freemasonryspring 2011 ISSUE 128 The Longevity Project extract By Howard Friedman victoria & Leslie R. Martin Life on the land FMV catches up with a rural Freemason
Freemasons & their beloved wheels
Our Principles Make a Difference Freemasons Victoria Merchandise
The Freemasons Victoria E-store can be accessed at: www.freemasonsvic.net.au via the member’s log-in area. If you do not have access to a computer, you can place an order over the phone: (03) 9411 0111 or email: [email protected] Freemasons Victoria In this issue:
2 From the Grand Master 22 'Just doing their bit’: Young Freemasons Bro. Merchandise Daniel Jade and Bro.Michael Poutney’s amazing 3 Letters to the Editor achievement.
4 Freemasonry news: All the latest news 23 The State Library of Victoria: Now has historic Freemasonry records online for all to access. 12 An exclusive extract from The Longevity Project: Surprising discoveries for health and long 24 Country Freemason profile: Meet Spud. lives from the landmark eight-decade study. 27 Book reviews 16 Bless this house...Again! The future looks bright in Wangaratta. 28 What’s in the case?
18 Freemasons & their beloved wheels: Freemasons and their unique cars.
20 Car review: Toyota Prius.
The Freemasons Victoria E-store can be accessed at: www.freemasonsvic.net.au via the member’s log-in area. If you do not have access to a computer, 18 Freemasons you can place an order over the phone: (03) 9411 0111 & their beloved or email: [email protected] wheels Cover photo credit: Mark Williams Magazine contact details FROM THE... Acting Editor: Emma Morris Associate Editors: Jessica McKinnon, Jim Grand Master Puohotaua, Ben Quick, Lena Way Welcome to the new look Freemasonry Victoria Magazine. Email: [email protected] Website: www.freemasonsvic.net.au Freemasonry has received an unprecedented amount of publicity in the last few months, and it heartens me that Telephone: (03) 9411 0111 the dedication and hard work of all Freemasons across Toll Free: 1800 068 416 Victoria receives such recognition from the press and the Fax: (03) 9416 1468 wider community.
Advertising and Editorial Following the recent ABC1 Compass episode Whatever Happened to the Freemasons, I reflected on the words Enquiries and artwork should be directed to the of Geraldine Doogue who said that “Freemasonry is Editor, Freemasonry Victoria, 300 Albert Street reinventing itself to meet modern demands”. The expression (PO Box 553), East Melbourne, Victoria 8002. largely encapsulate what we must do to raise the image of Material bookings for the next issue and articles Freemasonry in our communities and I believe that that this and photos for consideration must be received by: important quarterly magazine is a big part of that process. Monday 1 November 2011 Some of the highlights in this magazine include an exclusive Freemasonry Victoria is distributed by mail direct extract from The Longevity Project (a book in which many to the homes of all members in mid March June, of the principles correspond with Freemasonry), a feature September and December and is published by on Freemasons and their beloved cars, the Deputy Grand Square One Publications Ltd, (ACN 005 631 470), Master's test drive of an environmentally friendly car, and 300 Albert Street, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002. there is a heartening story on how Freemasons are coping in rural Victoria. There is also a number of news items featuring Advertising contact details Freemasons doing what they do best – raising funds and awareness for those in need of support at a time of hardship. Telephone: (03) 9411 0111 Toll Free: 1800 068 416 Your letters and feedback are always welcome, and I encourage you to send your thoughts to the Editor: Fax: (03) 9416 1468 [email protected]. Square One Publications (“Publisher”) advises I hope you enjoy this issue. that, while the greatest of care has been taken in compiling the contents of Freemasonry Victoria (this MWBro. Vaughan Werner “Publication”) the editor, designer and Publisher Grand Master can not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions that may occur. This Publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate. However, the contents of the Publication are not intended as and do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of professional advice. Neither the Publisher, Freemasons Victoria nor this Publication make any representation; give any warranty or guarantee concerning the information published. The Publisher disclaims any and all loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault, error or negligence on the part of the Publisher, its directors or employees. Editorial opinions expressed in the Publication are not necessarily those of Freemasons Victoria, the Publisher or the staff of Freemasonry Victoria. The copyright on all original images, text and advertising appearing in this publication remains with Square One Publications unless otherwise specifically stated. Copyrighted content from this publication may not be reproduced without express written consent of the owner of the copyright.
Design: Think Productions Website: www.thinkproductions.com.au Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor, I have just read the feature article in the Autumn 2011 edition of Freemasonry Victoria where the financial assistance to Melbourne Youth Music by Victorian Freemasons is reported. From the other side of the world (France) this article goes right to my heart. In the late 1970s I was heavily involved in the administration of the Melbourne Youth Choir conducted by Faye Dumont. In February and March 1978 we took the choir on a world tour to Japan, Great Britain and France. Highlights were master classes in London conducted by Sir Colin Davis, a concert in Chartres Cathedral and being hosted by families of a French youth orchestra in Orléans. I also appreciated the article on page 18 concerning Q&A French Goldfields Lodge, Ballarat. I have forwarded it to with Charlie Bezzina my French brother-in-law, a member of the “irregular” Grand Orient of France and currently Worshipful Master of the only Lodge in that Obedience that labours under the Memphis Misraïm Rite. We have often spoken of the How would you describe yourself? I would describe Eureka connection with Garibaldi via Raffaello Carboni. myself as a compassionate man with high integrity who achieved great job satisfaction in providing victims’ My family has a long history of Freemasonry in families with answers. I would thrive on team work and Victoria. My great grandfather, buried in White Hills ensured that my team’s needs were met both emotionally cemetery in Bendigo, has the square and compasses and physically given the harrowing investigations we dealt on his tombstone. My maternal grandfather’s brother, with. I like to fight for what is right and just, and above all Hugh Roche, always had the square and compasses things, patience and thoroughness. prominently displayed over the fireplace in his Coburg home and two of my uncles, Tony Menagh and Dr Paul How long were you in the police force? I served with Pincus, were members of the United Grand Lodge of Vic Police for 37 years and 10 months as an operational Victoria. The Masonic Bible given to Tony Menagh when uniform member and Detective in the western suburbs he was initiated into Warringal Lodge (now defunct) is up to the rank of Senior Sergeant. The remainder was 1 opened at our Lodge meetings at La Pierre Bleue. year in the Bureau of Internal Investigations, 3 years in the Drug Squad as Team leader and undercover operative, 17 Now that I have discovered Freemasonry Victoria I’ll be years as team leader Homicide Squad and 6 months in a regular reader. charge of the Embona Armed Robbery Unit Footscray. Kindest fraternal regards, What was your most memorable case and why? Most Allan Sanders memorable was Serial Killer, Paul Charles Denyer, the taking of three innocent lives because he had