I am going to start off by saying that we had a great night at the Lilydale Masonic Centre. So there you go you don’t need to read anymore; so what more do I need to say?
Well, of course there’s all the detailed stuff about who was there, what happened, and of course did the VMMA members win the raffle again… naturally!
I was fortunate enough to finish work a little early so rode (quickly as usual) from Bendigo to Chris Wells house in Mooroolbark, this time via Heathcote, Kilmore, Whittlesea, Kinglake, Yarra Glen etc. Hm, took me 2.5 hours. Glad there were no visible speed cameras around. Interestingly the return trip to Bendigo very early Thursday morning via the Melbourne freeways got me back to work in 2.5 hours – this time sitting on the speed limit. Go figure.
Arriving at Captain Fluffy’s house I was greeted by Sharyn and Gail. After quickly changing clothes we headed off to the Lodge. We arrived shortly after tyling time. The admittance of Master Masons and Past Masters was conducted rapidly and I wasn’t quite ready to enter as I was deep in conversation with Dave Cash and a number of the Installation Team. The Worshipful Masters were admitted, and then we stragglers went in. Seated on the dais we had a great view of what was about to unfold. The Installation Team were admitted; and on this night they were led by our own Patron MW Bro John Wilson PGM, with his 2000/2001 installation team, supplemented at short notice by some recent ex Grand Team officers.
The young fella, Bro David Wells (Master Elect) looked quite comfortable and settled amidst all the pomp and ceremony, and he did a sterling job throughout the installation. It is wonderful to see that David has included a number of VMMA members in his team. So, with the last trumpet call and ritual done we headed out the supper room for the social side of the night. Yahoo, way to go. We were as thirsty as a drover’s dog.
For those who have experienced us at other installations you will know that some of us can be a little boisterous and cheeky when the socials start. Why then should this night be any different? Sad to say the Red Baron wasn’t able to lead us in our merriment on this night, but I had a few tricks up my sleeve. Our table was positioned down in the back corner, well away from the ‘top table’ – gee I wonder why that was? Needless to say we had a great time. There was much laughter - sometimes uncontrollable - Caramelo.
John Wilson gave a couple of very entertaining speeches; which are to be expected from such a personable chap. He also made a very special presentation to Chris Wells; that being the Past Masters jewel from Chris father in law – Russell Summerfield (deceased). Both Chris and Sharyn were brought up for this special moment, and the room was very silent during the procedure. The VMMA members present were, I’m sure, silent in their respect for Russell, and also happy for Chris to receive such a wonderful jewel.
The statistics of the night should be mentioned as I recorded 24 VMMA present, of which we had the pleasure of the company of 10 lovely ladies.
Chris on behalf of the VMMA presented the BOSS with a Blackwood gavel personalised to reflect our Patrons continued support and friendship.
Nearing midnight we pulled up stumps and headed back to Chris place. One stubby later I was off to bed, only to be woken at 0600 to ready myself for my ride back to Bendigo. Chris left for his usual early Thursday morning breakfast with friends and work mates.
I’m hoping that some appropriate photos will be attached to this report, especially the one showing the chocolate dessert. The picture doesn’t quite tell the whole story but maybe we will explain that at another time. Suffice it to say the reparse was very nice; the drinks were cold, and the company and fellowship brilliant. Oh, I nearly forget. Yes, we did well at the raffle. VMMA members in attendance were: Chris please fill in the gaps
Thank you David and Healesville members for a most enjoyable night. Thanks to Chris and Sharyn for a bed to sleep in. And thanks to all those friends on our table who made it such a fun supper.
P.S. Pedro has forgotten to mention that he failed to enlighten Bron he was staying with Chris & Sharyn and returning home in the morning, would have loved to be a fly on the wall when he got home !!!!
Ciao, and best wishes – Pedro.
