performing at school assemblies. He started studying singing privately with Christine Hallett during his last few years at Grammar, and she encouraged him to participate in vocal competitions, attend the National Singing School, complete Trinity Grade 8 and his ATCL. Edward has played a number of roles in musical theatre productions including Marius in Les Miserables, Rolfe in The Sound of Music and John the Baptist/ Judas Iscariot in Godspell. In 2008 he played Danny in Grease at the Aotea

Edward Laurenson.

Bianca in the Marsden School Show Follies in 2007.

Centre, Tinman in The Wiz and Tony in the Harlequin Theatre’s production of West Side Story. At Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park in 2007, 2008 and 2010 he sang a number of solos, duets and medleys. He is a member of the Chapman Trip Opera Chorus and has just completed a season of Rigoletto having previously joined them in Eugine Onegin, and Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci. Edward’s recent successes have inclu ded becoming a finalist in the New Zealand Aria Competition in Rotorua 2011, placing second in the Seamus Casey Memorial Award in 2012 and winning the Senior Vocal Championship in the North Shore Performing Arts Competitions 2011. He also placed second in the Premier Award at the Hamilton Competitions’ Society 2010. He has been fortunate to be able

to perform a small number of arias in competitions. Amongst these the most exciting has been as Figaro, singing Se vuol ballare with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra in the NZ Lockwood Aria final in Rotorua. It is a dream of his one day to perform this role on an international stage. In Edward’s words, “I enjoy perfor ming, becoming a character and connecting, through character, with an audience. I am passionate about furthering my opera studies in a leading school of music overseas so that I have the opportunity to develop greater breadth and depth in my voice and gain a range of new experiences that will enable me to make progress towards my dream of an international career in opera.” Morris Robertson Opera photos by Oliver Rosser

Edward in full voice.

For the good of the community Max Harris addresses Freemasons Scholars Lawyer and Rhodes Scholar, Max Harris, was a 2010 Freemasons Post Graduate Scholar. He was an invited speaker at the 2012 Presentation Ceremony. What follows is an abbreviated text of his address to the 2012 recipients. In 2011, in recognition of his academic record and community service Max was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship which he has just taken up at Oxford University.

’ve been asked to speak on what I have done since receiving the Scholarship, and what it has made possible for me. I want to speak not just about what I have been able to do with the Scholarship, but also about some bigger themes. I want to touch on the broader values that underpin the scholarship, which explain why you are here today. Those values are generosity, community-mindedness, and support for young people. It is a useful time to reflect on the importance of those values, and to reflect on how we can further cultivate them in ourselves and in our society. The two years that have passed since I received the Freemasons Scholarship have been some of the most fulfilling and rewarding years of my life, in part because of what has been made possible after receiving the Scholarship. I decided that I would use the Scholarship money to fund a summer of unpaid work in law after my final year at the University of Auckland. I was determined to find work that used the power of law to its maximum to achieve progressive social change and I set my sights on the American Civil Liberties Union, which I knew would require financial support since the ACLU does not pay interns Max visiting Yale while in New York.

and has its main offices in New York. With the security of the Freemasons Scholarship, I managed to organise a phone interview with the Human Rights Program of the ACLU and I was fortunate to be offered a position as a legal intern for three months from November 2010 to January 2011. I had an amazing few months at ACLU. The rhythms of that city were so memorable: the subways from Brooklyn every morning, the walk down to work near Wall St and past the JP Morgan Chase building, the break for bagels, cream cheese, and bad coffee at morning tea. The work helped me understand that law could be a force for good. I provided an update every morning on the WikiLeaks releases and how they affected the accountability of the US Government for its War on Terror activities. I helped to write a memorandum that was going to Harold Koh, one of Obama’s chief legal advisors, on why the US government should accept that certain international law applies to US officials and soldiers overseas and I wrote a report on how international law might aid the fight against over-imprisonment in America. I was surrounded by inspiring lawyers. My team leader was Jamil Dakwar, a Oxford Union.

Palestinian lawyer who had helped set up the group Adalah to lobby for Palestinian rights in Israel. These experiences brought me back to New Zealand feeling buoyant and positive. After taking up my job as a clerk to Chief Justice Sian Elias at the Supreme Court I became committed outside of work to building projects in the spirit of the public interest law pursued by ACLU. I helped to develop JustSpeak, a youthbased criminal justice group that aims to provide a more moderate and humane voice in the debate around punishment and prisons – as a counterpoint to the Sensible Sentencing Trust. More recently, I have been working with one of this year’s scholarship recipients, Louis Chambers, on Law for Change – a project that highlights, for university students, the public interest pathways that can be pursued with a law degree. I have felt impelled to do further community work and have started taking part in a phone line listening service and prison volunteering. Some of these reflections might sound specific to law and my own experience. But there are some broader points that I think can be drawn out. The Freemasons Scholarship made much of all of this possible, and what it gave me was “three Cs”: comfort in financial terms, connections, and confidence. Financial security gives us space to reflect on what we really should do with our lives, and the Scholarship gave me this comfort, which allowed me to dream a little. The Scholarship has connected me to other students with whom I have stayed in contact and who are now involved in

Max Harris

certain projects,. It has also connected me to Freemasons who have proved to be role models in their community service. This scholarship is a symbol that represents everyone in this room standing behind you, saying “keep going”, stay true to yourself, and dream even bigger about what you can do in the coming years. In thinking about what you might do in the coming years, the only suggestion I’d make is to use the values underpinning this Scholarship as a starting point for your thinking. It doesn’t aim to fashion new values out of thin air but channels, supports and draws out existing values that are conducive to the creation of a decent and caring community. This Scholarship stands first for generosity and giving. We are a thoughtful and self-sacrificing society and the Scholarship reminds us of that collective quality. It also enjoins us not to be complacent, to set our minds to problems in New Zealand that call for generosity of spirit; problems like child poverty or over-incarceration and to use our talents in a giving way. Secondly this Scholarship stands for the importance of community and surrounding yourself with good people. As New Zealanders we’re a connected country, one that has always recognised the value of pooling our resources for community gain, as with our unique accident compensation scheme. This Scholarship gives those values special weight. Freemasons operate on the basis that there is something special about gathering in a group. A community is being created today, the 2012 Scholarship group, with whom hopefully you can

all stay in contact. Take this value with you when you leave the doors of this ceremony. Seek out good people, be guided by good people in thinking about where you want to work, and make an effort to replicate the community spirit you see in action today in other spheres of your life. Lastly, this Scholarship is all about support for young people. This connects to trends in broader society where young people are emerging as a greater force to be reckoned with. Through social media and in groups such as Generation Zero,a climate change group, the P3 Foundation, which works on global poverty issues, and JustSpeak, young people are using their innovation, imagination and impatience to get their voices heard. Remember that this Scholarship calls on more of that activity. It is asking you all to build on the energy and special talents of young people as a group. I want to leave you with a Maori whakatauki or proverb, which goes like this: “He aha te huarahi? – i runga, i te tika, te pono, me te aroha.” It means “What is the pathway? – it is doing what is right with integrity and compassion.” As you face forward towards your future, with all of us standing behind you and supporting your endeavours, I think doing right with integrity and compassion is a useful navigating light, alongside Freemasonry’s values of generosity, community, and support for young people embodied in this ceremony today. I hope that you can keep this navigating light with you as you set off on the exciting journey into the future.” Max Harris

My parents, who worked in the develop ment and health fields, travelled around the world a lot. One year after I was born in London we moved to New York and then to China when I was two, before settling back in Wellington four years later. I spent my primary school years at Clyde Quay School where I remember competing ferociously in sports, especially cricket, with my twin brother, becoming immersed in cultural activities, and learning to love writing while, at the same time, being imbued with a strong sense of values and interest in Māori culture and language. Then we were off again as a family, moving to Indonesia for a whirlwind four years. My final schooling was 18 months at Wellington College before going to Auckland where I got involved with debating, student politics, and volunteer work as I completed my Law/Arts conjoint degree, returning home to Wellington at the start of 2011 to take up my current position as clerk to Chief Justice Sian Elias at the Supreme Court. I was always a big fan of cricket growing up, and I have maintained my love of sports over time. I enjoy cricket, soccer, and tennis, and play weekly for Rough Justice, an indoor soccer team made up of judges’ clerks in different courts. Theatre was also a major interest of mine at school, and I still try to watch plays regularly in Wellington, while maintaining ambitions to one day put pen to paper to write a play. Much of my time, though, is taken up with work on JustSpeak, work I’ll be sad to leave behind while I am in Oxford. Ben, Alexis and Max as children.