the urge to Dear Editor, kill and the frustration with Denyer being given a 30 year minimum, 10 years per life and the unlikely outcome of Devastation can come quickly and with little warning. For Denyer not overcoming his urge to kill but only time will the town of Carisbrook near Maryborough with a population tell. Look where we are currently with Julian Knight and of around 800 residents that is exactly what happened. No his impending release and the dilemma for the State one was prepared for the extent of devastation the January Government. Floods caused. Only a few houses escaped inundation and water was seen in streets which the 100 Year Flood Plan What do you miss about being a police officer? What I had not envisaged. Houses and furniture were ruined, the miss about not being a police officer is the interaction stinking mud and polluted water was everywhere. with the community and making a difference and the camaraderie all police have worldwide. The co-ordinated response and recovery effort with so many volunteers assisting was magnificent. The efforts Why did you write The Job? I wrote The Job after I was of Freemasons Victoria to raise so much money is a approached by the Slattery Media Group. I wanted to show wonderful tribute to such a fine organisation which what is involved with the investigation of the most horrific does so much for our wider community. On behalf of crime we all face. Also to keep alive in the memory of us my Council and Community I extend our very deep all the consequences of losing loved ones and unsolved appreciation for the assistance extended. murders in which the community may hold the answer. Also to highlight that it is nothing like television shows and Cr Chris Meddows-Taylor how certain competing forces within a police organisation Mayor, Central Goldfields Shire is counterproductive to the best outcomes for the community. Where is your favourite place in Melbourne and why? My favourite place in Melbourne is home because I am surrounded by my family and friends, having spent so much time away from them while I was working. Are you working at the moment? How do you spend your days? Currently I am running my own handy man business whiout of the job, the public speaking gives me an opportunity to interact with the community and educate them on true policing. This involves talks at schools and also corporate. NEWS
CBD Luncheon On Tuesday 16 August special guest speaker Detective Senior Sergeant Charlie Bezzina, former top homicide detective, presented to Freemasons and their guests at the quarterly 'Freemaons in the CBD' Luncheon. Charlie Bezzina recently resigned from the Victoria Police Force after 37 years of service including 13 years as the head of the Homicide Squad. Charlie had an illustrious career with the Police Force and was affectionately regarded as the “best dressed detective in the Crime Squad”! He commanded investigations into over 300 murders and 150 suspicious deaths including the Mr Cruel case, the Wales King Society murders, cricketer David Hookes, heart surgeon Victor Chang and underworld figure Alphonse Gangitano. CBD luncheon host David Gibbs and guest Charlie is the author of The Job: speaker Charlie Bezzina at the last CBD luncheon Fighting Crime From The Frontline
SEAVIC Lodge develops relationships beyond borders SEAVIC Lodge was Consecrated on Saturday 2 July at the Dallas Brooks Centre. The Consecration, attended by in excess of 100 Brethren, was followed by an Open Installation which was attended by families and partners. The SEAVIC Lodge includes members from both Australia and South East Asia, and was formed with the purpose of developing fraternal relations with our Asian Brothers. SEAVIC is welcoming new members and meets on the third Friday of even months at the Dallas Brooks Centre. Above: SEAVIC members proudly parading their new apparel purchased from the Freemasons Victoria e-store. Members and their partners purchased a variety of customised items including fleece pullovers, sleeveless vests, dress jackets, weatherproof parkas and rugby tops, all featuring the square and compasses logo with ‘SEAVIC’ embroided underneath. Any Lodge that purchases 10 or more apparel items from the Freemasons Victoria e-store is able to have their items custom embroided.
4 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Freemasons on facebook Freemasons Victoria has officially reached over 4,000 Facebook friends (you can review the page here, even if you are not on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ pages/Freemasons-Victoria/116970862587 ). Facebook is a great way to stay connected with member and Lodge news, information, events and pictorials from all 17 Districts. If you have news and information you would like posted on Freemasons Victoria’s official Facebook site, please email a brief description along with an image to [email protected] with ‘Facebook Posting’ in the subject line.
Bro. Bruce Hughes with National RSL President, Vice Admiral Ken Doolan (Rtd) AO. Photo courtesy of The Northern Times. Bro Bruce Hughes honoured at RSL State Conference by Nicole Valicek The Northern Times
AFTER 65 years of service with the Returned Services League, Bro. Bruce Hughes of Kerand Lodge has again been recognised for his long- standing achievements and community service. Bro. Hughes was presented with a National Certificate of Appreciation by National President, Rear Admiral A bequest in your Will to the Victorian Scout Foundation Ken Doolan AO at the RSL state conference held at the helps make sure young Australians will continue to learn Caulfield Racecourse recently. He was the only person the values and principles of good citizenship to receive the award, which is presented to a RSL well into the 21st century. member who has given long and sustained service The Scout Foundation can assist in the writing to welfare and charitable activities in the veteran of your bequest. We also welcome direct donations community throughout the state and nationally. Bro. and new members to the Foundation. Hughes said he values the work of the organisation and is proud of his achievement. “I’m proud of the work and proud of being able to do it,” he said. Bro. Hughes has been involved with various RSL branches over his lifetime, his commitment spanning over decades. He said he does it because he enjoys helping fellow war veterans and the long-lasting comradeship he develops and maintains with members. Bro. Hughes enlisted to join the naval service during the middle of World War Two in 1943. Bro. Hughes is a current member of Kerang 100 Lodge and has over 60 years service with the Craft.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 5 NEWS
200th Terry Pampakas in Greece Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Greece
RWBro. Terry Pampakas PJGW represented the United Freemasonry in Greece is in a growth phase and the Grand Lodge of Victoria at the 200th anniversary of the membership is increasing. “It was an honour and Grand Lodge of Greece. 26 international delegations a pleasure to represent our Grand Master and my were officially introduced at the celebrations. Victoria Victorian Brethren at this historical and extraordinary was the 16th delegation presented. event,” RWBro. Terry Pampakas said. The Grand Master of the Grand lodge of Greece also made charitable donations to Lodges, Brethren and civilian volunteers worth 200,000 Euros, thus embracing the philosophy of goodwill to all people practiced in this constitution. One woman, responsible for 8,000 homeless people living in and around Athens, was rewarded with a signifigant donation to aid her cause. The Grand Master made presentations of Distinguished Sashes to Brethren for exceptional service to the Craft. The Brother wears this sash over his regalia in the Lodge meeting or in the Grand Lodge. The members of the Greek Constitution are expected as part of their duty, to donate blood on a regular basis.
