FREEMASONNEW ZEALAND

Inside This IssueCommunication 08

The Freemasons Charity Survey

Freemasons helping out at Camp Quality

Issue 1, 2008 (Vol 36)

www.freemasons.co.nz

Contents EditorGrand Master

Grand Masters CalendarMARCH1 The Havelock North Lodge No. 104 Blenheim 23 Installation meeting3 Lodge Kawerau No. 422 Kawerau 12 Regular meeting - 1st degree ceremony6 The Wayfarers Lodge No. 389 Auckland 6 Installation meeting8 Lodge Waikaremoana No. 158 Wairoa 17 Centennial installation/celebrations15 Lake Lodge of Ophir No. 85 Queenstown 30 Installation 2008 20 Lodge Hillcrest No. 368 Hamilton 8 1st degree ceremony and 60 yr badge presentation29 Retirement Village - Ngatea Ngatea 10 Opening Stage One of Retirement VillageAPRIL2 Lodge Piako No. 160 Morrinsville 10 Installation meeting - W Bro James McLaggan8 Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176 Petone 21 Regular meeting - presentation of 4 long service awards12 The Lion Lodge No. 114 Ormondville 18 Installation meeting19 The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No. 47 Palmerston North 15 125th Jubillee - Installation meeting22 Lodge Koranga No. 197 Timaru 28 ANZAC meeting23 Lodge Zetland No. 312 Wellington 19 Installation meeting24 Lodge Waikanae No. 433 Waikanae 19 Regular meeting & 60 yr service bar presentation26 Lodge Gisborne No. 233 Gisborne 17 Installation meetingMAY21 Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 Taupo 11 Regular meeting - 3rd degree26 The Geyserland Daylight Lodge No. 462 Rotorua 11 Installation meetingJUNE 10 Lodge Katikati No. 295 Katikati 12 Installation meeting21 Lodge Ruahine No. 80 Woodville 18 Installation meeting

A warm greetings to you and your family.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year break and have begun 2008 well rested and energized for the year ahead. I thoroughly enjoyed my break away and spent many hours relaxing, reading books, enjoying the sun and spending quality time with my family. Summer is a fantastic time of year, and what a summer we have had so far!

2008 has come “racing out of the blocks” and we have many up and coming events through out the year to keep you all busy. The main event of the year is of course Communication 2008, this year being held in Christchurch, with the latest update of what will be happening on pg. 6 and 7 and the registration form for the entire event on pg 18 and 19.

The Freemasons Charity will also be embarking on a new project to become involved in and in order to make the right decision, they need your help. By simply filling out the survey inserted into this magazine and posting it back to The Freemasons Charity, you will not only get to have your say as to which project you would most like to see the Freemasons involved in, you will also go in the draw to win a trip for two to attend Communication 08 in Christchurch and especially for all the ladies, a prize of a years subscription to two magazines of your choice up to the value of $200. Please take the time and the invaluable opportunity to complete the survey and let your voice be heard.

Through out this issue you will read exciting and interesting up dates of what has been happening out in the Masonic community which will no doubt give you much inspiration and thought provocation.

It is with great sadness that I inform you all that by the time you read this magazine, I would have resigned and already started on a new adventure and career opportunity. I am deeply saddened to be leaving such an excellent organisation to work for but also excited about my future and the new journey I will be embarking on. Thank you all very much for your support since I have been here. I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of your big family and will hold the Freemasons in high regard. I leave here with some new insights into life, and I feel empowered and inspired by the generosity towards each other that you all express. I wish you all good health and good fortunes and look forward till the time we can meet again.

Gabrielle MokeEditor.

The New Zealand Freemason is the official journal of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand. Unless otherwise indicated, the opinions expressed and the advertising content are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy of Grand Lodge.

Articles appearing in this journal may be reproduced without permission provided acknowledgement of the source is made and a copy of the publication is forwarded to the Grand Secretary.

Queries or comments regarding subscription or distribution should be addressed to the Grand Secretary. Queries and comments regarding content and advertising should be addressed to the Editor.

secretary@freemasons.co.nz / editor@freemasons.co.nz Freemasons NZ, PO Box 6439, Wellington 6141, New ZealandPhone 04 385 6622 / Fax 04 385 2420

Contributions to the magazine are greatly appreciated and should be of interest to a wide audience. Contributions, including letters to the Editor, may be edited. Photographs should be high quality, preferably in tiff or eps format.

Contributions to the magazine can also be forwarded through these people:

Northern Division, Michael Whitlock, PO Box 28 272, Remuera, AucklandCentral Division, Colin Heyward, 10 Rose Street, WaipawaSouthern Division, Malcolm Moore, PO Box 247, AlexandraRoyal Arch, Geoff Davies, 81 Warwick Street, Wellington

Magazines are distributed in March, June, September and December. The deadlines for contributions are the first day of February, May, August and November.

The Lowland Games 2

The New Generation 4 Artists Update

Communication 08 6

Letters To the Editor 8

Child of the Earth 9

Unravelling the Secret 11Life of a Kiwi

After the Waves 14

When Pen Meets Paper 15

Communication 08 18Registration form

From the Grand Secretary 21

Lodge Endeavour 22

Camp Quality 25

New Year Honours List 28

Service Awards 29

The Freemasons Charity 31

Royal Arch 33

The National Education 35Committee & The NationalPublicity Committee

St Johns Ambulance 36

The Freemasons Deposit 37Scheme Application form

COVER: The graphic image ‘Chch 08’ being used to identify and promote Communication later in the year has as its base this painting by Tauranga artist Rob McGregor. An amalgam of iconic Christchurch City subjects, the original, in acrylic on board, will be on display at Communication events with other works by the artist.

Greetings Brethren,

While the long, hot summer continues, I can assure you all that 2008 will be busy and challenging but enjoyable.

The Divisional Meetings will be taking place in March and April and I urge you all to attend to discuss the various remits and discussion papers. This is an opportunity to debate the issues and to help shape our future. All I ask is to have

an open mind and to maintain the dignity of the meetings.

I recently came across these words and thought – how appropriate.

When is a Lodge too big?- when the individual becomes lost

in the crowd- when the machinery grows too

complicated for the average man to manage

- when the Lodge is no longer a Brotherhood, but a group

- when fellow Masons can be members but not acquaintances

When is a Lodge too small?- when it cannot fill the chairs at its

communications- when it cannot pay its debts- when it breaks out into bickering

and quarrelling- when it grows small in spirit and

ideals- when it leaves no trace of good

influence in the community

When is a Lodge too rich?- when it becomes filled with

vanity because of its rich

furniture- when a poor man ceases to feel at

home among his Brethren- when it becomes an exclusive

club

When is a Lodge too poor?- when it loses the love and loyalty

of its members- when its ritual becomes nothing

but “words”- when it has ceased to break the

bread of fellowship

It should be our prayer that our Lodge will never grow too big, too small, too rich or too poor.

Barry McLagganGrand Master

NewsNews

2 3

About 10 years ago the Square wheelers from the Northland District decided to go into direct competition with the Highland Games in Waipu. But the games convened as “The Lowland Games”.

The original games were held on Peter and Joanne Packard’s farm “Kembali” at Tangiteroria SH 14 midway between Whangarei and Dargaville.

Four years ago the venue was shifted to Trefoil Park at Tautoro just south of Kaikohe. This facility was built on land gifted to the Girl Guide movement by Selwyn and Heather Gubb who used to farm in the area.The site had been extensively prepared by Peter and Joanne Packard and Neil and Marianne Stevens.

The defending Lodge, Lodge Marsden, faced strong competition form the likes of Lodge Hatea, Hokianga and Kaikohe. All previous winners. Indeed I am told that our DistGDC Rex Alexander had a feeling with King Henry V on the eve of the battle of Agincourt.

A magnificent lamb dinner was prepared in two camp ovens by our Dist GM John Rowe. At breakfast the following morning he attempted to sabotage the opposition with hefty quantities of

cholesterol.

Most lodges in the north were represented. There was even a competitor from North Shore in attendance.

In the first competition, “Gumboot Throwing”, Kaikohe excelled and raced to a four point lead but they were soon overhauled by Lodge Hatea with a fine showing in the potato and spoon race (I must comment that the technique of some of the competitors was highly suspect).The “Shot Put” produced a show of strength from Lodge Hikurangi. It should be mentioned that a past Grand Lecturer from Kaikohe was placed 2nd after the third throw. This was his brief shinning moment as all the following throws went further placing him 2nd to last!

The sack race was a total disaster except for Lodge Hatea and The Okara Daylight Lodge (Ani Milner Lodge Kaikohe, a previous winner, did not take part in this competition this year to give free rein to the hoppers from Hatea). There followed the Possum race. The possums were all certified life extinct not difficult as rigor mortis had set in already. These possums were carried at great speed over a 70metre dash. This was won by an intrepid member of Lodge Mangonui Kaitaia. The Ladies declined to compete

in this event on health grounds.

The next competition was the accelerated consumption of water biscuits. More difficult than one would think. Kaikohe and Hatea shared the honours here. Lodge Marsden were penalized by having to take on a fourth biscuit which put them out of contention.

Although the caber was somewhat smaller than its Waipu counterpart it still proved difficult to master. Neil Stevens, Lodge Kaikohe surprised the crowd and most likely himself with a massive throw to win the event.

The last even was the “Frog throwing”. Before anyone approaches the “Animal Rights” lobby it should be pointed out

that the frogs were made of plastic and very difficult to throw. Mary Olney blitzed the field with a score of 90 points to triumph for Lodge Marsden.

There followed the traditional annihilation of Grand Lodge by “the Rest” in the Tug of War. As it turned out it was a match between the “Green Lane Old Boys” and the “Graduates from the Orthopedic Department of Whangarei Hospital. The latter proving too strong on the day in a totally fair competition (for a change).

Lodge Hatea were the victors by a comfortable margin. Their representative, Buck Batger, accepted the Trophy from our District Grand Master John Rowe and by doing so undertook to arrange the Games in January 2009.

Once again it was a most enjoyable day and our thanks go to Peter and Joanne Packard and Neil and Marianne Stevens and their cohorts for making this a truly memorable occasion.

Roger Milner, Lodge Kaikohe No. 255

The Lowland Games 2008 Trefoil Park, Tautoro, Kaikohe

Participants of the sack race with the judge making sure no funny business is happening

We need reminding occasionally that one of the aims of the Lodge is to help make the world a better place. Three projects we have been involved with in the past year demonstrate this and will make a positive difference to peoples’ lives. When you read about our special dinner guests: - David Owen, Susan Weekes of the Ngaio Scout Group, and Louise Edwards, you’ll see what I mean.

We greatly appreciate the support we receive for youth projects from the Wellington Masonic Youth Trust (WMYT) and were delighted to welcome Trust Chairman RW Bro Roger Gillatt and Lynette, Trustee RW Bro Jim Ting, JGW and Valerie, and Secretary/Treasurer W Bro Ron Adams and Joan.

Last year the Lodge and the Wellington Masonic Youth Trust, provided financial support to assist Newlands College Deputy Head Boy David Owen to lead the NZ delegation of 16 secondary school students to The International Model United Nations in The Hague. (THIMUN 2007).We were very pleased that David’s mother Susan, David’s father Frank and his wife Jo, his brother James, and also his former Newlands College Geography teacher, Mrs Linda Singh were able to attend our dinner to hear David speak.

David gave us an interesting power point presentation on his role and experiences as Leader of the N Z delegation to THJMUN and how they worked together with the more than 4000 other secondary school students from all over the world to highlight global humanitarian issues.

David’s presentation was outstanding. He is extremely grateful for our support and I quote him as follows: “I wish to thank you all for your confidence in me and for your gracious contributions to my THIMUN experiences. I have gained much self-development, enhanced leadership potential, increased international awareness, and I feel ready to begin working towards fostering human understanding.” David aims to be a Diplomat and shortly leaves home for Otago University to continue his studies.

The Lodge recently provided financial assistance towards Ngaio Scout Group travel expenses to attend the World Scouting Jamboree held in Christchurch. The Jamboree celebrated 100 years of Scouting in New Zealand. Ngaio Scout Group Leader Susan Weekes gave us some very interesting insights into life at the Jamboree. Many of us have been involved in Scouting or associated with it through our children, and admire and support its objectives and appreciate the fine work that Scouting does for our children and youth. It was a pleasure also to welcome Susan’s husband Gavin and the two Venturer Scouts, Chris Strain and Peter Chapple that came with them. Susan said our assistance was greatly appreciated.

Just prior to Christmas, also with support from the Wellington Masonic Youth Trust, the Lodge provided financial assistance to enable Louise Edwards of Lower Hutt to attend the Classic Outward Bound Course at Anikiwa in March this year. We invited Louise to our Dinner so that members of the Lodge and WMYT could meet her. Louise is a young scientist employed by ERMA (Environmental

Risk Management Authority) as an Environmental Risk Adviser. For her Master’s Degree she conducted a two year scientific research project that assisted the Parliamentary Select Committee to recommend that New Zealand Vietnam War Veterans should receive compensation due to the effects of their exposure in Vietnam. Her work was of a high standard and received international recognition.

Louise plans to study towards a PhD in medical genetics and eventually conduct research into congenital abnormalities like Spina Bifida and Cerebral Palsy, and other childhood diseases such as Leukaemia. Louise is a keen sportswoman with a great interest in the outdoors and is well qualified to benefit from Outward Bound. We were delighted that Louise was able to attend with Daniel Parr, and later after she completes her Course, we will invite her to speak to us about her experiences at Outward Bound.

In summary, our Youth Dinner was a wonderfully rewarding occasion and I believe a similar event should become a permanent feature in the Lodge’s annual programme.