A scholar and a Freemason Sam Wakelin follows in the family footsteps

recipient of a 2012 Freemasons New Zealand University Scholar ship Sam Wakelin had already made his first move in Freemasonry, having been initiated, a week earlier, into Lodge of Progress, No. 22 which his father Graeme is a Past Master and his brother, Craig, is a Master Mason. Sam’s grandfather, Ron, was a member of lodge Abercorn-Tuahine No.76 in Gisborne. Born in Dunedin in 1982 Sam went to Leeston Consolidated School and to then Ellesmere College where he shone in English, Design and Art. He represented the College and Canterbury in the Under 16 basketball team. His final College year was spent at Middleton Grange where he was awarded scholarship grade for Art Design. Sam gained a Bachelor of Design

District GM, Richard Bray, and Eric Arthur Thorpe surrounded by representatives of Orders he has played for.

from the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology and went on to work as an in-house designer at Crop and Food Research in Lincoln. While working he also illustrated a children’s book written by Charles Nimmo about New Zealand farming entitled Sam & Poppy, A Dag of a Tale. After a year’s extensive travelling in 2007 Sam was inspired to study cultural history, consequently enrolling at Canterbury University. He put his energies into studying Ancient Greek and Latin languages. His commitment to these pursuits resulted in his being awarded the Freemasons Scholarship, which he will use towards his postgraduate studies. Alongside his study commitments Sam assisted in the earthquake recove

Sam (left) and Craig Wakelin delivering water to Eastern-suburb residents in Christchurch following the February 22 Earthquake.

ry, digging liquefaction and then, with his brother, Craig, delivering water to Christchurch residents. For recreation Sam practices Tai Chi Chuan with Chan’s Martial Arts, enjoying the chal lenge of learning a martial art and the health benefits it confers. Recently Sam illustrated his second children’s book The Lost Lunch to be sold as a fundraiser for Leeston Consolidated School. Sam’s future aspirations are to teach Classics or Languages and thereby add vitality to the study of the arts in New Zealand.

Music to the ears Eric Arthur Thorpe recognised for a lifetime of harmony On Sunday 15 July a special afternoon tea was held in Napier to recognise the long service given to Freemasonry by Eric Arthur Thorpe. Eric holds the QSM for services to Music, the Roll of Honour in the Craft, and the 1st Principals award in the Royal Arch. The District Grand Master, Eastland, VWBro Richard Bray writes.

ne of our members from Lodge Omarunui No.216 picked up Eric and got him to the hall at 1.30 pm, where I had arranged for nine out of the eleven orders that Eric played for to be in attendance in their respective full regalia along with approximately sixty wives and brethren. Eric was speechless when he saw all of us dressed in our finery. I then Presented him with a Certificate of Merit and read the citation from the Divisional Grand Master. As Eric has never been a Warden in any Lodge, we were not able to give him a higher honour. Born in England in 1922, Eric was lucky enough to have a musical ear. His mother recognised his talent at a early 26

age and encouraged him to take up the piano and, in 1936 at the tender age of 14, he was given permission by the Police to enter and play in a London Pub where he accompanied Vera Lynn who is still living in England at the age of 96. Eric spent three years on cruise ships and played for some film stars of the time. After the three years he decided that sea going life was not the best way to bring up a family and he became shore based. Eric Joined Freemasonry in April 1956 in the Senlac Lodge 5273 EC. When his raising ceremony was over the Director of Ceremonies took him to the Organist’s seat saying, “This is your place from now on” and it was to be so for the

next 56 years in both the English and New Zealand Constitutions. Eric emigrated to New Zealand in 1976. He is Married to Pam and has one son and two daughters. He has been the Musical Director for all of the musical societies in Napier during his long career and has played most nights when a production has been on. He has now officially stopped playing at the young age of 90 years. He is still a member of Lodge Omarunui and comes to our meetings and is enjoying just sitting and watching. We wish him well for the future. VWBro Richard Bray

MASONIC EDUCATION

Putting the excitement back into Freemasonry WBro Dr George Allan, recently appointed Chairman of National Education Committee, has firm views on where Masonic education should be heading, on the need to escape the repetition of ceremonies by rote and how it can be done in a way that will enhance the experience of being a Freemason.

large number of Masons are saying that Masonic Education needs a revamp, needs a new look, needs leadership. They want to see some action. I will use my brief to guide Masonic education for that purpose. My philosophy of life is based on consensus and co-operation, mediated with the practical knowledge that we can’t please all the people all of the time. Consensus and co-operation are themselves based on listening to all sides and finding a path that will not upset people. Under my chairmanship the National Education Committee will never dictate what to do in your Lodge. Instead, we will advise and assist, suggest things to try that focus Masonic Education on the tenets of the Craft. The watch word will be “Leadership” The following paragraph outlines the current situation as seen by many Brethren. The aim of Masonry is to find worthy men and make them Masons, to get those Entered Apprentices passed to the Fellow Craft degree and to raise them to Master Masons. In time these Master Masons are encouraged to become Lodge Officers so they can take an active part in initiating worthy men, passing and raising them so that, after climbing the ladder, they can become Master of the Lodge. In short, many think that the aim of Masonry is to carry out 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree ceremonies, with a break once a year to install a new Master. We seem to have fallen into a mind-set that says “If we’re not doing a ceremony – we are not ‘doing’ Masonry, if we don’t have a candidate – we are failing. Brethren, we seem to have lost sight of the main point of Masonry, which is for a man to become a better citizen of the world, for each and every one of us to become better people. We can do this

by trying to learn the Hidden Mysteries of Nature and Science, and to find our true self. The Oracle at Delphi, in 650BC, had the motto “Know Thyself,” advice that has appeared in literature many times since and is as relevant today as it was then. We are taught these very things in each of the degree rituals, but how many of us really do become better citizens of the world? How many of us look for and find the hidden mysteries in Nature and Science or come to know ourselves? I believe these are the true aims of Freemasonry. I also believe that Masonic education should help Brethren with these tasks. For subsequent issues of this magazine I will write articles that contain ideas to try in your Lodge and to bring them back into the main focus of Freemasonry. We can start this process by finding ways to engender more interest and enthusiasm into our ritual. Those who attended a Divisional Conference in May this year would have seen me outline a three-part view of Masonic Education: Training for Lodge Office Training for running the Lodge Understanding our work as Freemasons

The first of these, Training for Lodge Office involves preparing Masons for the posts of Master, Wardens, Deacons, Inner Guard, Tyler, Chaplain, Organist and Director of Ceremonies. This is best done at Lodge level under the watchful eye of a good DC and the National Education Committee can assist by providing guidance in the form of booklets that outline the duties and how best to practice charges. Some of these are already in existence and the NEC is working towards making these more readily available in digital form on an

WBro Dr George Allan

educational website. The second part is Training for running the Lodge, which revolves around the Lodge Secretary, Treasurer and Trustees. These jobs come under the province of the National Development Committee, chaired by WBro Roger Carson, and the NEC will work closely with his committee to ensure we do not duplicate our efforts. We will also work closely with the National Communications Committee and the recently formed National IT Committee to ensure educational matters are broadcast to every Freemason in New Zealand. The third part, Understanding our work as Freemasons, is where we will focus over the next three to five years aimed at putting back the excitement into Freemasonry, to make it more interesting to all of us and to make it come alive. My future articles will ask you to “Try This” in your Lodges. Ask your Lodge committee to agree to a prime spot, of 20 to 30 minutes as a regular part of the Lodge meeting, for Masonic Education, a practice already in place in a number of Lodges. Get someone to read one or two sentences from the ritual you are about to perform or have just completed and facilitate a discussion on what it means. Get Brethren to discuss it in small groups for five minutes and then get each group to say what they have discovered. You will be genuinely amazed at what you learn about Freemasonry. Over the course of a few meetings you will also be amazed at how your Lodge bonds together. Try it. George Allan 27

From trauma to triumph Madeleine Pierard and Camp Quality In 2008 lyric soprano, Madeleine Pierard, with support from Freemasons New Zealand, was presented with an Arts Foundation New Generations Award. Madeleine left for London six years ago, quickly making her mark. She has appeared in The Royal Opera House, Royal Festival Hall, the Basilica of St Peter in the Vatican City, St Marks in Venice and the Forbidden City in Beijing. But, despite her busy schedule, Madeleine, with grateful memories of the support given during what is probably the most difficult period in her life, she has readily agreed to be an Ambassador for Camp Quality New Zealand.