6 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Terry Pampakas in Greece
Concert a huge fundraising success On Friday 24 June, Freemasons Victoria, along with the ABC’s Ian ‘Macca’ McNamara held the ‘Victorian Flood Relief Appeal’ concert at the Dallas Brooks Centre. The net proceeds from the $25,000 raised will be dispersed to families and communities affected by the floods earlier this year. The concert featured some of Melbourne’s most talented artists including Melbourne Youth Music, The Australian Youth Choir, The Acclaim Awards, The Basics, Matt Tennant, Digger Revell and more. Ian ‘Macca’ McNamara (host of ABC Freemasons Victoria would like to thank attendees radio show ‘Australia All Over) for their generosity towards the deserving recipients of this appeal. NEWS
Raising funds
& awareness for Pictured: Julie Margarelli, Katy Nicolopoulos, Bro. Bill Magarell MM and Chris Charalambous at The Cancer Council the My Fair Lady Ball
Did you know that bowel cancer kills 70 Australians every week and is the nation’s biggest cancer killer after lung cancer? Is Your Meeting Place Up Lodge Amicus has successfully campaigned and raised money for To Date & Comfortable ? research into Bowel Cancer in Australia with the hosting of the 'My Fair Lady Ball' in May this year. The Waverley This event has grown to become the largest fundraising night for Masonic Centre any Lodge in Victoria and possibly the largest third party single night (Adjacent to Mount Waverley fundraising effort for the Cancer Council of Victoria Shopping Centre) Has some The ball gathered 320 people for a night of conviviality at the vacancies, and offers: Air-con, Lift facility, First class Banquet renowned 9 Darling Street Function Centre. Fine food and wine, Hall & Kitchen Well appointed exhibition ballroom dancing and fundraising culminated in the Lodge and rehearsal rooms, raising of $51,300 by end of the night. Easy parking. Enquiries welcome to the Manager on The Benevolent Fund of Freemasonry Victoria, agreed to enhance these commendable efforts and added another $25,000 to the 9807 7131 or 0488 650 430 total. The Cancer Council has been presented with a total of $76,300 to be directed specifically towards Bowel Cancer Research. Time for Daylight? EvEning mEEtings finishing a littlE too latE? Freemasonry regularly assists the community in many different The Essendon Daylight lodge is your ways through contributions to hospitals, aged care facilities, answer. Please consider our friendly and donations to appeals, the mobilisation of its members to directly social lodge meeting at the work with less fortunate people in the community and direct Essendon Masonic Centre. Contact George 9337 8320 or fundraising efforts within its Lodges and by Grand Lodge. [email protected]
8 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Grand Master Vaughan Werner celebrates with Frederick Anderson for Fred’s 100th birthday
Brother Frederick Anderson Turns100 Brother Fred was born in Collingwood on 2 July 1911 and recently reached his centenary.
Following his primary education, Fred received former West Melbourne Lodge No. 231 and is looking secondary education at Hawthorn Central School forward to receiving his 65 year service award on 10 and Melbourne High School where he was awarded a October 2011. Class Certificate issued by the University of Melbourne Fred became a Mark Mason in 1952, a Royal Ark in December 1926. Mason in 1959 and was accepted into the Order of the Fred considered his knowledge and skills were Secret Monitor in 1970. Although Fred never made it best suited to plumbing and he passed the Sanitary to Master of the Lodge he has carried out many duties Plumbing Board Certificate qualification in 1932 and including Social Secretary and Almoner. holds Licence no. 698. Fred also was acknowledged Fred entered Rosanna Views Nursing Home to be with by the Department of Public Health with Registration his wife Dora in 2002 and following her passing Fred No. 209 in 1937. There are now over 30,000 registered remained a resident at the Home. plumbers in Victoria. Staff at the Home arranged a special party to Two years after receiving his plumbing authorisation, celebrate Fred’s 100th birthday and MWBro. Vaughan he married Dora in 1934 and they produced three Werner GM attended to present Fred with a Certificate children, Marie, Ronald and Beverley. Their extended of Appreciation. The Grand Master was also called family is now three children, five grandchildren, on to present Fred with letters from Her Majesty six great grandchildren and two great great the Queen (this included a photo), Governor General grandchildren. His son Ron is a Past Master. Quentin Bryce, Prime Minister Julia Gillard and MP Jenny Macklin. During this time Fred served with the armed forces and was discharged on 17 October 1945. On his Whilst at the Home, the Grand Master renewed discharge Fred resumed his plumbing business. acquaintances with a number of Freemasons Fred wanted more from life and was initiated in the including RWBro. Bruce Skeggs PDGM.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 9 NEWS Lilydale Lodge No. 108
Lilydale Lodge opened on Thursday 28 July, it is the result of two existing Lodges (the Orient Lodge of Lilydale and the Yarra Valley Donna Buang Lodge) joining forces. The 'new' Lodge was celebrated with a traditional Installation ceremony.
Above left: The evening was very well supported as shown by the large attendance in the South. Above middle: MWBro. Vaughan Werner, GM along with WBro. Max Harris (who is also a member of Tea Tree Lodge, SA Constitution) and RWBro. Ivan Ferguson, PJGW who were both presented with their 60 year jewels. Above right: MWBro. Vaughan Werner, GM flanked by WBro. Ian Goddard, GLHer and his son Bro. Richard Goddard, EA. Left: WBro. Peter Tyson, PGStdB cuts the Installation cake and ensures that the "Knife" received the required level of icing.
10 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Freemasons in the media
Grand Master Vaughan Werner was a special guest on Network Ten’s Logie award winning program in June. Reporter Sean Lynch joined the Grand Installation and interviewed the Grand Master and VWBro. Wes Turnbull, PGDC who both provided an overview on Freemasonry and the ceremonial aspects of the Grand Installation. The Grand Master also joined presenters Chrissie Swan, Denise Drysdale, Yumi Stynes and Gorgi Coghlan live on ‘the couch’ to further discuss Freemasonry and answer questions about the Grand Installation, and the important part women play in Freemasonry. The Grand Master Vaughan Werner, along with members WBro. Fotios Spiridonos SGD, Bro. David Bloom and Bro. Ramsey El-atm featured in an article in The Age newspaper about Freemason’s Victoria’s increasing membership and diversity. And recently ABC TV’s Compass featured a program on Australian Freemasons reinventing themselves to survive in the 21st Century. These media appearances can be viewed on the Freemasons Victoria website http://www.freemasonsvic.net.au/.