W Bro John NimmoLodge Homewood No. 447

David Owen giving his presentation to the members and guests of Lodge Homewood

Youth Dinner at Lodge Homewood No. 447

UpdateUpdate

The five inaugural New Generation Artists are on the move. Joe Sheehan is moving to Auckland. Tze Ming Mok is currently working in Switzerland, Eve takes up a residency in Hong Kong, Warren Maxwell is touring the country and Taika Waititi’s career is on the move, upward.

Eve Armstrong has a busy year ahead, which begun with the exhibition of her work in the first Michael Lett Gallery 2008 show alongside Jacqueline Fraser. The exhibition coincided with a re-publication of Eve Armstrong¹s book How to Hold a Trading Table: A Manual for Beginners. Copies of the publication are available from Michael Lett michael@michaellett.co.nz and selected booksellers. Eve also participated in Group Show, from early January through to the end of February at the 1301PE Gallery in Los Angeles, along with Arts Foundation 2006 Laureate John

Reynolds. Eve has been selected for an Asia New Zealand Foundation artist residency in Hong Kong and will begin her residency in April. She will participate in a month long series of planned workshops with three other international artists and four local counterparts.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Warren Maxwell and his band Little Bushman are back with their second album Pendulum which came out less than 12 months after their debut The Onus Of Sand. Beneath a uniquely New Zealand style, Warren and Little Bushman have taken on a 60s Blues-Rock direction, with musical influences from the likes of Cream, Led Zeppelin & Jimi Hendrix. The sound has been embraced by fans of TrinityRoots, Warren’s former band, attracted to his distinctive vocals and songwriting, but is also reaching new audiences.

Over summer, Warren and The Little Bushman headlined a number of concerts, beginning with the E tu! Never again - Repeal the Act! Festival held at Frank Kitts Park in early December and in early January with Arts Foundation 2007 Laureate Moana Maniapoto at the Parihaka Festival. Throughout January the Band also toured with 2002 Laureate Don McGlashan, visiting holiday hotspots throughout the North Island.

Warren will lead Little Busman at The Pacific Blue Festival Club, 14 and 15 March at 7.30pm at this year’s New Zealand International Arts Festival. http://www.nzfestival.nzpost.co.nz/festival-club/little-bushman and at the inaugural BluesfestNZ (The Coromandel Peninsula Blues And Roots Music Festival 2008) which will take place on Saturday 22nd March 2008 at www.bluesfest.co.nz

Casting is underway for a new film, Volcano, by award winning director Taika Waititi. The feature length film will be an exploration of some of the characters and ideas introduced in his Oscar-nominated debut short Two Cars One Night and will be shot in the Bay of Plenty this winter http://www.stuff.co.nz/4289903a1860.html

Photograph taken by Robert Catto, courtesy of The Arts Foundation of New Zealand2006 Innaugral New Generation Artists:Warren Maxwell, Tze Ming Mok, Joe Sheehan, Eve Armstrong and Taika Waititi. Image taken at the 2006 New Generation Awards.

New Generation Artists Update

Letters

98

Dear Editor,

I offer my sincere congratulations to W. Bro. Mervyn J. Casle for his excellent article “Where To Now for Freemasonry?”, which was published in Issue 4, 2007. I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments he expresses in the article and I think he has identified a primary key to the Craft’s long term survival and well-being. We need to attract new members - young members - and having done that, we need to give them very good cause to wish to stay. We can only do that by offering them something that they are unable to find elsewhere, and it seems that many of us have lost sight of what that “something” is. W. Bro. Castle has, I believe, brought it firmly back into focus for us.

Fraternally,Bro. Tony GrimwoodLodge Howick No. 314

Response To An Article

Child of the Earth

Letter of Thanks

I am writing to express my extreme gratitude to the Lodge for their efforts in rewiring my house. I can not say enough thank you’s to all the guys who helped out over the last couple of weeks.

I am so relieved that my children and I can sleep soundly without the worry of having an electric fire due to the old wires.

Can you please let everyone who has participated in this that I would like them to take this as a personal thank you. Your efforts are appreciated. Special thanks to Hugh Hill for his electrical expertise and the long hours and organisation put in by Colin Young and Marty Houlihan. It is so nice to know that we have people like you in our community.

With gratitude

Mrs. Mickelson – Warmouth.Porirua.

Freemasons Deposit SchemeFunds are easily accessibleDeposits are on callAttractive interest rates calculated daily and added quarterlySupport the Craft

Unlike Banks and Finance Houses which have constantly changing staff, the Freemasons Deposit Scheme is staffed by two members of Freemasons New Zealand, which gives depositors the assurance of continuity, with personal attention and knowledge that they are dealing with people who have their welfare in mind.

Interested? Contact us on 0800 659-876, email secretary@freemasons.co.nz pr complete the application form on page 37.

A current Disclosure Statement published by the National Bank of New Zealand Ltd can be obtained from the Bank’s Finance Division, PO Box 540, Wellington.

Nelson businessman Rob Brawley chose to work instead of going to University but he now claimed top marks in a top-flight degree.

Mr. Brawley achieved straight A’s in all 16 papers in the Masters of Business Administration he earned at the end of last year through Massey University.

The university’s Graduate School of Business head Dr. James Lockhart said Mr. Brawley’s grades were extraordinary and “very rare.” It was the highest level of academic achievement in the 16 years that the school had on record and possibly the entire 33 years it had been operating.

Mr. Brawley, managing director of Rob Brawley Business and Financial Solutions and chief executive of Enterprise Ashburton said when he started the degree he was just worried about passing.

However, once he started earning top marks there was extra pressure to keep it up.

“I’m one of those people that always wants to do as well as they can.”

Before Mr. Brawley earned his marks one of his mates from Blenheim had set the top academic record for the degree.

“We had a few beers over that one as you can imagine.”

He chose to do the degree to strengthen his qualification as a business and financial advisor, get involved in other fields of business and challenge himself with some further university study.

Mr. Brawley holds a graduate diploma in financial planning, which he studied for extramurally, but he had never earned a degree before. When he finished school he went to work at a bank.

Studying has run the family over the past few years. While Mr. Brawley was doing an MBA, his wife Julie was studying for a diploma in visual design and art at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, in which she was the top student, and their daughter Erin was studying to be a teacher at the University of Canterbury, finishing with honours.

Reprinted with the permission of The Nelson Mail

W Bro Rob Brawley is a member of Lodge Wakatu No. 385 of the Southern Division.

Nelson Man A-ces Degree

Free Masonic Furniture

Lodge Te Puni No. 315 have recently acquired some new Masonic furniture for their lodge rooms. As a result they have a full set of Masonic furniture avaialble for any lodge who would require some.

The furniture includes all the masonic chairs and pedastools and their respective columns, tracing boards, and a secretarys desk.

The furniture is old but still has some life left for anyone who would be interested in having it. It is all currently in storage and Lodge Te Puni does not want to throw it all away.....nor do they want to sell it. Instead they will give it away for free to a Lodge or church. If your lodge or church are interested in

having the furniture, please contact:

A.J. SmithLodge Te PuniPO Box 30088Stokes Valley

There are special moments in your life – unforgettable moments which can easily pass you by… I would like to share one such moment with you. Most of you reading this are probably grandparents or even great grandparents, given the average age of Freemasons today and may have had similar moments, too – I hope you have!

Let me briefly set the scene. Mother and father have arrived with their baby daughter (Brooke, aged 14 months) to visit Brooke’s nana and granddad (me!). It is late afternoon on a very hot humid January day – a severe gale warning is out with heavy rain but it is that time of calm before the storm. Baby Brooke is suitably clad in shorts and a light tee shirt, bare footed and bare headed. As all of you will know 14 months is an exciting age of inquiry and discovery. Nana and granddad’s TV wands, phones, the mysteries of the bathroom etc… and when she comes it is always a time of ensuring all is safe and out of reach.

The family group is sitting outside under the eaves in the blessed cooling air. Brooke as usual is racing around trying to raid granddad’s strawberries, playing with garden mobiles and assisting to sweep the path and anyone who happens to get in her way with the garden broom!

Suddenly little bare tiny feet step onto the patio and she is totally still – nothing

moves except for tiny bare arms which are gently raised in a bent fashion towards the heavens – almost a famous “Christ like” pose of “suffer little children to come unto me”. Her palms are uppermost with tiny fingers trying to catch something from the air. Brooke is discovering rain, gentle rain falling upon the earth. She is totally transfixed with the wonder of gentle cooling rain upon her skin and watches the elusive drops slip through her fingers. This is the moment when “time stands still” and we witness the wonder and beauty before us. A beautiful young girl child of the earth experiencing gentle rain for the first time.

When I think on this – and I wish I had a camera to record the event – which, of course, you rarely do – there are many messages in this for us all, Freemasons and non Freemasons alike.

For us all - here represents the future of humanity. How could anyone contemplate harming such precious things – the child and the rain. Why do we have to legislate to protect such things? As Freemasons we understand the maxim “judge with candor, reprehend with mercy” – yet there are those whom seem to need legislation… - but this is not the point of this article.

For us Freemasons the child in the rain spoke to me of the three basic Masonic tenets; brotherly love, relief and truth and reminded me of what we are all about. Whilst Freemasonry is an individual

journey of discovery and enlightenment and ones personal pursuits are important we must not forget that a homo sapien is not a solitary animal. That we should attempt to live harmoniously with nature and others of our species. That brotherly love is an important quality – the child in the rain amongst her loving family – the importance of the family and what it represents. How much the family unit has been undermined in our so called “modern” society and the need for us to support and maintain the love and caring values it represents. Relief for those who are in need – both Freemasons and non Freemason alike. The rain bringing blessed relief to the child and the earth. For those who may, from time to time, fall on hard times, and need a helping hand. Do we meet that challenge! And truth, the child seeking the truth, to find it and grasp it and then be true to ourselves and to others.

When you strip away all the ritual, dress and ceremony (and I am not trying to denigrate these) isn’t this really what we are all about? It was certainly how Brooke, child of the earth , spoke to me on that beautiful memorable moment one hot summer’s day January21, 2008, Stokes Valley, Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

Thank you all for allowing me to share this with you.

VW Bro Ian Lawson Grand Lecturer

10

My name is Susan Cunningham. I am a PhD student studying kiwi behaviour through Massey University, and I was the recipient of the 2006 Freemason’s Postgraduate Scholarship. When I applied for the scholarship, I thought my PhD would be about parental investment in kiwi: that is, why and how female kiwi lay such enormous eggs, then persuade male kiwi to wear themselves ragged incubating them for 80 days until they hatch, only for both parents to almost immediately leave the chick to fend for itself in the wilderness.

However, after receiving the grant, my PhD project continued to evolve - as PhD projects do - in new directions. Especially because at the end of my Honours degree, I made a discovery regarding the kiwi beak – kiwi, like other probe-feeding birds e.g. godwits and sandpipers – possess a remarkably sensitive “bill-tip organ” which probably functions to allow them to pick up prey-vibrations in the soil some distance away from the tip of the beak, and therefore to pinpoint the location of their food before they are close enough to catch it. This discovery was extraordinary because kiwi are only very distantly related to shorebirds and until now we thought they used the sense of smell primarily to find prey. For months the discovery of this remarkable organ sat in the back of my mind while I thought about parental investment. Increasingly, however, I found myself thinking about sensory systems instead, and why a bird with such a remarkable sense of smell would also possess a bill-tip organ. I became so taken up by this that I made a U-turn in my PhD and began learning about sensory systems in all kinds of birds that forage by probing, then started to investigate how kiwi integrate their sense

of smell and touch to explore their world.

Using the Freemason’s scholarship, I purchased an infrared-sensitive handheld video camera. I also bought a portable infrared lamp, together with which the camera could “see in the dark”. This set-up immediately revolutionised the kind of work I could do with kiwi, as infrared light is invisible to kiwi (and to us!). I was now able to observe and record natural behaviours at close quarters without disturbing the birds by shining bright lights on them. As a result, my team already has one paper accepted on the ways in which kiwi use their sense of smell (not – as you might expect – for foraging, but rather for exploration of the environment, and perhaps for learning about one another). We also have a second paper on aspects of foraging behaviour including the use of the beak, in preparation. The observational data I have been able to collect using infrared technology has in addition

provided the basis for more detailed behaviour studies on the use of the senses by kiwi, which I will be carrying out this summer.

The Freemason’s Postgraduate Scholarship provided me with the means to purchase equipment which has changed the course of my PhD. I am grateful for the generous support which has allowed me to begin unravelling some of the secrets of the lives of kiwi.

Susan Cunningham with her Kiwi

Footage of wild Kiwi taken from an infrared camera

Unravelling the Secret Life of KiwiDear Laurence Milton and members of the Freemasons Board of Benevolence,

How are you? Once again, the year has flown by and we are now in 2008! I have now officially completed my Bachelor in Pharmacy degree at the University of Auckland’s School of Pharmacy, and had my completion ceremony in December where awards were given out and I undertook my Oath of Professional Dedication. It was a very special time for me and my colleagues as it marked the end of the four years of hard work and learning. I was very pleased to receive four awards at the ceremony as well, which included prizes for becoming the top student in pharmaceutics, professional pharmacy studies, consistent achievement in law and ethics and also an award for the overall top student in BPharm II, III and IV. I also recently received the results for my final examination this year. It has certainly helped me a lot to have the support of the Freemasons during my

final year of study and I sincerely thank you for that. Freemasons has provided me not only with support financially, but also motivation and encouragement to achieve, which has proved invaluable in this final year of study.

