NZ Freemason magazine Issue 3 September 2021 by Freemasons New Zealand

Freemason NEW ZEALAND

Issue 3 (Vol. 49), September 2021

National Summer Games HAMILTON 2021 8–12 DECEMBER

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In this issue From the Editor 2

September is Alzheimers Awareness Month 22

Hot Off the Press 3

COVID-19 alert levels Lodge operating guide 24

Grand Master’s Visits 3 From the Grand Master 4

‘Monkey Bikes’ for cancer and hospice 27

Here we go again News clips 6 From the Executive Director 8

Freemasons Foundation 28

OPINION

Auckland Freemasons team up with Tamaki Primary School to plan 800 native trees

Back to basics 10

Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics 11

Debunking the Myths 30 The Otago Masonic Charitable Trust 2021 annual grants presentation 31

FREEMASONS IN ACTION Two schools benefited from the now closed Lodge Arowhenua No. 473 15

THE FREEMASONS CHARITY

New Zealander interning at Masonic Medical Research Institute in USA 15

From the flames 32

Freemasons Charity Dinner in Auckland 16 Freemasons CAR-T Cell Research Programme 16

The Benevolence of the Brush 32 Hospital help 33 The parable out at sea – soulful sailing 33

A combined working in Christchurch 17 Visit the Virtual Masonic Library 17

Health and Wellbeing 35

Mini Lodge 18

Masonic Villages Trust 36

Progress update of Freemasons University Scholarship recipient 18

Potter Masonic Trust 40

Havelock Lodge No 104 celebrates 125 years and helps a number of Charities 19

Keeping an eye on KC

Partners in Freemasonry: Ladies Lunch –

Royal Arch 42 Freemasons Foundation 44 West Coast 70 Year Freemason 46 Another 70 Year Freemason 46 Two Triple Degrees and a Double Degree 46 Welcome to our newest Freemasons 47 From Entered Apprentice to 50 years a Freemason 47

Marlborough Masonry 19 Research Lodge of Taranaki Province celebrates 75 Years 19

The Last Word! 48 Service Awards 49

Grand Master visits Napier 20 Grand Stewards do a grand working in Auckland 21 Masonic Genealogy 21

COVER Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics.

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From the Editor

FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND

National Office Unit 2, 22 Tacy Street Kilbirnie, Wellington 6022 PO Box 6439, Marion Square Wellington 6141 New Zealand Ph: +64 4 385 6622 Fax +64 4 385 5749 Email: membership@freemasonsnz.org communications@freemasonsnz.org www.freemasonsnz.org

COVID-19 has challenged us all again but especially Auckland and we are thinking of them at this time and thank them for their efforts in containing the community spread generally from the rest of the country. As with the last major lockdown we need to stay in touch with members, family, widows and friends. Caring for others is one of the important tenets of Freemasonry. Just a quick reminder of why we are Freemasons:

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 (secretary@freemasonsnz.org). Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution should be addressed to membership@freemasonsnz.org or the Executive Director, PO Box 6439, Marion Square, Wellington 6141. Queries and comments regarding content and advertising should be addressed to the Editor. Contributions to the magazine, preferably in electronic form (e.g. MS Word documents) are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Photographs should be high quality, preferably in jpg or tif format. Contributions may be edited in order to fit space available and to achieve overall balance. Letters to the Editor should not exceed 300 words. A guidance sheet for preparation of publishable material is available on request from the Editor. Contributions should be forwarded to communications@freemasonsnz.org Freemasons NZ contributions to Duane Williams, Editor communications@freemasonsnz.org Royal Arch contributions to Duane Williams, Editor gsn@royalarch.org.nz Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November Layout by Bartlett Projects, Wellington Printed by Fisher Print Ltd, Palmerston North Copyright © 2021 Freemasons NZ

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‘When is a man a Freemason?’ by Joseph Fort Newton When he can look out over the rivers, the hills, and the far horizon with a profound sense of his own littleness in the vast scheme of things, and yet have faith, hope, and courage which is the root of every virtue. When he knows that down in his heart every man is as noble, as vile, as divine, as diabolic, and as lonely as himself, and seeks to know, to forgive, and to love his fellow man. When he knows how to sympathize with men in their sorrows, yea, even in their sins knowing that each man fights a hard fight against many odds. When he has learned how to make friends and to keep them, and above all how to keep friends with himself. When he loves flowers, can hunt birds without a gun, and feels the thrill of an old forgotten joy when he hears the laugh of a little child. When he can be happy and high-minded amid the meaner drudgeries of life. When star-crowned trees and the glint of sunlight on flowing waters, subdue him like the thought of one much loved and long dead. When no voice of distress reaches his ears in vain, and no hand seeks his aid without response. When he finds good in every faith that helps any man to lay hold of divine things and sees majestic meanings in life, whatever the name of that faith may be. When he can look into a wayside puddle and see something beyond mud, and into the face of the most forlorn fellow mortal and see something beyond sin. When he knows how to pray, how to love, how to hope. When he has kept faith with himself, with his fellow man, and with his God; in his hand a sword for evil, in his heart a bit of a song -- glad to live, but not afraid to die! Such a man has found the only real secret of Masonry, and the one which it is trying to give to all the world. Enjoy this issue which tells your stories to all our readers. VWBro Duane Williams MBE, JP, KCLJ, GSec

Hot Off the Press Auckland we are thinking of you Community transmission and community clusters can happen anywhere and again Auckland you are doing the hard yards in containing and eliminating the current one – so as to protect the rest of New Zealand. We are thankful and thinking of you during these trying COVID-19 times.

Thank you Auckland

GRAND MASTER’S VISITS A number of Grand Master visits have been or may be postponed or cancelled due to COVID-19. 11 Sep The Avon Shirley Lodge No 185, 125th Anniversary, Installation and 50 Year Badge Presentation, Canterbury Freemasons Centre, Christchurch. 17 Sep Hawke’s Bay Young Musician of the Year, Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. 5 Oct

Harmony Lodge No 325, 75th Anniversary, Freemasons Centre, Ashburton.

13 Oct The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No 47, Final Meeting at Church Street Freemasons Centre, Palmerston North.

14 Oct The Woburn Lodge No 25, Unique 3rd Degree, Freemasons Centre, Waipukurau. 23 Oct The Caledonian Lodge No 16, 150th Anniversary, Freemasons Centre, Timaru. 30 Oct Lodge Whitianga No 443, Installation, Freemasons Centre, Whitianga. 6 Nov Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No 109, 125th Anniversary, Freemasons Centre, Alexandra.

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9 Nov Lodge Mana No 352, 50 Year Service Badge MW Bro John Litton Past Grand Master, Freemasons Centre, Porirua. 11 Nov Centre for Brain Research, Freemasons Neurosurgery Unit Launch, Auckland. 16 Nov The United Lodge of Wanganui No 468, 60 and 50 Year Service Awards, Freemasons Centre Whanganui.

FROM THE GRAND MASTER

Here we go again J

ust when we were becoming com- re-engage in Freemasonry back in the fortable with the impact of COVID-19 Lodge room. In doing so, a Lodge Risk from our 2020 experiences, we were Mitigation Plan is important to ensure struck again by the deadly Delta variant. both compliance with the rules and with Like me, many of our Brethren will have the brotherly love that we all profess watch the nightly news reports that re- to admire. I also see our Brethren and corded the devastation in other countries families engaging in a reasonably ‘new around the world followed by the reality normal’ in their hometowns. Whilst that it was now in Australia which meant there are limitations on numbers in pubthat it was only a matter of time before lic places, cinemas, restaurants, libraries, New Zealand became exposed. shops, and workplaces that are all openAs Freemasons New Zealand, we ing in Alert Levels 1 and 2. But we must reacted well and developed plans and continue to be cautious. We have done procedures that served us well last year, this before and we can do it again. so I am sure that we will get through this I remain positive that all Lodges will current outbreak in the same manner. I follow the rules and will consider the don’t need to keep repeating the messag- impact on families and elderly Brethren. es that are announced on a daily basis as But please don’t forget the younger and it has become almost a ritual in its own newer Freemasons that are adapting right, but I do want to emphasise that we and changing behaviours in this new distinguish our future. We are One Team, have been here before, and we can do it environment. We are going to have this so by working together we will make a again. with us for quite some time, so it will difference. As I prepare this article, we have just be how we start to live with it that will completed a review of Maintaining our COVID-19 Operating momentum Guidelines for Lodges and the Alert Levels as they I am acutely aware of the start to change once again. impact that has fallen upon As much as this virus has our Auckland Brethren evolved, then so must we. who have suffered more I don’t have a crystal ball lockdowns than any other or have any knowledge part of the country. My greater that everyday heart goes out to you all Kiwis, but I do understand and you have the support that we must adapt to a of us all. new way of living and Looking back at the last socialising in our personal year, I thought that we may and working life, so it is have stalled in our objecimportant that we change Wash your hands Clean and disinfect Cough or sneeze tive of operationalising with soap and water frequently touched into your elbow or by and try and normalise the Strategic Direction to often (for at least 20 surfaces and objects, covering your mouth living with the impact of seconds). Then dry. such as doorknobs. and nose with tissues. achieve thriving Lodges the virus. I have no view with a growing and enon how long we will be in gaged membership. This this position, but there are does not appear to have some expert views that we been the case as I have may stay in Alert Level 2 heard first-hand of Lodges for a long time, or that we that now have a backlog could return to Alert Level of new Candidates. This Don’t touch your eyes, Put used tissues Stay home if you 1 but perhaps with modifinose or mouth if your in the bin or a bag feel unwell. is great news, but with it hands are not clean. immediately. cations. We may also have there are new challenges as different alert levels and Lodges may move in and some regional boundaries. out of lockdowns or endure For updates and more information on Therefore, I see it as keeping yourself safe, visit Covid19.govt.nz meeting restrictions. My being important for us to request is that we all look move safely and quickly to to the future and identify

Protect yourself and others from COVID-19

PROTECT_A4_20/03

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a pathway forward to ensure that new Candidates are supported and engage as they start their Masonic journey. Our Lodges may need to consider some options such as Emergency Meetings, Double Degrees or seeking the support of other Lodges to progress our new members. We cannot afford to stall our growth and our vision. I want to honour all of my obligations as Grand Master and attend meetings and celebrations as best I can within our meeting limitations. I am comfortable wearing a face mask in a Lodge room, as I do that now when I go shopping or when I fly. Lodges may also need to consider working together and sharing the load. District Ceremonial Teams could be formed to assist Lodges that may be light on members and those with limited available Brethren to deliver charges etc.

and relief. We also charge our Brethren to ‘practice out of the Lodge what we have been taught in it’. We are also charged to ensure that we pass on principles and tenets of Freemasonry ‘pure and unsullied from generation to generation’. In these unusual times, I ask that we all reflect on our Obligations and the importance of what Freemasonry teaches. Brotherly love stands out as something that we treasure and respect, but above all make sure that we practice it with a passion. This forms the basis of our thrust to have a ‘one team’ approach. As I said at my Installation, we can achieve much more by working together than each trying to do their own thing. Let us recommit to this and make it happen.

Brotherly love

I am quickly approaching the two-third mark of my term as Grand Master and we will soon be commencing the process of selecting my successor and other Grand Lodge officers. As I have travelled around New Zealand, I have been encouraged with the quality and skills of many Brethren. Most of the Masters that I have met had enthused me with their commitment to the growth and engagement of their Brethren, Lodge and with other Lodges in the District. My only regret is that my opportunities to visit

In tough times we start to see each other slightly differently. We all have different views and one of our strengths is that matters of politics and religion are not a topic of discussion in a Lodge room. However, with this must come respect and an understanding that we all have different views and that we don’t always need to agree. The Charges that we deliver in the Lodge room have very strong messages of tolerance, brotherly love,

Out and about

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and travel has been severely restricted and limited thus far. This has also had an impact on several Lodges that were desirous of celebrating their anniversaries or recognising long services and I am sorry that these have not been able to proceed. Hopefully, these can be rescheduled, and we can quickly resume the events and honour them as they deserve. I have had to ‘hold my breath’ with the commitments that I had with our Australian Grand Lodges. I have not been able to attend the Grand Installation for NSW and ACT, Western Australia, and the centenary celebrations for the United Grand Lodge of Queensland. I have resigned myself to this but looking forward to 2022 for at least one opportunity to travel to Australia, but more importantly, getting out and about in New Zealand to support you and your Lodges.

In closing May the wisdom of our fraternity guide us with determination to achieve our vision and goal so that we may all be better people that support each other and those in our communities. May you all enjoy good health, and also remember that if you need any support, then talk to your Lodge Almoner. Graham Wrigley Grand Master

News clips Freemasons in the Hawke’s Bay support young musicians With the support of The Freemasons This is part of a three-year proThe event has a couple of held over Charity, masonic Lodges in the Hawke’s gramme of support and helps promote dates to cover COVID-19 Alert Levels. Bay, are again supporting the Young Freemasonry in the community as a Musician of Year 2021. principal sponsor.

