100 plus at Sir Joseph Banks

16 August 24

On a hot Sunday in March, Lodge Sir Joseph Banks celebrated the 100th anniversary of the laying of the Lodge’s foundation stone. The stone was rescued from the demolition of the original lodge building and now stands proudly at the entrance of the current masonic centre.

Brethren and ladies sat down to a catered lunch and talked of times gone by and plans for the future. The highlight of the function was a visit by Bro John (Jack) Edwin Bartlett who is 101 and currently lives in Avoca. The WM of Sir Joseph Banks commented. ‘Jack is actually six months older than the foundation stone!’ Jack is well known to viewers on Anzac marches and has been a mason for over 71 years.

He was initiated into St John’s Lodge, Deniliquin 16 on 25 June 1952 and his initiation fee was 9 guineas – a lot of money in those days!’

The Lodge also welcomed Lorraine Ronalds, the daughter of the longest-serving secretary (34 years), VW Bro Alf Ronalds. Lodge Sir Joseph Banks is 109 years old with a proud history. Current membership is 60. Its ritual work and social life are both very active. Brethren are welcome to visit on the 4th Tuesday of each month.

📸 101-year-old Bro Bartlett helped celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lodge Sir Joseph Banks’ foundation stone in March. Quite the milestone!