adeleine, now 30, became well known nationally after winning the 2005 Lexus Song Quest. Coming from a large, musical family, Madeleine studied piano from an early age before turning to the voice as an instrument. She later completed a Bachelor in Music at Victoria University in Wellington and a Post Graduate Diploma at the Royal College of Music in London. She is currently a Jette Parker Young Artist with The Royal Opera, Covent Garden. Madeleine has won many awards during her residency, most notably the Lies Askonas Prize, the Great Elm Award at the Wigmore Hall, The Les Azuriales Ozone Opera Competition in CapFerrat, France and the Singer’s Award at the Royal Overseas League Competition. However, Madeleine’s life has no all been a bed of roses. Madeleine, who at the age of eight was diagnosed with B-cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, underwent two years of intensive treatment including chemotherapy, often in isolation. She has pledged her support for Camp Quality the organisation that 20 years ago helped turn her life around. Madeleine describes Camp Quality as “the most remarkable catalyst in my healing process.” Camp Quality, which is supported by Freemasons New Zealand, has been providing support services for children living with cancer for more than 25 years. Each year, at a cost of more than $600,000, CQNZ, a not-for-profit volunteer orga ni s ation, organises summer camps for more than 300 youngsters with cancer,

matching them up with highly trained staff and companions who provide one-on-one support for each young camper where the goal is to provide fun and comradeship and to encourage the children to focus on the positive. To quote Madeleine. “The camps enabled me to feel like a kid again, identify with other children who were facing similar difficulties and most significantly attach wonderful and positive memories to a time that was otherwise rather traumatic. “I still treasure my time at the camps. I adored my companions and fellow campers and all the staff who were like a warm, loving family. Every activity was carefully chosen and planned so we could have the most fun-filled days imaginable – to forget, for a while, the dirge of life in a hospital bed.” Madeleine acknowledges she is one of the lucky ones who hasn’t had any appearance of cancer since she was out of remission. Camp Quality NZ Chairman, Gary Troup says “we are delighted to welcome Madeleine back to the Camp Quality family as our new ambassador. For Madeleine to achieve what she has in such a short time in the highly competitive and demanding arena of opera singing is nothing short of amazing. Last year she returned home with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra as part of their ‘Odes to Joy’ tour and, In August this year Madeleine was back on a 10-concert tour for Chamber Music New Zealand.

Despite it being a hectic tour visiting 10 centres in the space of 21 days, Madeleine was determined to assist CQNZ when time permits. “I want to do all I can to spread the word about this incredible venture (CQNZ) and the gift that it is for so many young children affected by cancer. I just hope it will continue for many, many years.” Morris Robertson

While our families in Freemasonry are not immune from the many diseases which strike our population they can be assured that they have the support of their Lodges and of The Freemasons Charity which not only provides immediate support but, along with various Masonic Trusts, provides valuable funding to enable long term research into the many debilitating afflictions which can affect our citizens. This is one of many stories as told by 52-year-old Jeanette, wife of Grand Steward, Francis Bottrill, and mother of two daughters each of whom, together with their Lodge, are always there to support her. We thank Jeanette for sharing her story with our readers.

Living with Mr Huntingtons W

hichever way I looked at it the age of 36 was not going to be a vintage year for me. My mother had just passed away, my father-in-law suffered a heart attack, my husband, Francis, had just been made redundant and our small business was struggling financially. On my 36th birthday my doctor sat me down and told me. “Jeanette, your gene test for Huntington’s disease is positive.” I wasn’t surprised, as this aptly named disease had indeed been hunting me for as long as I could remember. One of my earliest memories is of my father and me running into the fields of our farm in Gisborne. We were trying to escape my mother, who was prone to bouts of anger and violence. We didn’t know it at the time but her behaviour showed the classic signs of Huntington’s. Huntington’s disease kills off cells in the brain, which can lead to a lack of muscle co-ordination and some times judgement and reasoning becomes dif ficult. Years ago, people suffering from Huntington’s used to be accused of being alcoholics because of their speech slurs, balance problems and jerky movements. As they started showing signs of emo tional distress, some were even given electric shock treatment. Although I will be spared such nasti ness and extreme therapy, the miserable news was hard to take. Having always looked for the positives in life I was now stunned. Three months later it finally hit home. My big worry was the inevitable deterioration of my body and mind and how my husband, daughters Lynda, then

10 and Deborah, then 9, and friends would cope. But, though I was concerned, by then I’d been through so much. “Bring it on,” I thought, “what’s next?” In a way it was nice to give all the screaming and overacting a name. Mr Huntingtons, Francis calls him. The link to Freemasonry came about when our daughters, then 13 and 11, spoke to Omarunui Lodge about their experiences at camp for young people with Huntington’s in their family. A donation from the Lodge had made it possible for them to attend. Professor Richard Faull, of the Auckland University Brain Research Centre, was aware of the girls presentation and Omarunui Lodge supported the case for him include Huntington’s disease in his Freemasons Charity supported research. Huntington’s has continued to attack my brain cells. I now drink through straws because my facial muscles are slowly drooping. I sometimes forget simple things and suffer from anxiety and depression. This can seem quite overwhelming. Francis and I have begun to plan ahead. When we were renovating our house we widened the doorways in case I need a wheelchair. We have started

Symptons of Huntington’s disease include Irritability • Moodiness • Paranoia • Facial grimaces • Loss of memory • Speech impairment • Difficulty swallowing

to tick off our bucket list too – “keep it simple and doable” is our motto. There is no known cure for Hunting ton’s yet, but we manage the symptoms as they arise. Each person’s case is different but, whatever Huntington’s throws my way, my support team is there. Having an amazing doctor helps too. Huntington’s is a genetic disease, so for each of my daughters there’s a 50/50 chance they’ll have inherited it. When they are ready to be tested they will be. “But, until then, I tell them “just go and live and make the most of now.” That’s what I am doing and, right now, that means helping to organise charity fundraisers with small teams of my friends. Of course there are good days and bad days, but I stay positive. After all, the more lemons you’ve got the more lemonade you can make. I would like to thank Freemasonry for the support it have given so far, and continues to do so, so readily and freely. This support allows Dr Faull and his team to continue to look into the way the brain functions, the different diseases and the way they occur. One day it may lead to the discovery of a cure or the way to slow down the processes that cripple so many New Zealanders. Many Brethren of Freemasonry, along with the general public, benefit in many ways from the research that is taking place as Dr Faull and his team investigate Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and the many other brain diseases that impact on so many families. A very BIG thank you from the many silent sufferers. Jeanette Bottrill 29

Top of the South rapid response

The Nelson Rapid Rescue Team is comprised of two trained and experienced professional fire fighters and one advanced paramedic who respond on the Summit Rescue helicopter to remote accidents to assist with the safe rapid recovery of trapped persons and their transport to hospital.

he team was formed to provide enhanced response in remote loca足

tions typically involving motor vehicles, the fishing industry, forestry, farming and industrial accidents. As some Volunteer Fire Brigades have large response areas it can take over an hour to reach the scene of an accident whereas the helicopter can be there in less than 15 minutes, thus gaining 45 minutes, which can make the difference between life and death. The unit was using an inefficient and outdated multi-tool donated by a local volunteer brigade. The goal was to purchase the latest set of Holmatro lightweight rescue equipment. As the

Fire Service is not funded for accident rescue voluntary efforts were the only way to obtain the equipment, which was costed at some $27,000. The Nelson Marlborough Freemasons Charity and local Lodges raised over $12,000 and this was topped up by a subsidy from The Freemasons Charity of $15,000 The new set of rescue gear has great advantages in that the cutter and spreader are two separate units and, therefore, more efficient and with a far greater operating speed for the same weight which is a premium when being transported by helicopter.

ABOVE Top of the South Rescue Trust trustee Dick Lyall, right, with Nelson Marlborough Freemasons Charity chairman, Rex Lucas, with the specialist cutting equipment Members of the Nelson Marlborough Freemasons Charity, back left, Ron Hiscoke, Derek Nees, Bruce Hodgson and Colin Parkins with Top of the South Rescue Trust trustees Kevin Douglas and Max Milne.