Lodge Whangamomona Centennial celebrations are coming Lodge Whangamomona No234 shall be celebrating it's Centennial on 1-3rd April 2022 and we extend a very cordial invite to all former Members & Families, as well as to those associated brethren who have assisted or received generous assistance from this Lodge. You are warmly welcome to help in making this a very memorable celebration occasion and joining with us. The Lodge began its fuctions in the eastern country of Taranaki in the village of Whangamomona but being first dedicated in Stratford Town Hall 8th March 1922, supported by Lodge Hinemoa No786 SC and then took up residence in the Whangamomona Hall which still remains today. With the closure of public services and businesses causing depletion of prospective members the Lodge decided moving down towards the heart of Taranaki, in the village of Toko, where it built it’s own building until it once again faced similar depopulation of community, a very popular happening in those days. Having been made offers for the defunct Lodge of Moa No 110 in Inglewood, members decided to accept the challenge once again of moving their Lodge, that had proved very comfortable over the term of usage with many memorable occasions being left behind and taking

up management of this well constructed block building making alterations to suit. Functions include: Friday1st April; Registrations,& Greet & meet Nibbles served. Devon Hotel. Saturday 2nd April; Morning bus trip around New Plymouth 9.00 to 11.50am. Installation at 1.30pm Inglewood Masonic Centre, Mahoe Street, Ladies entertainment, Devon Hotel. Banquet at Devon Hotel 6.30pm. Music Guests Speaker etc.

Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No 109, Alexandra Constituted 1896

125th Anniversary Celebrations Saturday 6 November 2021 For information contact

LW Brenssell, Secretary 3 Royal Terrace, Alexandra 03 448 5929 evenles68@gmail.com

Lodge Whangamomona held its meetings in this Hall.

Sunday 3rd April; Breakfast Devon Hotel, Morning Tea & Farewell. Descendants of former members welcome to attend Greet & Meet, Morning Bus trip & Banquet. Your intended attendance must be registered to RWBro Bernie: bernieblack@xtra.co.nz / 027 753 0990.

Crossword solution Did you know that we support the widows of Freemasons? Lodges throughout New Zealand support 3500 widows of Freemasons (only if that is their wish). Many widows enjoy the continued connection that their partner had with Freemasonry which includes social events, regular contact and any help and support that they may require. Freemasons have a tradition of caring.

www.freemasonsnz.org

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR VISION GOAL TEAM BUILDING OUR FUTURE

rethren who are reading this issue of The NZ Freemason will see the article featuring District Grand Master Canterbury, Michael Wooding, and his Grand Steward, Sam Rowntree, talking about the absolutely wonderful work they are doing to support a number of local Special Olympics clubs in the lead-up to the Freemasons NZ Special Olympics National Summer Games. If you haven’t read that piece, I commend it to you. It really is a great story about community-minded Brethren getting in behind a very worthwhile cause, not just financially, although that does help, but with their personal time and energy. It’s one of those commitments that epitomises all that is great about Freemasonry and, in my view, why so many Freemasons join the Craft.

And I’m sure Michael and Sam and their colleagues aren’t the only Brethren out there actively supporting the Special Olympics clubs in their areas, and actively supporting a range of other worthy local causes for that matter. And that’s very much in keeping with the Grand Master’s plea that Brethren Speak Up, Step Up and Show Up both in their own Lodges and within their communities. And National Office would like to do more to facilitate that and to showcase the great community and charitable work that Lodges and Brethren do all over the country because it’s wonderful for ‘Brand Freemasonry’ and wonderful for attracting new Brethren who want to follow in your footsteps .… but we need your help. So, if any Brethren are doing what Michael and Sam are doing, please let Duane at National Office know, preferably well before you undertake any projects or start any activities. The more we know and the earlier we know, the more we can do to support you and to generate community awareness of what you are doing.

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World Alzheimers Month Some of you may be aware that September is World Alzheimers Month. As I write this, the month has just started and we are in discussions with Alzheimers NZ about how we can better support their online Move For Dementia challenge that you can find at movefordementia.org.nz. By participating in the challenge you can help to fund raise for Alzheimers NZ, but it’s also a novel way of showing your support for the many, many thousands of New Zealanders who are affected by dementia. Alzheimers NZ statistics show dementia affects most of us in some way at some point in our lives. We either receive a diagnosis of dementia, or it affects a family member or friend. Possibly we serve as care partner for a spouse/partner who develops the condition. At the moment, nearly 70,000 of us have dementia and that figure is projected to nearly triple in coming years as our population ages. So Freemasons NZ is pleased to be doing something to show our support. And if the Move For Dementia challenge is not for you, you could consider becoming a Dementia Friend at www. Alzheimers.org.nz

What’s happening post-Roadshows? Picture a duck swimming serenely across the water. Everything looks peaceful on the surface, but underneath that duck is paddling furiously. And that’s a decent analogy for what’s happening at National Office now that we have completed the Roadshows and as we really gear up to support our new strategic framework.

ccine keeps ether

Lessons from COVID-19

This lock down was probably harder for many of us to bear than previous periods of enforced isolation. And my heart does go out to those in Auckland who, at the time of writing this, are still having to do it tougher than the rest of us. But there’s no doubt we have learned useful lessons from COVID-19, both at National Office and within our Lodges, especially around the important of staying connected and looking in on each other.

A number of projects underway We have a number of complex and important projects underway, all designed to give effect to what we discussed at the Roadshows and to better support Lodges. We have new people coming on board to whom we will introduce you in coming weeks and months. Our new team, which we are choosing carefully and which the Board has approved, will be dedicated to specific National Office projects, enabling us to get things up and running as promptly as possible. In saying that, I’d like to acknowledge our former Charity Officer, Shelley Newson, and Memberships Officer, Barbara Pickering. Thank you for your efforts over many years. We have a total website redevelopment underway which we hope to have complete and ready to roll out later this year or early next. Our new website will have greatly enhanced functionality, will look much more modern and will be a great ‘shop-front window’ into Freemasonry. We have also embraced the ‘digital age’ and at the Divisional Grand Master level we have provided access to Zoom teleconferencing services (the business version) which many Lodges are already using well. It’s not a substitute for

Lodge meetings, but it does help us all stay connected and supported, which is especially important as I sit here in a Level 3 lock down and my colleagues in Auckland endure Level 4. On the Xero front, we are still working through the challenges of implementing this facility across the organisation. That we need to do so because of increased financial compliance and reporting complexities and requirements is a given, but there are some issues to over-come in terms of managing a national roll-out that meets all essential regulatory needs. But we are working on it and hope to have the issues ironed out soon. And then there is the myriad of work updating and introducing new systems and processes relating to our Charity, including trialling new software that we hope will streamline much of the work. Other changes will be coming soon, too. I understand change can be uncomfortable for some, especially if you are well-used to the previous way of doing things, but I can assure you the benefits will become obvious early next year. And last, but not least, we are putting a lot of work into updating our membership database and making that system much more user-friendly and information-rich. We should have that complete early next year as well.

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There’s been quite a bit of media comment this time around about the mental health and wellbeing impacts of lock downs. It’s not just the isolation, but there can also be financial stress and the stresses that accompany a death in the family when not all family can be present to pay their respects. The mental health impacts are very real and I would encourage anyone who might be feeling these impacts to seek support. And I’d also encourage you all to keep checking in with each other. It doesn’t take much to do that, but it can mean an awful lot and make a significant difference. Mark Cassidy Executive Director

OPINION

Back to basics I

t will be obvious to all that Free masonry in New Zealand is going through a crisis period in respect of membership levels. Without an injection of new blood our beloved order will be unable to afford to maintain the current administration in its present form for much longer and, even more seriously, lodges will be unable in some cases to continue to afford the luxury of occupying their own purpose-built lodge rooms. The logical expectation is that if reductions continue as they have done in recent years, Freemasonry in NZ is doomed to extinction. Why has it reached this stage? Apart from the changes in society in recent years, which have affected the lives of most men, there is another important factor which has not been taken into consideration. Over the last hundred years, Freemasonry in the Englishspeaking world has drifted away from the original meaning and purpose of the Order. It should be borne in mind that Freemasonry was not intended to be a charity or a philanthropic organisation, dispensing such things as help to worthy causes, scholarships to deserving students, etc. These laudable activities are add-ons which can be engaged in when the Craft is in a healthy and prosperous state and can afford to look at extending its activities. But we are fighting for our existence and it is time that we turned inwards to examine exactly what Freemasonry was created to achieve. Every Initiate is

required to learn the traditional definition which states that Freemasonry is “A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols”. Today we only pay lip service to that definition and in fact some members have not even taken the trouble to find out what it means. It is also clear that some lodges do not explain the meaning of such statements to their candidates. When the definition was written, several hundred years ago, English usage differed considerably from the way we might express things today. However, it is a concise and accurate statement, which needs interpretation in current terms. Let us examine the four key words in the statement, in the light of current usage. My dictionary/thesaurus yields the following meanings. Peculiar – unusual, exceptional, distinct from others. Morality – a system of moral principles. (The word ‘moral’ is a complex one. My dictionary gives 10 alternative meanings. I chose the one which best fits with our statement.) Allegory – A play, poem or picture in which the apparent meaning is used to symbolise a moral or spiritual meaning. Symbol – Something that represents or stands for something else, especially a material object used to represent something abstract. A careful study of these meanings will clarify the basic Masonic statement. There are many thinking men in all walks of life who are looking for more than the

materialistic activities of work and play. More knowledge of the original purpose of Freemasonry may arouse the interest of many such men if they knew about it. A non-Mason, on reading our major publication, NZ Freemason, would conclude that our activities are based almost entirely on fellowship and philanthropy, and he wouldn’t be far wrong. Philanthropy seems to be the main ‘selling point’ at present, but in my view, publicising our scholarships and charity work does not attract candidates for membership. Little attention is focused on the basic purpose of Freemasonry, which is what makes our organisation different from other societies and clubs. I can see that the standard definition of Freemasonry, which I have analysed above, may be regarded by some as unsuitable to use to promote the Craft today. But I rather like the version given in the booklet “Simple Answers to Leading Questions” which Grand Lodge published in 2017. “Freemasonry is a brotherhood of good men meeting and working in harmony, teaching strong moral and ethical values in personal, family and community behaviour, and a code of caring for others.” Giving emphasis to this new definition in all our publications may help to attract the men who will give Freemasonry the boost it so badly needs.

HAVE YOUR SAY Write a letter to the Editor – preferably 30 words maximum. Submit an Opinion piece – 80 words plus a 10-word author biography, and a photo.

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Bill Hibbard, PGW

Special Olympics New Zealand (SONZ) will bring athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country to Hamilton for the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games in December.

ollowing a four-year cycle, similar to the Olympics and Paralympics, the National Summer Games is SONZ’s largest event and provides important opportunities for New Zealanders with intellectual disabilities. Organising such a large-scale event would be impossible without the support of generous sponsors. This year Freemasons New Zealand are the naming sponsors of the games but this wasn’t enough for Canterbury Freemasons who are providing additional assistance with funding, volunteers, and equipment. Michael Wooding, District Grand Master for the Canterbury District, and Sam Rowntree, Member of the United Forces Lodge No 245, tell us more about their work to support local athletes. “We saw a presentation on the Special Olympics at the Southern Divisional Conference in Timaru and got to meet one of the participants. After the meeting I wondered what else we could do to help so we got in touch with the two Canterbury clubs via Facebook and that’s how it all started.” says Michael. “They said they could use help with financial assistance to get athletes to the games, donations of sporting equipment for training such as stop watches and basketballs, and also some manpower to help run events. We then compiled a list of what each club needed and circulated that around all our lodges to figure out how we could meet their needs.” With 160 Canterbury athletes going to the games the Canterbury Lodges have answered the call for help, and a large number of Brethren are involved.

“Different organisations are running different events. The Lodges in the district immediately volunteered to donate money to get athletes to the games who could otherwise not afford to go.” Michael says the assistance has not only been financial. Many Brethren are volunteering their time and assisting local clubs in the lead up to the games. “Brethren have really got behind it as far as volunteering their time and supporting different activities which is fantastic to see.” “Most recently there was a swimming competition held in Rangiora. Ten Brethren turned up at 9am on a Sunday morning and provided assistance by acting as timekeepers and doing the ribbon presentation. After the meet everyone was saying what a great cause it was, how much fun they had, and how uplifting it was spending time with the participants.” This extra support outside of the sponsorship of the Summer Games has been a welcomed surprise for the local SONZ clubs. If your lodge would like to become involved with the Summer Games or Special Olympics New Zealand event throughout the year: 1. Reach out to your local Special Olympics clubs through their website or Facebook page 2. Ask how you can provide assistance 3. Compile a clear list of what is needed 4. Share this with the Lodges and Brethren in your District 5. Enlist manpower – Organising everything can be extra work. Asking others for help will lighten the load.