2007 was challenging and exciting for me, as I had many new experiences during this time. As part of my degree, I was presented with an opportunity to partake in a group dissertation project for the first time, which was very different from my usual academic studies. It involved a lot of problem solving, forethought, and perseverance as well as coordination amongst the different group members, and my research topic, which focused on biofilms, was also new to me. During last year I was offered opportunities to present the findings of my summer research project on medications reconciliation, which I conducted last summer, in two conferences, and won a prize for overall best presentation at one of those

conferences. All these experiences were very new to me, but were rewarding despite the challenges I faced, as I gained many new skills and knowledge which will be useful for me in the future. Next year, I will be working as an intern pharmacist at the Auckland City Hospital and I look forward to many more new experiences there on this part of my journey in life.

I would like to thank Freemasons again for their kind support for my final year of undergraduate study, which I truly appreciate.

Kind regards,

Amy Chan.

Letter from a Freemasons Scholar

When someone is announced missing and Search and Rescue teams are enlisted to help in the time consuming search, one thing sits in the back of their mind while they carry out their duties; “We need to find this person before tragedy strikes.”

Many things are taken into account during the search, the main thing being whether the lost person is of able mind and able body to survive on their own for any number of hours, often with limited resources available to them.

When someone suffering from Alzheimer’s is missing, the fear of danger befalling them is tripled and the urgency to find them is extreme.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and is the most common form of dementia. In its mild form, Alzheimer’s can cause recent memory loss and confusion but as symptoms worsen it eventually leads to irreversible mental impairment that destroys a person’s ability to remember, reason, learn and imagine. Alzheimer’s generally affects people in the 60+ years

age group and it is not unusual for the diagnosis to be delayed as symptoms are often only recognised once they are severe.

When Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 heard about Taupo Land Search and Rescue’s desire to purchase tracking receivers and pendants for Alzheimer’s sufferers in their area who are known to frequently wander from their place of residence, they were ready and willing to help. Alzheimer’s sufferers are less likely to have the ability to navigate and make judgment about their surroundings when they are lost and statistics show that it is imperative to find them in the first 24 hours of them being reported missing.

80% of Alzheimer’s sufferers will survive the first 24 hours of being lost

Only 52% of Alzheimer’s sufferers will survive the first 36 hours of being lost

Only 18% of Alzheimer’s sufferers will survive the first 48 hours of being lost

Further difficulties arise when trying to locate these people

because they will not normally answer to their name being called.

Lodge Kaimanawa No. 426 raised $500 and The Freemasons Charity added a further $1500 towards the purchase of a tracking receiver and 5 tracking pendants for the Taupo Land Search and Rescue, given to them in a presentation on Wednesday 19 December.

The transmitter beacons are placed inside the pendants and attached to a necklace. This necklace will be worn by the Alzheimer’s/Dementia sufferers at all times. The tracking receiver comes with a shower proof pouch, rechargeable battery pack, a handheld tracking antennae and a magnetic aerial mount for use on vehicles. This equipment will be kept by Taupo Land Search and Rescue at the Taupo Police Station, to be used when required.

The purchase of such equipment is expected to aid the Taupo Land Search and Rescue team greatly, as well as provide much needed comfort for families and friends when their family members go missing under such circumstances.

The Freemasons Help out in Tracking

13

For children in the Wellington region suffering from Cerebral Palsy, the Conductive Unit of Naenae Primary School is the only primary school in the region that caters for their needs.

Cerebral Palsy is an umbrella term for a group of non progressive, non contagious diseases that cause physical disability in human development. Cerebral Palsy is caused by damage to the motor control centre’s of the young developing brain. This devastating damage can be caused during pregnancy, during birth or in the first 3 years of life. There is currently no known cure for Cerebral Palsy and doctors do not completely understand the causes and risk factors attributed to the disease.

The Conductive Unit of Naenae Primary School deliver a tailor made programme for 8 children who suffer from Cerebral Palsy. Their ages range from 5 years old to 14 years old and their symptoms are just as varied; children with very severe disabilities to those who are able to walk with assistance.

The Conductive Unit is headed by Robyn Carthew, teacher of the unit, and Aliz Nagy, conductor of the unit and together with 6 teacher aid’s, they deliver the NZ curriculum for children with Cerebral

Palsy. During any given day, each student is given 1 ½ hours intensive physical therapy and assistance by Aliz Nagy and depending on the abilities of the child, Robyn teaches reading, writing and general life skills, as well as speech therapy and communication skills for those who are unable to, or have difficulty talking.

The efforts of the staff within the Conductive Unit go far beyond the class room, with many of the staff members willing to go that extra mile to help parents and families when they are in need. According to teacher Robyn Carthew, although the children in the unit are not physically able in many areas, they are vey happy, loving and caring of each other.

“We look on these kids and their parents as our extended family. We see ourselves as very privileged to be part of their lives. How many jobs are out there where you are genuinely loved and the kids actually tell you that they love you? We have a very special bond with them” says Robyn Carthew.

With generosity and genuine care permeating from the Conductive Unit, its not hard to see why Lodge Te Puni No. 315 was willing to pull together and

purchase a new washing machine and dryer for the unit, who received their much needed gift recently. According to Robyn Carthew, before receiving their new washing machine and dryer, the unit

had to make do with a washing machine that was on its “last legs” and three clothes horses that were constantly loaded with drying washing. With the students disabilities, navigating around the clothes horses was a real difficulty at times and having a washing machine that was not working to its full capacity didn’t help matters much either. Now that the unit have white ware that works well, life has been made much easier for them.

“We were absolutely delighted when we got the items. It has made things so much easier for us and there is never a day when the washing machine and dryer aren’t being used. We are extremely grateful to Lodge Te Puni for their generosity and support, it has been a real blessing for us.”

Christmas and New Year is a time for giving and receiving and what better time for Lodge Te Puni to be recognising all the generosity and care that the Conductive Unit bestow on their students by giving them something in return.

Students from the Conducitve Unit of Naenae Primary School - “doing the washing”

Lodge Te Puni No. 315 Get in the Christmas Spirit

In previous years the North Shore District has undertaken various fund raising projects for the Child Cancer Foundation with considerable success.This year the District Lodges held a “Black Tie Dinner’ at the Peninsula Golf Club to raise funds for the Siblings of Cancer Kids (S.O.C.K.s) annual summer holiday camp,as well as contribute towards the Variety Artists Club benevolent fund.

Many brothers and sisters of cancer sufferers miss out on the fun and games associated with normal family life because of the necessary attention given to the patient.SOCKs aims to provide that need by organising

summer holiday camps where the siblings can enjoy themselves and to give the parents a much-needed break. The Variety Artists Club members have been closely involved in early appeals by giving of their time and talent at previous events, so it was decided to repay some of that kindness by contributing to its benevolent fund.

Once again the Variety Artists came to the party and entertained the 120 members

and their partners, with impromptu performances that went on into the small hours of the morning. Jimmy Joll, with his special brand of music and song, provided the backing for such well-known entertainers as, Suzanne Lynch who packs a very powerful voice in a very small frame, and also Tom Sharplin and Bruce Greave.

Towards the end of the evening an auction of sponsored items including a signed 2003 All Black jersey and a five pound Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother centenary coin in mint condition, were keenly contested and added considerably to the evenings entertainment,

The North Shore District Grand Master V W Bro Cyril Burrows, when presenting a cheque of fifteen thousand dollars to the Child Cancer Foundation and five thousand dollars to the president of the Variety Artists Club, said the Freemasons of the District were more than happy to arrange an event that not only raised funds for two very worthy causes but also provided an entertaining night for Lodge members, their partners and their guests. It is hoped to hold this social event as an annual function for the District.

The North Shore District Charity Appeal

The Auckland/Northland region of Camp Quality are the latest recipients of Freemasons generosity as part of a long term commitment from The Freemasons Charity and local brethren, $22,000 was presented to Camp Quality to support their 2008 camp.

The donation was a joint venture between

all the lodges in the Northland and Auckland region, various individual members and The Freemasons Charity. As well as contributing money towards the camp, lodge members also allocated a day when their labour was greatly welcomed in the kitchen

– washing dishes, serving lunches or tidying up after the children headed back for afternoon activities.

Camp Quality is a non profit organisation which is dedicated to bringing happiness and enjoyment into the lives of children suffering from cancer. Camp Quality has 5 offices throughout the country, each

office caters for the children locally and in neighboring areas, by organising a free-of charge, week- long camp in each area once a year.

The Auckland/Northland branch of Camp Quality held their camp at Wesley College, Kaikohe in early January 2008. A total of 37 children and their companions, 37 staff and nurses from Starship Hospital (who also volunteered their time) bringing the total attendees to the camp to 200 people for the entire 6 day camp.

The $22,000 was a much needed donation to run the camp as Camp Quality relies entirely on the generosity of the public for funding as well as man-power volunteers to make it an enjoyable occasion for those who attended.The Grand Master, MW Bro Barry McLaggan presented the cheque to an extremely appreciative Auckland/Northland Camp Quality staff and representatives.

Please see pg 27 for a letter writen by one of the Camp Quality companions

The Auckland/Northland Camp Quality Donation

RW Bro Mark Winger, Auckland/Northland Camp Qualiry rep-resentative and Grand Master, MW Bro Barry McLaggan at the cheque presentation

14

Housebound patients who require close monitoring can find out how much they weigh on a new set of scales.

The Sir Walter Scott Lodge No. 15 has donated $3,500 to Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki to cover the cost of a set of new portable scales and related equipment.

The scales can be taken out into the community for doctors, nurses and kaiawhina (community health workers) to weigh people who are unable to stand on conventional scales.

Recording an accurate weight is important in the management of medicines, Te Korowai chief executive Hugh Kininmonth sais, especially with those facing ongoing stroke, cardiac, respiratory and diabetes issues.

The chair allows accurate measurements to be recorded in people’s homes if they are unable to visit Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki’s three clinics in Thames, Paeroa and Te Aroha or its nursing centres in Whitianga, Coromandel and Whangamata.

“There is growing need for this equipment

as the population ages and the prevalence of chronic disease increases,” Mr Kininmonth said.

“While we are actively working to support people to change lifestyles to prevent chronic disease and avoid the worst effects of such illnesses as diabetes, there are many people who have medical issues that must be actively supported now. These issues include leg amputations and unsteadiness.”

The scales were presented to the Thames health centre on Friday 9th November 2007.

The scales are an important boost to the overall wellness support services provided by Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki and we thank the Freemasons for their very generous donation to support the people of Hauraki. IT is always gratifying to see the generosity of organisations in our communities” Te Korowai chairman Harry Mikaere said.

Courtesy of Alison FraserHauraki Herald.

Sit on Scales for Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki

L to R: Miriam Simmonds (Home BAsed Support Service Coordinator) Hugh Kin-inmonth (Cheif Executive) RW Bro Mark Bridgemand, W Bro Max Baggaley (W Master) W Bro Dawson Strong, and seated is W Bro David Holmes (District Benevolence Officer)

When Pen Meets PaperAs the old saying goes “The pen is mightier than the sword” and for Sir Walter Scott Lodge No. 15, sending this message out to the youngsters of Thames has been a priority for the last 4 years.

Since the national Freemasons project “FAME” 4 years ago, Sir Walter Scott

L to R: Te Puru Primary School Principal Mr Shaun Moore, Alice Leonard, Alice Hartley Danby and W Bro. Max Baggaley (Master of The Sir Walter Scott Lodge No. 15

Lodge No. 15 has been the sponsor of the Thames Inter Primary School Short Story Writing competition. Lodge secretary W Bro Kerry Doherty recognised the need to involve Primary aged school children in a Freemason project as the lodge was already offering scholarships to secondary

school students. Thus the short story writing competition was introduced.

Since its first year, the competitions popularity has increased. Many children from 5 of the 6 primary schools in Thames submit their stories between the competition opening date of January, and this continues right through to the competition closing date in September. The competition is judged by the wives of two brethren from Sir Walter Scott Lodge.This year the first prize was won by Te Puru Primary Schools Alice Hartley Danby with second place being awarded to another Te Puru Primary School student, Alice Leonard.

cont over page

The Baden Powell Lodge No. 381 recently assisted two Scouts to go to the New Zealand Scout Jamboree in Christchurch.James Lynch 11 and Brandon Lynch 12 who along with their younger brother are looked after by their Grandmother

alone were deemed worthy of assistance to enable them get to the New Zealand Scout Jamboree being held inChristchurch from 29th December 2007 until 6th January 2008.

The boys had raised some funds themselves a big effort for young boys, The Baden Powell Lodge No. 381 donated $400.00 ($200 for each of them) and thankfully the Wellington Masonic Youth Trust made up the difference at

a total cost for two of nearly $2600.00.

The Wellington Masonic Youth Trust is able to help with most youth related grants in the Wellington Region for young persons up to 26 years of age provided they have a sponsoring Lodge who is

also prepared to assist financially and participants have also made an effort themselves. Details through Freemasons New Zealand.

Kaiapoi, being near the site of the Jamboree is significant as this is where Colonel Cossgrove started Scouting in New Zealand in 1908 and 2008 is the Centenary of Scouting in New Zealand with the New Zealand Scout Jamboree being the first official event.

James and Brandon were given some badges to swap at the Jamboree during a visit by W Bro Don McMillan JP, P Asst GDC Master and W Bro Duane Williams MBE, PGStdB Secretary of The Baden Powell Lodge No. 381 to their home and at the same time the boys, their Scout Leader and Grandmother Annette Lynch have been invited to speak at some future social occasion of the Lodge.

W Bro Don McMillan said “the enthusiasm of youth will always open the heart to give a helping hand and we know from our own personal experience of Jamborees that the boys will find it a life altering experience and of course have a really great time!”

