Bro Isted is Raised to the 3rd Degree
07 August 23
On the 3rd of August 2023, at Lodge Cessnock No. 252, Bro Craig Isted was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. The Worshipful Master (WM), W Bro Kieron Allen, presided over the ceremony and efficiently conducted the lodge's business.
The event saw the presence of 3 fraternal visitations from, Lodge Novacastria 765, Lodge Paxton No. 608, and Lodge Wallis Plains No. 4. Additionally, there were visitors representing 10 different lodges, including 5 sitting Masters and the District Grand Inspector of Workings (DGIW), VW Bro Darryl Wade D15, accompanied by VW Bro Peter Andrews D14 from the neighbouring district.
Adding to the specialness of the occasion, Bro Isted's father, VW Bro Cliff Isted PDGDC, who is a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons in Queensland, attended the event. He had the honour of investing his son with his Master Mason's Apron at the appropriate time.
Bro Itsed being invested with his Master Masons apron by is Father.
Bro Craig Isted expressed his gratitude for the brilliant night and appreciated the effort put into the ceremony by all involved. He has cherished his masonic journey since being initiated and found it highly rewarding in terms of personal development and the camaraderie of kind and supportive Brothers. Having his father there to support him made the experience even more memorable.
VW Bro Darryl Wade the DGIW for District 15 reported that Bro Isted had been initiated late last year and had already made over 30 lodge visitations as an Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft in Districts 14, 15, and 16. Bro Isted inspired other members of Lodge Cessnock to accompany him on numerous occasions and was actively involved in their fundraising events. The work of the evening, which was shared between Lodge Cessnock and Lodge Wallis Plains, was of an extremely high standard, garnering a significant turnout of supportive Brethren.
Following the ceremony, 41 Brethren remained for the celebratory banquet, where toasts and hospitality continued in a joyous atmosphere.
Congratulations to Bro Craig Isted on becoming a Master Mason! Here's to many more years of happiness and self-discovery in our wonderful Craft.