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“The fact that we have been able to assist them in so many different ways apart from just financially, and really get involved so passionately has blown them away. They did not expect this amount of support.” says Sam Sam also believes the partnership is a win-win situation that provides opportunities to raise awareness of both SONZ and Freemasons New Zealand. “The biggest misconception that I’ve heard is that the Special Olympics are purely an event that will happen only at the end of this year. This is completely incorrect. The Summer Games happen every four years, and the Special Olympics are year round. We are aligning ourselves with this worthy organisation now and into the future. This partnership has provided an opportunity for us to showcase our charitable works, and the important part we play in local communities.” In addition to the Summer Games SONZ offers a year-round programme of sports training and competition for children and adults with an intellectual disability. More than 5,000 athletes throughout New Zealand participate in the 13 different sports on offer. Sam hopes Canterbury Freemasons can remain involved with SONZ to support their ongoing events. “I hope that our involvement with this organisation will last a lot longer than these Summer Games. The event at the end of the year is purely cementing the relationship that we have and will take our partnership into the future.”

Freemasons in Northland support Special Olympics Freemasons in the Northland District are supporting financially a concert in aid of the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics – National Summer Games organised by Special Olympics New Zealand in Whangarei. Now rescheduled for when COVID-19 allows.

Special Olympics are special to Freemasons Margaret Baker ONZM from Special Olympics addressing the Divisional Charity Seminar held in Hastings. Margaret informed and entertained us with anecdotes of her experiences volunteering in this area. Thanks to Adrian Douglas and Jeff Mear from Freemasons Charity Management Committee for giving their well-received presentation, too. The Freemasons Charity has naming rights with it $100,000 sponsorship of the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics – National Summer Games being held in Hamilton from 8–12th December 2021.

Lodges and members are providing additional support for funding for athletes and equipment, support to local clubs and volunteering to pre-games activities and the National Summer Games.

High Tea in Thames for Special Olympics The Sir Walter Scott Lodge No 15 which recently celebrated its 150th is planning a High Tea fundraiser for the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics – National Summer Games, being held from 8–12th December in Hamilton, at their Freemasons Centre in Thames on Saturday 2nd October 2021.

It is open to the public and those interested in coming along to support the Special Olympics should contact Kerry at kerryandjan.doherty@gmail.com for details. What is your lodge doing or done for the Special Olympics? Share it with us.

Westminster Lodge hears about Special Olympics Westminster Lodge No 308 in Westminster Lodge has supported donation through the Wellington at its formal mid-winter the Special Olympics with a substantial Central Division project. Dinner had Carolyn Young the CEO of Special Olympics New Zealand as their guest speaker talking about the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics -National Summer Games being held in Hamilton 8-12 December 2021. It also just happened to be Carolyn’s birthday with a celebratory cake as well.

www.freemasonsnz.org

Freemasons

Freemasons volunteer at Special Olympics swim meet Special Olympics NZ, North Canterbury Branch and the Freemasons in the Canterbury District team up. Freemasons from North Canterbury assisted with time keeping and ribbon presentation on Sunday 25th July at the Special Olympics NZ Swim Meet at Dudley Pool, Rangiora. This was a local swim event which included participants from all over Canterbury and is part of the lead up to the Summer Games to be held in Hamilton later this year. Members of The Ashley Lodge No. 28, which is based in Rangiora, led the charge, assisted by local resident

Alan McGill of The Avon Shirley Lodge No.185 Gordon Sylvester, Master of The Ashley Lodge, said afterwards” The enthusiasm of the participants was

heart-warming and we really enjoyed our morning, we are pleased to announce The Ashley Lodge will be providing some extra funding to attend the Summer game for the participants”.

The swim event was well run by Swimming New Zealand and the local North Canterbury Committee of Special Olympics NZ, with the North Canterbury Freemasons providing some much-needed extra help. www.freemasonsnz.org/special-olympics-2 and www.specialolympics.org. nz

Freemasons in Hawke’s Bay support Special Olympics Shout out to Lodge Haeata No 272 Charity Officer, Eve Casagranda, for organizing a screening of “Poppy” as a fundraiser for helping local athletes attend the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics - National Summer Games in Hamilton on 8-12 December. This is one of several projects contributing to a

District project that will be supported by additional funding from The Freemasons Charity. Thank you to all who made donations. Tell us what your Lodge has done or is going to do to support the Special Olympics?

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Poppy for Special Olympics About 50 Freemasons, Partners, Family and Friends supported the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games by a fundraiser with the New Zealand film ‘Poppy’ at Pahautanui, just north of Wellington. It was organised by The Saint Andrews Lodge No 32. We would love to hear what your Lodge is doing to support the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics in Hamilton from 8-12 December 2021.

Freemasons in Palmerston North area help at Special Olympics Swim Meet This, of course, was before lockdown and is another way Lodges and Freemasons are supporting Special Olympics in the run up to the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics - National Summer Games in Hamilton later this year. Several members of the Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No 47 attended the Special Olympics Manawatu Branch swimming contest held in Feilding on Sunday 15th August that also involved teams from Horowhenua and Wellington. John Livingstone, Cliff Parker, Murray Mansfield and his daughters Megan

and Kelly joined Ainsley Watson, the Master of the Lodge to assist with the timekeeping for the races. It was a great morning, and you cannot help but being positively affected by the enthusiasm and

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commitment of the athletes who have daily challenges in their lives that we can never fully understand. It was a very well-run event where the athletes obviously knew the rhythm and routine of the races so well that their reactions to the coordinators and behaviour noticeably matched and enabled the very smooth running of the day. The Brethren and young women felt it very rewarding to be part of their preparation for the Freemasons NZ Special Olympics National event in December. What is your Lodge doing or have done to support Special Olympics?

Freemasons in action Two schools benefited from the now closed Lodge Arowhenua No. 473 In winding up its assets Lodge National anthem in Te Reo and English. will benefit by upgrading the technology Arowhenua made a donation to The second school to benefit was Temuka in their respective libraries. Winchester School of $5,525. The school Primary – also for $5,525. Both schools Alex Solomon, District Grand welcomed the Brethren by singing the Master, Midland District

Children of the school look on as a cheque is presented.

The Principal of the school Mr Grant Willocks receives the check.

From left: VWBro Alex Solomon, District Grand Master; WBro John Lynch, Trustee, Lodge Arowhenua No. 473; Mrs Lucy Millar, School Board Chair and Mrs Tre Sylvanwood, Principal.

The school entertained us by a choreographed modern dance routine.

New Zealander interning at Masonic Medical Research Institute in USA Over the past several years, as a Professor for the State University of New York at Oswego, I have had the pleasure of working with one of our international students pursuing his Master’s Degree in Chemistry. The student’s name is Vaea

Salt-Bernard, and he is from Auckland, New Zealand. I have mentored Mr. Salt-Bernard and encouraged him to pursue a summer 2021 fellowship at the Masonic Medical Research Institute in Utica, NY. He applied, interviewed, and was accepted. Leading up to the fellowship, Mr. Salt-Bernard spoke at many Lodges, met

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many Brothers, and shared his research interests and Māori culture with us. He is truly an exceptional person and a great ambassador of New Zealand. Mr. Salt-Bernard was recently featured in a news story about his education and research being conducted at the Masonic Medical Research Institute. Here is a link to the news story: https://bit.ly/salt-bernard Mr. Salt-Bernard is making a difference in Freemasonry in New York and in the medical industry. Professor Joe Stabb of the Hiram Lodge No 136 (Fulton, NY), Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York.

Freemasons in action Freemasons Charity Dinner in Auckland The Auckland and Counties-Hauraki Dinner at the Northern Club last Buddy’, with well over 100 Freemasons Districts organised a black-tie Charity Saturday. It was to raise funds for ‘Big (all constitutions), partners and guests in attendance, including our Grand Master Graham Wrigley. He spoke on the special relationship Freemasons have with ‘Big Buddy’ and the other large project involving the Freemasons being the Special Olympics. Ms Lettie Bright, Partnerships Manager for Big Buddy, spoke about the work Big Buddy undertake, the valuable contribution Freemasons NZ has provided to the organisation, and a personal story from the mother of a Little Buddy and the positive impact of the Big Buddy programme. This was life changing for this young fellow. A grand night out by all accounts.

Freemasons CAR-T Cell Research Programme Update from the Malaghan Institute For the past three years, Freemasons T-cells is reserved only for clinical trial capturing some photos and videos of New Zealand and the Malaghan Institute work. It has been technically challenging CAR T-cells attacking and destroying have been working towards a shared but we’re making good progress, even tumour cells in a petri dish. We’re also goal; harnessing the power peering into the internal workof the immune system to ings of the cells at a sub-micreate better, more effective croscopic level, where we can cancer treatments, and to detect the different proteins that make cutting-edge immuare active in CAR T- cells that notherapies more accessible are using the unique signalling to New Zealanders. domain versus those that don’t. Here is a little update We hope that this investigation from the team: will help us identify key pro“Our hard-working team teins that positively control CAR of students, postdoctoral reT-cell activity and that we will search fellows and research be able to use this knowledge to technicians have been programme even more potent designing modifications to cancer therapies.” the CAR T-cell production We are incredibly proud to methodology that are combe partnered with the Malaghan patible with working in our Institute and their CAR T-cell regular research lab, as the programme. We are excited to GMP suite where we have see what the next phase of our learnt the optimal method partnership will achieve. of growing patient CAR

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A combined working in Christchurch The Concord Lodge No 39 in traditional Filipino attire did a Master Masons Degree for Bro Jeff Libre, a Filipino, from the Lodge of Endeavour No 504 in a combined working on the last night of Alan Glasson Master and Past District Grand Master. In fact, Jeff did his second Degree at The Concord Lodge as well. Sharing the work is great to see. The Concord Lodge No 39 is one of New Zealand’s older Lodges and Lodge of Endeavour No 504 one of our newest in the 500 series of fine dining lodges.

Everyone on the night and Bro Jeff Libre (centre) with the Masters of Concord Allen Glasson and of Endeavour Gareth Turner either side.

Visit the Virtual Masonic Library Need some lockdown masonic reading? Try visiting your Divisional Websites Virtual Reading Rooms.

Northernl Division https://bit.ly/northern-reading

Central Division https://bit.ly/central-reading www.freemasonsnz.org

Southern Division https://bit.ly/southern-reading 17

Serving a local need Lodge Te Puni organises a variety show to fund bladder scanners

Freemasons in action

On Wednesday 5th March members of Lodge Te Puni presented two bladder scanners Lodge toMini the CEO of the Hutt Valley District Health Board. This was the result of a fundraising A greatby shot from The Forest Lodge No of the Hutt Valley. effort the combined Lodges 116 in Nelson. “In the small Willowbank Heritage Village at Wakefield. Freemasons are constructing a Tiny Lodge - almost on the same site as the original Forest Lodge building was situated. This building will be open to the general public as a visitor attraction.” Fantastic work, Brethren

W. Bro TR McKenzie, Master of Lodge Te Puni, with W. Bro Ray Keenan presenting Graham Dyer, Hutt Valley DHB CEO with one of the two portable bladder scanners, looking on is Pete Chandler Hutt Valley DHB COO.

Any Lodge in New Zealand who can help with some interior masonic furnishings (Deacon wands, small working tools, smaller VSL’s, base for a wand) please contact the Lodge organiser on Tam Hazin on 022 306 0012 / tamboat2@gmail.com

BELOW A bladder scanner.

Progress update of Freemasons University Scholarship recipient

couple Lodgea Freemason’s members’ Since being ofawarded immediate family, who work for the University Scholarship, I have had DHB, had indicated staff were fund multiple research that papers accepted raising for equipment that was inconshort by national and international supply for their Theattending nurses of ferences that Patients. I will be Mapu Unit and Community (virtually and the in-person) laterHealth this Services had started selling cakes and year. The Scholarship has greatly undertaking other fundraising helped me pay registration feesefforts for theto purchase a bladder scanner. Neurosurgical Society of Australasia Annual Scientific the The members thenMeeting brought and the Units’ Australasian Winterand Conference plight to the Lodges a numberonof Brain Research. Brethren also indicated that they had My passion neuroscience hasto been hospitalisedforrecently and had extended to helping set up ato new club wait for the only scanner become at The University of Auckland called available for their treatment. the ‘Campus Neurodecided Society’.toWehold run a Lodge Te Puni Variety Show to raise funds to complete the purchase of at least one bladder scanner. WBro Ray Keenan approached many talented artists both within the

Craft including opportu- all faculties interested in neuroscience. eventsand andoutside, offer networking his own successful nities very for undergraduate students from Patient advocacy is another passion that singing son and his Group, I am developing as an Ambassador for ‘The Auzzie Boys.’ A plethora the ‘Brainbook Charity’, a UK-based of acts was assembled, from patient resource that aims to lessen juggling, dancing (ballroom, the anxiety around neurosurgical rock-n-roll, traditional diagnoses and operations. Polish), musical acts and am a itproud a AsI always was a recipient tight knit ofteam, even the piping in of a Haggis with encompassing Freemason’s members UniversityofScholarship the Lodges andtheam The the traditional address. Audience from Hutt very Valley,grateful wives andto partners, Freemasons Charity for supporting participation was encouraged and, and the nurses from the DHB that made myoccasion success the thissuccess year and into the during intermission, food and drink was this it was. Thanks future. available for purchase. are due for the support of local businesses, William Cook Along with some very sought after individuals and the performers along MBChB & BMedSc(Hons) Candidate prizes for raffles, the support for the with The Freemasons Charity for help University of equipment Auckland show was outstanding. The money raised in providing The such necessary on the night was, with the help of The for the health and wellbeing of the wider Freemasons Charity, able to purchase community. two bladder scanners valued at over WBro Mac McKenzie $13,000.00 each.

