688 Has Boarded and Is Ready for Take-off: The Re-Consecration of Lodge Aviation No. 688
17 September 24
In an unusual setting for a Masonic Lodge ceremony, the Re-Consecration of Lodge Aviation 688 took place on a Saturday afternoon in a hangar at Bankstown Airport.
This unique venue was fitting, given the aviation-themed lodge’s history.
Lodge Aviation 688 was originally consecrated on August 21, 1946, at Bankstown Airport in a Nissan hut. Most of the 79 original members were believed to be Qantas staff. Unfortunately, membership dwindled over time, and in November 2023, the lodge returned its charter to Grand Lodge.
RW Bro Clive Lipscombe, a commercial pilot with 50 years of experience from Newcastle, had long considered establishing an aviation-themed lodge with a travelling charter. His vision aligned with the spirit of the original Lodge Aviation. When the charter was returned, Clive petitioned the Grand Master to re-consecrate the lodge. His request, along with his detailed plans, was approved, and the Re-Consecration was scheduled for September 2024.
The ceremony’s setting was far from traditional, and it was held among aircraft in a hangar. Adding to the aviation theme, the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and Assistant Grand Master were seated in business-class seats from a Boeing 747. The Grand Master, supported by the ceremonial team, performed the ancient Consecration ceremony, officially bringing Lodge Aviation 688 back to life.
After a short refreshment break, the lodge reconvened, and the Grand Master called it back to labour. W Bro Lance Nelson, Master of Lodge Enterprise 400—Lodge Aviation’s sponsoring lodge—was invited to occupy the chair and perform the Re-Installation of RW Bro Clive Lipscombe as the foundation Worshipful Master. Alongside him, 37 foundation members and officers were invested into their positions, with still a number of Brethren applying to affiliate.
RW Bro Lipscombe’s tenure as Master will span two years or eight meetings, with the first installation meeting scheduled for August 2026, once again at Bankstown Airport.
Reflecting on the event, RW Bro Lipscombe said, “I want all the foundation members to know that without their support, along with the support of the MW Grand Master, the Board of Management, and foundation members from across the state, many of whom are active aviators or aircraft owners, this would not have been possible. We’re honoured to have the Grand Master, MW Bro Les Hicks, as a member, and we’re going to have a blast with this lodge.”
He continued, “I’d like to acknowledge all the foundation members who see the potential of this lodge. To those who helped organize the Re-Consecration and the banquet with its great food, I am forever grateful. And to the Grand Master, who never lost faith in me, and to the Grand Lodge team, thank you. I believe we did one of the best jobs ever—without a single practice—proving that experience is the greatest teacher.”
Upcoming Meetings
Lodge Aviation will continue its unique approach by moving around the jurisdiction to support various lodges. Here are the next few scheduled meetings:
Saturday, November 16, 2024: Silverton Masonic Building, followed by dinner at the Silverton Pub. This event is limited to 50 brethren due to space constraints. Ladies are invited to attend the dinner, as many will travel with their partners. Silverton is rich in Australian history, and the lodge room, built in the early 1880s, remains largely unchanged. We will also extend an invitation to other travelling lodges and the Grand Master of South Australia and Northern Territory, if available.
Saturday, February 15, 2025: “Lachballan,” Cowra – A third-degree ceremony under the stars in a paddock. This outdoor setting offers a truly unique Masonic experience.
Saturday, May 10, 2025: Lodge Courallie, Moree.
Saturday, August 9, 2025: Tweed Heads Masonic Centre, Tweed Heads.
Lodge Aviation 688 is soaring to new heights, offering Masonic experiences that combine tradition with the adventurous spirit of aviation.
Editors note: Most would know Clive as VW Bro, but at the recent Quarterly Communication, Clive was elevated to the rank of PJGW – Congratulations RW Bro Lipscombe.
📸RW Bro Romy Neito