LEFT Dick Lyall, left, Rex Lucas, Dave Key, and Kevin Douglas with the specialist cutting equipment and box to be used in the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. MARION VAN DIJK AND MARTIN DE RUYTER, THE NELSON MAIL

Appreciation for hospital pack hero Thomas Lowe was initiated into Lodge Haeata No.272 in April 1968. In that same month the Wahine foundered in Wellington Harbour and many survivors ended up in hospital with no personal belongings. Although unconnected to this story it illustrates a much needed service, not then available, that VWBro Lowe has performed so well over recent years in Hawke’s Bay.

homas Lowe became Master of Lodge Haeata in 1976 and subse quently attained Grand Lodge ranks as Past Grand Bible Bearer in 1991 and Grand Lecturer from 2002 to 2004. However, it was his more recent service to the hospital packs programme that resulted in VWBro Lowe being presented with a Grand Master’s Certificate of Appreciation by the Ruahine District Grand Master, VWBro Paul Brittin, on 23 July. Paul Brittin, in making the presen tation said, “VWBro Lowe has been involved with the hospital packs initiative since its inception over four years ago. I’m sure that most of us will realise the there is often a considerable amount of work involved in setting up a new initiative such as the hospital packs. VWBro Lowe was involved, on our behalf, with

the implementation via The Freemasons Charity. The packs are designed to provide a few necessities to people who arrive at hospital, as the result of an accident or emergency situation, with no personal belongings and it is often some time before a family member is able to provide the basic necessities. I might add that the packs arrive in a box just as components, which require assembly before delivery to the Hawke’s Bay DHB to which Thomas Lowe has supplied in excess of 1,180 packs. This service has now been extended to the DHB’s Maori Health Wing. Brethren, I’m sure you realise the VWBro Lowe’s generosity extends into the wider community with many people receiving care and support in their time of need. I recall being involved with one

Typical hospital pack.

such case a couple of years ago when a visiting brother from Australia tragically lost his daughter. However, all good things have a habit of coming to an end and, while VWBro Lowe’s enthusiasm and dedication to this and many other facets of Freemasonry are still very strong, he has decided that it’s time for someone else to take over the co-ordination of the hospital packs and for him to spend more time with his wife, Joan. VWBro Lowe, as a small token of appreciation for the dedicated service you have freely given to the hospital pack initiative, I have been given the pleasure of presenting you with this Grand Master’s Certificate of Appreciation as a small token of thanks for your valued support.” The hospital packs programme is sponsored by The Freemasons Charity and is applied widely throughout the North Island. Typical items in a pack, depending on gender, include a toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, a comb, a refresher towelette, a shaving set, makeup remover, shampoo and tissues. Morris Robertson

Paul Brittin, District Grand Master presents Thomas Lowe with his certificate.

SOUTHERN FREEMASONRY SHINES Presentations and recognition in Otago Sunday 10th June once again saw a well-attended annual Otago Masonic Charitable Trust presentation function at the Masonic Centre in Manor Place Dunedin. Those present included grant recipients, Paediatric Fellows, representatives from Otago University and the Freemasons University Scholarship Otago recipients. Regional grants

The afternoon began with the presentation, by RWBro Merv Gilkison and VWBro John Dennison, of 2012 grants to 14 Greater Dunedin organisations ranging from pre school education to Grey Power as well as sporting and youth groups. Similar functions were held in Alexandra and Milton with the grants totaling $66,800. In addition $750 each was given to four food banks. Clive Sims, of the Andersons Bay Sea Scouts Group gave a reply of thanks on behalf of the recipients. Next on the agenda was the presenta tion of the 2011 Port Chalmers Marine Lodge Tertiary Bursary to Sarah Foerg followed by the presentation of NZ Coastguard Certificates to the Dunedin participants of the Youth Development Programme; Barton Dick, Spencer Peacock, Mitchell Hastie, Shannon Read, and Steven Trotter. Historical linkages

The second part of the afternoon was the Celebration of the three Freemasons

Paediatric Fellowships, and five Univer sity of Otago Freemasons Scholarship Awards introduced by RWBro Terry McConnell, Superintendent of the Freemasons Charity. VWBro Alan Jackson, chairman of the University of Otago Freemasons Scholarships Committee, addressed the audience beginning with references to the Monarchy, the foundation of modern Freemasonry and its links to the Royal Society. He went on to say “Today we see the link between Freemasons and the foremost University for Research in New Zealand. Dunedin celebrates being the home to that wonderful institution – the oldest in the country and I’m parochial enough to say that we probably are the best in many ways, not only for research but also for the style of campus we have here. With our immediate past Vice Chancellor, Sir David Skegg, as Chairman of the Royal Society in New Zealand we can see the strong link between enduring institutions, the monarchy, research institutions, The Royal Society, the University of Otago and the Freemasons.

Merv Gilkison, District Grand Master, Scottish constitution, presenting a cheque to the Warrington Play Centre.

Investment in education is a cornerstone of Freemasonry.” Paediatric Fellowships

Continuing his address Alan Jackson noted that, “At the University of Otago Medical School The Freemasons Charity investment in the Paediatric Fellowships programme, in the current year, is $150,000 and we consider the money to be very well spent.” He then invited Dr John Adams, Dean of the Dunedin School of Medicine and Chairman of the New Zealand Medical Council, to say a few words about the Freemasons support for Paediatrics. Dr Adams praised the long term support given by the Freemasons of New Zealand allowing paediatric research to continue as it has for the last 24 years, its results continuing to improve health prospects for our youngest Kiwis. This was followed by Dr Pamela Jackson, Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics and Child Health, and a Freemason Paediatric Fellow in 1999, spoke about the research being undertaken by each

The Freemasons Charity Administrator, Sheila Hicking, presents defibrillators to representatives of Otago Indoor Bowls association and the Green Island Bowling Club.

Georgia Knowles, Freemasons Scholar 2012.

of the Fellows. As each Fellow was introduced they were presented with an envelope, a certificate and a cube paperweight symbolic of the rough and smooth ashlars of Freemasonry. Freemasons University Scholarships

After presentations to speakers Alan Jackson referred to the Freemasons University Scholarships programme, as reported in the June issue of New Zealand Freemason, and invited Associate Professor Annabel Cooper, Department of Sociology, Gender and

Social Work, to say a few words. As a previous recipient of a Free masons Bursary Professor Cooper was able to personally attest to the importance to a student of receiving such support and how crucial the continuing commitment to education from the Freemasons of New Zealand through The Freemasons Charity funding was to the University itself. The students, Georgia Knowles, Louis Chambers, James Mountier, Philip Pirie and Anthony Risely, were then introduced and received their cube paperweights. Their certificates and cheques had been presented a few weeks earlier in Wellington. Post Graduate awardee, Georgia Knowles spoke on behalf of the recipients. Georgia, in formally thanking Freemasons for their support, also spoke of how it enabled the recipients to continue their studies without the added financial pressures and encouraged them to continue to set higher goals for themselves. She also spoke of the need in today’s world for students to travel overseas to hone their skills but also to bring those skills back to New Zealand. As part of his summing up Alan Jackson referred to the work of The Freemasons Charity Administrator, Sheila Hicking, noting that she would be staying on to meet with the university to plan the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Paediatric Freemason Fellowship scheme in 2013. Alan Jackson’s final words were “I can say on behalf of all Freemasons here,

John Dennison, District Grand Master, Wickliffe, presents a cheque to Bev Ramsay, representing the Andersons Bay Sea Scouts.

Arthur White, Course Director for the Stewart Island Elwing Course, presenting Barton Dick with his certificate.

that we are delighted to be in a position to make such a significant contribution to the well-being of Otago. Most people would have no idea that we are dealing in such large amounts of money, as there is virtually no publicity given to it. Just watch this space for some more exciting news about the relationship between Freemasons and another Department at University and the Hospital in the coming weeks.” Master of Ceremonies, Grant Watson, closed the afternoon’s proceedings. This was followed by a full-scale afternoon tea. Evidence of how the attendees, including the students, buy into the event was demonstrated by the fact the room was full for at least an hour before people started drifting away. Morris Robertson; photos by Brian Connor

Superintendent of The Freemasons Charity, Terry McConnell, presents Mee Yew Chen with her paediatric fellowship, with Dr Pamela Jackson looking on.

Uawa and the Transit of Venus T

he Transit of Venus could never have been anything less than an astronomical event for the people of Tolaga Bay (Uawa). With the Tolaga Bay Area school having earned one of three places for a trip to the Northern Hemisphere to view the transit of 2004, this event became both a celebration of their achievement and their unique place in the history of New Zealand. Transit view by telescope.