Seize good photo opportunities, concentrate on ‘action’ not ‘satisfaction’, get names for captions, make notes. If media comes ensure that they are looked after and opportunities set up.

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Act quickly to spread the word, send press release and captioned high resolution photo, focussing on a newsworthy aspect to local media, district and divisional newsletter and NZ Freemason.

AFTER

Ensure someone is responsible for publicity, arrange for a photographer, plan photographs, involve recipients and find a hook that would interest local media.

DURING

BEFORE

Publicity for your community events – 3 steps

Havelock Lodge No 104 celebrates 125 years and helps a number of Charities During a visit from the Freemasons New Zealand Grand Master Graham Wrigley at the 125th Celebrations of the Havelock Lodge at Braybrook Heritage Park in Blenheim, the Lodge supported a number of local charities. Also, the Freemasons New Zealand Special

125th Anniversary Cake.

Olympics – National Summer Games which is being supported by Lodges throughout New Zealand. This celebration and it’s support for the community received good media coverage.

Lodge at Braybrook Heritage Park.

One of many projects…

Partners in Freemasonry: Ladies Lunch – Marlborough Masonry The March gathering for the monthly Masonic Ladies lunch was organised by the partners of the brethren from Lodge Havelock. Attending in March were ladies from across the region. Lunchtime dining at the Marlborough Public House in central Blenheim was a well-attended event. For those wishing to join this friendly, fun and enjoyable event in the future, contact Lodge secretaries for the next event.

Research Lodge of Taranaki Province celebrates 75 Years Our Grand Master Graham Wrigley Heyward as Master along with a celebraMasonic research is important as it officially visited on this special occasion tion dinner. helps tell our stories and make a daily which included the Installation of Colin advancement in masonic knowledge.

A good attendance, visiting Masters meeting the Grand Master and Colin and his wife Jan with Graham Wrigley Grand Master and District Grand Master Roly Blake at Installation Dinner.

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Freemasons in action Grand Master visits Napier Our Grand Master Graham Wrigley visited the Scinde Lodge No 5 in Napier (which is the Deputy Grand Master Jim Watt’s mother lodge) for the Installation of their new Master Steven Murray. Over 90 in the Lodge Rooms from Wellington to Auckland, 19 Visiting

Masters and with a large number at Installation Dinner which included the Ode to the Haggis given the new Master’s origin. Scinde Lodge No 5 started life as an Irish Constitution Lodge (No 419) in 1858 before joining The Grand Lodge of

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New Zealand in 1890. It’s name comes from a province in India and with other names in the Hawke’s Bay namely Napier, Hastings and Clive also associated with India. Great seeing a Master Mason going into Chair of one of our oldest Lodges.

Grand Stewards do a grand working in Auckland The Officers of The Ara Lodge No.1 temporarily vacated their positions for the Active and Past Grand Stewards, and Xavier Huck and Daniel Fernandes de Oliveira were Passed to the Second Degree, with the Grand Stewards

performing the ceremony. They were assisted by the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, Sean Ryder and the Director of Ceremonies, Stuart Eeles to ensure continuity with the Lodge and that customs were clearly communicated.

The Grand Steward team consisted; Mark Pagulayan GS – Auckland – WM Kevin Carroll GS – Bay of Plenty – SW Michael Smith GS – Auckland – JW James Frost GS – Auckland – SD Alex Bagley GS – Counties-Hauraki – JD Ross Jones GS – Bay of Plenty – IG Arthur Berman PGS – Chaplain John Smart – PGS – Secrets Michael Downey PGS – Charge in the South East Andrew Alexander GS – Auckland – Tracing Board Frank Reynolds GS – Counties-Hauraki – Charge After Passing The tradition of a Grand Stewards working continues in the Auckland Districts as it does in other parts of the country. Congratulations to Xavier Huck and Daniel Fernandes de Oliveira.

Masonic Genealogy Wanting to know if a relative from the Well it is not a secret … con- possible and they will do some masonic past was a Grand Master, Lodge Master tact Freemasons New Zealand on research on your behalf. or a Freemason in New Zealand to help communications@freemasonsnz.org Information on Freemasons who complete your family tree? with as much detail on your relative as were members of The Grand Lodge of New Zealand are found in copperplate hand-written tomes dating from 1890 (currently being put into an electronic format by volunteers), a Card Index System from the 1960s and electronically from 1980s. Our Grand Lodge Library and other resources sometimes enable us to extend the research even further.

Freemasons Desk at Wellington Genealogy Open Day recently manned by Clive Lloydd and Keith Knox of The Grand Lodge of New Zealand – Grand Library with Tome from 1890, Card Index and computers.

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September is Alzheimers Awareness Month W

e are proud to be active supporters of Alzheimers New Zealand, who represent people living with dementia at a national level by raising awareness of dementia, providing information and resources, advocating for high quality

services, and promoting research about Be sure to head to their page for prevention, treatment, cure and care. more ways on how you can support Here in New Zealand, 4 out of 5 of their initiatives or on their website: us know or have known someone living www.alzheimers.org.nz. with dementia. Dementia is something that affects almost all of us at some point.

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You can also book over the phone by calling the COVID Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26.

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COVID-19 alert levels

COVID-19 is uncontrolled overseas. Sporadic imported cases. Isolated local transmission could be occurring in New Zealand.

Multiple cases of community transmission occurring. Multiple active clusters in multiple regions.

LEVEL33 – - RESTRICT LEVEL RESTRICT

LEVEL 1 - PREPARE LEVEL 1 – PREPARE

RISK

Operating Guidelines for Lodge Meetings at various Alert Levels (Delta Variant) www.covid19.govt.nz GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS COVID-19 • Border entry measures to minimise risk of importing COVID-19 cases. • Intensive testing for COVID-19. • Rapid contact tracing of any positive case. • Self-isolation and quarantine required.

Effective from: 20 September 2021 www.freemasonsnz.org/covid-19 FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND •

Follow any limitations or restrictions announced by the Government.

•

Lodges can open and no restrictions on meetings or activities.

•

Risk Mitigation Plan approved by the District Grand Master. Plans must include the levels at which the Lodge will open based on their risk profile.

•

Maintain a Contact Tracing Register and hold for 14 days and to be completed by everyone attending meetings. Buildings to have the Government approved QR code displayed at all entrances. It can be found here https:covid19.govt.nz/business-work-andmoney/business/get-your-qr-code-poster/

•

Brethren to download the Government Tracing App on a mobile device. Scanning or recording attendance is mandatory at all Lodge buildings.

•

Brethren that are unwell must stay home and not attend Lodge meetings, including visiting Brethren.

•

Ensure good hygiene in bathrooms and kitchen facilities.

•

Ensure that hand sanitiser is freely available for use by all Brethren in the Lodge room and other areas.

•

Do not travel from an area with higher Alert Level to an area with lower one to attend a Lodge meeting.

•

Follow any directives or restrictions advised by the Grand Master.

• Schools and workplaces open and must operate safely. • No restrictions on personal movement but people are encouraged to maintain a record of where they have been. • No restrictions on gatherings but organisers encouraged to maintain records to enable contact tracing. • Stay home if you are sick, report flu-like symptoms. • Wash and dry hands, cough into elbow and do not touch your face. • No restrictions on domestic transport – avoid public transport or travel if sick. • No restrictions on workplace

• People instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement – including to shop, go to work or school if they have to, local recreation, or to seek medical care. • Physical distancing of two metres outside home or one metre in controlled environments like schools and workplaces. • Wearing a face covering is mandatory when you can not maintain a 2-metre separation and when indoors at public facilities. • People must stay within their immediate household bubble but can expand this to connect with close family / whānau, or bring in caregivers, or support isolated people. This extended bubble must remain exclusive. • Early learning centres and schools are open for children whose parents have to go to work and have no care giver arrangements, particularly essential workers. • People must work from home unless that is not possible. • Businesses can open premises but cannot physically interact with customers. • Workers should be kept at least 1 metre apart where possible, and face coverings are strongly recommended. • All businesses must display a government issued QR code for use with the NZ COVID Tracer App by 19 August 2020. • Low risk local recreation activities are allowed. • Public venues are closed (e.g. libraries, museums, cinemas, food courts, gyms, pools, playgrounds, markets). • Gatherings of up to 10 people are allowed but only for wedding services, funerals and tangihanga. Physical distancing and public health measures must be maintained. • Inter-regional travel is highly limited (e.g. for essential workers, people returning to their primary residence, with limited exemptions for others). • People at high risk of severe illness (older people and those with existing medical conditions) are encouraged to stay at home where possible and seek medical advice.

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•

All Lodge meetings and Masonic activities are suspended under the authority of the Grand Master.

•

Implement welfare arrangements for Brethren and widows.

•

Do not travel or attend any Lodge meetings out of your District that are at a lower Alert Level (2, or 1)

•

Use Video conferencing for social connection with Brethren to create Masonic Gatherings.

•

Follow any further directives advised by the Grand Master.

Lodge operating guide Limited community transmission be occurring. Active clustersimported in more than region.local transmission COVID-19could is uncontrolled overseas. Sporadic cases.one Isolated could be occurring in New Zealand. Sustained and intensive community transmission is occurring. Widespread outbreaks.

www.freemasonsnz.org/covid-19 FREEMASONS NEW ZEALAND •

• Intensive testing for COVID-19.

• • •

• Self-isolation and quarantine required.

•

• Keep physical distancing of two metres from people you do not know when out in • public Rapid or contact anytwo positive in retailtracing stores. of Keep metre case. physical distancing in controlled environments like workplaces, where practicable.

• Wearing a face covering is mandatory when you cannot maintain a 2-metre • Schools and workplaces open and must operate safely. separation and when indoors at public facilities.

• No restrictions on personal movement but people are encouraged to

• No more than 50 people at indoor gatherings, including weddings, birthdays, and maintainand a record of where they have been. funerals tangihanga.

No restrictions ontogatherings organisers to including maintainphysical records •• Businesses can open the public ifbut following publicencouraged health guidance distancing recordtracing. keeping. Alternative ways of working encouraged where possible. to enableand contact •• Hospitality groups of customers separated, seated, and served by Stay homebusinesses if you aremust sick,keep report flu-like symptoms. a single person. Maximum of 50 people at a time.

• Wash and dry hands, cough into elbow and do not touch your face.

• All businesses must display a government issued QR code for use with the NZ COVID • Tracer No restrictions on domestic transport – avoidrecords publicare transport or travel if App by 19 August 2020. Scanning or manual mandatory.

sick.

• Face coverings are required if you are in close contact with others you do not know.

No restrictions on activities workplace •• Sport and recreation are allowed, subject to conditions on gatherings, record keeping, and – where practical – physical distancing. • Public venues such as museums, libraries and pools can open if they comply with public health measures and ensure 2 metre physical distancing and record keeping. • Event facilities, including cinemas, stadiums, concert venues and casinos can have more than 50 people at a time, if there are no more than 50 in a defined space, and the groups do not mix. • It is safe to send your children to schools, early learning services and tertiary education. There will be appropriate measures in place.

• People at higher-risk of severe illness from COVID-19 (e.g. those with underlying medical conditions, especially if not well-controlled, and seniors) are encouraged to take additional precautions when leaving home. They may work, if they agree with their employer, that they can do so safely.