L to R: Annette Lynch, James Lynch, Brandon Lynch and W Bro Don McMillan, Master of The Baden Powell Lodge No. 381

The Left Hand of Friendship for Scouts

After the Waves - Rebuilding Ahungalla

On December 26th 2004 the Boxing Day tsunami slammed into the coast lines of South and South East Asia, taking approximately 23,000 lives and devastating hundreds of thousands more.

Offers of aid from around the world began to pour in almost immediately and amongst the first contributions was a joint project between the Salesians of Don Bosco and Australasian Freemasonry.

The extraordinarily generous contribution of $440,000 contributed by Freemasons from Australia and New Zealand has borne fruit in Sri Lanka with the building of the Elpitya Skills Training centre in the south west village of Ahungalla. The centre will initially have facilities to teach Dye and Mould making, Information Technology and motor repair. A long side the centre is a boarding house / hostel to cater for fifty orphans and fifty students undertaking skills training.

Ahungalla is a coastal fishing village and agricultural area known for rain-fed paddy cultivation, coconut cultivation, rubber and cinnamon. Being a coastal village Ahungalla was, of course, devastated by the effects of the Tsunami. The people living in the areas around Ahungalla are still impoverished and are fighting to re-establish themselves after the Tsunami.

Br Gabriel Garniga, Provincial Economer in Sri Lanka, officially stated “The Salesians in Sri Lanka together with the Tsunami affected orphans and other youth of Ahungalla and their immediate family members thank the Australian Salesian Mission Officers and the Freemasons of Australia and New Zealand for their support.”

MW Bro Bruce Bartrop PGM visited Sri Lanka to represent the Australasian Grand Masters and their Grand Lodges at the official opening of the Training Centre in November.

Freemasonry Vicotia Summer 07/08 issue

Plaque dedicated to the Australasian Freemasons at the Elpitya Skills Training Centre

16

This beautifully witten short story won the Thames Inter Primary School Short Story Writing competition for 2007. This competition is sponsored by The Sir Walter Scott Lodge No. 15 in Thames. It is not hard to see why “The Storm” receieved the top prize....here it is for your enjoyment.

There had been many before her but there was something special about her that set her apart from the rest. She pushed through the soft dull doors and that was the first time I ever saw her. She was dressed for the summer in a stunning crimson dress that fell to her feet. It was embroided around the top with golden sequins that glistened brightly as the rays of morning sunlight softly lit the area. She sat calmly and gazed at her surroundings, a small flowering waterfall fed from a still glassy topped pool and making a light trickling noise as it gently tumbled into a larger pool filled with pristine water. Both pools outlined with small boulders and trees carrying dew covered foliage that gleamed in the sun. Beautifully coloured birds greeted her while they fluttered by on their way to the river. She watched them packing and scratching at the moss covered earth and bathing excitedly in the sparkling water.

Hours passed before their chirping song was interrupted by voices coming from the other side of the river. The birds flew back to their nests as three young children emerged from behind the trees followed by two women carrying towels and a flax woven basket. The women sat down on the small boulders surrounding the pools while the three children jumped into the smaller higher pool erupting its calmness like a volcano. While the three children swam the woman lay out a picnic for lunch. As she was watching the children splashing around in the water she noticed many birds flying over her. The flock became thicker and thicker as she watched. Soon she felt herself begin to shake she turned and saw possums racing to the ground and into the dense bush. When the women saw all this commotion they shrieked, ran to the children and yelled something about a storm.

‘A storm’ she thought, ‘what am I going to do?’

She looked up at the sky; it was changing from a soft to a musty blue.

Dark grey clouds started to creep across the sky and soon rain began to drip down on her. Without the chirping song of the birds and the drone of the bees to comfort her she felt very much alone, and began to wonder what the storm might go to her. As she sat and gazed around her the rain became heavier and heavier then the wind became stronger and stronger. Soon she found herself scared by the loud cracking of thunder that followed sheets of lightening that lit the dark sky. She was wildly being pushed around by the vicious wind when he she heard a cracking noise coming from the end of the branch ‘oh no’ she thought ‘if the branch snaps Ill fall straight onto the small boulders bellow me.’

She thought for a while before deciding that is she has less weight on her, when she falls the wind will carry her down to the river where she can float downstream to a safer place. She took a quick look around before pushing herself off the branch as hard as she possibly could. When she finally came off the wind carried her, as planned, down to the river. She dropped into the water. It was much colder than she had imagined. Not knowing how long she could last in this icy cold water she moved into the current and started to float away.

The journey down the river was slow and calm at first but as she got further down the river began to flow more rapidly. She was pushed into a grassy bank but soon washed back into the river by a small gush of water. She came to a large pool where she noticed the rain was only light and she could hear birds singing. A feeling of relief swept over her. Their songs comforted her. As she floated on down the river the current eased. She brushed past a large grey boulder before being swept

into a small gap between two rocks. She sat and rested for a while not realizing a young child hopping over the rocks towards her. When the child reached her, it bent down and gently lifted her into a small basket, then carried on hopping

across the river. Soon the child reached a group of moss-covered rocks that formed a stairway up the bank to a small dirt path. The child followed the path into the bush until they came to a large clearing. From inside the basket she could see a white picket fence and gate.

The child walked over and opened the gate as she became closer she realized she was in an old cemetery. She could tell this by the rows of old mossy gravestones. ‘Why would a child want to come here’ she wondered, ‘the place is deserted.’

As the child carried her towards the back of the old cemetery she noticed on clean shiny marble gravestone in the back row. The child walked calmly over to the gravestone and gently knelt down beside it. As she sat in the basket the child told the gravestone about its day, about opening presents and its family. When the child had finished talking it slowly lifted her from the basket and as it lowered her to the base of the gravestone she realized what day it was; December 25th.

The child bent over the gravestone and said “I bought you your favourite flower, a Pohutakawa. Merry Christmas Nana, I love you.” Then the child stood up slowly, walked back through the white picket fence and down the small dirt path. The Pohutakawa flower now knew she would never make it back to her tree, but she was just as happy sitting here surrounded by beautiful trees with the sweet smell of pollen wafting through the air.

By Alice Hartley Danby.

“The Storm”

The prizes are nothing to be scoffed at either. Alice Hartley Danby received a $100 book voucher and Alice Leonard received a $75 book voucher. Alice Hartley Danby was also awarded the trophy for the competition, which takes

pride of place in the Te Puru Primary School trophy cabinet for the next 12 months until the next competition. Both girls also won for their school library, $1000 - $700 to first place getter and $300 to second place getter.

“We at Sir Walter Scott Lodge thank the teachers of all the schools that entered, for taking the time to encourage the children to write a short story and allowing us to play a small part in their future education” said W Bro Kerry Doherty.

from previous page

The Northland Masonic District saw the presentation of 3 fifty-year certificates and jewels in the 4 days between 10th and 14th December 2007. In that week, 2 separate Whangarei Lodges not only celebrated their Christmas functions but also presented 3 worthy brethren with their honours.

At their Christmas meeting on 10th December, Lodge Whangarei No 102 was honoured to receive M W Bro Barry McLaggan, GM on an official visit to the District. On that occasion, W Bro Norman Faber, PM, was presented with his certificate by W Bro Alan Martin, PM, following a clear and concise explanation of W Bro Faber’s background (born in Wellington in 1930 and educated in Paeroa where he had attained the rank of head prefect) and of his long service to his mother Lodge, Lodge Whangarei. In his address, W Bro Martin told of Norman’s laudable dedication to his Lodge and of the several offices he has held, including Master in 1970 and of his 4 times as Director of Ceremonies, an office he currently holds. Mention was also made of his years of service as Pensioner Housing Officer for The Northland District Masonic Trust. W Bro Martin’s address also mentioned W Bro Faber’s various other interests and his career of some 38 years in the furnishing trade, first in Paeroa then in Whangarei from 1969 until 1984, employed by his Uncle, the late M W Bro Edgar Faber, Past GM. W Bro Norman Faber’s enthusiasm for tramping since retiring led to his organising of the Masonic Meanders tramping group that many other Masons have been encouraged to participate in.

In presenting W Bro Norman Faber with his 50-year jewel, the Grand Master included Norman’s wife Shirley in his address and invited them both to offer

their views on Masonry and of what the Craft had meant to their lives. In all, an enjoyable occasion at which 11 other Lodges were represented and on which in excess of 100 Masons, wives, friends and family sat in refectory.

On Friday, 14th December, the Okara Daylight Lodge, No 461, honoured firstly, W Bro Mac Thorpe, PM with his 50-years certificate and Jewel. On this occasion, the presentation was made by RW Bro Lloyd Chapman, P Prov GM, who explained that W Bro Thorpe had been a member and officer of Lodge Northland No 341 until that Lodge was dissolved in 1999 whereupon Mac joined the Okara Daylight Lodge. Mac was invited to reflect on the many changes in the Craft he had seen since being initiated in December 1948. His reminiscences amused and enlightened the large attendance of brethren, wives and friends. The interview, he remembered, had been like the Spanish Inquisition and it was stressed that one mustn’t join in the hope of personal benefit. And also - could he afford a dinner suit?! His acceptance had taken over a year because, as it subsequently turned out, his application had been lost. From then, progress was slow and it took Mac 13 years to reach the Master’s chair. In those days visiting was important and it was not uncommon for 2 cars to be filled with those wishing to visit an out-of-town Lodge and a Master may have a dozen brethren supporting him at an Installation, possibly encouraged by the high standard of refectory entertainment that was customary in those days!

W.Bro Thorpe has served in every office, almost without a break, for 50 years but one of the most rewarding periods was the 7 years when he was Assistant Almoner, which gave him a great insight into life and of the amazing courage people show in adversity. Masonry, Mac said, had increased his confidence and greatly

broadened his circle of friends.

Following that presentation, Bro. Ron Faber, MM, was the recipient of his 50-year certificate and jewel presented by his younger brother, W Bro Peter Faber, PGStd B.. W Bro Faber said this was a significant week for the Faber clan following their cousin’s special occasion 4 days before and that it was a pleasure to see Norman and Shirley making a reciprocal visit. Although Bro Ron Faber had only recently joined Okara Daylight Lodge following his move to Northland, he had in fact been a member of the Craft for 55 years, having been initiated, passed and Raised in 1952 in his father’s mother Lodge, Lodge Ararangi No 297. Bro Ron then became a founder member of Lodge Edgar Faber No 435, then Lodge North Harbour No 182. Although Bro Faber had never taken office owing to other commitments, he had served as Trustee of The Northern District Masonic Trust for 16 years when it was responsible for the Roskill Masonic Village and the Redwood Village. Ron’s busy life included many Directorships, (he was Managing Director of the Faber family Company). He was for over 20 years on the Board of Outward Bound Trust and is still on the Kaikoura Island Trust. Bro Ron is a J.P. and has had a long and distinguished involvement with the R.N.Z N.V.R. (attaining the rank of Commander and achieving the O.B.E. for his services). All these occupations had prevented him receiving his 50-years honours when it was due but, W.Bro. Peter Faber said, it was the good fortune for the Okara Daylight Lodge and for him personally that they have the pleasure of making the presentation now. He expressed the view that their father, the late Past Grand Master, MW Bro Edgar Faber and late brother Barry, P Asst Prov GM would be very proud of the occasion.

Peter G. Faber

Northland Lodges Keeping Busy

MASONIC POLO SHIRTSThe shirts have the Masonic Emblem embroided in gold thread above the pocket and cost just $25

Cost: $25 (plus $3 p&p)Sizes: Small to XX Large AvailableColours: Navy Blue or Dark Green

Free postage and package if you order five or more shirts!

To place your order contact

Bryan WiigPh: 09 437 2840E-mail: wiggy@igrin.co.nz

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COMMUNICATION 08 PROGRAMME

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It is with great sadness that we must acknowledge the passing of RW Bro John Hiddlestone, considered by many to be a giant among men, not only in his chosen profession, but as an active member of his community and a member of the Freemasons.

RW Bro John Hiddlestone was born on 12 March 1925. Upon reaching adult-hood, he studied medicine at Otago University and graduated in 1948. During his time at Otago University he was President of the Medical Students Association for 6 years and in 1947 he was awarded the Fowler Scholarship. After his graduation from Medical School, Dr John, as he became known, developed an illustrious medical career that would span 3 decades at an international level.

John worked at Nelson Hospital from 1948- 1951 and subsequently during 1952-54 he trained as a specialist physician in Britain working at the Edinburgh Chest Unit, the Brompton Hospital in London and Solly Hospital in Wales.

Returning to Nelson Hospital, during 1954-56 he worked as a specialist physician and later as a medical superintendent.

In 1967-68 he became Superintendent in Chief at Southland Hospital before transferring to Wellington to become Director of Hospitals and later from 1973 to 1983 as Director General of Health.

From 1983, after being the Chairman of the World Health Organisations Executive Board in Geneva, he served as Director of Health Services for Palestine Refugees in Lebanon, Syria, West Bank, the Gaza strip and Jordan for five and a half years.

His qualifications include MD (NZ), FRACP, FRCDE, FPS, FNZMA and MCCM.

During his working life, Dr John served on, or was a member of, a huge variety of Organisations including Otago University Executive, Nelson College Board of Governors, Red Cross, Wellington Medical

Council and Medical Research Council, Opticians Board, Maori Purposes Trust Board, National Provident Fund Trust Board, the Executive of the World Health Organisation (of which he was Chairman in 1972) and the Board of Management of the International Hospitals Federation.

For his work Dr John was honored in 1977 with a Queens Jubilee Medal, and later, in 1983, he was made a Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St John. A British order or Chivalry dating back to 1818, which is conferred to honor individuals who have rendered important services to Commonwealth or foreign nations.