For the pupils of Tolaga Bay Area School, winning a place in that competition was a dream come true and that dream was kept alive with a further visit during 2010 when students and staff flew to England to consolidate relationships established in 2004. Thus the stage was set for Tolaga Bay–Uawa to host celebrations for the transit events of 2012 – events that culminated in the “Lifting our Horizon” forum in Gisborne which was attended by more than 200 delegates. Despite weather forecasts to the contrary, June the sixth dawned fine with clear skies. However, as events commenced with a powhiri at Hauiti Marae, the sun began to play hide and seek with an increasing cloud cover. The powhiri was followed by a rededication ceremony at the Tolaga Bay wharf, at 600 metres the longest concrete wharf in the Southern hemisphere. With over $5 million having been raised for restoration work by the community of Uawa it seemed only fitting that this event should coincide with

transit activities. As we sang the opening bars of “God defend New Zealand” the clouds parted and the sun shone just as the transit was due to commence. As part of their pre-transit activities, pupils of the Tolaga Bay Area School participated in a series of four projects timed to culminate on this day. A multimedia mural was unveiled, titled “Our Stories, Our Voice” in which every student was represented and four time capsules containing contributions by all students and staff were installed beside a plinth in the form of a sailing vessel with over 500 tiles decorated by students, their families and members of the community. Also, as part of a sustainability project, students replanted the Uawa River Mouth, their aim being to reflect the original foliage found by Joseph Banks and Captain Cook in 1769. The seeds

The 2004 competition for secondary schools, which offered teams of students and teachers the opportunity to win trips to Britain to observe that transit event was organised by the Royal Society of New Zealand with Freemasons New Zealand as the supporting major sponsor.

outcomes of the funded trips have been enormous for the young people of this community. I felt immensely proud to be associated with an organisation such as the Freemasons whose contributions have made life changing opportunities available for almost two “generations” of students since 2004. Jan Cooper

School motto display board

used were provided by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and had been descended from the original plants collected by Banks. A full ecological restoration is expected to take ten years to complete. The capping event of the day was the “Transit of Venus” play written by the pupils and performed with attitude in the historic Reynolds Hall. The play reflected how members of the Uawa community

have taken ownership of their unique place in the history of New Zealand, based on Captain Cook’s arrival which occurred after he had viewed a transit of Venus from Tahiti. The pupils of the Tolaga Bay Area School have truly embraced the school motto of “Unrelenting Achievement With Attitude” (U-AW-A) and it was clear that the positive

School mural.

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Rawene

Wagons roll: The Masons are coming Turning “the forgotten highway” into memory lane has led to thousands of dollars being realised for Masonic benevolence.

t began with a plan from Brian Crone of The Mangere Lodge No.330, for a rugged exploration by road “in search for that which has been forgotten” – an intri guing trek for fun, fellowship and fundraising down State Highway 43, from Taumaranui, via Whanga momona, to Stratford and on to Inglewood. Adven turous Freemasons rallied to the idea. And so they set out on that socalled forgotten highway, with Lodges Whangamomona No.234 and Nau mai No.177 on the itinerary. That was a couple of years ago. Mock auctions, fines and donations with the assistance of the Mangere Masonic Charitable Trust and The Freemasons Charity raised $20,000 for The Immune Deficiencies Foundation of New Zealand which enabled it buy specialized pumps allowing children to have treatment in the comfort of their own surroundings. Such a successful trip begged a repeat performance and, at Easter this year, a fleet of cars and campervans took to the road again, this time for a circuit of Northland with the aim of raising Masonic transport crowds the Rawene Ferry.

money to buy a precision laser device for the Middlemore Hospital Burns unit, a project initiated and promoted by RWBro Eddie Eeles, Northern Division Grand Master. The forty travelers, from Auckland, Waikato and Rotorua, included the Grand Master, MWBro Selwyn Cooper, Past Grand Master Ian Ross and Eddie Eeles together with their wives. Participating Freemasons paid an entry fee of $150, which, combined with fines, collections and the auction of paintings, mainly by Mrs. Eeles, produced a total of $4,110.20. With contributions from the Mangere Masonic Charitable Trust, The Freemasons Charity and the Northern Division, a total of $19,628.00 was raised to complete in full the project for the National Burns Unit. Formalities were rather relaxed at each of the three Lodges visited – Pono No.203 at Dargaville, Mangonui-Kaitaia No.78 and Hatea No.431 at Whangarei, and the expedition into the unknown, or half-remembered, rolled on against a backdrop of magnificent coastal scenery and historical interest, helped by background material distributed by Brian Crone. Having visited the Matakohe Kauri Museum the explorers passed among the giants of the Waipoua Forest on their way north to cross the Hokianga by ferry, and go on to Kaitaia. Then came sweeping sea views as they made their way back down the east coast. Whenever they met Masonic brethren, or other

old friends, there was time for “pleasantly reminiscent chatter,” as one participant puts it. With the “In search for that which as been Forgotten” being the theme of such expeditions, other Masonic outposts await their turn in this process of mutual rediscovery and the column will roll again some time in the future, with the Coromandel a likely destination where great friendships will be made, rekindled and reunited, that will no doubt benefit the Craft in its mission of benevolence. Brian Crone

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Challenges, fun and value The benefits of international visiting

In our last issue we published an article profiling the Grand Lodge of Scotland and one of its New Zealand Lodges, St Andrew No.418, located in Auckland. This month we take a personal tour through a number of Lodges in Scotland itself, as seen through the experiences of WBro George Currie of Methven.

rmed with my NZ Grand Lodge letter of referral and appropriate certificates, I travelled to Scotland mainly on a family research project. My late father, VWBro Walter J Currie, had never achieved his desire to travel back to his father’s homeland to visit family graves. Armed with his Lodge Secretary’s jewel I fulfilled his wish. After 14 years of service in that office, Methven Lodge No.51 presented my father with a secretary’s Jewel and after a further 14 years they added a second set of secretary quills. In total he served 37 years continuously as secretary. His wish was for the jewel to be kept alive and used as a memorial jewel to be worn by the secretary of the day. With the support of the current Secretary I travelled with my father’s memorial jewel and wore it at every meeting I attended. Having corresponded

George Currie is presented with a copy of the history of St Andrews Lodge No.74 SC by the RW Master.

The Dumfries Lodge building where four Lodges, including one Operative lodge, meet.

with a number of lodges prior to my Masonry. departure I was well received upon my Meetings followed at St Michaels arrival. I arrived in Dumfries, the location Kilwinning No.63 for another initiation of my heritage, early in my stay where I and at Lodge St Magdalene No.100 SC was hosted by WBro Bill McLeod, a Past at Lochmaben where a 2nd degree was Master and Librarian of St Michaels worked. From Dumfriesshire I went to Kilwinning No.63 Scottish Constitution. Wishaw just 30min east of Glasgow City Bill went out of his way to take me to and attended an Installation meeting of Lodge meetings in his Dumfriesshire St. Mary’s Coltness Lodge No.31. This Galloway Provincial region. was the Lodge that my Great Uncle, My first meeting was to Lodge John WT Currie, was initiated into as Dumfries Kilwinning No.53, which a Lewis (son of a Mason) on 21st Feb coincided with the official visit by the 1907. He completed his three degrees Provincial Grand Master. A 1st degree in Freemasonry before emigrating to was conducted and on the candidate’s Vancouver, Canada. apron was overlaid “1775”, the year the A unique feature of the Installation Lodge was consecrated. Age and history, was that, rather than Master Masons not only in Freemasonry but also, in retiring for the Board of Installed Masters all that one sees and hears, is very to conduct their ceremony, the impressive and emotive when Board retired to another room coming from such a young where the Master Elect was country as New Zealand. installed as Master. While this I was asked to reply to was being conducted the Lodge the toast to visitors but, continued with a Past Master before doing so, the piper’s installing the new officers to their skirls commenced in the respective chairs. When the neighbouring room. He Board of Past Masters returned then marched into where the all new officers were in their supper was held and played a chairs and the newly installed medley of tunes ending with the Master was conducted to his Scottish National Anthem chair in the east. “The Flower of Scotland.” Travelling further north This was so emotional, that to Perthshire I stayed at as an international visitor, I Methven, namesake of really had to grip myself with Methven New Zealand, where the reception I received and I was escorted by WBro VWorBro WJ Currie’s memorial jewel. the welcome given by Scottish Hamish Young, a Past Master

Lodge Scone Museum. The mannequin is of a long term tyler from past years.