• •

• • • • • • • • • • •

• •

Follow any or restrictions announced by the Levellimitations 1 requirements and any variations. Government. Follow government advice on health and best practice. Lodges can open and no restrictions on meetings or Lodges may open, but no more than 50 Brethren activities. attending any meeting. The choice to open or not (dispensation is the decision of eachGrand Lodge but Risk Mitigationrequired) Plan approved by the District must be aPlans partmust of their Lodge Mitigation Master. include theRisk levels at whichPlan. the Lodge will open based on their risk profile. If the gathering numbers are lowered, follow that criterion. limited to only 10 people,and then have Maintain aIfContact Tracing Register hold forthe 14 days and to besession completed everyone attendingIf meetings. business only by with no ceremonies. over 10 are attending, may proceedapproved if the Lodge Buildings toceremonies have the Government QR wishes. code displayed at all entrances. It can be found here Do not travel or attend any Lodge meetings out of your https:covid19.govt.nz/business-work-andDistrict that are at a lower Alert Level (1) money/business/get-your-qr-code-poster/ Maintain social distancing from people that you don’t Brethren to download the Government Tracing App on know. Keep 2 metre distancing in the Lodge room a mobile device. Scanning or recording attendance where practical. is mandatory at all Lodge buildings. Vulnerable or at-risk Brethren should stay at home. Brethren that are unwell must stay home and not attend Lodge meetings, Risk Mitigation Planvisiting should Brethren. determine maximum including numbers in each room (Lodge room & Refectory). Ensure good hygiene in bathrooms and kitchen facilities. Face masks can be worn if preferred by Brethren. Ensure that hand sanitiser is freely available for use by all Degree and Installation mayother continue with good Brethrenwork in the Lodge room and areas. hygiene practises in place. Extensively use hand Do not travel from an area with higher Alert Level to an sanitisers and or nitrate gloves if preferred. For Lodge area with lower one to attend a Lodge meeting. Installations, limit the number of GL Officers attending to only any those engagedor in restrictions the ceremony. Follow directives advised by the Grand Master. Inform Candidates that touching is involved in the

ceremony and ensure that they are comfortable with this. •

Refectory numbers should be limited where practical with good hygiene to be practiced in kitchens.

•

Follow any directives or restrictions advised by the Grand Master.

• People instructed to stay at home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement.

•

All Lodge meetings and Masonic activities are suspended under the authority of the Grand Master.

• Safe recreational activity is allowed in local area.

•

Implement welfare arrangements for Brethren and widows.

•

Do not travel or attend any Lodge meetings out of your District that are at a lower Alert Level (3, 2, or 1)

•

Use Video conferencing for social connection with Brethren to create Masonic Gatherings. Follow any further directives advised by the Grand Master.

• Travel is severely limited. • All gatherings cancelled and all public venues closed. • Businesses closed except for essential services (e.g. supermarkets, pharmacies, clinics, petrol stations) and lifeline utilities. • Educational facilities closed. • Rationing of supplies and requisitioning of facilities possible. • Reprioritisation of healthcare services.

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•

LEVEL 4 – LOCKDOWN

LEVEL 4 - LOCKDOWN

• People connect with friends and family, andofsocialise in groups of up tocases. 50 indoors, Bordercan entry measures to minimise risk importing COVID-19 go shopping, or travel domestically, if following public health guidance.

Effective from: 20 September 2021

LEVEL 2 – REDUCE

LEVELLEVEL 2 - REDUCE 1 - PREPARE

RISK

Operating Guidelines for Lodge Meetings at various Alert Levels (Delta Variant) www.covid19.govt.nz GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS COVID-19

Does your Lodge have QR code posters? All workplaces, businesses and community organisations legally must display an NZ COVID Tracer QR code for each location. This applies at all Alert Levels. Having a QR code poster makes it easy for your guests to keep track of where they have been. You can choose to have a QR code poster if you are organising an event or gathering, if you are organising transport, or if you have visitors. You should generate a different QR code poster for each unique location or vehicle. You can print many copies of the same QR code poster to put in one location.

Visit qrform.tracing.covid19.govt.nz to create your poster

Information and imagery sourced from covid19.govt.nz

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‘Monkey Bikes’ for cancer and hospice Team Monkey Butt is a unique group of intrepid (some might say slightly crazy) heroes.

he plan was simple Team Monkey Butt, would participate in The 2021 Southern Scooter Challenge. A 240 km charity scooter ride from Bluff to Queenstown. This bi-annual event is usually completed in some form of fancy dress and raises funds for Southland Hospice, the Southland Charity Hospital, and the Cancer Society. Unlike the rest of the 150 entrants, team Monkey Butt decided not to trailer their machines to and from the event. Instead choosing to ride there and back, on their tiny monkey bikes, whilst wearing Gorilla/Monkey costumes. (“What is a Monkey Bike?” I hear you ask – this link will give you a small insight: youtu.be/KG3hgIangVo) The team will be starting just north of Christchurch and will be heading to the start of the event in Bluff by the most direct route, which is of course via Picton and Nelson and the West Coast. To keep costs to a minimum, the riders will have no support vehicle and will be carrying all their own equipment for camping each night. Here is the very ill-conceived Plan, (complete with some very rough, vague, hopeful, and made-up timings).

Nov 24

Christchurch 08.00, Blenheim 14.30, (Filco’s) Nelson 17.30/18.00 ish Nov 25 Nelson 08.00, Greymouth 14.00, Fox Glacier 18.00 ish Nov 26 Fox Glacier 08.00, Roxburgh 12.00, Invercargill (Mecca)17.30, Bluff 19.00 ish Nov 27 Bluff 09.00, The Southern Scooter Challenge to Queenstown 14.00 (Team photo in Glenorchy 16.00 and back in Queenstown about 17.30) Nov 28 Queenstown 08.00, Tekapo 12.00, Christchurch (Dark o’clock) Yes, that’s right 2,500kms in five days, fully self-unsupported and on possibly the world’s most impractical bikes (not to mention how the riders will be dressed during the trip). (Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, The Southern Scooter Challenge 2021 has had to be postponed until September next year. But it will take more than a pandemic to stop Team Monkey Butt. With the blessing of the organisers our team will be officially the only participants in the 2021 event

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(unofficially). The reason being that the Charities still need funding regardless of a simple thing like a pandemic.) We all accept that this will not be an easy journey however, its hoped that our effort will raise a significant amount of money for the Chosen Charities, which this year are the Southland Hospice, the Southland Charity Hospital, and the Cancer Society. It is felt that any shortterm suffering on our part will ease the burden of people affected by Cancer. Everyone knows someone who is suffering from this terrible disease, and it only takes a few small donations to make a real difference. If you would like to donate to the team’s charity fund, please transfer your contribution to this account: Kiwibank 38-9023-0056139-03 (please use the reference Monkey Butt). The Freemasons Charity has agreed to give us $2 for every $1 raised during this event. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a really big difference, and to go some way in providing the funding required to improve the standard of care and quality of life across the whole southern district. Thank you for your support from all the members of Team Monkey Butt

REPORT Auckland Freemasons team up with Tamaki Primary School to plant 800 native trees Twenty school children from Tamaki Primary School in Panmure, Auckland, and a dozen Freemasons found a break in a blustery and wet June to plant 800 native trees in a single morning to help prevent erosion on a South Auckland farm.

Trees for Survival

“It was a hive of activity for a good two hours - there was a lot of laughter and some very muddy children at the end of it, not to mention some tired backs. But the result was impressive 800 native plants and in the future less erosion and cleaner water. I hope the children can return sometime to see how their work has grown,” Dennis Waller, Foundation Trustee and liaison person for TFS & Lodges.

From seedlings to native plants Freemasons Foundation Donation The project has been supported by a substantial donation from the Freemasons Foundation to the schools-based Trees for Survival (TFS) programme, a charity working with school children to grow and plant shrubs and trees, along waterways and on erosion-prone hillsides. Judith Miller, Chief Executive of the Freemasons Foundation, says its involvement is all about teaming up with schools, working alongside students and helping on the day:

The planted natives, including mahoe and cabbage trees, had been grown from seedlings by the children at Tamaki Primary School. A number of those at the planting were also there when we got our hands dirty planting the seeds. (See the March edition of the Magazine) The children had carefully tendered the seeds since then and now, having reached the right size, the plants were transported to the farm and laid out around the pond ready for putting in the ground.

“These projects give city-based school children, who wouldn’t often see the countryside, the chance to go to a farm while learning about the environment and working towards improving it. It also gives Freemasons the opportunity to get involved and see a project in action,” she says. “The children from Tamaki Primary were an absolute delight to be with; they were so enthusiastic and enjoyed working with people they hadn’t met before. They are a credit to their school, their teacher Roy Kelly, and whānau.”

Learning the Pukeko Test After a typical rainy start to an Auckland June day, the morning planting programme began at 9.30am with a briefing over a drink and a biscuit. This included the all-important instructions about how to plant firmly and use the Pukeko test, a quick tug after it is in the ground to make sure the pesky birds can’t peck the plant out for lunch. Then it was off over the fields to the site, one of a series of descending ponds along a valley where erosion has been an issue. A pre-planting photo was taken, where everyone was looking extremely clean.

Tamaki Primary School children about to start work.

Freemasons Foundation Chair, Mark Winger, says the day was an example of its strong charitable and community focus that not only provides financial support to enable a project to take place but is also practical and supports education.

“We see Trees for Survival as an extremely valuable programme to help young people better understand and appreciate the environment. The children at Tamaki Primary School can see the plants growing at school before planting them in a location where they will make a difference. It’s a fantastic and practical way to learn and have a lot of fun along the way.” Trees for Survival is a national programme that is active in 141 schools across the country and has over 5,000 NZ school children involved.

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Proud to support the community MEDICAL RESEARCH I COMMUNITY HEALTH I HOSPICE I ARTS & CULTURE I HIGHER EDUCATION

TBC

Tamaki school children with Judith Miller.

Some light refreshment after a hard morning’s digging.

School children with our Freemasons.

Northern Divisional Grand Master Mike Hatie gets his hands dirty helping Opeti.

Foundation Trustee Dennis Waller watches as Gleneth Laery helps Cheska put on her gloves.

Freemasons Foundation adds immense value National Manager, Dennis Millard, said the Foundation’s donation is ‘significant’ and adds immense value.

“Our projects offer so much more than ticking the carbon-credit box. A donation like the Foundation’s means more children can grow their knowledge of the natural environment, and feel part of a larger environmental restoration effort through the planting of thousands of native trees. “The children really bonded with the adults and smiled the whole time, especially when meeting the farm dogs for the first time as they stepped off the bus. We were all tired but happy at the end as we tucked into a huge sausage sizzle and a pile of baking put on by the farmer and his wife Heather.”

The Foundation can be contacted at: PO BOX 28242, Remuera, Auckland 1541.

Freemasons Foundation Trustee Mike Wyse.

Afterwards, as we sat on the farmhouse deck and looked down at the finished job, farmer Chris Kershaw said a single morning’s work, with the help of the children and Freemasons, would have taken weeks to achieve otherwise - “or even years,” he joked. Others supporting the day included Linda Wyllie from TFS and Auckland Council who managed the project, Henry DeBruin, Mark Reeves and Dot Lawrence from TFS sponsor Ventia, Freemason Foundation Trustees, Dennis Waller, Mike Hattie, Mike and Pam Wyse, English Freemason Des and Gleneth Laery and John Miller. The Foundation would like to see the Trees for Survival programme become a national initiative. Contact us to get your Lodge involved.

Telephone: (09) 520 6414 Email: info@freemasonsfoundation.org.nz www.freemasonsfoundation.org.nz

www.freemasonsnz.org

Or by visiting 373 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland. Charity Registration No CC27639

Debunking the Myths Is Freemasonry open to all men? Another myth debunked.....that Freemasonry is only open to selected people. This is simply not true..... All men are equal in Freemasonry.... it is open to all men, of any ethnicity, religion or social standing - who are men of good character, believe in a higher

being and are older than 18 years (in New Zealand) - and who want to become better men in themselves, and for their partners and families and their community - by joining the world’s largest and oldest fraternity.

What are the secrets of Freemasonry? There are many myths and rumours about Freemasonry. Conspiracy theories around too, yet much accurate information is readily accessible in public libraries and on the internet. The only part of Freemasonry that is confidential to members is the means of recognition between themselves. This stems from historical times when intelligent but illiterate stonemasons sought to prove to their employers that they were skilled and competent to build and design and worthy to receive payment for their level of talents.

Freemasons today retain this custom as a symbolic statement of their reliability, integrity and trust. These means of recognition includes words, signs and a handshake. Find out more at www.freemasonsnz.org

Only a Freemason will ask you to become a Freemason Not entirely true! It’s one of the ways and you know a Freemason, or enquire via they would only enquire of you to see if our website and social media. you were interested, but you can ask if If you are interested in Freemasonry, we are interested in you!

The Lodge Goat Freemasons do not ride a goat in their lodges. But we can laugh about it! Since at least the Middle Ages, the goat has been symbolic of the devil, and stories were circulated then of witches who called forth Satan, who came riding into town on a goat to take part in their unsavoury activities. Then, as the Freemasons gained in popularity, detractors accused them of witchcraft, which is probably where the notion of candidates riding a goat came from.