Above: Reporter Sean Lynch interviews VWBro. Wesley Turnbull PGDC for Channel 10’s The Circle
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 11 feature
T he Longevity Project
By HOWARD FRIEDMAN & LESLIE R. MARTIN
e have been told that One of the best ways to avoid research the key to longevity involves obsessing traps and biases is to follow individuals over what we eat, how for their whole lives and see which Wmuch we stress, and how fast we run. Based on the most extensive characteristics influence subsequent study of longevity ever conducted, The Longevity Project exposes qualities, behaviors, and outcomes. what really has an impact on our lifespan — including friends, family, Lewis Terman. Dr. Terman was an effort to find out, Friedman personality, and work. looking for gifted children and and Martin have spent the past had asked their teachers to pick twenty years following up on the By gathering new information and out the brightest kids in the class. people in Dr. Terman’s studies studying participants across eight He was interested in the sources and investigating why some people decades, Dr Howard Friedman and of intellectual leadership and thrive well into old age while others Dr Leslie Martin bust myths about wondered if he could identify early fall ill and die prematurely. Along achieving health and long life. glimmers of high potential. the way, they discovered that many common health recommendations In September 1921, a talented Eighty years later, both Patricia are ill-advised or simply wrong. young schoolgirl named Patricia and John were still alive at ninety- They’ve replaced those with more and her precocious classmate one years old. They had beaten the accurate guideposts to a longer, John were pulled out of their odds and lived very long and healthy healthier life. San Francisco classrooms by a lives. What was their secret? In Stanford University psychologist,
12 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 given to those who want to inadvertent skew or error. If you improve their health (“relax,” think about it—as we do every day “eat vegetables,” “lose weight,” in our laboratory—you come to “get married”) are lifesaving for realize that we can never be quite some but neither effective nor sure about the validity of many economical for many. In fact, health studies and claims. standard medical advice often Of course we can study individuals backfires, leaving us overweight who stay healthy, but to whom do and stressed out as we struggle to we compare them? If we knew follow specific edicts. Our society that two people started out exactly spends a fortune on health care, the same at birth but one ate fad diets, pharmaceuticals, and a only broccoli while the other ate variety of short-term remedies that only fried steak, then we might help somewhat; but there is often have a reasonable comparison. disappointingly little effect on our But almost all epidemiological long-term health and longevity. studies, even those making daily The late comedian and actress headlines, compare people who Lucille Ball had her own secret to differ in many, many ways. Indeed staying young: live honestly, eat they differ in ways we cannot slowly, and lie about your age. Lucy know about. Most comparisons was both right and wrong. Living of vegetarians and cheeseburger honestly, our data show, really can addicts, or of pill-takers and be important, but eating slowly the pill-averse, therefore are doesn’t much matter. Lying about necessarily somewhat flawed. The your age and your health does researchers generally do their indeed represent a challenge to best to be as accurate as possible, health researchers, but we have but there are always limits in a figured out ways to outwit the Lucys complex study of human health. of the world and get around this And the statistics that emerge common source of research bias. from the studies can be interpreted In our studies we focus first on in many different ways. longevity—length of life. Many One of the best ways to avoid studies of well-being are flawed research traps and biases is to because they rely too heavily on follow individuals for their whole participants’ answers to queries lives and see which characteristics about their health and wellness— influence subsequent qualities, called their “self-report.” Their behaviors, and outcomes. What Extract from The Longevity Project self-reported answers are exactly causes people with similar subjective and often inaccurate. backgrounds to diverge in terms of The 1,500 or so bright boys and Longevity is not distorted by self- their health and well-being? This girls selected by Dr. Terman were report. Although there is a field step-by-step procedure is exactly born around 1910. Almost all of study on the reliability of death what we have done, and this book of them are now gone. We have certificates, it is pretty much the is the first comprehensive report of documented when and how they case that if your death certificate the findings. died, and we have studied their says that you died on April 26, 1989, lives in meticulous detail. Although then we can be reasonably certain many died by their sixties, many of your longevity and of your state of WorBro. Ken Riddell, PJGD, age 84 others aged in good health and health on that date. Lucille Ball was lived well into old age. Surprisingly, not a participant in Dr. Terman’s ‘There is always a plant that needs the long-lived among them did not studies, but, as we shall see, one of watering or a patch of grass to mow. find the secret to health in broccoli, her closest associates was. It keeps me moving.’ medical tests, vitamins, or jogging. Many common beliefs about health Rather, they were individuals and longevity come from a host of with certain constellations of biased sources—with distortions habits and patterns of living. Their that go well beyond the self-report personalities, career trajectories, biases. Aside from the self-interest and social lives proved highly research biases we hear so much relevant to their long-term health, about (in which someone has a often in ways we did not expect. financial stake in the findings), The usual piecemeal suggestions there are also many sources of feature
they’re offering a list of ten dos and don’ts (do exercise Bro. Bill Edwards, MM, age 95 for thirty minutes four times a week; don’t let your weight rise above a certain ratio to your height). ‘In order to live a long life you must keep the brain ticking. You Exercise, diet, stress, and weight are indeed relevant have to keep yourself busy.’ to health, but in ways that vary from person to person. Lists of dos and don’ts are nearly impossible for most of us to follow for days, months, and years. Thankfully, the Terman study participants showed us that struggling with lists of specific health rules is unnecessary. The Terman men and women were born decades before running shoes, designer spas, and fancy medical tests were invented, yet many lived long, healthy lives. We’ll show why. The point of describing our findings is not to lay out the factors that are likely to leave you the last one standing. Most of us, after all, would not wish to live Tracing the lives of hundreds of individuals, we extra years if they were years of constant decline and have discovered new twists to common health pain. But the fact is, those who live longer are also recommendations, such as when staying single or generally healthier throughout their lives. Most people getting divorced can be healthy for women. Our studies who live to old age do so not because they have beaten have uncovered a series of what we call dead-end cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease; myths—common advice that is not supported by good rather, the long-lived have mostly avoided serious science and can lead to dead ends in more than one ailments altogether. sense of the term. Throughout this book, we’ll explain exactly why the following common beliefs, to name a Because Dr. Terman began studying his participants few, are false: when they were very young, many of the insights that emerged are helpful not only to adults looking • The best of men cannot suspend their fate: to get on a healthier life path but also to those The good die early, and the bad die late. (Myth!) hoping to set their children on a good track. Many • Get married and you will live longer. (Myth!) of our findings can help people rethink the potential long-term effects of their parenting decisions, as • Take it easy and don’t work so hard and you will stay well as promote their whole family’s future health, healthier. (Myth!) happiness, and well-being. • Thinking happy thoughts reduces stress and leads to We found that those who are healthier tend to be long life. (Myth!) happier, and those who are happier tend to be • Religious people live longer, so don’t miss religious healthier—but not for the reasons you might first services. (Myth!) imagine! The lives of the Terman participants open • If you have hobbies like gardening, walking, and a new window to understanding the intriguing cooking, you should take up more vigorous forms of relationship between health and happiness. Our exercise. (Myth!) research yielded powerful suggestions for cultivating not only a long life but also a successful, meaningful, • Worrying is very bad for your health. (Myth!) and productive life. • If you believe that you are loved and cared for, then you Thanks to Scribe Publications, we have three copies are on the road to good health. (Myth!) of The Longevity Project to give away. To enter, • Retire as soon as you can and play more golf to stay email or post your tip for longevity to: editor@ healthy and live longer. (Myth!) freemasonsvic.net.au or post to: The Editor, Freemasonry Victoria, PO Box 553 East Melbourne • If your child is very serious, encourage him or her to VIC 8002 be more spontaneous and have more fun. (Myth!)