of Lodge Kildrummie No.906 and former Mayor of nearby Perth City. Our two Lodges have exchanged correspondence over the years and Lodge Kildrummie uses a gavel made by WBro Alister Page here in Methven NZ. Hamish took me into Perth to visit Lodge Scone No.3 with 1685 considered as its founding date, although there are documents that say the Lodge had meetings prior to this with the first Master being a John Myle (primus) installed in 1550. Further references to Masons go back to 1504 and operative Masons meeting 400 years earlier. Lodge Scone is rich in Masonic history, as is the region also in Royal history, particularly with the “Stone of Scone” used at Coronations. A most interesting feature, unique to this Lodge, is the Royal Arch vault keystone ceremony; down under the floor of the Lodge room and, other than a small brass latch, is completely unseen in the Lodge room. The history of the Grand Lodge of Scotland is shrouded in uncertainty and dispute. After the order of Lodges was established the right to No.1 was disputed by Lodge Kilwinning, Ayrshire, which was eventually granted the title “The Mother Lodge of Scotland Kilwinning No.0. The Lodge history attributes this 18th Century confusion to the assertion that “Mother Kilwinning was not blessed with very competent secretaries” My final meeting in Scotland was at Lodge St Andrew No.74 in Perth and, like all previous meetings, the reception was way beyond my expectations. This meeting was a Mark or 4th degree which is done in the craft lodges there rather than by the Royal Arch as practised in New Zealand. I visited the City Lodge rooms of Glasgow, Edinburgh and London without attending meetings. In Edinburgh I was given a personal tour by the curator who was a young Freemason, employed as caretaker of the complex. The main Lodge room was hired out for a charity to raise funds from stalls of a variety of produce. I also had an opportunity to attend St. Johns Lodge No.80, Grand Lodge of British Columbia in at Surrey south of Vancouver. This meeting was quite different from degree ceremonies in that

being November, the month of “Remem brance,” the evening took the form of a special ceremony based on “The Vacant Chair”. It is not a Masonic ritual, but it is an Australian Masonic ceremony adopted by Ontario and British Columbia Lodges. It is conducted in their War remembrance month to honour the Masonic member, a Serviceman who did not return from combat and his chair remains vacant. This is a ceremony that I believe NZ Masons could experience in the ANZAC month of April. The experience of international travel and visiting world Lodges is well worth the effort. Armed with the right credentials your welcome goes well beyond all expectations. Processes can be quite different, educational and adding to the experience, but the principles are similar and, as a visitor, one is kept on one’s toes trying to meet the little differences applied. We do not attempt this international visiting often enough, probably fearful of the challenge it might present, but the rewards are so worthwhile. It is beneficial to both the visitor and to the Lodge being visited as it cements our international fraternity.

One of the notable things spotted was that, at all meetings in both Scotland and Canada, I never saw a dinner suit worn, everyone was dressed in a plain suit. Dinner suits are used solely for Grand Lodge meetings and special occasions. Wherever I visited I received a Lodge tie specific to that Lodge and also a “penny”. The “penny” is generally a bronze medallion cast specifically for that Lodge itself. I brought home at least a dozen “pennies” as other visiting Lodges gave theirs to me as well. I had many challenges, and yet fun and a lot of satisfaction, with my recent international visiting, all of which added tremendously to my Masonic career of 49 years. WBro George Currie

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Freemasons

Roskill Foundation

Pulling together wins gold Three Masonic trusts working together will be more efficient and bring more good to those in need. A comparison between our fantastically successful Olympic rowing team and Freemasonry seems hard to imagine but the new spirit of cooperation now in place among the three major Masonic Trusts has the potential to produce the same gold results as our Olympian rowers. The concept of co-operation and consultation between The Freemasons Charity, the Foundation and the Potter Trust was outlined at the Divisional Conferences and through the editorial in ‘The Freemasons Charity Herald’ newspaper distributed with the ‘NZ Freemason’ magazine earlier this year. A plan of sharing information to avoid duplication and clashes with the same or similar beneficiaries is being put in place. The clear communication that can now be made to those seeking

assistance – the applicants for funds – is another advantage. A good example is Lodge projects. Districts and Lodges have sometimes been confused as to whom they should apply. Until now both The Charity and the Foundation have been providing funds for these purposes. In future The Charity will be the So just channel for imagine Mike such cases – for the Lodges Pope, Terry be dealing McConnell and to within our David Mace own Grand sitting in a skiff Lodge The and you’ll get structure. Foundation’s the idea! course will focus on the larger programmes where the level of assistance is much higher - in the medical and educational fields for instance, and where the demands are longer-term. The Potter Trust will continue to work where the benefit will be for children.

In this way our support will be more productive and more efficient and is already proving so. Our charitable funds will go further, reaching even more needy causes than before, providing the most benefit and carrying on our message of Masonic benevolence to be felt and seen by even more people. And that’s pure gold!

Foundation Video popular Two ‘reprints’ following the initial run of the Foundation video ‘A Power for Good’ have been required to keep up with demand. The video, explaining the charitable work of the Foundation and noting the differences between the three Trusts, has been shown at District and Lodge meetings particularly where the Ladies have been present and at public events. Enquiries for copies to Judith Miller at the Foundation please.

Charity achievements recognised Our Deputy Chairman RW Bro Mark Winger concluded his term of Office as Superintendent of The Freemasons Charity earlier this year. He stepped aside after an extended and highly influential period as the head of the Charity operations of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand beginning in 2005 when he was first appointed as President of the Board of Benevolence. At a meeting of his Mother Lodge Manukau Westmere No 24, Bro Mark was invested by the Grand Master as Past Deputy Grand Master a rank

granted to those who have served the Craft at this high level. MW Bro Selwyn Cooper outlined Mark’s achievements in bringing a renewed awareness to the charitable work of Freemasons New Zealand, reemphasising the importance of the people who carry out this important role within the organisation. He had brought focus on the work by branding it with a new identity, ‘The Freemasons Charity’ and had instigated a ‘back-to-basics’ strategy, streamlining the process of providing aid to the membership.

RW Bro Mark Winger is invested by MW Bro Cooper

We are indeed fortunate to have a man of such skill and ability in our management ranks and he will continue to serve the Foundation.

RepoRt

The Foundation can be contacted at PO Box 113144, Newmarket, Auckland 1149. Telephone: (09) 520 6414 or email: info@roskill.org.nz

Broad influence in opera sponsorship The new partnership between Freemasons Roskill Foundation and NBR New Zealand Opera impacts in many ways. The new Freemasons Roskill Foundation sponsorship was launched with announcement functions in Wellington and Auckland.

Auckland: The full complement take a bow

The first and direct benefit is the training and experience it provides to our promising young singers encouraging them to achieve high professional standards in the competitive world of opera performance. Wellington: Artists and sponsors This rewards these young achievers with thousands of enthusiasts throughout the opportunity to take New Zealand. The audience for NZ their promise to the highest plane Opera in New Zealand in 12 months on its own an admirable goal for our is impressive. The normal two maincharitable funds. stage opera seasons per year, with a Second; in the same way that The total of just nine performances in Freemasons Charity’s University Auckland and Wellington combined scholarships and Royal Society reach between 10,000 – 12,000 people programmes cause reverberations per season. This year, an additional among the many associated groups season, ‘Hohepa’ in Wellington with around those relationships, so our just three performances, increased joining with our national opera that number to 15,000. company will carry an impression Anything we can do to enhance of Freemasonry, to another group in that enjoyment for performers and society whose standing and reputation audiences alike (even to introduce is in harmony with our own and with a few more Freemasons and their whom we share many similarities. families to the art) can be called And need we mention the joy and worthy! delight that this Queen of performing arts brings to many

Our page in

the opera pr

og ramme

OPERA IN SCHOOLS: ‘The Magic Flute and the Stolen Sun’ As part of their ‘Opera in Schools’ initiative begun in 2011, the opera company has been touring with an adaptation of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. In the first two weeks of August the 45 minute production, featuring three current Freemasons Emerging Artists, played to over 400 school children around Auckland each day. Entertaining, educational - and in English – the production is designed as an introduction to opera for youngsters of all ages. It is hoped to expand the programme to other centres next year.

Young Artist of the Year The Freemasons Dame Malvina Major Young Artist of the Year will be announced in October. Word on the street is that the selection has already been made but the news is under strict wraps meantime.