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It didn’t help that some early ceremonial books from the fraternity referred to God as ‘God of All Things’ and abbreviated it as G.O.A.T. That was quickly changed, and God is now referred to by Freemasons by the acronym G.A.O.T.U., for ‘Great Architect of the Universe’. Rest assured: There is no lodge goat except for perhaps mowing a lawn. The degrees of Freemasonry are serious business to Freemasons, and there is no horseplay (or goatplay).

ou may be familiar with this quote, or something similar “artists that don’t make it become teachers.” A rather callous perception, For Wayne Patrick, he says, “artists that become teachers have made it.” Such an attitude underscores all the work Wayne has done in the realm of fine arts. Based in Timaru, Wayne tutors about 50 people each week, a number of which are aspiring artists with special needs. Wayne came to the attention of Lodge Timaru 196 when he held a sale of his artistic works. Why was he having such a sale? To raise funds so he might be able to continue offering materials and lessons to special needs pupils free of charge. A

The Benevolence of the Brush I’m not worried about the money, it’s the outcome. It’s just bloody good to be a part of it. It’s good to give, and you get it back. I work with kids of all ages and they keep coming back, even if it’s just for a cup of tea. I like to think I’m giving them the tools for later life. It’s a gallery with a “I just leave myself enough for difference. ” bread and water, and a bit of cheese. selfless operation, attracting charitable donations to keep his efforts rolling. With the help of the Freemasons Charity, the Lodge has donated $2000 to keep Wayne well stocked as he continues to convey his artistic wisdom and insight to the community. When asked for some insight on his perspectives, this is what Wayne had to say.

From the flames

ake Ohau is still recovering from its 2020 fires. Occurring over several days in October, the blazes engulfed over 5000 hectares of land, and nearly half of the 100 homes in the Lake Ohau village. Local Masonic Lodge, the Mackenzie Lodge knew something had to be done to help amend this horrific incident. “We wanted to create something of lasting value to the village and the community,” Lodge member William Spry said. “So we chased up the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Ōhau Conservation Trust (OCT). They suggested beautifying a section near Lake Middleton.” From this dialogue the result has been a $33,000 donation to help restore the barren landscape.

These funds have been raised through the collective efforts of many Southern Lodges and the Freemasons Charity. OCT chairperson Viv Smith-Campbell said the first stage of the project, once it had its landscape design approved, would go towards the creation of a path and seating area. “With the Freemasons’ donation, we were able to get this project started, it’s

been an absolutely wonderful gesture,” Smith-Campbell said. “The seating area and path will give locals and others a common place to contemplate and enjoy.” The donation will also go towards a parcel of public land of about 2 hectares to be known as the Avoca Forest, which has been allocated by DOC, for the regeneration project. Smith-Campbell said they hoped to get the seating area established in the community by the end of the year, and get the planting underway in autumn next year. From left: Ed King, Freemasons charity officer, Otago Lakes; Katrina Te Rito, secretary of OCT; Will Spry, Viv Smith-Campbell, chairperson of OCT; Jeff Elston, freemasons; and Alex Solomon, district grand master.

2022 Freemasons University Scholarships close 1 October 2021 32

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Hospital help

he Freemasons Charity, in conjunction with Lodge Taia, and the Herbert Teagle Masonic Perpetual Trust, has recently made a donation to the forthcoming new Wellington Children’s Hospital. The new children’s hospital itself has come about through a $50 million gift from a property developer Mark Dunajtschik. Work then began on the hospital in November 2018. The existing regional children’s hospital is currently 30 years old, and given the nature of medical developments in the last three decades, in need of replacement. The new Child Health service from the hospital will be known as “Te Wao – The Great Forest of Tane.” Yet Hospitals are not cheap, and even the vast sum of $50 million is not enough to get things up and running.

Artists impression of the Wellington Children’s Hospital to come.

The Wellington Hospitals Foundation aims to raise $10 million to outfit and equip the hospital. The result will be a state of the art facility that meets the specific health needs of children and their families. It is in the context of contributing to needed equipment that the Herbert

Teagle-Taia Lodge No. 300, with the assistance of The Freemasons Charity, are proud to have provided assistance of $4000. The facility itself will be three stories high, 7000 square meters, and have 60 beds.

The parable out at sea – soulful sailing

he Sailability Wellington Trust is a charity with one focus. Getting those who might be considered disabled, able on a sailboat. There are currently 198 participants with 30 on the waiting list, supported by 76 volunteer members with 25 yachts and three support boats. Participants come from a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds and ages. Participants have a breadth of different differences, from neurological to physical. In the end this makes no difference, they are welcomed into the sailing community, included in social events, fed at BBQs, and given opportunities to go out in the support boats. It is what these sailors are able to achieve, often well in excess of their own and families expectations, that brings great merit to these endeavours. Most sailing is in Hansa 303 sailing dinghies but their maximum payload is

just 160 kg. As many of the participants need a companion crew or skipper to be with them, the Trust set about seeking out a self-righting sailing dinghy with a larger payload. This led to a new design of a yacht named a “ParAble” with a payload of 240 kg. It has two sets of sails, one for racing and one to use in learning to sail. This new yacht “ParAble” is the crux of a Wellington District Royal Arch Chapters and Cryptic Council’s donation totalling $15,000. It can be stored on a beach trolley and rolled off into the sea for rigging. The centreboard is weighted and is lifted into the yacht with a crane (the same one which would be used to lift someone from a wheelchair into the yacht). It has a self-taking jib as well as easily identifiable controls for blind sailors. It is self-draining and can be reefed easily from inside the cockpit.

2022 Heartland Freemasons Scholarships open 1 October 2021 www.freemasonsnz.org/charity

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Health and Wellbeing Hopefully you are finding your way through this period of lockdown and staying well. We all know, however, that lockdown and a resurgence of COVID-19 in our community can be a difficult and stressful time; below are some resources that can be used to support people’s mental health. Free to use, so please share with your whanau and other people you may be supporting, or with someone you just know that could use these resources. Quickly find it all here: freemasonsnz.org/blog/lockdown-and-staying-well 1. Mentemia – The app has ideas and 5. There are a number of online cognitools to help you learn how to be well tive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs and stay well throughout the COVID-19 including: pandemic. It helps you deal with Beating the Blues is the most widely common stressors (such as poor sleep, used evidence-based online CBT proanxiety and stress). Find out more at gramme for relieving depression www.healthnavigator.org.nz/apps/m/ Just a thought: Free online mentemia-app/ CBT and therapy for all New Zealanders. Courses for anxiety, 2. Melon – The app is a health and welldepression and COVID related stress. ness app with a variety of programmes. justathought.co.nz The app is aimed at people who are feeling anxious or stressed. Find out more at depression.org.nz is a New Zealandwww.healthnavigator.org.nz/apps/m/ based website that uses CBT-based melon-app/ online self-help programmes for depression and anxiety. 3. Centre for Clinical Interventions web auntydee.co.nz a CBT-based site provides cognitive behavioral selfapproach for wellbeing, anxiety help resources for a range of difficulties and stress that has been adapted for such as depression, worry, health anxiePasifika cultural groups by LeVa ty, sleep, self-compassion – to name just a few. They provide quick information SPARX is a New Zealand CBT-based guides, worksheets and comprehensive online resource for young people. modules at www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/ sparx.org.nz Resources/Looking-After-Yourself 6. Sparklers at Home is resource 4. Whakatau Mai: The Wellbeing for parents to talk with their primaSessions – These free, virtual community ry-school-aged children about their menevents are aimed at supporting wellbeing tal health and wellbeing, and the return of in real-time — to help you connect you COVID-19. sparklers.org.nz/parenting with others, learn and practise new skills, and start looking at things differ- 7. Hummingly offers tools and ently. Some examples of sessions include; videos to support your workforce mindfulness, yoga, lgbt+ support. Find www.hummingly.co out more at www.wellbeingsessions.nz 8. There is also helpful advice on looking after your mental wellbeing at covid19.govt.nz/health-and-wellbeing/ ment a l -wel lb ei ng / l o ok i ng -af teryour-mental-wellbeing/

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9. If you or a member of your whanau needs additional support, you can contact the following at any time: 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor. Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP). Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO). Healthline – 0800 611 116 Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 (to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions). 10. OUTLine NZ – 0800 688 5463 (OUTLINE) provides confidential telephone support for lgbt+ support. 11. Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat. 12. thelowdown.co.nz – or email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626 for support for young people. 13. What’s Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18-year-olds). Phone counselling is available Monday to Friday, 12noon– 11pm and weekends, 3pm–11pm. Online chat is available from 3pm–10pm 7 days a week, including all public holidays. Here is hoping this information can add to your support toolboxes as we navigate this bumpy road together. With thanks for Bro Peter Fitt

Well done to those of you who have been vaccinated It’s with a great deal of pleasure important for us, give the age of most of our residents. that we want to congratulate the residents of our care To say we were not happy about facilities and our villages for the another Covid-19 lockdown was an understatement. They take a toll efforts they have made to get on our residents, especially those vaccinated against Covid-19. in care who become even more isolated and disconnected, Around 90 per cent of our care just when they need that village residents and over 80 per cent of retirement villages residents connectedness most. are now vaccinated. That’s great But needs must. news and means we are all doing All our village and care facility our bit to keep ourselves and others managers have plans in place safe from the virus. to cater for a variety of Covid And as the Prime Minister and scenarios and we work closely with Minister Hipkins have been at regional public health agencies to pains to point out – the faster we ensure we are doing right by all our are all fully vaccinated, the faster residents. we can return to some semblance Thankfully we haven’t yet had to of normal and be better protected roll-out those various contingency against Covid, which is particularly plans, but we do feel for our

colleagues at St Margaret’s Hospital and Rest Home in Te Atatu where a staffer tested positive for Covid early in September. And we have been as ingenious as possible in terms of finding ways to maintain communication channels for our residents and their outside friends and family. So, let’s all sanitise, use the Covid app, wear our masks when in public and remember to socially distance. And get a test if you feel unwell So, vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate. Again, congratulations to those of you who have already done so, and to those who haven’t yet had your two doses, please do so when you can. Let’s all keep safe out there.

Government to introduce Aged Care Commissioner Recruitment for an Aged Care Commissioner started last month (August). The new Commissioner will be in place within the next six months. The Government hopes the new role will give older people, their friends, and families greater confidence in the quality and safety of services. In a recent press release, Associate Minister of Health and Minister for Seniors, Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall, said the Government needs to make sure older New Zealanders experience consistent, quality care. “The Aged Care Commissioner will proactively provide leadership and advocacy for systemic change across the entire aged care sector, and be a recognisable figure for resolving complaints.” The Masonic Villages Trust agrees the system can be confusing and we welcome the introduction of the Aged Care Commissioner role.

“The aged care sector offers a plethora of services variously provided by many different entities. It is little wonder that accessing care can be a bewildering and confusing experience,” says Trust Chief Executive, Warick Dunn. He believes that whilst the aged care sector has many processes already in place to ensure proper care it is hoped this role will ensure major issues are raised and lobbied for with government. The Trust plans to follow the Aged Care Commissioner’s work closely to ensure they are providing the best possible quality of care for residents. “As one of the larger charities offering aged care services, as well as housing designed to support older people, we will watch the early days of this new role most closely. “We have a keen interest to see long running issues identified and taken up with government by a credible Commissioner who can make a difference.”

Masonic Court care facility celebrates Olympics with smorgasbord A few weeks ago the Masonic Court care facility in Palmerston North celebrated the Olympic Games in style. Residents experienced the culture and cuisine of many countries competing in the games by taking a culinary trip around the world from the comfort of their very own dining room. This ‘Olympic smorgasbord’ was a hit with both staff and residents…well, mostly. Some did not enjoy the taste of their first olive. Catering authentic dishes from more than 20 countries for the 49 residents would be no easy feat, yet aside from a few dishes the smorgasbord was prepared in house. Residents enjoyed Indian curry, Greek salad, Mexican tacos, Italian pizza, or sushi to represent the host country Japan. New Zealand was represented with a classic Kiwi roast lamb. Mains were followed

by Turkish baklava, American pumpkin pie, and German Black Forest Gateaux. Facility manager, Karen Adrian, says the event was a great way to get everybody together. “The residents tried all different dishes from different countries, many trying things for the first time and they loved it. The smorgasbord certainly widened their culinary horizons.” Karen says staff at the Masonic Court Rest Home love to plan topical activities for the residents. “We like to flavour our activities towards current affairs. Anything that is in the news, holidays, or annual events, such as the Melbourne Cup, big rugby games, or daffodil day. Planning an Olympicthemed event was an obvious choice because the residents loved watching it on TV.” In the lead up to the event, residents helped to create the flags and bunting that decorated the table and room.

MVT AGM

AGM

The Masonic Villages Trust will hold its AGM on Monday November 15 in Wellington, starting with a light lunch at 12.30pm. Please feel free to join us and attend our meeting. It will be a useful opportunity to learn more about the workings of The Trust, which is very closely associated with Freemasonry and shares many of Freemasonry’s values.