After returning home to New Zealand, he served as Chairman of the Board of the Home of Compassion, Board member of Te Omanga Hospice, Patron of D.A.R.E and on the Executive Committee of the Government Super annuitants Association. He has been President of three Rotary Clubs and was awarded the Sapphire Paul Harris Fellowship. He has also been President of two Probus Clubs and was active at the Nelson Cathedral and represented local Freemason Lodges on the Advisory Committee of the Nelson

Regional Hospice.He published a two part autobiography – part one entitled “By Stethoscope and Statue” and part two entitled “Gum Trees in Gaza” – as well as over 50 articles in medical journals. In addition, he was no stranger to radio, with a ten part series of talks to his credit as well as being an occasional participant of “The Week That Was.”

The Masonic Career of RW Bro Hiddlestone C.M.G. 50 year jewel & Past Deputy Grand Master, in brief was as follows:

Initiated 21 November 1951Passed 12 December 1951Raised 14 January 1952Installed as WM in 15 September 1962

All these acts were performed with Nelson Lodge No. 288

RW Bro Hiddlestone was the President of the Board of Benevolence from 1995 – 2000. He took particular interest in the Freemasons Chair of Geriatric Medicine in Auckland, paediatric research based at Otago Medical School, and support of research by the Auckland Medical

Research Foundation. At the time of his death, he was Past Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand.

Due to the demands of his career, RW Bro Hiddlestone was a member of many lodges, having joined the Lodge St John No. 94 in Invercargill in 1968, and Westminster Lodge No.308 in Petone in 1970 and, after his return to Nelson in the late 1990’s joined Lazar Lodge No. 1689 EC and held the office of senior warden in that Lodge at the time of his death.

He was also the Grand Representative of Brazil (Sao Paulo). He was a member of Victory Royal Arch Chapter and also found time to joining the Nelson Rose Croix Chapter and is a Past Most Wise Sovereign.

RW Bro Hiddlestone is survived by his wife Rosina, their five children and 12 grandchildren. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go to his family in this time of great loss and sorrow. May RW Bro Hiddlestone’s memory live on in the hearts and minds of all the people who were blessed to have known him.

Brethren, I have recently returned from a very successful Grand Installation in Hobart Tasmania which the Grand Master and a large delegation from New Zealand attended. While I was in Tasmania I had the opportunity to meet with my counterparts from around Australia and our conversations covered many Masonic topics. One that I feel was very important was concerning our various Charity Funds and how the money in these funds can be increased and augmented. I noted that the Freemasons Charity does not get many bequests considering the number of our brethren that pass to the Grand Lodge Above each year and realized that we do not actively encourage this type of donation.

Making a bequest is very easy as all you have to do is include an appropriate clause in your Will. A Will ensures your wishes are met in relation to the distribution of your assets it also helps to avoid confusion over your intentions and gives you peace of mind. It is also the last opportunity you have to provide support to your family members, closest friends and your favourite charities.

We should all ensure that our Wills are up to date as none of us know when this document will be needed. When I last updated mine the whole process took less than 10 minutes so it was not an onerous task.

The dictionary defines bequest as a form of legacy in other words “a gift by Will, especially of money”. Another definition is “something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past”. A bequest has a number of advantages as:-

• It is not payable until death, so it does not affect your assets or cash flow during your lifetime.

• It is private as your will is not filed or made public until your death.

• It is revocable as you can change the provisions in your will or trust at any time until death.

Your solicitor can assist you in making a bequest which can be any of the following:-

• A specified sum of money• A percentage of your estate

• The residue of your estate• Specified property or assets

A simple form of bequest that can be used by anyone wishing to bequeath money for the benefit of any of the Charitable Funds of Grand Lodge is:-

“I give the sum of $………… to the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of New Zealand for the benefit of the Freemasons Charity, and I direct that the receipt of the Grand Secretary for the time being of the said Grand Lodge shall be a sufficient discharge to my trustees”

There are many worthwhile causes in New Zealand that could do with our help. With more funds in the capital base of the Freemasons Charity there will be more interest gained and therefore more available to provide grants and subsidies for Lodge and District projects.

“Make a bequest today it will cost you nothing now except for time”.

Grand Secretary, VW Bro Laurence Mitlon

21

Grand SecretaryRW Bro Hiddleston - 1925 - 2008

Many of New Zealand’s senior citizens are asset rich but cash poor, hence the increasing popularity of Reverse Mortgages.What is a reverse mortgage?

It’s where you borrow some money against your house and you borrow all the interest as well. The lender has no right to sell your house and recover what you owe until you die or decide you want to sell. Importantly it is a safe instrument for the homeowner- even if the lender runs into financial difficulties, they cannot seize your house.A reverse mortgage allows you to stay in the home that you love, while also allowing you to improve your cash flow situation by investing the money you gain from the loan.

What is the downside?

These mortgages are more expensive than a conventional mortgage. The interest rate payable is generally 1-3% higher than the conventional variable mortgage rate.

This is a variable rate meaning it can move up or down at any time.

Interest compounds. It is important to check how often this occurs – monthly?-quarterly?

The set up costs can e significant, usually in the region of $2,000.

Add the cost of the valuation (normally around $500) Add the cost of the legal advice (normally around $750) There may be ongoing costs – for instance the lender

may require an updated valuation to be completed at your cost every 5 years.

Some reverse mortgage products will not lend against a retirement village unit. If you have visions of either yourself or a loved one moving into a retirement village unit in 10-15 years time, you may have little money available after the payment of the reverse mortgage to complete the purchase.

If you change your mind this type of loan doubles the debt every 7 years.

Summary:Reverse mortgages are a complex financial instrument.Before entering into any contract, get legal advice, speak to a financial advisor/accountant and discuss the options with your family.This should be the loan vehicle last resort.

Reverse Mortgages

Bequests to Charity

being forged with high school History departments to sponsor a yearly scholarship encouraging excellence in studies and application.

The social side is not neglected. Weekend events are being organized for members, friends and family, especially the children.

There is a monthly lunch at the Christchurch Club to which all Freemasons and friends and prospects are welcome. For the business people this forms a convenient time to gather outside of the lodge room yet amongst the fraternity. For prospects, it is an opportunity to meet the members and gain a small insight into the lodge. The luncheon is held on the third Thursday of every month – bookings are required so the Club can prepare a special table. (Contact the Secretary. Out of town visitors especially welcome.)

This new Lodge has weathered the all too common Kiwi “Tall Poppy” syndrome of doubters and knockers to emerge into its second year as an innovated and dedicated group of Freemasons who look to the future with confidence. After just one year of existence

membership by 50% with new candidates and Freemasons looking to once more be associated with Freemasons New Zealand. Already consideration is being given to forming another similar Lodge to cope with the demand.

Membership numbers are crucial to the success of any new lodge, too many can lead to complacency, to few and meetings will fail. With an average meeting attendance of 90%, the Lodge looks to stabilize numbers in the 30 to 40 member bracket.

Members ideally wish to always be seated around the one table but as it already uses the largest draw-leaf table in the South

Island, these hopes may be dashed.

The Lodge of Endeavour No.504 gratefully acknowledges the valuable assistance given to its formation by so many and the encouragement of our Patron, MW Bro D W Mace.

The Lodge has already met its target of growth and the members look forward to the future confident of being able to strengthening Freemasonry in every aspect.

Two old and venerable organisations have come together forming something new and exciting for both historic entities.

The Christchurch Club, founded in 1856 by the farming gentry of Canterbury, have welcomed a somewhat more ancient fraternity, one that is able to trace itself back some four hundred years and beyond, that is of course Freemasonry.

So what is new?

Lodge of Endeavour No 504 was Constituted, Dedicated and had its Installation on the 21 October 2006, becoming the newest New Zealand Lodge and the first of its type in the South Island, a 500 series “Dinning Lodge”.

And something new for The Christchurch Club. While over the years many Club members were (and are) Freemasons, the Club now graciously offer a small part of their charming premises for use by this new Lodge.

Brethren of Lodge of Endeavour not only enjoy the splendour of their surroundings, the discreet and discerning service offered by staff but the banquet served at each meeting is indeed something to behold, after all, isn’t this how it should be?

By having its meeting place and refectory in this charming setting, the Lodge of Endeavour has no building or maintenance costs that they or Grand Lodge may have to cover, isn’t this how it used to be.

Convenience for its members in that lounge suits are the “500 series” Lodges traditional attire thereby enabling brethren to attend directly from work, enjoy the meeting, a splendid dinner and be home in time to help put the children to bed. This dress standard also meets that of the Club so members can feel at home in this special environment.

While the lodge is bestowed with

highly talented senior members, some fifty percent of the membership are new or young Master Masons, and it is the Lodges intention to attract new professional men. It was decided that apart from the WM all brethren will be referred to as Brother. This approach, along with only MM or PM aprons being worn at the meetings, does away with the intimidation factor so often experienced by new or younger members in the Craft.

The Lodge of Endeavour seeks to be unique, adding to the worth of Freemasonry in the district and strengthening the other Canterbury lodges. As part of the membership criterion, joining members are expected to continue their support and involvement in there other lodge(s).

The Lodge has its own tie, cufflinks and founders jewel, designed and produced to not only promote itself but more importantly promote Freemasonry, in a dignified and modern manner.

From the beginning, the Lodge has received excellent support from its sister Lodges in the North Island in the form of membership, fittings and advice, but most importantly encouragement, and is it not refreshing to see a new Lodge emerge rather than watch one die.

A splendid model of HMB Endeavour from which the Lodge takes its name, stands proudly on the refractory mantel peace, a special gift from Bro Tony Templeton.

A ships bell gifted by Bro Lawrence Morriss, that of the fifth Southern Cross (1903), rests on the magnificent dinning

table and calls the Brethren to order at (two Bells) 2100 when it is the custom for Brethren to toast absent friends.

There were nine Southern Cross vessels, all built to serve the Melanesian Mission. Southern Cross No.5, a steel three-masted schooner with auxiliary steam engine, costing ₤9,000, was

launched by the Bishop of Melanesia, Cecil Wilson at Newcastle-on-Tyne, 1903.

Thus steeped in history, the Lodge of Endeavour has adopted as its theme the preservation of Canterbury history and Antarctic involvement.

Benevolence forms an essential part of the Lodge activities with a dedication to wholeheartedly support the Freemasons Charity and the Canterbury Masonic Charitable Trust. Locally, a link is

Lodge Endeavour No. 504 Something Old Something New

L to R: (FM) Founder Member (JM) Joining Member (G) Guest.S C Barker (FM), T Di Somma (JM), R J Hawkins (FM), R M Angelo (FM), J M Masters ONZM, MC, JP (G), D WEbb (FM), A J Gallagher (FM), Mr G T Druery (G), R F Cope-Williams (FM), T D Carrell WM (FM), L J Morriss (FM), G D Catley (FM), M Barker (JM), A K Garland (FM), C C Pickering (FM), J E Ewing (FM), J A K Waymouth (FM), M D Buckland-Jones (FM), M D Buckland-Jones (FM), I W Jones QSM, RH (FM)

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John Hay21a Balmain Road, Birkinhead, AucklandPh: 09 480/5222/Fax: 09 480 7507E-mail: j.b.hay@paradise.net.nz

VW Bro Bill Workman3 Winston Place, New PlymouthPh: 06 759 4271 Fax: 06 759 8481E-mail: brenwil@xtra.co.nz

Gay Goodman5 Withells Road, ChristchurchPh: 03 342 4525 / Mob: 0274 382 470E-mail: brian.gay@clear.net.nz

Charles G Miller4b Harrow Place, Mt MaunganuiPh: 07 575 7665/Mob: 027 292 0336E-mail: chasm2001@xtra.co.nz

References:

The Wake of the Southern Cross - Work and Ad-ventures in the South Seas By Cecil Wilson, D.D - Bishop of Bunbury; sometime Bishop of Melansia.

http://www.lodgeofendeavour.org/index.html

http://www.christchurchclub.co.nz

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Cross_(ship)

Lodge Secretary:Mr Alan Gallagher.Ph: (03) 312 0251Email: alcc4@xtra.co.nz

2524

Early in 2007 the North Shore District received a request from a local family for financial assistance to undertake treatment for their young son in a clinic in Austria.

Charlie is a two-year-old Downs Syndrome baby who among other problems had – VSD repair, Pyridoxine deficiency presenting with seizures, previous intrussusception around Meckel’s diverticulum, gastro-oesophageal reflux, gastrostomy feeding and oral aversion.

If all that sounds like a mouthful it certainly was for Charlie who, in simple terms, was unable to take any form of nourishment through the mouth by the normal suck and swallow method, nor had he developed the ability to communicate orally.Constant vomiting from reflux, gagging and allergies to baby formula made life a misery and when he was ten months old a decision was made to insert a gastrostemy tube into his stomach and to feed him slowly over a twenty one hour period each day. Unfortunately this led to a dangerous bowel condition that required emergency surgery and a resection of his bowel. It is fair to say Charlie has had a pretty rough start in life.

Charlie is only the second child in New Zealand to be diagnosed with such

complications and as we do not have specialist-feeding clinics dealing with feeding aversion, his mother Cheryl combed the Internet for possible help from families who might have a child with a similar condition. She was ultimately directed to the Kinderklinic in Graz, Austria, which has a 95% success rate treating such problems and Charlie was considered to be an ideal candidate.

After a District wide appeal to Lodges and individuals the District Grand Master V.W.Bro.Cyril Burrows and the District Benevolence Officer V.W.Bro.Steve Lewis PDistGM were able to present the family with a cheque towards both their accommodation and Charlie’s treatment costs.At the clinic and over a period of six weeks Charlie received daily one on one therapy with occupational therapists, cranial sacral therapists, speech language therapists (having only learnt to communicate by sign language) and educational play therapists. As well as any back-up medical treatment he might need, if he showed any adverse side effects.The group play therapy also included the whole family so each member would be able to assist with the on-going therapy when they returned home.

