Very few people are aware of the history of Freemasonry or its significance in Deniliquin’s history.
But another chapter in Deniliquin’s Masonic history will be written next week when both the NSW and Victorian Grand Masters will visit for a combined function.
This is the first time that a visit from the two Grand Masters - the senior Freemason in their respective jurisdictions - has occurred.
The supporting delegations for the Grand Masters will bring over 50 Grand Lodge officers and some wives to Deniliquin.
The Victorians will demonstrate an Installation Ceremony to their NSW friends and brethren. Similar ceremonies are held in NSW but they differ in detail.
Nearly 100 men are expected to participate in the ceremony, with visitors coming from Albury, Canberra, Newcastle and many places nearby.
Echuca-based Victorian Grand Chaplain John Glover has been the liaison between the Victorian Grand Lodge and the St John’s Lodge in Deniliquin.
“St John’s Lodge was consecrated in 1859,” he said.
“Its members have been prominent citizens from Deniliquin and surrounding areas, but its membership has fallen in recent years.
“This is not uncommon in many areas, not just the Riverina, and reflects community changes.
“A function in Echuca last year triggered the thought that a visit to Deniliquin might help rejuvenate local Freemasonry.
“Better still, our visit would bolster the local economy and help some of the locals who have suffered during the recent flood crisis.”
Freemasonry traces its origins back to Europe during the Middle Ages, but its traditions date to Biblical times when King Solomon’s Temple was built, nearly 4,000 years ago.
Deniliquin St John’s Lodge secretary Martin Wilmshurst said it is one of the oldest organisations in Australia.
“Sir Joseph Banks, the botanist, was the first recorded Freemason in Australia and Freemasonry became established with the military regiments associated with the First Fleet and later in Sydney,” he said.
“The organisation is not a religion, although it highly prizes religious faith and traditional virtues. We proudly proclaim the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man.
“Our goal is to improve individuals personally, to enhance the communities in which we live and to care for those in our communities who need support.”
The combined lodges say next week’s celebrations will include a donation to charity. The beneficiary is yet to be decided.
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