• Give your children a big head start in school and they RWBro. Bruce Quinton, PJGW, age 86 will thrive for life. (Myth!) ‘The foundation for longevity is a • You can live to be a hundred only if you give up all the positive outlook and a common things that make you want to live to be a hundred (as sense approach to health.’ Woody Allen is said to have joked). (Myth!) Most books about health and longevity are cookbooks—literally or figuratively. When they aren’t giving you recipes (start Week 1 with spinach sautéed in garlic and olive oil) and food lists (an apple a day),
14 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 George H. Lilley Regalia
Head Of ce: MASONIC & FRATERNAL REGALIA 27 Anderson Road Thornbury 3071 ALL DEGREES & CONSTITUTIONS Telephone: (03) 9484 6155 PM JEWELS & MASONIC BRIEFCASES Fax: (03) 9484 6055 Email: [email protected] DRESSWEAR & ACCESSORIES 9am-5pm Mon-Fri MEDALS, BADGES & PLAQUES Agency: UNIFORM ACCOUTREMENTS South Eastern Masonic Centre MILITARY MEDAL MOUNTING 270 Hutton Road Keysborough 3173 Telephone: (03) 9706 3366 Website: www.ghlilley.com.au Fax: (03) 9706 3901 Email: [email protected] 9.30am-3.30pm Mon-Fri
Myrtleford Masonic Centre Holiday Units. In the heart of the Ovens Valley; only 100km from Mt Hotham and Falls Creek with Beechworth, Bright and the winerys only a short drive away.
Fishing, Cycling, Tennis, Snow and Water sking, Bushwalking, Golf, Bowls, Winerys and 4 Wheel Driving available. Conact Mrs Lorraine Webster, PO Box 344 Myrtleford 3737, 03 5752 1710 An Excellent Holiday Opportunity for Brethren and Friends Feature
Dedication on Display
Above, L-R: RWBro. Peter Henshall, PSGW, GSec / RWBro. Robert Jones, DGM / RWBro. John Godfrey, SGW / MWBro. Vaughan Werner, GM / RWBro. Ian Coad, JGW Image: Cate Long
16 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 RWBro. Phillip Creed PJGW, Grand Chaplain Image: Cate Long
aturday 20 August marked a new beginning for the Freemasons and local community of Wangaratta as the 2011 Grand Lodge Ceremonial Team dedicated the new SWangaratta Masonic Centre. Originally a Uniting Church, the building has been completely refurbished and converted into Victoria’s latest Masonic Centre to accommodate the needs of local Lodges and current and future Freemasons. The Grand Master accompanied by the Deputy Grand Master, and a number of Senior Grand Officers, along with the 2011 Grand Lodge Ceremonial Team carried New Wangaratta Masonic Centre out the ceremony of Dedication. This Ceremony was carried out in public, which is a rare occurance. The Dedication was performed in front of an audience of established in September 1899. Many streets 100 Freemasons, local community and members of the of Wangaratta were named after prominent original Uniting Church. Freemasons townspeople. After the beautiful ceremony of Dedication and the In 1883 with the formation of the United Grand Lodge moving tributes that reflected on the history of the of Victoria the Wangaratta Lodge of St John became building and its new purpose to the community, all No 66 on that register. Since its beginning the Lodge present gathered for a time of friendship and festivity experienced many changes including multiple location to enjoy the more relaxed surrounds of the new dining changes and a moving population. Some members of room, which was marvellously hosted by the two the Lodge hardly kept their feet on the ground long Masonic Lodges whose care the building is under. enough to be counted. In the early 1850s Wangaratta WBro. Roger Maxwell Porter, commented that, was almost deserted as people flocked to the new gold “It was a good social gathering that marked a moment diggings. in time of the opening of the new Masonic Lodge in In 1985 Wangaratta’s second Lodge, Sir Dallas Brooks Appin Street”. Daylight Lodge was formed and since 1908 they shared Freemasonry itself has a long tradition in the a building in Ovens street. The new Masonic centre is a Wangaratta area. The Wangaratta Lodge of St John much needed, joint venture for Freemasonry in general No 1445 under the English Constitution was formally and for the Lodges in particular.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 17 cover story
Freemasons & their beloved WHEELS
WBro. Russell Medhurst, PM WBro. Graham Dines, PJGD
About Russell: Russell was initiated February 2001 into About Graham: Graham joined Freemasonry in August Lodge Prospect 900 (East Kew). He is also currently 1986 in Queensland. He was installed into the chair of Second Principal in Prospect Hill HRA Chapter and is in King Solomon for the fifth time in Victoria’s oldest Lodge several other orders of Freemasonry. One of Russell’s – Lodge of Australia Felix in 2006. memorable experiences in Freemasonry has included About the wheels: Graham bought his beloved car from helping out with the Task Force and Blaze Aid after the a lady in South Australia in 2008 after seeing it on a 2009 bushfires. website. As soon as it was his, Graham jumped on to a About the wheels: Russell has had classic and vintage plane to Adelaide armed with a handful of tools to pick it cars for many years but always hankered after a up. On the drive back, Graham blew up the spare tyre. commercial vehicle. He eventually got home about 2am after having near misses with a kangaroo and a deer. “The heater stopped Russell drives a 1923 Model T Ford delivery van which working and I blew a fuse and the headlights when out. has just recently been used as a “hero” vehicle in the Luckily I found some silver foil on the side of the road shooting of a TV miniseries by the ABC which goes to from a cigarette pack and repaired it,” Graham said. air next year. The car is affectionately known as ‘Baby Blue’ and “The body was built from original plans obtained form the has been back to South Australia, up to Queensland Ford Museum archives in America and is the only one of and recently went to the Morris Minor Nationals in its type I know of in use today with this particular body Port Macquarie NSW and in March next year, will be style". touring Tasmania. The car is a 1960 Morris Minor 1000 "As for speed, on the open road it bowls along nicely at convertible. “My wife loves ‘her’ baby blue and drives it around 60 – 65 kilometers per hour (around 30mph in the whenever she can,” Graham said. old money) but steep hills or running into a stiff breeze ensure plenty of time to enjoy the slowly passing scenery and smell the road kill along the way,” said Russell.
18 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011
WBro. John Lloyd, PJGD Bro. Nathan Johnstone, MM
About John: John has been a Freemason for over 40 About Nathan: Nathan joined Lodge Woden Valley in years having been initiated on 15 September 1969. “That the ACT in April 2005, and been a member of Lodge was one of many fond memories of my Masonic life. I was Integrity in Melbourne since 2006. “My favourite initiated with my brother Peter, and my father and uncles moment in Freemasony was having my Grandfather, participated in the ceremony, a real family of Brothers,” Bro. Rex Johnstone present me with his apron during said John. my third degree. Having him a part of the ceremony was a special night, and to have two great uncles also About the wheels: John drives a 1973 Dodge Dart in attendance made for a great night," said Nathan.” Swinger Coupe, a limited release model which is possibly one of only a handful in Australia. John said: “I acquired About the wheels: Nathan drives a 1953 FJ Holden it in 1998 for the princely sum of $5000.00 and it took Special Sedan - named 'Frankie', which he acquired ten years to restore (not my fault, blame the panel in May 2004 and is the fourth owner of the car. “I've beater).” John’s car won best modified Dodge at the been told my car was the last FJ Holden off the Sydney 2010 Chryslers on the Murray show, the biggest Chrysler factory line. I'ts believed they ran out of black paint so show in Australia. painted the underneath of the car red,” said Nathan. “Cars have been a passion of mine all of my life, as is Freemasonry and I delight in driving and showing my car at the local car shows with a Masonic sticker on the rear window,” said John.
