Freemasons Mark 150 Years of Resilience with Re-Enactment
11 December 25
By RW Bro Rob Nash
On Saturday 15 November, the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT, Most Worshipful Brother Bernie Khristian Albano, together with members of the Grand Lodge Ceremonial team, conducted a re-enactment of the laying of the 1875 Foundation Stone. The event, held before a crowd of Masons and friends, was nothing short of spectacular. The ceremony was carried out with great dignity, with more than 50 people in attendance, including children, wives and partners; Entered Apprentice Brother David Schulz; the local Mayor, Cr Brian Ingram; Ms Steph Cooke MP; and Mr Robert Donges, a valued supporter of the Lodge. The Grand Master welcomed all, especially the invited guests.
The Grand Master then delivered an informative overview of the Lodge’s early history—its loss of charters at sea, its subsequent formation under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and the devastation caused by the fire that destroyed the Criterion Hotel. He spoke of the demolition of the Lodge’s first premises to make way for the railway line, and the construction of the two-storey building in Zouch Street, which was eventually sold in 2002 due to rezoning issues that made its retention prohibitively expensive. The current purpose-built structure at 62 Blackett Ave, Young, was opened in 2003.
The ceremony took place outside the Lodge building on a warm, sunny morning. The Perfect Ashlar—a smooth concrete block measuring one cubic foot—was re-dedicated with corn, wine, and oil poured from a miniature gold pitcher. The Grand Organist provided appropriate music and cues for the ceremonial team, adding to the moment’s gravity. The re-dedication was deeply moving.
Following its completion, the Grand Master and the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, Very Worshipful Brother Ken Donoghue, unveiled a plaque commemorating the re-laying of the foundation stone.
After the formal proceedings, the Mayor of Hilltops Council, Cr Brian Ingram, addressed the gathering, followed by local State member Steph Cooke. Both expressed their appreciation to the Grand Master and his team for travelling to Young and for delivering such a meaningful and beautifully presented ceremony. They remarked on their admiration for the Lodge room’s interior and noted the Lodge’s positive presence within the town and its contribution to the lives of local men.
The day concluded with a celebratory luncheon at the Newspace Restaurant. Once again, the Grand Master acknowledged the work of the local Masons in bringing the ceremony to fruition, and the Worshipful Master thanked the Grand Team for their support.
The celebratory cake was cut jointly by the Grand Master, the Worshipful Master, and his wife, Christine.
From L-R the Lodge’s Entered Apprentice Freemason Brother David Schulz, the Grand Master, Past Grand Master Most Worshipful Brother Derek Robson AM CMH, Brother Michael Santias, Ms Steph Cooke MP and Cr Brian Ingram.