At the latest District Meeting in November, Charlie, his mother Cheryl and father Jon attended as special guests to not only thank the members in person but to also introduce Charlie and to recount their experiences at the clinic.Such a success story may not be unusual but it is gratifying to know that, collectively, we have assisted one small boy on his way to leading a more normal and enjoyable life.

An Appeal That Could Not Be Ignored

Jon, Cheryl and Charlie receiving the donation from VW Bro Cyril Burrows

Cheryl, Charlie and VW Bro Cyril Burrows enjoying a book together

Camp Quality Waikato / Bay of Plenty have recently completed their week long annual camp, held this year at Ngaruawahia, from the 4th to the 11th January 2008.47 children suffering from cancer attended the camp, they each had a companion (volunteer), who attended to their every need 24 hours a day for the week. With other volunteers such as cooks, nurses, bus drivers, plus many others helping out, the total number of people in camp was approximately 110 people. Two of the companions who have attended camp previously, flew back from Australia (at their own expense), to give a week of their time to these children.Activities during the camp week included a trip to Pukekohe raceway where they joined up with the Auckland / Northland

Camp Quality Camp group for the day. They were taken for rides in the V8’s and the big trucks. This was sensational, and a huge thrill for the children. Needless to say, there were some very tired children that night, also very tired companions!Another big day trip was to the Waitomo Caves, a first for many of the children. Other time was spent in camp working on Arts and Crafts, and a wide range of activities.With everyone heading home on Friday morning, a concert and dancing evening was held on Thursday night. The theme was Disney, so everyone dressed up in Disney character outfits. What a colourful scene it was, and the children had put huge effort into making their outfits, and rehearsing their items.Six Grand Lodge Officers with their wives, were invited to attend this evening

as ‘special guests’ of Camp Quality. They were also asked to come along dressed as Disney characters. How many people can you identify in the photo?This camp was an outstanding success, with Freemasons from the Waikato / Bay of Plenty being involved for the first time. On Friday morning members from Lodge TeMurama No 186 helped with cleaning up the Camp, this was greatly appreciated by the Camp Quality personal. Freemasons of N.Z. can be extremely proud to be part of this wonderful organization, whose main aim is to give Kids with Cancer some time out to enjoy themselves, and their carers some time out as well. Mike CookeBenevolence OfficerBay of Plenty District 12

Camp Quality hold a Quality Camp

Do you recognise any of these people?

Want to have your say?

To make a contributions to the New Zealand Freemason email editor@freemasons.co.nz or post to The Editor, New Zealand Freemason, PO Box 6439, Wellington 6141

26

WBro Cecil (Cec) Arnold Cowan was the first Master of Lodge Parirua. Cec was initiated in Lodge Auckland No. 87 on 22 July 1934. While in Auckland he also joined the Royal Arch.

On transfer to Wellington, as Supervisor of Railway Bus Services for the Porirua area, W Bro Cowan visited many Lodges and became the secretary of the group of men working to form the new Lodge Parirua. He was subsequently elected as the first Master and was installed as such at the combined Consecration and Installation meeting on 28th April 1962.

W Bro Cowan joined the Russell Royal Arch Chapter and was the First Principal in 1982 and subsequently was the Scribe E (secretary) for a period of 18 years.

His service to Royal Arch Masonry was honoured with the honoris causa rank of Past Grand Standard Bearer in 1994.

W Bro Cowan has also been involved in the Rose Croix, the Cryptic Council and the Conclave and was in 2000 awarded a Certificate of Special Trust by the Conclave for the work he had undertaken for them.

W Bro Cowan is 97 years old and has recently been honored with his 70 year badge. Up until 2005 he was able to live in his home but a fall, and subsequent time spent in hospital has meant he now resides in a rest home in Stokes Valley.

W Bro Cowan remembers that Lodge Parirua was in the early days bassicaly a

Railway Lodge with most of the members working for the organisation. Because of that being the first Master had a very special meaning for him. He is nostalgic about the comradery he found among the members of Lodge Parirua and the way they cared for eachother.

Since the closure of Lodge Parirua, W Bro Cowan joined the Petone Daylight Lodge and the members there have arranged transport for him to get to and from Lodge each time it meets. He is still an active member of Freemasonry and a true asset to the organisation, not only for his institutional knowledge, but also as an ambassador of what it is to be truly committed to ones faith and beliefs.

Lodge Parirua No. 423 was founded in the halcyon days of Freemasonry in New Zealand. New lodges were regularly being founded and men were flocking to the craft.

Two or three years before the Lodge was consecrated, a small group of men had a vision of a new lodge for the Porirua area. At that time there was no Lodge meeting in the Porirua area. Lodge Windsor was meeting in Tawa and Lodge Mana was meeting at Paremata and Johnsonville for its installation meetings. This small group of men then set about recruiting others and soon a much larger group was holding regular meetings at the St Martins Presbyterian Church in McKillop Street. They described it as “practicing Masonry” as of course they could not meet as a lodge because they did not have a charter. They had no equipment and used to set three chairs out round the hall to mark the places of the Master and two Wardens. Like Freemasons of old they marked out with chalk a pavement on the floor but the piece de resistance was their deacon’s wands – the mops belonging to the church.

Their aim was of course to obtain a charter and they set up a committee to work towards that goal. W Bro Jim Froude, W Bro Bill Leach and W Bro Cecil Cowan

were instrumental in the committee with most of the committee being made up of either Government Servants or Local Body employees and most lived in Porirua East.

Their efforts were rewarded when the Grand Master of the day, MW Bro W Martin consecrated and dedicated Lodge Parirua No. 423 in the Old Lodge Rooms on the Terrace on the evening of Saturday 28th April 1962. Assisting the Grand Master with Consecration and Installation was a full complement of Grand Lodge Officers with the Deputy Grand Master, both Grand Wardens, and a plethora of other very senior Grand Lodge Officers attending. The attendance book for this occasion records 187 men attending with 44 lodges giving greetings. It is worth noting that only 12 of these 44 lodges listed are in existence today under the same name and style.

The Lodge was originally going to be called Lodge Porirua however the well respected local kaumatua Bill Heriwini suggested that it should be more appropriately named Lodge “Parirua” as that was the true Maori name of the area. The word meant “the meeting of the two waters” a reference to the two arms of the harbour.

For the first 28 months of its life the Lodge met at the Johnsonville Lodge Rooms until the new rooms in McKillop Street were completed. The first meeting in McKillop Street was in November 1963 and the Lodge remained there since.

The new lodge quickly settled down into a pattern of work and the records show that it was busy with initiations and balloting for junior members as membership increased.

In the first 12 years of the Lodge’s life, membership more than doubled from the 32 Charter membership to 74 members. In the first 10 years, the Lodge carried out 57 initiations, an average of nearly 5 each year.

As the lodge developed it slowly built up customs and ways of doing things. The fraternal visits between the St Johns Eltham and Lodge Parirua started with a visit by St Johns Lodge to Lodge Parirua in June 1969 when W Bro Ray Clark was Master at which the late W Bro Doug Panchett was initiated. Later in the same year the Lodge resolved to have bi-annual visits between the two Lodges and this custom continued through to the end of the 1990’s when due to the dwindling numbers in the St Johns Lodge they were no longer able to continue their visits.

Associated with these fraternal visits is the Traveling Gavel used on the occasion of the visits with Jim Leech presented to the Lodge in 1971.

As time progressed and membership began to be an issue for Lodge Parirua, it became apparent that the lodge would have to hand in its charter. After such a

prosperous start and strong membership for so many years it was very difficult for the original members of the lodge to accept. On 24th April 2006 Lodge Parirua handed in its charter and members were disbanded into other lodges.

However, the members of Lodge Parirua vowed to honor the foundation members

and all the others who over the years, labored within it. Many of these members continue to be active members of Freemasonry, through other lodges, and still carry forth the torch of Freemasonry within the Porirua basin and within the wider Wellington area.

70 years in Freemasonry...true dedication from W Bro Cecil Cowan

Lodge Parirua No. 423 - the heart of the Man

27

The last day of camp; was also my birthday. I was exhausted and sleep deprived. I could feel a cold coming on!

We all get on the buses to drop the campers off back to their parents. There is quietness, a sadness in the air of our week coming to an end. Yet we are all quietly happy to be going home to our own beds and families!

I farewell my camper with a big hug, telling her that she has been wonderful. She slips me a note, making me promise I won’t open it until back at camp.

Inside the note I read:Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for letting me ride in the car with you.Happy Birthday!

My heart sinks with gratitude, I wish I were with her again so I could give her another big hug and say thank you. We have now been together as camper and companion for two camps. There is a relaxed atmosphere around us. We know each other well now.

Before camp you get instructions from family, the Camp Medical staff and the Camp Coordinator about your camper, I then hear myself saying to her through the week, “Have you had your medication?”, “just eat some more veges”, “have you got your togs and towel?” and “you want a third desert after two dinners?!”

I have become her friend. We have built a trust where she can rely on me for anything. I find myself quietly watching her as she plays sport, checking around if I have not seen her for 5 minutes, watching her play games with the other girls and having a restless sleep all week as I wake just to check on her.

I have been on four camps where I have come to know fabulous companions, great staff and special campers. You watch the

known campers arrive, already familiar with the camp layout and companions, they instantly greet us and fall into place amongst considered friends and family.

You then watch the new campers who arrive apprehensive, nervous and even scared and homesick. Within the week, the Camp Quality statement of “No-one can affect the quality of someone’s life, but we can affect the quality” has worked its magic. It has worked slowly, absorbing the new campers into the fold; including them in the love, friendship and care exhibited by everyone present.

Being involved in Camp Quality fills you with gratitude, an appreciation of how life can be great and valuable. The many people that volunteer their time, love and monetary support all contribute greatly. You forget about life on the outside for that week and you focus on making that camp a great one!

In my normal life; I am a Police Sergeant of 14 years service in Christchurch and South Auckland (Manurewa and Manukau). I have a section of 11 staff that I manage and I also operate on the frontline; attending incidents, managing our firearms and monitoring the paper work. I love my job and I try to make a difference in the community. I am studying my last Inspector’s paper this year and will be planning to promote to the rank of Senior Sergeant in the near future.

A few weekends ago I was working late shift in Manurewa; I attended two senseless homicides and serious assaults on people in their own homes. I can honestly say that in my 5 years of working in South Auckland, I have never had a weekend of work like this. The weekend disappointed me. I could see that some of the community could not see the value of human life that had been taken so quickly.

Instead I thought of Camp Quality; how

everyone arrives from a different walk of life and willingly comes together to share a week of fun, laughter and caring. We all leave something behind so we can focus our energies on what the camp is all about. The children are there to have fun and for one week, hopefully push aside their ailments. The companions forget work, study and their families to go and share in a child’s life, become their friend and be a face for the organisation.

The businesses that provide monetary support and staff from the English Lodges, Lions Clubs and Freemasons; who come and share in a meal, provide gorgeous home baking, do cleaning and generally assist; provide a crucial role in our week. We would be at a total loss were it not for them!

Being involved in Camp Quality; you become part of the journey. You share in lives; you make life valuable and precious. You see life come and go and realize that it was a blessing to have just been a part of it. You give the parents the well-earned rest and you in turn have a week that you will never forget.

To arrive at camp and see the happy faces of the 76 campers and to leave a week later with 76 tired, happy faces with a great story to tell their parents; makes our week worthwhile and worthy of doing it again in a years time.

I find myself telling people about Camp Quality all year round; encouraging new companions and telling of the wonderful things it does. People are generally amazed at the commitment you make; it takes a very special person to raise their hand, to actually care enough to volunteer their time and love, to work hard to make a difference. So from me to you all; thank you very much.

Rachel (Millie) Whear.