The Masonic Villages Trust l Head office: Level 6, 15 Daly Street l Lower Hutt 5010 New Zealand l Tel +64 4 569 8512 l www.masonicvillages.co.nz warick.dunn@masonicvillages.co.nz

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Keeping an eye on KC T

he Potter Masonic Trust acknowledged Keratoconus (KC) as a problem in New Zealand with clear disparities specific to the population of South Auckland. In response, the Trust provided lead investigator, Dr Rasha Altaie, an Ophthalmologist based at Middlemore Hospital, funding to investigate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to develop a novel, computational based tool to detect early KC. rapidly and inexpensively. A tool such as this will not require specialist input, rather community based eye care and trained providers will be able to diagnose this condition. Keratoconus (KC) is a disease that alters the shape of the cornea (image Figure 1) that can lead to vision loss and in the most severe cases, legal blindness. It is a condition that typically develops during young adulthood (images, Figure 2) whereby early detection is key to reducing this vision loss. Within the OECD, KC has a prevalence of ~ 1 in 500. However, New Zealand has one of the highest rates of KC with ~ 1 in 200 adolescents affected by this condition. KC disproportionately affects Maori (1

in 45) and Pacific children the cornea to slow or halt and has also been shown the progression of KC. The to have a more severe cross-linking procedure is course of disease in these cost-effective (a few hunethnic groups. Further dred dollars to perform) complicating the problem, and patients are discharged KC is also more prevalent to the community after 1-2 in low decile schools, and follow-up appointments. is associated with allergies, Therefore, early detection and the underutilisation of of KC also has a significant corrective lenses. impact on the economic KC significantly impacts burden of the disease. the quality of life of an Dr Rasha Altaie. At present early diagnoindividual due to its onset sis of KC requires corneal during ones’ formative years. In severe images obtained using modalities that are cases (~20% in New Zealand), a corneal generally only located within hospitals transplant is required. Corneal trans- or specialist care services. Furthermore, plants are expensive (each procedure an experienced corneal specialist is recosts in excess of $20,000 to perform), quired to interpret images of the cornea require extensive aftercare and life-long and herein lies the problem. clinical support. There is also a high Over the last decade, the use of AI in rate of complications post-transplant. healthcare has gained significant tracHowever, if KC is detected early, it can be tion, particularly in diagnostic medicine. treated by a simple outpatient procedure Put simply, this project will train an algocalled corneal cross-linking. Corneal rithm to differentiate the presence of KC cross-linking utilises riboflavin/B12 from healthy/non-KC corneas from just and ultraviolet light to strengthen the images of the cornea. Therefore, early crosslinks between collagen fibres in diagnosis will no longer require input from a trained specialist. Since the project began, Dr Altaie and colleagues have collated, annotated and de-identified the 12,000 corneal images needed to undertake the AI pilot study. To achieve this, an IT student (Ibrahim Al-Asaad) created a program

Figure 1: Clear shape difference between a normal (left) compared to a keratoconic (right) eye.

POTTER MASONIC TRUST • info@pottermasonic.org.nz

Figure 2: Examples of KC in adolescence from the South Auckland community. LEFT 8-year-old boy who presented acutely to Greenlane hospital never having had been diagnosed with any eye conditions. His parents noted that he would frequently rub his eyes. There is also a family history of KC. RIGHT 9-year-old girl who presented with severe eye pain to the acute clinic. Unlike the 8-year-old boy, she had no history of KC, but her parents also noted excessive eye rubbing. Note: Families have given their permission for the images to be shared to help inform, educate, and raise awareness of KC.

to automatically extract the images from the patient details present in the files and then save the image in a de-identified format for the AI analysis. This program will enable more rapid processing of images in the future. Dr Altaie has reviewed every image to confirm the diagnosis, with confirmation of diagnosis performed by another corneal specialist, Dr Jay Meyer. The dataset includes healthy corneas, KC corneas and corneas with other abnormalities. The de-identified images were then delivered to an AI software engineer, Dr Ehsan Vaghefi, and his team, so that they could begin the process of training an algorithm to differentiate the presence of KC from healthy/nonKC corneas. Dr Vaghefi and his team have identified several algorithms that

can successfully identify KC corneas and are currently working on more complex designs to improve the sensitivity and specificity of the algorithm. The next step will be to perform a prospective trial to compare the performance of the AI algorithm against the clinical gold-standard (diagnosis by two corneal specialists). To achieve this, the AI algorithm will be deployed using Amazon AWS and linked to the corneal imaging system at the Manukau SuperClinic. Over a 3 month period, Dr Altaie and Dr Meyer will screen 1,000 patients that have been referred for eye assessment for a variety of reasons, including suspected KC. The AI algorithm will grade the images in the background, while the corneal specialists will be

masked from the AI inference. At the end of the trial period, the performance of the AI algorithm will be compared to the diagnoses made by the corneal specialists, where the AI is hoped to achieve >90% specificity and sensitivity. If this proves to be successful, the team plans to further develop the AI algorithm to identify KC from images taken with multiple different devices. This should make the technology more accessible for optometrists and enable easier setup of KC screening in the community. Using technology such as this will reduce wait times for specialist care and crucially, improve timely access to treatments. Ultimately, it will alleviate some of the stress on an already burdened health system.

The Potter Masonic Trust is the legacy left to us by Bro Frederick Seymour Potter (1847–1941) and the most generous individual benefactor in our history. The Trust funds projects in the Northern Division generally relating to Children but including community facilities, educational programmes, music, disadvantaged children and health.

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From the First Grand Principal

reetings Companions; in this issue of Red Pages I wish to acknowledge and thank you all for the invaluable ongoing support you are providing in two vitally important areas; that of Craft membership retention and our charitable activities. Our campaign in support of the Grand Master’s “One Vision, One Goal, One Team” initiative is gaining momentum, and I am confident that the Advancement of many Master Masons over recent months and their newly-acquired knowledge and understanding, will not only enhance their enjoyment of Freemasonry, but consolidate their commitment. I encourage all Chapters to fully embrace the plan and enable our Royal Arch to make a positive difference.

The two main charitable projects we support are the Jubilee Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Centennial Award. In this issue we feature an update from Centennial Award recipient Ms Sarah Candy who is deeply involved in the research aspects of a three-year project to develop a Mobile Application which will provide Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) support for patients with long-term lung conditions, to enable them to become more independent through involvement in their own management. Our Centennial Award has committed to this important project from the outset, and I know that as you read Sarah’s update report, you will feel a sense of justifiable pride in the reality that your donations are not only materially assisting the development of a vital personal

health tool with the potential to become both life-saving and life-changing for thousands of vulnerable New Zealanders, but are simultaneously advancing the academic career of a gifted and recognized authority in her specialized field of pulmonary disease management and mitigation. Your support has ensured that a prototype mPR will soon become available to improve access and adherence to PR for those living with a chronic respiratory condition – a gift which will continue giving for many years to come. MEComp Ron Lane First Grand Principal Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of NZ

Master Masons completing the Masonic journey Clause 71 of the GLNZ Book of Constitution states that Grand Lodge recognizes only the three Craft degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason; plus the three Royal Arch degrees of Mark Master, Excellent Master and Holy Royal Arch as being pure, antient Freemasonry. We congratulate the following brethren who have recently been Advanced to the degree of Mark Master Mason and we warmly welcome them into the Royal Arch fraternity: 15.04.21 Darin Thomas Peters Rotorua Chapter No 44 20.04.21 David Bayliss Victory Chapter No 12 26.04.21 Ronald Allan Polon St Augustine No 1 01.05.21 Richard Shelford-Woodcock Ohinemuri Chapter No 17 17.05.21 Michael Edward Chapter of Peace No 38 17.05.21 Jonathan Dyas Chapter of Peace No 38 20.05.21 Evan Grant Donnelly Ara Chapter No 53

24.05.21 Edward Joseph Teece Manawatu Chapter No 11 26.05.21 John Francis Riding Horowhenua Chapter No 63 26.05.21 Guillermo Rosario Tolentino St Andrew Chapter No 19 09.06.21 Leonardo Sanchez Brooklyn Chapter No 24 14.06.21 Leigh David Pollero Wanganui Chapter No 23 21.06.21 Logan Grant Kitney St Augustine Chapter No 1 28.06.21 Razvan Mihai Secareanu St Augustine Chapter No 1

www.royalarch.org.nz

10.07.21 William Anthony Lee Ohinemuri Chapter No 17 12.07.21 Nicholas Stevens Waterloo-Russell Chapter No 2 12.07.21 Blake Eli Tolley Wanganui Chapter No 23 24.07.21 Jonathan Farquharson Victoria Chapter No 4 24.07.21 Jason Anderson Victoria Chapter No 4 28.07.21 Ritchie Francisco Palis Rose and Thistle Chapter No 35 28.07.21 John Riding Horowhenua Chapter No 63

Centennial Award update

would like to start with a warm thank you to the Centennial Award Committee and companions for your ongoing support of my studies. This is the third year of my study towards a PhD and it has been a busy, exciting and productive year to date. The aim of this Centennial Award 3-year project is to develop a mobile health application for the delivery of pulmonary rehabilitation for people living with a chronic respiratory condition. The benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) have been proven, but the uptake of PR by people living with respiratory conditions has historically remained low. A mobile application would allow increased access to this important health intervention. Progress on this study to date has involved a survey to develop a baseline of current PR services in NZ; formative studies interviewing clinicians and people living with respiratory conditions for their perceptions of mobile health, and a pilot study to trial the first mobile application prototype (mPR); which was developed by a multi-disciplinary team including Public Health and mHealth experts, physiotherapists, respiratory physicians, psychologists, respiratory nurse specialists, a Maori advisory group, together with ongoing input and feedback from end users. The intervention involves a core exercise-based rehabilitation programme, which is individualised and progressive. Self-management education is delivered

in a variety of formats, including SMS, written and audio content. The mPR-app contains 12 sections with tips and tools for managing your health condition. This has written content, short education video clips and links to further information. Much of 2020 was spent in content development - using the earlier studies to refine and improve the mPR-app. This has led to the opportunity to now start testing the new and improved mPR-application with participants. Initially, we have chosen a preferencebased trial on the basis that some people would rather attend the in-person group while others would prefer a mobile device based programme. Randomising this could impact recruitment with participants concerned about group allocation. There are those who may not physically be able to attend in person (due to transport, work or illness) and if randomised, this arm would be unlikely to attend or complete, thus affecting the results. Recognition that people do have preferences means that were they randomised to the less-preferred option, dissatisfied participants may be less likely to complete. We are interested in a pragmatic trial, and envisage that if successful, mPR will be offered to people as an alternative

to existing standard PR programmes. Therefore, information on patient preferences (how many choose which version) is important for funding and planning prior to making the final decision to implement mPR. The preference trial has been approved by the Health and Disability Ethics Committee (HDEC) and has locality approval to be undertaken at Counties Manukau Health and Waitemata District Health Board. The study aims to recruit 100 participants from three hospital PR services. Data collection began in June with nearly half of the targeted participant numbers enrolled in the study to date. It is anticipated the target recruitment number will be reached by mid-August and all follow-up assessments will be completed by the end of October. Data analysis and writing of results will follow in November and December. There has been a positive response from participants that options are being offered regarding the delivery of their PR. I am looking forward to presenting the results of the study at the Auckland Royal Arch Proclamation in March 2022. Again my sincere thanks to the Royal Arch Masons for your support of this important health study. Kindest regards Sarah Candy PGDip Health Science, BHSc, BSc

Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of New Zealand advise that all Royal Arch Chapters throughout the country are closed due to COVID-19 until further advised by the First Grand Principal on re-opening

www.royalarch.org.nz

REPORT Foundation answers Hospice call The Freemasons Foundation was happy to step up when Harbour Hospice came calling. The Hospice unites the areas of Auckland’s North Shore, Hibiscus Coast, Warkworth and Wellsford caring for over 1,300 patients a year across three sites.

Design for Shea Terrace, Takapuna Artists impression

With demand for palliative care in the Harbour Hospice region expected to surge by 50 percent in the next fifteen years, the Hospice site at Takapuna is urgently upgrading its facilities. The Freemasons Foundation’s substantial contribution will assist in providing a new Nurse Call System, a system that will have an immense impact for patients, carers and families. This vital piece of medical equipment will enable patients to call their nurses simply by pushing a button or using a pullcord. It will enhance the patient’s sense of comfort and security, reducing response times and improving care. Freemasons Foundation and Lodges throughout the country have a long association with hospices and Chairman, Mark Winger, is delighted that the Foundation was able to help Harbour Hospice with their nurse call system.

Inpatient Bedroom Artists render

He said “The Foundation has been providing support to the agedcare community for many years and we are happy to continue our association with the hospice movement and the outstanding work they perform. Providing this help to Harbour Hospice with a leading-edge solution for patients to call for assistance is ideal. This is a crucial piece of technology giving comfort to patients and their families at a challenging time.”

