Charles awarded for Scottish service!
24 December 24
This new regular section of Freemason features those masons who have received recognition by being listed in either the King’s or Queen’s Birthday Honours, or the Australia Day Honours.
The Australian Honours system formally began on 14 February1975 with the introduction of the Order of Australia, the Australian Bravery Decorations, and the National Medal.
The Order of Australia is a multilevel ‘Society of Honour’, recognising the merit of the service and achievements of its individual members.
W Bro Charles Denham Cooke OAM
W Bro Charles Cooke is a member of Lodge Scone No 183, and currently Chaplain of his Lodge. He was Master of The Prince of Wales Lodge 102 in 1980 and 1997 and Treasurer from 1998 to 2019. The Prince of Wales Lodge consolidated with Lodge Scone in late 2022.
Charles was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list in June 2024, receiving the OAM ‘for service to the Scottish community of NSW’. He is Founder and former President of the Aberdeen Highland Games. He is currently Vice President of the Games, with an annual gathering held at Aberdeen in July of each year. The Games started in 2000 and include Pipes and Drum Bands, Scottish Dance and Scottish Athletics.
In addition to the above, Charles has been involved in numerous community activities: Clan McLeod Society of Australia (NSW), Scone RSL Pipes and Drums, various Scottish Heritage organisations, Gundy Reserve Trust (Chairman, 15 years), Gundy Rural Fire Service since 2003, Gundy Anzac Day Committee, and he was named Upper Hunter Citizen of the Year in 2012
By RW Bro Terry McCallum
Do you know an honoured mason?
To nominate a brother mason for this section of Freemason, please send their details to [email protected].
Make sure you include:
- The brother’s full name, rank and lodge.
- The level of award received, when it was given and what it was for.
- A good quality photo of the recipient.
- The name and contact details of the person making the nomination (in case further information is needed).