What it means to be a Camp Quality Companion

2928

2008 New Year Honours ListCompanion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM)

Bro G S Wood Lodge North Harbour No. 182

Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM)

Bro M L Frohlich Lodge Windsor No. 377

W Bro V F Percival, QSM, JP Onehunga Maungawhao Lodge No. 168

Queen’s Service Medal (QSM)

W Bro R M Brown Services Lodge of Hawkes Bay No. 313

Bro J D Cleaver Lodge Unanimity No. 3

W Bro R J Cooper The Alpha Lodge No. 81

W Bro P J Duggan, P Dist GDC Lodge Cashmere No. 271

Bro J H R Eagles Lodge United Taranaki No. 456

W Bro J Purcell, JP The United Lodge of Napier No. 21

Grand Lodge congratulates these Freemasons who were named in the 2008 New Year Honours List

Service Awards70 Year Service Awards Name Lodge DistrictRW Bro Victor David Rhind Lodge Waitakarei No. 170 Auckland West District No. 4RW Bro Thomas Gerald Carter Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176 Hutt Wairarapa District No. 21RW Bro Cecil Cowan Petone Daylight Lodge No. 458 Central Division No. 2

60 Year Service Awards Name Lodge DistrictBro Clifford Henry The United Lodge of Napier No. 21 Eastland District No. 17Bro David William Dentice The Saint Andrews Lodge No. 32 Kapiti-Wellington District No. 19W Bro Richard Henry Chapple The Hiram Lodge No. 46 Wickliffe District No. 31W Bro John David Becker The Advance Mawhera Lodge No. 61 Westland District No. 24Bro Walter Chapman Mountain The Ohaeawai Lodge No. 101 Northland District No. 1W Bro Kenneth William Pearson The Ohaeawai Lodge No. 101 Northland District No. 1W Bro Laurence Robert Weller Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Ruapehu District No. 15W Bro Clarence Roland Papps Golden Bay Lodge No. 144 Nelson-Marlborough District No. 23W Bro William Robert Stringer Teviot Lodge No. 148 Otago Lakes District No. 30Bro Joseph Brown Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176 Hutt-Wairarapa District No. 21W Bro Frederick Joseph Morgan Lodge Whetu-Kairanga No. 201 Kapiti Wellington District No. 19Bro Victor Henry Styles Empire Fergusson Lodge No. 225 Kapiti-Wellington District No. 19W Bro Bruce Reford Lethbridge Lodge Kororareka No. 304 Northland Distrit No. 20Bro Raynmond Charles Peters Lodge Tamaki No. 328 Auckland East District No. 6W Bro Henry Arthur Atkinson Browns Bay Lodge No. 346 Northshore District No. 3W Bro William Russell Cummins Lodge Frimley No. 359 Eastland District No. 17

50 Year Service Awards Name Lodge DistrictW Bro Kenneth Boyden New Zealand Pacific Lodge No. 2 Kapiti-Wellington District No. 19W Bro Kenneth David Jones South Otago Lodge of Unity No. 14 Wickliffe District No. 31W Bro Gordon Thomas Hutchins United Lodge of Masterton No. 19 Hutt-Wairarapa District No. 21W Bro Douglas Bellve Rapley The Belmont Albion Lodge No. 45 Northshore District No. 3Bo Ian James Nathaniel Lyttle The Methven Lodge No. 51 Midland District No. 28MW Bro Joseph de Valley Mc Manemin Lodge Wairoa No. 55 Auckland East District No. 6Bro Ernest Henry Shilton The Te Aroha Lodge No. 52 Hauraki District No. 10W Bro Adrian Hart The Fortitude Lodge No. 64 Southland District No. 33Bro Robert Gordon Thirkell The Rawhiti Lodge No. 66 Ruahine District No.18Bro Everard Oswald Rowley Lodge Auckland No. 87 Auckland Central District No. 5W Bro Ernest William Colling The Cromwell Kilwinning Lodge No. 98 Otago Lakes District No. 30Bro James Alexander Rollison The Ohaeawai Lodge No. 101 Nothland District No. 1VW Bro Graeme Clive Smith The Waitohi Lodge No. 111 Nelson-Marlborough District No. 23W Bro Kenneth John Inwood Motueka Bays Lodge No. 117 Nelson Marlborough District No. 23W Bro Ian Alexander Berryman Hikurangi Lodge No. 140 Northland District No. 1Bro John Ground Infield Otaihape Lodge No. 142 Ruapehu District No. 15W Bro Desmond Gordon Ellmers Puketoi Lodge No. 149 Ruahine District No. 18W Bro Bruce Logie Lodge Musselburgh No. 154 Wickliffe District No. 31VW Bro John Bramwell Hollick Hutt Valley Lodge No. 176 Hutt Wairarapa District No. 21Bro Alexander James Meikle Lodge Erewhon No. 200 Midland District No. 28Bro Robert Oliver Lodge Manurewa No. 222 Counties Manukau District No. 7Bro Robin Leslie Watt Taia-Raukawa Lodge No. 229 Kapiti-Wellington District No. 19W Bro David Leslie Woodward Lodge Kumeu No. 279 Auckland West District No. 4Bro Francis Robert Pettit Lodge Mt Maunganui No. 376 Bay of Plenty District No. 12Bro David Edward Lees Lodge Tironui No. 400 Counties Manukau District No. 7W Bro George Grahame Rumney Lodge Putaruru-Tirau No. 401 Geyserland District No. 11VW Bro Gordon Stephen Griffiths Lodge Maungarei No. 427 Auckland East District No. 6W Bro Frances James Clark Lodge Hatea No. 431 Norhtland District No. 1W Bro George Lancelot Osborne Lodge Waikanae No. 433 Kapiti-Wellington District No. 19W Bro Laurence Kingswell Tucker Meridian Lodge No. 449 Bay of Plenty District No. 12Bro William Edward Lemberg Meridian Lodge No. 449 Bay of Plenty District No. 12

For thirty years the Hawke’s Bay Orchestra has been a key feature of the regional performing arts landscape. Their Emerging Young Artist programme or-ches-trate!! is a natural progression of the vision they share in educating and enriching the lives of Hawke’s Bay

youth. The emphasis of or-ches-trate!! is to train the young musician to become an experienced ensemble musician – teaching the musician to lead, to listen and to move from being individual players to one cohesive unit. The programme incorporates challenging repertoire under the guidance of professional musicians,

during which each student receives focused attention in small-group work such as orchestral sectionals, ensemble experiences and performances. Not only are the students challenged and extended but they also have a lot of fun making great music!

The programme is led by NZSO violinist Gregory Squire (who was born and raised in Hawke’s Bay) over two semesters each year. The highlight of the second semester is performing with the Hawke’s Bay Orchestra in the annual Classics at Sunset concert in the open air Black Barn Winery Amphitheatre on the hills behind Havelock North. As dusk takes hold the lights of Hawke’s Bay start to twinkle across the Heretaunga Plain. The concert climaxes with a fireworks display.

Appreciating the value of the programme to the young musicians, as well as the talent and commitment required to succeed, Scinde Lodge No 5 donated $2200 to cover the Programme Leader’s expenses for the semester. W Bro Ian Hunt, Master of Scinde Lodge, commented that, “It was great to be associated with such an iconic cultural event in Hawke’s Bay and to witness the growth in musicianship of the twenty-six members of or-ches-trate!!”

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Soloists Alice McIvor and Caughlin Butler, accompanied by or-ches-trate!! and conducted by NZSO Violinist Gregory Squire perform the 1st Movement of JS Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins in D minor at the Classics at Sunset concert in November 2007.

Scinde Lodge Fund Talented MusiciansSome years ago I discovered that a great-uncle killed in World War 1 was a Freemason, and later, when a cousin showed me some family research that she was working on, I found that Rifleman Charles King and I had something else in common: he was killed on what became my birthday, 33 years later.

Given those special connections I have always wanted to visit his grave in France and pay my respects, but so far I haven’t been able to. However, thanks in part to support from my Lodge, Aquarius No 466 in Wellington, and the Wellington Masonic Youth Trust, my son Rhys got there last year, the first member of Charles’s family ever to do so.

Charles was my paternal grandmother’s brother. He was born in Dunedin and according to his Army records was a dairyman in Invercargill when he joined up in December 1916, aged 39, and at his second try - he was turned down the first time because he had flat feet. His enlistment papers include a brief physical description and note his religious affiliation as Church of England, but I don’t know much else about him; he was a single man who even at the time left little in the way of records and possessions.

I have one precious item, though – his Masonic Bible. It shows that he was a member of the now defunct Lodge Victoria No 147 in Invercargill, initiated in October 1911 and raised in February 1912; I took my Obligation as Master of Aquarius on it last October.

Charles was posted to the 1st Battalion 3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade and arrived in France in September 1917. As in civilian life, judging by his military records he

attracted little attention. He was one of the great majority who served and died without being mentioned in dispatches, decorated, promoted in the field - or, for that matter, court-martialled!

Early in the morning of August 30 1918 New Zealand troops including 1 Bn’s A Company in which Charles was serving attacked the villages of Fremicourt and Bancourt, north of the Somme and not far from Amiens. The Press Association reported that an artillery barrage was the signal for the New Zealanders to move up: “With their almost irresistible dash and undaunted courage they followed the heavy barrage . . . the rifles advancing on Fremicourt met with considerable machine-gun fire and suffered some casualties. Bancourt, like its sister village, was stoutly defended, but the New Zealanders were not to be denied.”

The glowing write-up should makes us Kiwis proud, but unfortunately Charles was one of the casualties. He was buried

in the Fremicourt cemetery, but later the Commonwealth War Graves Commission moved those in a number of small local cemeteries into the nearby Bancourt British Cemetery, where he now lies with a dozen or so other New Zealanders.

His great-great-nephew Rhys got there last year on a Wellington College French and history tour visiting Gallipoli, Italy, 20th Century French Battlefields, France, Belgium and the UK. The 60 year 12 and 13 boys (6th and 7th formers) had to come up with over $8000 each for the tour, and as part of his fundraising Rhys came along to Aquarius and “sang for his supper”. The Lodge’s generous donation opened the door for further funding from the Wellington

Masonic Youth Trust.

Although Bancourt wasn’t on the official itinerary it is close to the College tour buses’ route and the determined and eloquent Rhys persuaded College staff to make the necessary detour! It was a “truly special experience”, he says.

“Visiting Charles’s grave will stay with me for the rest of my life. So far from home, I was fortunate enough to kneel where he now lies, peacefully at rest. The only words that seemed appropriate at that moment were simple: thank you. The sacrifice that Charles King and so many others made for their country and their families leaves me forever humbled.”

Those are special words for a special experience . . . and I’m now even more determined to say my own thank-you in Bancourt one day.

By Geoff DaviesLodge Aquarius No 466

Masonic Hand in Moving Moment

Rhys Davies was able to lay a poppy on the grave of his great grand uncle Riffleman Bro Charled King in France last year

When a person goes into cardiac arrest time is of the essence. Survival rates diminish by as much as 10% a minute. Pacific Surf Lifesaving Club patrol the treacherous beach at Marine Parade, Napier, with its strong undertow. For their lifeguards, the ability to successfully rescue somebody from the sea whose heart had

stopped depended on more than pulling the victim from the surf and calling an ambulance. Chances were the patient would die before the ambulance arrived.

Aware of their predicament Club member and Past Master of Scinde Lodge No 5, W Bro David Holmes, suggested Scinde

Lodge donate a St John Defibrillator to Pacific Surf Lifesaving Club, along with St John training for five Club members. The donation valued at over $4400. Being a rostered lifeguard at Pacific Surf Lifesaving Club, David said he would probably use the defibrillator himself while on patrol at some stage.

While the defibrillator will be stored at the surf club it will also be available to the neighbouring Ocean Spa pools and to the Police in case of emergency while the surf club is not on patrol.

John McCorkindale, president of the Pacific Surf Lifesaving Club, received the defibrillator from W Bros Ian Hunt and David Holmes of Scinde Lodge No 5 at a presentation ceremony on the Marine Parade beach, where he thanked Scinde Lodge for their support of the Club.

Scinde Lodge donates Defribillator

Member of the Pacific Surf Lifesaving Club gives a demonstration on how to use their new defribillator.

Being admitted to hospital under any circumstances is a stressful experience. Those admitted in the case of an emergency have no chance to collect personal items. The hospital packs come into their own when people are in this situation and are unable to prepare themselves. The concept originated in the Nelson-Marlborough area, initially supplying two hospitals in the area – Nelson and Wairau (Blenheim). The distribution was later extended to Greymouth hospital, and then further to encompass all the hospitals in the Southern Division. Items were bought locally and packed and distributed by Lodge Almoners and brethren.

The Freemasons Charity has begun distributing Hospital Packs to Accident and Emergency units in the North Island. In partnership with Grand Lodge, who supply the components of the pack, and the box itself, the local almoners are making up the packs and are managing the distribution.

The packs, which are only supplied to adults at this stage, contain a toothbrush with tooth paste, small soap, shampoo, tissues, razor and a comb enclosed in a sealed box bearing The Freemasons Charity logo and sealed with a Freemasons NZ sticker bearing the square and compass.

Feedback from the South Island and initial reaction in the North Island shows that this project is well received by both the patients and the nursing staff and continues The Freemasons Charity tradition of caring in the community.

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Mine is an unlikely background for Masonic Benevolence!

My high school days finished rather abruptly in May 1942 because of the acute shortage of farm labour caused by the departure of so many young men to the battle fields of WWII. I had no chance, therefore, to gain any school qualifications. Subsequently, at the age of 18 , I was called up for army training but the combination of age and being part of an essential industry, saw me manpowered into assisting on three farms in the Waiau,

North Canterbury, area.

After these labour requirements were rescinded in 1946, I decided to give farming a miss and started work in a large country general store where it could be said my real education commenced! I was lucky. I enjoyed a good relationship with my employer who subsequently offered me a third partnership in the business.

However, upon the death of my father in 1956, I had the chance to own some land of my own. Obviously farming was still in my blood. By 1957, I was able to raise the

finance to purchase the home farm of 201 acres. By 1962, I was able to lease an adjoining block of 360 acres, which I was able to subsequently purchase. By this time I had three sons who had expressed a desire to farm, so I purchased another adjoining farm to make

The role of the Almoner is an integral part of Freemasonry, anyone taking up the position of Almoner requires a lot of patience and understanding.There are many instances in a person’s life where illness and other such issues can occur at any time.The responsibility of assisting a fellow Mason in such times rests with the Almoner.

Traditionally the office of Almoner has been passed to a senior brother with experience in the Craft to keep an eye on brethren who suddenly became ill or for some reason stop attending Lodge

meetings, then to find out the reason and to support the Brother in his return to the Lodge.The Almoner is expected to be available to assist the wives and children of elderly or infirm Masons, through providing any number of duties; roses pruned for an arthritic; a shopping expedition for someone with no transport; advice with a problem or just someone to talk to. He is also available to support Masonic widows in the same manner.

Since the time of the introduction of an Almoner into Freemasonry, this role has grown considerably to encompass not only the duties of providing assistance to widows and ill brethren and their families, but also to work proactively in the area of charity. Almoners often lead their lodges charitable outgoings; the focus of their combined efforts.