SHOWING THE FLAG

The First Grand Principal in England www.royalarch.org.nz The First Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand, MEComp Bruce Hebbard recently visited England where he participated in two very special ceremonies. Supreme Grand Chapter of England

When I received an invitation to attend the Grand Convocation of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England I was told I had to report to Room 23. Entering the doors of Supreme Grand Chapter in Great Queen Street, London, I expected to have to ask where I could find Room 23. I was impressed to find a Past Grand Director of Ceremonies waiting for to conduct me to the room and to advise me of the protocols I could expect. Room 23 turned out to be one of the many Lodge/Chapter rooms in the building. When I was prepared, he conducted me to the doors of the main Chapter Room where I joined the First Left to right in London: Claudio Ferreria GJ Brazil, Wayne Hibble GZ Western Australia, Mario De Costa GH Brazil, Bruce Hebbard GZ New Zealand.

Grand Principal of Western Australia and the Second and Third Grand Principals of Brazil. If I was impressed with my intial reception you can imagine how suprised I was when I discovered I was to lead the party of visitors preceding the entry of the English dignitaries. The atmosphere was electric â&#x20AC;&#x201D; walking in through the main doors as 2,000 Companions rose to their feet, and advancing from West to East to their applause. As soon as we were seated the Officers of Grand Chapter entered followed by the Grand Principals. Grand Chapter was opened by the Pro First Grand Principal, ME Comp Geoffrey Lowndes, in the absence of the First Grand Principal,

ME Comp HRH The Duke of Kent. The First Grand Principal was unavoidably absent having been occupied the previous day with Grand Lodge Communication preceded, at dawn, by a wreath laying ceremony at the New Zealand War Memorial, and a wreath laying ceremony in Whitehall at 11:00 am. I felt a slight feeling of relief that my duties are not quite so arduous! The business of Grand Chapter was conducted quickly and effectively followed by a message from the First Grand Principal. With great decorum the investiture of Grand Officers commenced and as it progressed I wondered at the numbers involved. It was an indication not only of the difference in population between England and New Zealand, but also of the higher proportion of Craft Masons who join the Order in England than here, but, nevertheless I was surprised to learn later that more than 300 Officers had been invested. After the officially welcoming its Visitors, Grand Chapter was closed and the Grand Principals, Guests and Officers retired through the inspiring Lodge Room and progressed a hundred metres or so along one the outer hallways. The sight of the long column following behind us was, in itself, inspirational. As a wonderful way of concluding a truly memborable visit we were entertained to a three-course luncheon in the Connaught Room as guests of Grand Chapter.

District Grand Mark Lodge of Oxford

I was invited to attend, two weeks after that remarkable meeting in London, the Installation Meeting of the District Grand Mark Lodge of Oxford. It, too, was a daytime meeting and I arrived at 10:00 am in time for coffee before robing for the meeting. Once again I was privileged to enter to applause and although the numbers were not as large of those in London it was, none the less, an uplifting experience. The Installation was carried out by Pro Grand Mark Master MW Bro Benjamin

Addy in the absence of the Grand Mark Master HRH Prince Michael of Kent, brother of the Duke of Kent. Investiture of District Officers was conducted by the newly Installed District Grand Master RW Bro James Hilditch. Grand Lodge was called off and everyone adjourned to the spacious dining area for a wonderful meal, preceded by pre-dinner drinks. Following the meal Grand Lodge was reconvened and RW Bro Hilditch conducted the business session. I have to say that a large meal with drinks prior and a glass of wine is conducive to good concentration during

a business session. I have to admit to some slight feelings akin to inferiority having to explain to many present, most of whom were university graduates, predominantly from Oxford University, that far from being able to name the university he attended, the Grand Mark Master of New Zealand was an ex-publican. But it emphasizes the universal nature of the friendliness of our Orders that I was made most welcome at both meetings. It was a privilege to be able to represent the Royal Arch companions of New Zealand. Bruce Hebbard

A MAN OF MANY TALENTS

Les Borrell, First Grand Principal Elect

t is probably not surprising that Les Borrell, elected as the next First Grand Principal at the Grand Convocation last March, has the skills I have become familiar with. With a successful working background in sales, marketing and production management it is natural that he would have skills which would be of great benefit to his duties in Freemasonry and it was always likely that he would take on greater responsibilities as his skills and experience developed. A keen musician, he has accompanied many meetings with his deft touch on the keys of an organ, to the enjoyment of those attending. An outstanding speaker, he has filled the posts of Grand Lecturer in both the Craft and Royal Arch. A skilled administrator and ritualist, he has held the offices of Grand Superintendent in the Royal Arch and District Grand Supreme Ruler in the Secret Monitor and has risen further in the ranks of those Orders, as Second Grand Principal in the Royal Arch and Deputy Grand Supreme Ruler in the Secret Monitor. It is his management and educational skills, though, that I have come to admire most. My first encounters with Les were as Grand Superintendent of the Hauraki District and as a member of the organising committee for the Secret Monitor Grand Convocation

in Hamilton in 1999. “Drafted” in to assist with the registration of attendees I observed that one of Les’ great skills was encouraging others to contribute ideas and thoughts that didn’t necessarily fit accepted “wisdom”. This became even more clear the following year when, not only did he chair organising the Secret Monitor Grand Convocation in Tauranga in 2000, but, at the same time was also leading the planning for the Royal Arch Grand Convocation for March 2001 when Barry McLaggan was installed as First Grand Principal. Close to 200 registrants and successfully seating over 400 at the Banquet were testament to the skill of Les as chairman of the organising committee and to his ability to create a talented team around him. Since that time he has been involved in organising two other Grand Convocations for the Secret Monitor and, although the planning is now under the chairmanship of Jim Ingley who served as secretary for Les in the previous committees, he is closely involved in planning what will be his own installation as First Grand Principal in 2013. In all of this he has not lost sight of one of his true loves, Masonic education and understanding. I was able to draw on his services on several occasions when I was First Principal of Piako Royal Arch

Chapter No. 48 and then, as Master of the Waikato Lodge of Research No 445, I invited Les to present the Verral Lecture in 2002 as a culmination of a programme on the importance of education and research in Freemasonry. Three years later I sought his planning and management skills for the task of planning the Australia and New Zealand Masonic Research Council Conference, in Tauranga. The success of that conference was, once again, testament to the attributes of the man chosen to lead our Order from next March. The Order will be in good hands for two years from March 2013 and we look forward to the leadership of Les Borrell: Companion, Brother and friend. Gary Kerkin 43 43

In with the new This month we add a new feature listing recent new initiates to our ranks. They are the future of Freemasonry and it is up to those who have passed that way before, not only to welcome them and their families, but to adapt some of the traditional practices to ensure that Freemasonry remains relevant to them for, without them, our future is clouded. Jeffrey Wallace Romel dela Llana Anton Roswell David Kilgour Christopher Kemp James Lukmanov Bonifacio Siddayao Lindsay Gullery Samuel Wakelin Nicholas Penniall Matt Horan Robert Dempsey Jonathan Branton-Casey Colin Tucker Mark Thompson Andrew Mayberry Liam McLaughlin Jacques Kisling Steven Miles Jackson Dowie Gregory Milmine Ronald Powell Brenton Gordon-Glassford Nigel Isherwood Kirk Abejuela Glen Rogers David Gray Richard Dobson Gerald Wineera Evan Wils David Whatarau Kyrie Romero Arjay Mactal Craig Bennett Michael Alofa Lee Smith Andrew Winter Mario Rivera Scott Fantham Warwick Dalbeth Alexander Oreta Martin Kelly

Scinde Lodge No. 5 The Southern Cross Lodge No. 9 Lodge of Waitaki No. 11 Lodge of Waitaki No. 11 The Beta-Waikato Lodge No. 12 The Beta-Waikato Lodge No. 12 The Caledonian Lodge No. 16 Patea Kilwinning Lodge No. 18 Lodge of Progress No. 22 Lodge of Progress No. 22 Manukau-Westmere Lodge No. 24 Manukau-Westmere Lodge No. 24 The Ashley Lodge No. 28 The Ashley Lodge No. 28 The Lincoln Lodge No. 33 The Lincoln Lodge No. 33 Waihenga St Johns Lodge No. 37 The Te Aroha Lodge No. 52 The Ponsonby Lodge No. 54 The Franklin Lodge No. 58 The Ngapara Lodge No. 68 The Alpha Lodge No. 81 Lodge St John No. 84 The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98 Lodge Winton No. 108 The Taupiri Lodge No. 118 The Waipa Lodge No. 119 The Waipa Lodge No. 119 Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Waikaka Lodge No. 151 Piako Lodge No. 160 Lodge Kurow No. 164 Lodge Waitakerei No. 170 Lodge Ahurewa No. 181 Lodge North Harbour No. 182 Lodge North Harbour No. 182 The Avon Shirley Lodge No. 185 The Avon Shirley Lodge No. 185 Lodge Tawera No. 188 Lodge Tawera No. 188