The full redevelopment has a projected total cost of $23 million and construction is set to be completed in early 2023. Pullcord

Callpoint

Proud to support the Community ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH | COMMUNIT Y HEALTH | ARTS & CULTURE | HIGHER EDUCATION

Speaking Up for the Freemasons Foundation One financial year closes and a new one begins. What are we doing today that is an improvement on what we did yesterday? Let’s talk about communication. During my term as Grand Master I introduced the phrase ‘Speak Up’ to encourage us individually to be proud of our institution and to talk to friends, families and acquaintances about Freemasonry. It probably comes as little surprise that as Chair of the Freemasons Foundation I am focusing on a marketing plan to ‘Speak Up’ about the Foundation and the work it does in our communities. The Foundation has two markets in which to raise its profile. Externally, we want the public to know the great work being done by the Foundation on behalf of all the Freemasons in New Zealand; internally, we want the brethren to know what is being done in their name so they can talk about the benefits Freemasonry is bringing to society.

We want the public to know the great work being done by the Foundation on behalf of all the Freemasons in New Zealand. Externally we want the groups to whom we grant funds to proudly promote their relationship with the Freemasons Foundation. They will extoll our Square & Compasses widely to those of little understanding. They will see Freemasonry supporting their groups and start a conversation. Will you be ready to answer their questions?

Internally we already circulate information to brethren but we intend to strengthen that flow of material so Lodges will be armed to also ‘Speak Up’. Traditionally, we have not been keen to spend money on marketing preferring that our resources go towards helping those in need or making a difference in the community. In today’s world we need to adapt to the demands of modern society. New technology - social media – social influencers – so many new ways to get the message about Freemasonry to the public.

Communication – that’s the key The Foundation will be doing its part – we will be providing you with details of what we are doing in the name of Freemasonry – we will have more material to expand on the projects we are supporting (see our ‘Trees for Survival’ story elsewhere in this issue) – we can help with your efforts to raise your profile in your communities. Let’s all ‘Speak Up’ about the important benevolent work being undertaken by the Masonic charities across our countryside We welcome any suggestions or ideas on how the Freemasons Foundation can better assist Lodges and Brethren to Speak Up. Communication – that’s the key.

Total Donations for year-ended 30 June 2021 - $1,408,478 Auckland Medical Museum Trust

New Zealand Opera

Alcohol & Other Drug Treatment Courts

New Zealand Opera School New Zealand Portrait Gallery

Auckland City Mission Auckland City Mission HomeGround Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra Auckland Writers Festival Bowel Cancer New Zealand Incorporated Bridget Williams Books, Schools Library Programme Chamber Music New Zealand

NZTrio Foundation Parent Help Wellington Incorporated

Mark Winger Chair

Other $121,816

Community health $272,246

Polio NZ Incorporated Sistema Aotearoa Trust The Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust The University of Auckland Foundation

Children of Deaf Adults

The University of Auckland - School of Medicine Foundation

Deaf Wellbeing Society Incorporated

Trees for Survival Trust

Diabetes NZ Auckland Branch

Wesley College

Research $234,359

Cultural $334,886

Education $445,171

Elizabeth Knox Home & Hospital Harbour Hospice

Features of the 2020 - 21 Year

Kidz First

• Donations up 30% on previous year

Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand

• Support activity maintained despite Covid difficulties

• Community health remains a major segment of help

Macular Degeneration New Zealand

• Assistance continued for regular established beneficiaries

• Arts needs crucial with Covid impacts

• Conservation causes added to portfolio with research and education projects

A full report on the Foundation’s activity for 2020-21 is included in the Annual Report to be released prior to the 3 November AGM.

The Foundation can be contacted at: PO Box 28242, Remuera, Auckland 1541. Telephone: (09) 520 6414 Email: info@freemasonsfoundation.org.nz www.freemasonsfoundation.org.nz Or by visiting 373 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland. Charity Registration No CC27639 45

West Coast 70 Year Freemason A special ceremony was held at Lodge Westport) in July. Our Grand Master QSO, JP with his 70th year bar. Brother Torea No 121 in Waimangaroa (near Graham Wrigley, presented Peter Roselli Roselli is a retired Chartered Accountant and Coroner from Westport. Lodge Torea Master Gary James congratulated Bro Roselli alongside several brethren in attendance. Peter was absolutely rapt to be honoured and to have a contingent of visitors from NelsonMarlborough-West Coast District No 23 with the Grand Master in attendance with Grand Lodge Officers. Peter became a Freemason in July 1951.

Another 70 Year Freemason In June of this year, Merv Wilson Roll initiated into Freemasonry in January to make the presentation (as a former of Honour qualified for his 70 Year Bar 1951 in Lodge Wairoa No 55. It fell member of Lodge Wairoa). to his long service Jewel, having been to Kerry Dalzell Grand Inner Guard Merv would have preferred that the presentation be made within a Lodge setting but now, at 96 years old, his health required that we use the alternative beautiful venue overlooking manicured gardens and Welcome Bay in the distance in the company of his wife Heather, family, friends and Freemasons. The occasion was hosted by The Meridian Lodge No 449 (which is Merv’s adopted Lodge in Tauranga) who also provided a light lunch to follow. Family, Friends and Freemasons and Merv with Kerry.

Two Triple Degrees and a Double Degree New Freemasons aplenty in Tauranga Lodge Te Papa No 316 had the unique pleasure of performing a triple 1st Degree in July. We proudly initiated three new Filipino Brothers into Freemasonry, and to make it even more special we had three of our junior Filipino Brothers perform the Investiture, Charge After Investiture and also the Charter Charge. To say they performed the charges perfectly would be a huge understatement and was a true testament to their dedication and commitment. Additionally, in August we have been granted a dispensation to move our regular meeting to a Saturday to enable

us to perform firstly a triple 2nd Degree and busy day that we are all looking performed by Past Masters, followed by forward to. a double 1st Degree performed by the How is your Lodge attracting new regular Officers. It will be a very exciting members?

www.freemasonsnz.org

Welcome to our newest Freemasons May – July 2021

Levi Preston New Zealand Pacific No. 2

Miguel Duran Lodge North Harbour No. 182

Mason Stoney New Zealand Pacific No. 2

Cristopher Ebite Lodge North Harbour No. 182

Darwin Ugalde The Beta-Waikato Lodge No. 12

Francis Sombito Lodge Waihopai No. 189

Ryan Duran The Beta-Waikato Lodge No. 12

Florimon Villacorte Lodge Waihopai No. 189

Kristoffer Saquin Lodge Erewhon No. 200 Ashton Wing-Ondunn Lodge Parahaki No. 269

Benjamin Payne The Caledonian Lodge No. 16

Daniel Painter Lodge of Progress No. 22

Samuel Arayata The Concord Lodge No. 39

Trevor Tucker Lodge Parahaki No. 269

Rajeev Sharma The Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45

Danny Blackman Lodge Haeata No. 272

Mark Van Zon The Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45

Richard Purchas Lodge Haeata No. 272

Shivendra Sakale Papakura Lodge No. 56

Gregory Young Lodge Nelson No. 288

Sean Lyons The Franklin Lodge No. 58

Michael Paduyao Lodge Te Papa No. 316

Joseph Henry The Franklin Lodge No. 58

Kristhoffer Salavdor Lodge Te Papa No. 316

Michael Van Der Watt The Fortitude Lodge No. 64

Michael Malannag Lodge Te Papa No. 316

Godofredo Ventura Jr The Heretaunga Lodge No. 73

Leighton Kopua The Mangere Lodge No. 330

Carl Donovan Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85

Tristram Speedy Browns Bay Lodge No. 346

Brendon Lonsdale Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85

Carl McNulty The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98

Bevan Coudret The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98

Michael Mitchell The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98

Jerome Paray St Augustine Lodge No. 99 Mario Mian Lodge Winton No. 108

Walden Bawayan Lodge Hatea No. 431

Kristoffer Dalman Lodge Waikanae No. 433 Gregory Fernandez Lodge Waikanae No. 433

Gregory Horscroft The Waitohi Lodge No. 111

Albert Oberholzer The Forest Lodge No. 116

Adam Ross The Tauranga Lodge No. 125 Adam Triggs Onehunga Maungawhao Lodge No. 168

Yunmin Ma The Pakuranga Lodge No. 416 Casey Clement Lodge Mangaroa No. 419

Scott Guest Browns Bay Lodge No. 346 Fabio Santos The Wayfarers Lodge No. 389

Frederik De Jager United Horowhenua Lodge No. 464

Quintin Smith Lodge Waikato No. 475

Patrick Salmon Lodge Waikato No. 475

Mauria Ngati Au Lodge Matariki No. 476

Being open about Freemasonry is encouraging enquiry from men of calibre and nurturing these new members will bring about a lifelong involvement in Freemasonry.

From Entered Apprentice to 50 years a Freemason Our Grand master Graham Wrigley recently made an official visit to Lodge Waikato No 475 in Hamilton for a 1st Degree Ceremony for Quintin Smith and the presentation of a 50 Year Service Badge to Don Seath Past District Grand Master.

Our Grand Master pointed out to our new Entered Apprentice Freemason Quintin Smith, where his masonic may lead to...at least 50 years in Freemasonry. Congratulations to Quintin and Don.

www.freemasonsnz.org

The Last Word!

Freemasons New Zealand Crossword

Solution page 7

Floor plan for King Solomon’s Temple based on I Kings ACROSS 6 Major North Otago/South Canterbury river? 7 What COVID-19 vaccination is New Zealand using? 10 Another element at top of the Pillars? 11 Islands to the North of the United Kingdom? 12 Found on the top of the Pillars? 15 Two rows of seeds found on the Pillars? 16 Initials for God in the Second Degree? 18 Who is the Director General of Health in New Zealand? (two words) 20 How many pillars at entrance to King Solomon’s Temple?

DOWN 1 Northern most State in USA? 2 Element at top of the Pillars? 3 Ancient Middle Eastern measurement? 4 Where did the wood for King Solomon’s Temple come from? 5 What is the latest variant of Coivd-19? 8 Who received their wages in the middle chamber of the temple? 9 Which King assisted with men and materials for King Solomon’s Temple? (four words) 13 Country beginning with B in Africa? 14 What science is the basis of our Art in the Second Degree? 17 Capital of Sri Lanka? 19 First name of the Son of the Widow?

www.freemasonsnz.org

SERVICE AWARDS May– July 2021

70 YEARS

WBro Mervyn John Wilson PM

Lodge Wairoa No. 55

Bro John Benjamin Winter MM

Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No. 109

Bro Peter Roselli MM

Lodge Torea No. 121

60 YEARS

WBro Russell James Maxwell Tait PM

Bro Peter Elwyn Johns MM

WBro Alistair Grant Cowan P Dist GDC

Bro Kenneth William Boon MM

The Hiram Lodge No. 46 Lodge Whangarei No. 102 Lodge Dunstan No. 103 Lodge Orewa No. 370

50 YEARS

WBro Gervan John McGhie PG Swd B

The Hiram Lodge No. 46

WBro Tony Albert Jenkin PG Std B

RWBro John Steven Pritchard Dep GM

WBro Allan Edward Mitchell PM

VWBro Edward Alan Cross P Dist GM

Lodge Waihopai No. 189

VWBro John George Lindores PGDC

Harmony Lodge No. 325

The Franklin Lodge No. 58 Lodge St John No. 94 Lodge Manuherikia Kilwinning No. 109

www.freemasonsnz.org

Invest in the Freemasons Deposit Scheme to invest in New Zealand Heartland Bank is proud to be the Freemasons Deposit Scheme partner. With roots stretching back to 1875, Heartland Bank has a proud history of providing families, small-to-medium sized businesses and farmers with financial solutions to help them achieve prosperity. Through our partnerships built on shared values, Heartland Bank is working with Freemasons New Zealand to support the Craft in local communities, while providing Freemasons and their families with competitive interest rates on their deposits. To discuss your specific requirements, contact a dedicated representative on 0508 FREEMASONS (0508 37 33 62) or email freemasons@heartland.co.nz.

Freemasons New Zealand is not a promoter of and does not guarantee the obligations of Heartland Bank Limited in relation to Heartland Bank deposits. Heartland Bank’s current Disclosure Statement, Product Fact Sheets and Account and Service General Terms and Conditions are available at heartland.co.nz or by calling 0508 FREEMASONS (0508 37 33 62).

NZ Freemason magazine Issue 3 September 2021

Articles inside

Service Awards

Freemasons Foundation

Royal Arch

Debunking the Myths

Masonic Villages Trust

Health and Wellbeing

‘Monkey Bikes’ for cancer and hospice

Back to basics

COVID-19 alert levels Lodge operating guide

Grand Master visits Napier

News clips

From the Grand Master

From the Executive Director

September is Alzheimers Awareness Month

From the Editor