An interview with Bro Andrew Murie

18 April 24

RW Bro Owen Sandry started writing stories about young masons a few years ago. It was so popular that Freemason asked if the idea could be used in the magazine, and we’re delighted that he said ‘Yes!’

What year did you become a Freemason and where?

I became a Freemason in January 2023, initiated into Lodge Star of Wauchope No 310

How old were you and how old now?

I was 43 years old, now 44.

What current position do you have in the lodge?

I was just raised to the 3rd Degree on 13 February. I don’t have a specific position yet but am looking forward to taking up the various positions within the lodge.

What made your initiation special (can you remember anything about the night, were friends there etc.)

Having my Uncle Steven (who is a mason) present and being a part of my initiation was very special to me.

Why did you want to become a Freemason?

After my nan passed, I was visiting my Uncle Steven in Queensland. After talking about various family things, I found out he was a Freemason as well as my Pop and that being a Freemason runs in our family. Being intrigued I quizzed him about it all. Although he couldn’t tell me much about the happenings behind lodge doors, the mystery kept me wanting to know more. He told me once I was ready, to get in contact with a local lodge and start my application to join. A few years later I made contact through the Grand Lodge Facebook Page and here I am.

What have e you been able to contribute to Freemasonry and what has it given you?

Although I’m new to the Craft, I haven’t been able to contribute a lot that I can think of. I have however been there helping with BBQs and various other events we provide help and assistance for. Being there on lodge night as well as other gatherings and helping my fellow brethren to become better, would be a main contributing factor. Freemasonry has given me a better sense of self-worth. Having brethren from all types of backgrounds listening to me and giving me advice on all things big and small has helped me out a lot.

What have your experiences been of visiting other lodges?

Visiting has been amazing so far; meeting new people and seeing how they conduct lodge meetings is great. Sharing stories and making friends for life is very rewarding. I look forward to visiting more and encourage others to do it when they can.

What is your occupation?

I’m employed as an overseer in Public Service on the Mid-North Coast.

Family…would you like to share if you’re married, how many kids you have and their ages?

I’ve been happily married for over 10 years now and have four wonderful kids. A boy who’s 20 and three girls aged 10, 14 and 16.

What are your interests?

I love sports. I’ve played or competed in various sports – rugby league, cricket and all types of martial arts. I’ve won Grand Finals or titles in all sports I’ve competed in. Currently I play and coach football for the Camden Haven Redbacks (soccer as everyone here knows it). I coach an all-girls team who are aged between 14 and 16 and play premier league reserves.

Thinking about yourself before you became a Freemason, what can you tell yourself now about Freemasonry?

I should have become a Freemason earlier in life; I’ve met a great range of men from all different walks of life, that I feel comfortable around and I have things in common with. Attending regular meetings and get-togethers, just to talk, games night or other stuff is very rewarding. I’m more comfortable with public speaking and feel like I’ve come out of my shell a little, I’m still a bit of a rough stone but I now have all the tools to work on building a better me. Overall, the way I deal with life and things in general has become better and more enjoyable.