Masonic Unique Vehicles Club Do you own a unique vehicle 25 years or older? If so, you can become a member of the Masonic Unique Vehicles Group. The group of 47 Masonic families represent 33 Lodges; in excess of 80 vehicles ranging from Veteran 1915 Model T Ford Touring Car, Vintage 1924 Buick Tourer, to classic Aston Martin and E-type Jaguar, a BSA motorcycle and several trucks, many members having multiple vehicles, with some coming from as far afield as Mitta Mitta, Kyabram and Lakes Entrance. The elements of Freemasonry and unique motor vehicle interest have combined to form a very enthusiastic group of Brethren and ladies who expect to spend many enjoyable occasions together promoting Freemasonry’s ‘grand design of being happy and communicating happiness to others’. Membership is open to all subscribing members of Freemasonry. You do not need to own a vehicle, just have an interest in unique cards, trucks or motorcycles. The group holds four runs to Masonic centres and a possible country weekend each year. Annual membership is $20 per year. Please contact Marg & Bro. Lyle Detez on 03 9878 6231 or [email protected]
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 19 Car Review HHighybrid Octane to Test Drive with the Deputy Grand Master
rom the racing engine of a V8 Super Car to the BQ: First impressions? newest Hybrid Vehicle from Toyota, Deputy DGM: First impression is that it is so quiet; you don’t even Grand Master RWBro. Bob Jones and New know that it’s running! To drive a race car is a violent Members Officer WBro. Ben Quick, WM hit the action, the car is a violent thing, it shakes your senses. Froad and put the Prius through it paces! With a race car you know it’s started and ready to drive, BQ: Deputy Grand Master welcome to Brighton Toyota and but the Prius is amazingly quiet! the test drive of the 2011 Toyota Prius. Any nerves going BQ: How do you like the comfort and interior, different to into today’s race… I mean test drive! the Super Car? DGM: Ohhh, I’m extremely nervous, this is like starting DGM: I’d prefer to race like this rather than the way we a Bathurst all over again, not really knowing what’s up do in the Super Cars (laughs). Every inch of your body is ahead and also not really knowing what the car is going to strapped into the seat so you can’t move; driving like that do… It’s exciting! you feel every bump through your pants, through your bum BQ: How do you think you will handle the 134 horse power (laughs) and hands. I’d much rather be driving around engine that the Prius has under the hood compared to the Bathurst like this, if it could last and keep the pace. It’s a 650 horse power engine of the pimped up nice interior, conservative, with all the modern features. V8 Super Car you would normally race in? BQ: How are you finding the panel display? DGM: (laughs) It’s got 4 wheels and a DGM: What I am extremely pleased about is the heads steering wheel, so I should be alright! up display on the window. Instead of taking your eyes off Compared to the V8, except for the the road and looking at the dash board to figure out your standard items, that’s really all the speed from a needle that is 2-3mm thick, the actual speed 2 have in common. is displayed on the window without being a distraction for BQ: With good racing conditions the driver, that’s perfect, that’s brilliant. and a dry track, lets take this BQ: I know you’re a big advocate for road safety and driver baby for a spin! safety, giving talks at schools and also professionally. The DGM: Sounds Prius has many safety features including 7 SRS airbags, Great! vehicle stability control, traction control, and brake by wire technology and the list continues; do you have any of these features on the V8 supercar? DGM: We take a lot of those options off the race car. A race car doesn’t have ABS for instance, at least the race cars I drive, the reason for that is a good driver, in my opinion, an experienced race car driver can out brake an ABS system at very high speed, he can feel the wheels skidding under brakes, and can modulate the brake pedal to compensate, just like the ABS system does on the
20 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Prius. All the things that the Prius does automatically, a DGM: The acceleration without going crazy, from a good race car driver does instinctively. For the everyday standing start, is just as good as my personal car. But it driver the safety systems of the Prius are brilliant, it allows certainly doesn’t match the Super Car (laughs), no road them to be considerably less skilled than a race car driver cars could, however it’s still impressive. and still be very safe on the road. BQ: So you’re finding the panel instruments easy to use BQ: How do you like the handling of the Prius, we’re going while you are driving? around some corners now, does it feel safe to drive? Does DGM: Extremely, I really like this heads up display. All it hug the road? the controls for the other functions of the car are at your DGM: Certainly at this speed its quiet good, I would like to finger tips. find a road where we can get past 60kms an hour (laughs), BQ: Well Deputy Grand Master, that’s about all the but it feels nice to drive, the engine is so quiet and that’s questions I have. Do you think I can get a gig at Wheels Car what has really got my attention, even in my own personal Magazine? car I’m not used to a car being so quiet. DGM: Ben, don’t give up your day job (laughs). Perhaps BQ: It certainly doesn’t have the note of a V8 does it? we should thank Cameron from Brighton Toyota, who has DGM: (laughs) It certainly doesn’t have that, but then been sitting in the back seat very nervously wondering again comparing this to other road cars I’ve driven, this is when we are going to hit 300kms an hour, but I’m worried brilliant. It is light in the steering, it’s easy, and you have when the electric cord hanging out the back of the car is no real sensation if the car is running off its batteries or finally going to run out (laughs)! running off the engine. It is a beautifully smooth transition BQ: Deputy Grand Master, thanks for the ride. through the gears, even in some of the good automatic Should we give our readers a sneak peak of what’s coming luxury cars I’ve driven, they are nowhere near as smooth up next? as this, and that adds to the comfort of the car, it’s excellent. I’m enjoying this… can we take it to Sydney? DGM: It’s going to be a lot faster! (laughs). BQ: This is Ben saying ‘that's all for now watch out for our BQ: We’ve hit a road with a higher speed limit; let’s press next test drive’! the power mode which gives us an extra 25% from the 1.8ltr engine and a further 60kw from the electric motor. Pictures: Ben Quick
Toyota Prius The Prius is a power split engine which can be propelled by petrol and/ or electric power. As the car is driven the motor alternates between fuel and electric power. This charges the battery cells and once the battery is full, the Prius can be switched to 'ev mode' which means there is zero fume emission and zero engine noise.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 21 News ‘Young masons just doing their bit’ by Jessica McKinnon arlier this year, high All roads in and out of Kerang were intensity rainfall caused completely cut off as a result. major flooding across The scale of the disaster that much of the western and E unfolded was neither easy to avoid, central parts of Victoria. More than 51 nor able to be ignored. The Slush Victorian communities were affected Flood Relief Project led by young by the floods, with a total of over Freemasons Bro. Michael Pountney 1,730 properties flooded, devastating and Bro. Daniel Jade was a 41 hour 51,700 hectares of pasture, and operation involving good food, fun and 41,200 hectares of field crops. fellowship. They saw an opportunity The Slush Flood Relief team
Our gratitude is nothing when compared This equipment was subsequently to that of the families we helped, and the entrusted to the Kerang Masonic Lodge for ongoing work in the area. hope we have restored. The team worked on six projects The Slush Flood Relief Project led by Bro. Michael Pountney and Bro. Daniel Jade during the weekend operation. Their efforts included clearing debris from fence lines, collecting firewood Over 17,000 homes lost electricity to make a great contribution to and collecting debris in excess of one metre deep. supply, and hundreds of roads and a community hit hard during the train services were inoperative. flooding and began to round up a One property was owned by a According to the Department of team helping of hands. widower who had just been released Primary Industries, the damage bill from hospital three days prior to Michael and Daniel saw Kerang has been calculated at up to $2 billion. the flood. Work included clearing as a town in need and decided foodstuffs and other household The small town of Kerang in northern that it should be the focus of their items that had been swept out of Victoria had recently recovered from project. After attempts to obtain the house. Firewood that had been floods in September 2011 only to advice from the Gannawara Shire washed away was also re-collected be devastated by flash flooding yet failed, contact was made with the and re-piled. again. The residents were forced to Kerang Masonic Lodge. Within the The team and others who took part evacuate after the week, the Lodge Secretary, WBro. Scott Strachan PM, had sought out enjoyed a Saturday Dinner and levee gave way entertainment at the Exchange affecting members of the community who were in need of assistance. Hotel in Kerang. During the evening nearly 4,000 the team presented a cheque of people. Financial support was sought $1,500 from the money raised for to fund the project through ongoing work in the community to a number of businesses and Gannawarra Shire Councillor Keith organisations. In all, $3,950 den Houting. was donated to the The Slush Flood Relief Project in project. Bunnings Kerang is an excellent example Hawthorn of just a small number of people donated over making a difference to a community $3,000 of in need. While the work itself was equipment for simple, the impact it had on those the project. families huge.