Dylan Eymael Laszlo Bokany Razle Alluad Irving Go Don Redula Brian Meads Frank Reynolds Rodney Pearce David Jenkins Simon Cave Ashley Sherlock Wayne Turner James Irwin Brent Baigent Alexander Douglas James Baugh Craig Fincham - Lubbe Steven Morrison Terry Skinner James Johnston Christopher Wils Craig Martin Grant Clarkson Richard Baldwin David Rodenburg Gene Lee Paul Blackmore Peter Cross Dean Cogger Ajay Thokal Ricca Cooper Michael Paterson Haroutionn Arakelian Terance Kirk Nouri Sagban Tony Fryer Guy Paine Richard Buckthought Roger Dove Jonathan Dyas Christopher Domingo

Lodge Timaru No. 196 Lodge Takapuna No. 202 Pono Lodge No. 203 Lodge Titirangi Mt Albert No. 204 Lodge Titirangi Mt Albert No. 204 Empire Fergusson Lodge No. 225 Lodge Papatoetoe No. 227 Lodge Te Puke No. 261 Lodge Arawhaiti No. 267 Lodge Tuakau No. 278 Lodge Kumeu No. 279 Lodge Katikati No. 295 Lodge Pukemiro No. 301 Lodge Zetland No. 312 Lodge Howick No. 314 Lodge Te Puni No. 315 Lodge Te Papa No. 316 Lodge Te Papa No. 316 Lodge Pa-Ka-Ma No. 319 Lodge Eckford No. 334 Lodge Eckford No. 334 Ngatiawa-Russell Lodge No. 345 Browns Bay Lodge No. 346 Lodge Mana No. 352 Lodge Orewa No. 370 Maungakiekie Lodge No. 373 Lodge Mt Maunganui No. 376 Lodge Windsor No. 377 Lodge Wakatu No. 385 Lodge Otahuhu No. 387 Lodge Tironui No. 400 Lodge Tironui No. 400 Lodge Tironui No. 400 Lodge Tironui No. 400 Lodge Albany No. 404 Lodge Mangaroa No. 419 Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 Lodge Waikanae No. 433 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448 Lodge United Taranaki No. 456

Musical links bridge the gap

couple of years back the Freemasons Travelling Museum, curated by Therese Angelo, was staged in Dunedin. Local Freemasons distributed several hundred of the three-fold wallet cards with names and phone numbers on. Six months ago Alan Jackson had a phone call from a young man, Jonny Dyas, who had been to the museum display when he was 19 and had kept one of the cards. When he was close to 21 he started the process of joining and on 10th July was initiated into the United Lodge of Otago No.448, one month after his 21st Birthday. 44

Jonathan Dyas was born in England but moved to New Zealand at a young age. He has been playing the piano since the age of seven and is currently studying Music Composition at the University of Otago with an A minus average. As a pianist he has played for John Key, Michael Hill and comedian Jack Black. In his spare time he works at a recording studio creating popular music styles and learning how to produce music. After his studies Jonny hopes to produce and create popular music but also has an interest in writing music for film and television.

Jonny already has an affinity with fellow Lodge member, and Grand Treasu rer, VWBro Les Jonny Dyas at the keyboard. Green, for whom he played one of his original compositions on his keyboard on the occasion of Les’s 50-year badge presentation. Les has been a member of St Kilda Brass Band for 60 years and some of his fellow musicians also turned out to play.

SERVICE AWARDS 70 YEARS WBro Charles Herbert Christiansen PM The Alpha Lodge No. 81 Bro Ronald Gilbertson MM Lodge Moutoa No. 195 WBro James Owen Young PM The Lodge of Remembrance No. 318

60 YEARS Bro Mark Alister Knyvett MM WBro David William Ashley Faulkner PM WBro Hamish Duncan McLean PM RH Bro Eric William Belcher MM WBro Leslie Arthur Gilmore, MNZM PGBB Bro Alan Ross Alexander MM Bro Charles Robert O’Hara MM Bro Mervyn Leslie Joseph MM WBro Hugh Walter MacFarlane PM WBro Leo Ralph Stafford-Bush PM WBro James Edward Annear PM VWBro George Mervyn Daniels PGDC Bro Ronald Aylward Evans MM RWBro Alaric Waldo Wood PGW WBro Ronald Harold Ellyett PM WBro Edgar Reginald Patterson PM Bro George Douglas Thorburn MM W Bro Phillip Bruce Patchett PM

Scinde Lodge No. 5 United Lodge of Masterton No. 19 Lodge Rangitikei No. 38 The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61 The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61 Abercorn-Tuahine Lodge No. 76 The Forest Lodge No. 116 The Crown Lodge No. 138 The Crown Lodge No. 138 Onehunga Maungawhao Lodge No. 168 Lodge Timaru No. 196 Lodge Waverley No. 226 Lodge Howick No. 314 The Lodge of Peace No. 322 Lodge Tamaki No. 328 Lodge Eckford No. 334 The Milford Trinity Lodge No. 372 Lodge Wakatu No 385

50 YEARS VWBro Rodney Harries PG Lec WBro Athol John Webley PM WBro Kim Heergard McMillan PG Std B WBro Donald Alexander Robbie PM WBro Donald Francis de Rose PM Bro Maurice Clark Beck MM WBro William Kenneth Peacock PG Swd B WBro George Edward Wisely PM WBro Jack Calder Mowat PM RH W Bro Alan Scott Cooper PM Bro Colin Keith Cannon MM Bro Geoffrey Charles Goodall MM WBro Ernest Norman Leech PM Bro Graham Henry Hintz MM WBro John Henry Charles Parker PG Swd B WBro Thomas Frederick Mayne PM WBro William Bruce Craig PM WBro Robin Hardiman Watkins PM Bro Geoffrey Lyell Kay MM WBro Reginald Wynn Judd PM WBro Bruce Edward Turner PM WBro James Donald Anderson PM WBro Raymond Stuart Helms PM WBro William Charles McKenna PM WBro Nesbitt William Lovett PM WBro Albert Denny Dawe PM

Southern Cross Lodge No. 6 United Lodge of Masterton No. 19 The Greytown St Marks Lodge No. 53 The Ngapara Lodge No. 68 Lodge Winton No. 108 The Taupiri Lodge No 118 Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Waikaka Lodge No. 151 Lodge Aurora No. 155 Taia-Raukawa Lodge No. 229 Lodge Switzers No. 223 Lodge Gisborne No. 233 Lodge Tawera-O-Kapiti No. 253 Lodge Te Puke No. 261 Lodge Manchester No. 287 Lodge Orewa No. 370 Lodge Orewa No. 370 The Milford Trinity Lodge No. 372 Lodge Kerikeri No. 402 Lodge Kerikeri No. 402 Lodge Arawa No. 406 The Gate Pa Lodge No. 407 Lodge Whitianga No. 443 The United Lodge of Otago No. 448 The Hawkes Bay Daytime Lodge No. 453 Petone Daylight Lodge No. 458

The last column

ou will recall that, once upon a time there was a fellow called Aladdin, who had a magic lamp. Every time he rubbed the lamp a genie would appear and this genie could produce all manner of good things, and, because of this, Aladdin, his family and servants enjoyed a pretty high standard of living. But Aladdin was a bit like our modern businessman, he knew how the system worked, and he even knew how to work the system, but he didn’t tell anyone, least of all his wife, about it. All she knew about the system was what she could see—a beautiful palace filled with fabulous furnishings spoilt by a dirty old lamp that she wasn’t even allowed to clean, sitting right in the middle of the mantle-piece. Then, one day, while Aladdin was out of town, down the street comes a smart young fellow peddling new lamps for old. Mrs Aladdin, willingly but unwittingly, made a swap and, because of a failure in communications, gave away the substance for the shadow. As a result Aladdin, his wife and family and servants, employees is the modern word, went through sociological and economic hell until he could recover that, which, through his own lack of foresight, he had lost—almost forever! Doesn’t the craft, like the lamp, possess a precious gift, a wonderful power for good which, like the genie is impotent until someone knows what to do and uses a bit of elbow grease to translate its latent power into action. Brethren, have we, like Aladdin failed to communicate adequately and effectively to our families and friends, and the community at large, how the system, the craft, works—what Freemasonry is all about. Could we be in danger of losing those priceless gifts, the principles of square conduct, brotherly love and charitable conduct to others less fortunate than ourselves—through our neglect to communicate adequately and in time? Ronald L Gale, Queensland, from a speech delivered in 1979

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