A Legacy Continued: A Family’s Masonic Journey in Parkes

30 September 25

By Bro Joshua Bonsing 

There are usually two things that draw people to Parkes in the Central West of NSW. First is The Dish, the giant radio telescope that played a vital role in the 1969 Moon landings. The second is the iconic Parkes Elvis Festival, where pompadours and pomade rule each year. Yet there is far more to discover here, from a world-class sculpture trail to the quieter stories of community and tradition. One such story unfolded recently inside The Goldfields Lodge room, where members gathered for a milestone that blended family, fraternity, and the enduring spirit of Freemasonry.

Members of The Goldfields Lodge No. 40 and Lodge Temora No. 168 came together to celebrate the Passing of Bro Kris Barrass to the Second, or Fellowcraft, Degree. For Bro Barrass, a proud fourth-generation Freemason from Lodge Temora, the evening carried special meaning. Among those present were his Grand-Uncles, VW Bro Eric Barrass of The Goldfields Lodge No. 40 and W Bro Graham Barrass of Lodge Temora No. 168, together with his Second Cousin, W Bro Scott Barrass of The Goldfields Lodge No. 40. All Past Masters, they stood proudly in support of his advancement, their presence adding a deeply personal dimension to what was already a significant step in his Masonic journey.

The Passing to the Fellowcraft Degree is one of the great milestones of the Craft. It symbolises growth in knowledge and responsibility, a stage where a Mason begins to more deeply explore the lessons of learning and skill. For Bro Barrass, to experience this degree surrounded by family who had walked the same path before him was a poignant reminder of how Freemasonry’s legacy continues through generations.

The evening was conducted under the calm and confident leadership of VW Bro Russell Cochrane, Worshipful Master of The Goldfields Lodge. In a fine example of Masonic collaboration, the work of the night was shared between officers of both lodges. Each Brother took up his role with pride, reinforcing the bonds of Brotherhood that unite lodges, no matter the distance between them.

Although Temora and Parkes are separated by almost 200 kilometres, the connection between the two is strong. While family ties link them, it is the shared values of fraternity, loyalty, and respect that truly bring them together. The lodge room was filled to capacity with visiting brethren and locals alike, creating an atmosphere of warmth and unity that reflected the very best of Freemasonry.

Moments like this show that Freemasonry is not defined solely by its traditions or formality. It is about people — standing with one another in life’s milestones, celebrating each other’s achievements, and honouring the legacy of those who came before us.

For Bro Barrass, the evening was not only a step forward in the Craft, but also a cherished memory shared with family and brethren alike. For the lodges involved, it was a night that embodied unity, collaboration, and the living traditions of Freemasonry. As the evening closed with warm handshakes and words of congratulations, all present left with a renewed pride in the strength of their bonds.

It was an evening of unity. A celebration of Brotherhood. And a reminder that while distance may separate us, the light of fraternity keeps us close.

Above from L-R: W Bro Scott Barrass (Second Cousin – The Goldfields Lodge No. 40), VW Bro Eric Barrass (Great Uncle – The Goldfields Lodge No.40), Bro Kris Barrass (newly passed brother), & W Bro Graham Barrass (Great Uncle – Lodge Temora No.168).

Above: 

From L-R: W Bro Ian Humphrys, WM Lodge Temora No.168, Bro Kris Barrass, newly passed brother, & VW Bro Russell Cochrane, WM The Goldfields Lodge No.40

Above - Group photo of The Goldfields Lodge No. 40, Lodge Temora No.168, and visiting Brethren