Growing with Monaro

02 March 26

A journey through heritage, community, and modern revival.

By Bro Bernie McDonald

Nestled in the rolling high country of southeastern New South Wales, the Monaro region is a land shaped by wind, granite, and the resilience of its people. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Snowy Mountains to the broad plains that stretch toward the Victorian border, Monaro’s landscape has long fostered a spirit of community and mutual support. Among the region’s institutions that have flourished in tandem with the towns and settlements is the fraternity of Freemasons. Their history in Monaro is not merely a narrative of secret handshakes and rituals, but a chronicle woven through the social, charitable, and civic fabric of the area.

Early beginnings: the arrival of Freemasonry in Monaro

Freemasonry’s journey in New South Wales began with the earliest days of the colony, but it was not until the mid-19th century that lodges found their way to the Monaro region. The gold rushes and the growth of agriculture brought prosperity and an influx of settlers, many looking for a sense of belonging and shared values in often isolated communities. Freemasonry offered just that: a brotherhood open to men of good character, espousing ideals of tolerance, compassion, and ethical conduct.

The first masonic lodge in the Monaro district was established in Cooma, the largest town and a hub for the region. Later, lodges appeared in Bombala, Nimmitabel, and other rural settlements. The lodges often met above local pubs or in hastily converted halls, their membership comprised graziers, builders, schoolteachers, and store owners alike. Through their ceremonies and charitable works, they fostered a sense of unity among men from every walk of life.

Freemasonry and the community: building the foundations

From the outset, Freemasonry was not just an inward-looking society. Its principles of charity and benevolence quickly found expression in the local community. In Monaro, as in much of rural Australia, the Freemasons played a quiet but pivotal role in supporting those in need. Fundraisers for widows, scholarships for promising students, and assistance for families struck by hardship became hallmarks of the lodges’ contribution.

During the world wars, masons organised care parcels for troops and provided relief for returning veterans and their families. Their lodges became gathering points for remembrance ceremonies and rallies for community causes. The values of service, integrity, and mutual respect that masons cultivated in their meetings extended far beyond lodge walls, shaping the culture of Monaro’s towns and villages.

Architecture and presence: the Masonic Halls of Monaro

The physical presence of Freemasonry in Monaro is perhaps best embodied in the Masonic Halls that stand in towns like Cooma and Bombala. These buildings, though sometimes modest, are rich in symbolism and tradition. With their classical facades and discreet insignia, they evoke a sense of continuity and quiet dignity. The halls have hosted countless meetings, ceremonies, and community events, their interiors adorned with regalia, banners, and artefacts that tell the story of generations of masons.

These halls have often served as venues for civic gatherings and cultural activities, further blurring the lines between the fraternity and the public.

During the mid-20th century, as populations grew and regional infrastructure developed, the halls were sometimes expanded or renovated to accommodate larger numbers and new purposes. Yet, despite changes in fashion and fortune, they remain enduring symbols of both the past and the ongoing presence of Freemasonry in Monaro.

Challenges and adaptations: navigating change

Like many longstanding organisations, Freemasonry in Monaro has faced periods of challenge and change. The latter half of the 20th century saw rural depopulation, social transformations, and shifting attitudes toward traditional institutions. Many lodges in small towns struggled to maintain membership, and some closed their doors or merged with others. Yet, these difficulties were met with characteristic resilience and adaptability.

The twenty-first century has brought a renaissance of sorts for Freemasonry in the region. Renewed interest in personal development, ethical fellowship, and community service has drawn new members from across the demographic spectrum. Lodges have embraced outreach activities, opened selected events to the public, and engaged in partnerships with local charities. Modern masons in Monaro are as likely to be found volunteering at a food drive or mentoring youth as they are performing ancient rituals in candlelit halls.

The modern role of Freemasonry in Monaro

Today, the Freemasons of Monaro are a diverse and dynamic group, united by their commitment to the region’s wellbeing. The fraternity’s charity work remains a cornerstone, supporting causes that range from disaster relief to educational programs and health initiatives. During bushfires and droughts, masons have mobilised to provide material aid and emotional support, often working alongside other service organisations.

Lodge meetings still follow time-honoured traditions, but there is a conscious effort to demystify the organisation and welcome the wider community. Public lectures, open days, and fundraising galas are now common, offering insights into the values and history of Freemasonry. In doing so, the fraternity has shed much of its former secrecy, instead highlighting its commitment to integrity, compassion, and community leadership.

Intergenerational bonds and legacy

A defining feature of Freemasonry’s growth in Monaro has been the intergenerational bonds it fosters. Many current members are the sons, grandsons, or even great-grandsons of earlier masons, and the stories of their forebears are cherished and retold. These connections imbue the fraternity’s work with a sense of continuity and purpose. Newer members benefit from the mentorship and wisdom of older brethren, while also bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the Craft.

The lodges of Monaro actively encourage youth engagement, both through masonic youth organisations and broader community initiatives. Educational scholarships, leadership programs, and support for youth sports and the arts ensure that the mission of building better citizens continues.

Looking ahead: Freemasonry’s ongoing journey with Monaro

As Monaro evolves – its towns adapting to the rhythms of agriculture, tourism, and environmental change – so too does its masonic community. The future of Freemasonry here lies in its ability to honour tradition while remaining open to innovation. By nurturing a culture of inclusion, transparency, and active service, the lodges are well placed to inspire new generations and sustain their legacy.

Freemasonry’s story in Monaro is, ultimately, a microcosm of the region itself: enduring, adaptive, and bound by a spirit of kinship. Whether through acts of charity, the preservation of heritage, or the quiet strength of a handshake between friends, the Freemasons continue to grow with Monaro – shaping and being shaped by the land and its people.

In the quiet evenings, when the wind stirs across the plains and the granite hills cast their long shadows, one can imagine the lodges’ lights shining out, a beacon of fellowship in the heart of New South Wales.

📸: Alpine meadows are a feature few people think about when it comes to Monaro! Photo courtesy of Etienne Maujean