The term of office of an Almoner usually lasts for around 3-5 years and is a very busy job. They are a benefit to all Lodge members and their families and although it can often be a strenuous task, we are lucky and privileged to have such a supportive group of people interested in the health and well-being of all Masons and their families.

Over the next few issues of the NZ Freemason, we will include a profile of each Almoner to give you an insight into the men who work hard to make their communities a better place for Freemasons and their families. The position of the Almoner is often a thankless job and we believe it is important for all Masons to know, acklnowledge and appreicate these men and the tireless effort in their duty as an Almoner.

The Freemasons Charity Almoners

Mine is an unlikely background for Masonic Benevolence!

My high school days finished rather abruptly in May 1942 because of the acute shortage of farm labour caused by the departure of so many young men to the battle fields of WWII. I had no chance, therefore, to gain any school qualifications. Subsequently, at the age of

18 , I was called up for army training but the combination of age and being part of an essential industry, saw me manpowered into assisting on three farms in the Waiau, North Canterbury, area.

After these labour requirements were rescinded in 1946, I decided to give farming a miss and started work in a large country general store where it could be said my real education commenced! I was lucky. I enjoyed a good relationship with my employer who subsequently offered me a third partnership in the business.

However, upon the death of my father in 1956, I had the chance to own some land of my own. Obviously farming was still in my blood. By 1957, I was able to raise the finance to purchase the home farm of 201 acres. By 1962, I was able to lease an adjoining block of 360 acres, which I was able to subsequently purchase. By this time I had three sons who had expressed a desire to farm, so I purchased another adjoining

farm to make a reasonable holding of just under 1000 acres in total.

All my previous employers had been Freemasons. I had been impressed by their own personal qualities and the respect and esteem in which they were held in the Amuri, North Canterbury Districts. Accordingly in January 1963, I was accepted as a member of Lodge Amuri No. 184 where I was eventually made Master in 1970-71.

I also joined Lodge Cheviot No. 124, where owing to the gap caused by the resignation of the Senior Warden, I became Master in 1974 -75.

A combination of an ageing membership and changing rural dynamics meant that both Lodge Amuri and Lodge Acacia (based in Waikari and to which Amuri Freemasons had gone) had no choice but to hand in their charters in turn. By this time (1994) we had sold the farm and moved to Woodend where I have joined Lodge Shirley No. 263.

When I first joined Freemasonry, one of the speakers in the refectory made an observation which I have never forgotten. He said that the bigger effort I made in Freemasonry would be matched by the

Almoner Cedric Cole

The Freemasons Charity Hospital Packs

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The National Education CommitteeThe National committee is made up of members geographically representing the three Divisions. The dynamo driving the work of the committee forward in Central Division is Des Carr.

One of the greatest challenges for a voluntary organisation like ours is to ensure that “the message” is communicated to the membership, and the education programme survives or fails on both good communication and enthusiasm from the leaders. Des and Divisional GM, Wally Plank work together like two horses in harness with their Six District Grand Masters well and truly on their side. When District Meetings are held with Masters and other lodge officers present, Des does his utmost to ensure that District Education Officers are on deck together with as many lodge Education Officers as can attend.

Last year they held meetings in several areas and had attendances of between 20 to 45 Masons. Des and his team were able to explain to everyone how the Nine Education Booklets (featured in the December issue of New Zealand Freemason) could best be used to encourage the growth of Masonic knowledge in lodges and at the same time

promote the mentoring of the new Mason using the skills of experienced brethren. He was able to explain that the books were published by the National Education Committee with funds from Grand Lodge. The distribution of the booklets is being done by the District Education Officers and then to the individual lodge Education Officers – the lodge members are the key to the success of the entire education programme and structure and, to ensure that the books are being used effectively, Des has instituted a means of reporting progress and results back to the Central Education Committee.

Des presents his stories with a laptop computer and data projector, using PowerPoint messages designed by Hugh Hill. This is a very effective way of informing and involving brethren. Copies of this presentation can be used by the District Education Officer within lodges for the benefit of brethren. It does not have to be at a regular meeting.

Des’ team has also produced a booklet called “Journey to the Chair”. This is based on a series of helpful articles collated by Alan Davis, and reformatted by Alan Jackson (with help from his skilled daughter Emma) into one booklet which is an excellent preparation for

brethren as they move towards the Masters chair. Preparation for that challenge cannot be left to the last minute and the booklet helps a Mason to think about the nature of the job well ahead of time. There is nothing like good preparation to ensure success and the satisfaction from a successful year in the chair of King Solomon goes a long way to fostering personal growth, as well as having enormous benefit to a lodge in question and the Craft in general and this should be especially useful to past Masters going back into the chair. “Every Junior Deacon should own one” according to Div GM Wally Plank.

These booklets are for sale at $15 (a little extra if posted). All the funds from the sales of any education booklets sold nationwide are going to Divisional Treasurers to be earmarked for the work of furthering Masonic education within Divisions. The Northern Division is adapting copies to suit their particular circumstances and Southern Division may follow that lead later.

You can contact Des by e-mail des@xtra.co.nz or 06-368-0638.

The National Education Advisory Committee

The National Publicity CommitteeThe National Publicity Committee under the Board of General Purposes is charged with looking after Publicity and Public Relations for our organisation - Freemasons New Zealand. The Committee also provides support to the work of The Freemasons Charity under the Board of Benevolence.

The following people are currently appointed by the Board and make up the National Publicity Committee: - Dexter Bambery – Chair, Noel Ryan – Member, Terry Carrell – Member, Duane Williams – Member, Stuart Brooker – Member, Laurence Milton – Member, Gabrielle Moke – Communications Advisor.

Here are some of the activities/events/items that the Committee is responsible for:-Freemasons StampsFreemasons White Pages DirectoryFreemasons SignageFreemasons BrochuresFreemasons Publicity ‘Pull Up’ StandsFreemasons New Zealand Stand (for use at major events e.g. Field Days, Royal Shows, A&P Shows, etc)Freemasons University Scholarships (in

conjunction with The Freemasons Charity)Freemasons Big Science Adventures (Royal Society of NZ)Freemasons New Generation Awards (Arts Foundation of NZ)Freemasons Deposit SchemeNew Zealand Freemason MagazineMen’s Health ProgrammeAssistance to & liaison with Publicity Liaison Officers (PLO’s)

Many of these activities place the name of Freemasons New Zealand before the general public and also before our target audiences. All of this comes at a cost on which the Committee tries to get the best value. Word of mouth advertising (your assistance is paramount to our success) is the most cost effective method and our sponsorships and

other activities are designed to maximise this. The Committee in conjunction with our Communications Advisor and Publicity Liaison Officers (appointed by Districts) tries to garner the maximum amount of good publicity for Freemasons New Zealand and Freemasonry at the local/national level through the media. This can be challenging in the national media as ‘good news’ is rarely news but it is usually very successful in the local media who love a ‘feel good’ story.

Insight by Duane Williams MBE newest member of the Committee

Greetings, Companions!

I trust you are all refreshed after what has been for most a wonderful summer and a great time spent with family and friends. But now it is time to turn our thoughts to Royal Arch Masonry and the challenges that lie ahead. Some great things happened in 2007 (and some not so great) so let us all work at keeping the forward momentum going.

Challenges for us all

This issue of the magazine is appearing after the Annual Convocation in Blenheim, at which the Order must face up to what the future may hold. I believe the next two or three Convocations will be pivotal as we plan together for our future. I ask all of you to think of the changes that may be necessary, not only financial and constitutional but also in ritual and in fellowship activities, to enable the Order to progress this century.

Such ideas need to be put forward for future Convocations by letter or email, or in the form of remits and notices of

motion. Change whether we like it or not is inevitable. We must make sure it is the sort of change we want and in time to work well for us, not “after the horse has bolted”.

Heading offshore

Grand Chapter has invitations to attend several events in Australia so if any of you are going to be available in these places at these times please feel free to accompany me. Grand Scribe has the forms. The events are in Melbourne, May 16-18, Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons; Adelaide, June 6-8, Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons and in Launceston, Tasmania October 3-5, when the SGRAC of Tasmania will be formed. This is an event is not likely to happen again in this part of the world in our lifetimes.

Finally, thank you to all those who have hosted, accommodated or fed Raewyn and I as we travelled around New Zealand over the past year. We are both most grateful.

By First Grand Principal Rod Biel

It was a night of frivolity when Immediate Past First Grand Principal Eoin Dryden, a PGDC in the Craft, was presented with his 50 Year Badge in Craft Masonry in Temuka late last year. What he thought was going to be a lecture of Masonic interest turned out to be an epiosode of “This Is Your Life”.

W Bro Grant Colliar, Master of St George Lodge No 29 (and also 2nd Principal of Temuka Royal Arch Chapter No 83) had arranged a brief but interesting resume of Eoin’s Masonic history via the six other Orders that he was involved with, and this proved to be an interesting and somewhat humorous event, with a number of surprises.

Eoin’s son W Bro Murray Dryden, Master of Hiram Lodge No 46 in Dunedin, came up with three very loyal friends, and W Bro Ken McQueen, Master of the United

Lodge of Masterton No 19 also made the trip especially for the occasion.

The District Grand Master, V W Bro George Hughes, gave a brief address and then invited Murray to make the presentation to his father, which was in itself an historical moment, as Eoin had performed the same service for his own father exactly 20 years before.

Some 70 Brethren and 12 ladies were present to witness the proceedings and enjoy the refectory hospitality, of which the highlight was an enormous chocolate

cake, suitably iced, organised by Karen Colliar.

Changes May Be Needed

A Night To Remember

Murray Dryden, left, with his mother Bev and father Eoin

The Grand Marshal of the United Great Priory in New Zealand, Quin Rodda, escorts First Grand Principal Rod Biel into Great Priory for the installation of Alan Hart as Grand Master of the Knights Templar, held in Auckland in Octo-ber last year. M E Comp Biel was one of a large number of heads of Masonic Orders in attend-ance. Photo provided by VW Bro Victor Fabian.

L to R: Gabrielle Moke, Dexter Bambery, Noel Ryan, Terry Carrell, Duane Williams and Stuart Brooker

Royal Arch Mason

St John and NZ Cricket have agreed a special partnership – with St John the Charity of Choice for the BLACKCAPS for two years.

St John is New Zealand’s largest ambulance provider, a leading provider of first aid training, and provider of community services throughout New Zealand.

NZ Cricket (NZC) CEO Justin Vaughan and St John Chief Executive Jaimes Wood made the announcement at a launch of the partnership in February.

“NZC and the BLACKCAPS support the important work St John members do, saving lives and improving the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders. We will work with St John to raise the profile of the vital work they carry out for the community and to help raise funds for that work,” Mr Vaughan said.

“Both St John and the BLACKCAPS have their roots firmly in New Zealand and both highly value the support they receive from the public,” Mr Wood said.

“St John and the BLACKCAPS serve the community in quite different but important ways. We are joining forces to maximise the benefits that - together - we can bring the people of New Zealand.

“St John and BLACKCAPS players will together promote community participation and the importance of healthy lifestyles – including awareness of injury prevention and first aid,” Mr Wood said.

St John has a strong and historical connection with the sporting public of New Zealand, providing first aid and emergency care services on the sidelines of local and national sporting events for many years.

Under the partnership, the BLACKCAPS will encourage members of the public to support St John’s vital emergency ambulance, first aid training and community work. St John is a charitable organisation that relies on public fundraising to provide its full range of services to New Zealand communities – including donations to help run the ambulance services.

NZ Cricket will help St John raise funds at matches through text message campaigns and will provide players and memorabilia to assist with St John fundraising and public awareness campaigns. As part of the partnership, the public can donate to St John by:

• text messaging the word CARE to 883 to donate $3 at any time and

• by phoning 0900 ST JOHN to make an automatic $20 donation at any time.

St John’s usual donation channels remain open.

About St John

• St John provides ambulance services to more than 85 per cent of New Zealand’s population and 95 per cent of the country’s geography.

• St John has 185 ambulance stations throughout New Zealand, providing services from the top of the North Island to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. We also service Stewart Island, Pitt Island and the Chatham Islands.

• Our ambulance service treats and transports more than 320,000 patients a year and attends more than 245,000 emergency incidents a year.

• St John is more than ambulance. To build community resilience and reduce demand for ambulances, St John provides a range of health-related and community services.

• We provide first aid and emergency services at public events.

• We train more than 54,000 people a year in first aid, and sell first aid kits as part of our fundraising.

• Trained St John volunteers help people get to medical appointments in our specially equipped Health Shuttles.

• Our Caring Caller volunteers support isolated or unwell people who live alone with a daily phone call to check that all is okay.

• St John Friends of the Emergency

Department volunteers provide comfort and care to patients and their families in hospital emergency departments.

• St John gives people the opportunity to be involved in volunteering throughout New Zealand. Our volunteers range in age from students to retired people, and come from a variety of backgrounds including ambulance officers, doctors, nurses, homemakers, teachers, hospitality staff and electricians.

• St John is a charitable organisation – our services are not fully government funded.

• We rely on the support of the people of New Zealand, fundraising and donations to provide the high level of service we currently provide including our ambulance service.

About the BLACKCAPS

• The BLACKCAPS are New Zealand’s national men’s cricket team.

• The Black Caps have 5 One Day Internationals and 3 test matches this season against England.

• The BLACKCAPS are currently ranked 3rd in the world in One Day cricket.

• Daniel Vettori (the BLACKCAPS captain) is the number 2 allrounder in the world, and the BLACKCAPS’ top bowler.

• Stephen Fleming is the BLACKCAPS top batsman.

St John and BLACKCAPS partner up

St John Paramedic Daniel Ohs demonstrates first aid techniques to BLACKCAPS cricketer Jacob Oram.