22 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Michael Pountney and Daniel Jade Feature A treasure trove of Masonic history
1 simple search by typing 'Freemasons Victoria' in the State Library of Victoria website shows that they have a large collection relating to Freemasonry. The institutionA has a wealth of information available for reading and viewing including photos, sketches, newspapers, journals books and other items on 2 the public record. Importantly and usefully, almost 100 items can be viewed online by anyone with an internet connection, and it is an incredible resource for researchers and those interested in delving a bit deeper into the Freemasonry history in the state of Victoria. The photographs provide a visual insight into those early days of Freemasonry. The collection is emblematic of the importance of Freemasonry in the history of Victoria. 3 A rich collection of Freemasons Victoria's history is now available to view online at the State Library Victoria.
As well as the collection that is available to view online, Photo 1: A Masonic picnic circa 1910; Photo 2: The United Grand if you have a little more time to attend the library there Lodge of Victoria inauguration ceremony at the Melbourne Town are many more items that can be ordered and viewed in Hall, March 21, 1889; Photo 3: A group of 36 Victorian Masons in the reading rooms. their regalia, including Lord Brassey from 1896. To view more photos and documents online from the State Library of Victoria’s collection, visit: www.slv.vic.gov.au and search Freemasons Victoria.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 23 Feature
24 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 Life on the Land BY LENA WAY Freemasonry Victoria magazine caught up with RWBro. Spud McClelland, PSGW to find out more about Freemasonry and farming in rural Victoria.
“Most people call me Spud,” said Woomelang farmer in 1996. In 2005, he was appointed as the District Co- Ian McClelland, “and by the end of this conversation, I ordinator for the North West Victoria District. In 1997 hope you can call me Spud too.” was installed as a First Grand Principal the Supreme Grand Chapter – a significant commitment when you Spud McClelland is one of 211 residents who call the tiny Mallee township of Woomelang home, an agricultural think that it’s a four hour journey from Woomelang to outpost located 360 kilometres north west of Melbourne Melbourne. on the Sunraysia Highway. Born and raised on the same Spud notes his Installation as First Grand Principal land his grandfather pioneered in 1898, it’s fair to say at the Dallas Brooks Centre as his Masonic highlight, the McClelland name is synonymous with this part of the but in the same breath speaks about the enduring Mallee. And a Freemason for over 52 years, Spud is a friendships he and his wife have formed all over recognisable and active identity in Woomelang community. Victoria, the companionship and camaraderie he Spud joined Woomelang Lodge in 1959 following a experiences at Lodge and the privilege of having two strong family tradition; his two grandfathers, father, sons to share Freemasonry with. When he was installed father-in-law, uncles and cousins were all dedicated as First Grand Principal in the Chapter, his son Andy Freemasons. On recalling the story of how he was wrote him a poem, of which an extract appears below: proposed into Freemasonry, he remembers his Life on the land has taken its toll grandfather approaching him following the construction It has been anything but a leisurely stroll of the local temple saying that, “if you join now, you He did well with the farm and now his red coat will get to see a Masonic building being dedicated, But it’s got me buggered how he can catch the goat and it’s a very special ceremony”. In hindsight, Spud is thankful for the strong encouragement he received Because he is not the man that he used to be from his grandfather, and distinctly remembers the With two crook legs and a wire in his knee week he became a Freemason; he was initiated on the So now he is Sir Grand Rub a Dub Dub Monday and got married to his wife Val on the Saturday. Not a bad effort for a bloke from the scrub They still chuckle about the fact that his grandfather’s Whilst he ably served the Chapter as their leader for wedding present to them was a Masonic membership! two years, you get the feeling when talking to Spud that Spud still gets a buzz out of swapping his Yakkas for a he’s an unwilling participant in any activity that might suit and apron every month, and is fortunate to share bring fuss or fanfare his way. He’s one of those humbly Freemasonry with two of his sons Andy and Tim. When understated, salt-of-the-earth type characters, more Woomelang Lodge closed four years ago, they all comfortable getting around in a pair of gumboots and transferred their memberships to Karkarook Lodge at a well-worn floppy hat than the elaborate garb worn Hopetoun, and continue to enjoy Freemasonry with the by First Grand Principals and Grand Masters. It seems 30 other members of this active Lodge. farming is in his blood and he was destined to live a simple life on the land. During his Masonic career, Spud has racked up some admirable achievements, not the least of which was When Spud’s older brother decided to move to Ballarat, receiving his 50 year service jewel in 2009. In 1985 he Spud and Val took the opportunity to buy the McClelland was appointed Senior Grand Deacon and subsequently family farm, and over the years expanded it to the 10,000 conferred with the rank of PGIWkgs in 1990 and PSGW acres it is today. At 74, you could say he’s sown a few
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 25 Feature crops in his time, growing mainly cereal grains like wheat Just when farmers across the state thought it couldn’t get and barley, plus peas, canola and “a few head of cattle and any worse, in early 2011 mice bred in plague proportions, lambs”. (There was no mention of growing potatoes at this literally blanketing fields and destroying entire crops. stage so I spent the next few minutes pondering the origin “When it came time to sow, the mice really settled in and of Ian’s nickname). we had to bait three times. We still didn’t get rid of them entirely and they used to scurry up the stalk of the canola, In 2002, it was time for Spud and his wife Val to retire chew the head and move onto the next one. They are from the farm, handing over the reins to their sons, Andy capable of destroying a whole paddock in a day, but I think and Tim, who each took on 5,000 acres. On retiring, Spud we’ve got them under control now.” thought the drought was over, but his sons would battle another eight years of relentless conditions where lamb Ever the optimist, Spud is quietly confident this year’s prices plummeted to as low as $10 per head. During those harvest will be a good one. “It has to be a good year, what years, Spud travelled to the farm every day to help his else could go wrong?” boys through the tough times, passing on over 50 years of Still travelling out to the farm every day, Spud is very farming experience. supported by his wife and two other children Kerryne Not all farmers enduring the ‘ten year drought’ managed and Barrie and acknowledges their commitment to his as well as the McClelland’s. Many of us will recall news Masonic career. “I could not have become a First Grand reports of farmers tragically ending their lives over failed Principal without the support of my family, particularly crops and starving livestock, and parents doing it so tough Val’s. When in Melbourne, Val would not only keep the that schools were forced to give students free breakfasts home-fires burning but get her hands dirty on the farm.” and lunches. Of Freemasonry, Val has nothing but praise. “I am Of surviving the drought years, Spud said the teachings of absolutely thrilled with Freemasonry. We’ve made so many Freemasonry helped him and his sons to get through the good friends and it’s really broadened my horizons,” she challenging and depressing times. “Freemasonry gives said. you a solid foundation, and strengthens you, so dealing Spud says he’s very fond of his local community who have with adversity becomes easier.” stuck together through the tough times. “We’re a really “I joined when I was in my early twenties, so there is no close community up here. I remember the week the two doubt that Lodge has helped shaped my life, my attitudes local banks closed down, and that was followed by the and given me a form of resilience that comes from post office and general store a few weeks after that. The knowing yourself well.” community banded together to fundraise for a local shop, which is now run by a local lady called Bev. We’re pretty In 2010, rain finally fell from the skies and the drought proud of our shop.” was declared over. But the rain kept coming, and whilst the McClelland’s did not experience floods, the heavy, “And if you’re ever passing through Woomelang, be sure persistent rain damaged thousands of acres of crops. “The to visit the shearing shed made of compacted kerosene header would just get bogged in the ground,” said Spud, tins, built by volunteers during wartime shortages,” said “and we had minimal hope of harvesting our wheat and Spud. Such is the resourcefulness of people living in this barley crops. What we could salvage was downgraded to rural community. the lowest quality of grain due to high water content.” Oh, and the origin of the nickname ‘Spud’? Val says it On top of that, the McClelland’s had to contend with came from his mother! swarms of locusts threatening to eat whatever crops remained, but as Spud quips with a defiant grin, “At least we were getting about $160 per head of lamb.”
Freemason and Woomelang farmer Ian McLelland 26 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011 BOOK REVIEWS
Military History Memoir Memoir Australian History
P.O.W. The Third Wave Her Father’s Kinglake-350 Australian Prisoners of An Australian Daughter by Adrian Hyland war in Hitler’s Reich volunteer’s story by Alice Pung Kinglake-350 is a by Peter Monteath by Alison Thompson At twenty-something, Alice masterpiece of writing about Australians from every field The Third Wave tells the is eager for the milestones family, community, country of conflict in WW2 found inspiring story of how of adulthood: leaving home, life and what happens when themselves as prisoners volunteering changed choosing a career, finding a day of ultimate terror in Hitler's notorious Thompson’s life. It friendship and love on her arrives. Adrian Hyland takes Stalags, or prisoner of war begins with her first real own terms. But with each a dramatic and compelling camps. Whether captured introduction to disaster step she takes she feels sequence of events on merchant seamen, bomber relief after 9/11 and ends the sharp tug of invisible that day and weaves them crews or soldiers taken with her more recent efforts threads: the love and worry into a picture of universal in North Africa or the in Haiti, where she has of her parents, who want significance and deep disastrous Greek and helped to create and run an more than anything to keep fascination. Cretan campaigns, they internally-displaced-person her from harm. On 7 February 2009 Roger were to see out the war in camp and field hospital for Wood was the police officer the heart of Hitler's Europe, more than 65,000 Haitians As she digs further into in charge of Kinglake, their fortunes intimately who lost their homes in the her father’s story, Alice at the epicentre of the connected to the fortunes of 2010 earthquake. embarks on a journey worst bushfire disaster in the Reich. of painful discovery: of She provides glimpse into memories lost and found, Australia’s history, Black The experiences of what really happens on of her own fears for the Saturday. As the firestorm Australian POWs in the ground after a disaster future, of history and how it engulfed the community, Germany has long been and a road map for anyone echoes down the years. Set he risked his life, again overshadowed by the wanting to help. As her in Melbourne, China and and again, to try and save horrors of Japanese story shows, with some Cambodia, Her Father’s people. imprisonment, yet their resilience, a healthy sense Daughter captures a father– This is a book about the stories of courage, stoicism, of humour, and the desire daughter relationship in a monster—and the heroism suffering and endurance to make a difference, we all moving and astonishingly of those who confronted it. deserve to be told. have what it takes to change powerful way the world for the better.
Would you like to review a book for Freemasonry Victoria magazine? If there is a new book that you have heard about and would like to read and review it for Freemasonry Victoria, the quarterly magazine, please email [email protected] with the title and author of the book you wish to review, and we will arrange for the book to be sent to you. We are always interested in hearing from members who have a story idea or would like to write an article. The stories don’t necessarily need to be Masonic (we are happy to have travel, health, lifestyle stories) but the contributor should have a Masonic connection. Please email [email protected] if you are interested.
Spring 2011 Freemasonry Victoria 27 MYSTERY item What’s in the case? by RWBro, Jim Spreadborough, OS PJGW Grand Lodge Librarian
This mystery object is one of the many treasures in our Grand Lodge Library. Visitors have made a variety of suggestions as to what it is and who could wear it. We invite you to enter a competition with your suggestion as to what this object is; be warned that in keeping with Masonic traditions it might not be as it appears from this view! The most accurate response (multiple accurate responses will be entered in a random selection), and for the most imaginative response (as decided by the judging panel to whom no correspondence will be accepted unless accompanied by a very large cash donation) each be awarded a copy of the bestselling book The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge. To enter, post or email your entry to The Grand Librarian by 31 October 2011 to: [email protected]
10% discount off Accessories*
*10% discount off all accessories
28 Freemasonry Victoria Spring 2011
Order of the Eastern Star
Join the largest Fraternal Organisation in the World To which both Woman and Men may belong There are Chapters in various parts of Victoria Become part of the Masonic Family
For further information please contact Mrs Faye Thornton PO Box 4266, Knox City Centre 3152 Phone 03 9884 0235 Email: fayet@optusn et.com.au