Report Official visit to Mt.Franklin - St.George Lodge No.12
Daylesford on Tuesday 23rd October 2007
Some weeks ago I was contacted by the Master, Wor Bro Dean Jones and asked if we could attend his Lodge to give a talk on the VMMA. Initially, I hadn’t remembered that Dean and a number of his brethren are active motorcyclists, but on arriving at the Lodge I instantly recognised him as being involved in many Toy Runs and other charity runs. It was very pleasing to see quite a number of bikes already parked at the Lodge – mostly Harley Davidson’s, and Dean’s very sharp looking Buell.
W.M. Bro. Dean Jones Buell is part of an excellent line up of motorcycles at Daylesford.
Unbeknown to us Wor Bro Dean had taken the opportunity to invite the lodge ladies, guests, and non-masons to the meeting to hear as speak on the workings of the VMMA. As Daylesford is in my area I was also pleased to catch up with quite a few brethren who are frequent visitors to Bendigo lodges.
VMMA members in attendance were: Mal Pethybridge (Bendigo), Colin Randall (Sunbury), Dean Lugton, Innis Cull, Chris Wells, and myself (hence that’s why I’m writing this report).
Having fun at Daylesford. L to R: Chris, Colin, Mal, Dean and Innis.
On arrival Chris started unloading all his gear only to find that he had forgotten his vest, and that his camera wasn’t working all that well. Fortunately there was an unaffiliated brother in attendance who had come to hear us talk, and being a biker he was wearing a vest which he subsequent loaned to Chris for the meeting. *Chris, you really must write reminder notes to yourself*
Chris trying not to be Captain Fluffy again by borrowing a leather vest. Local motorcyclists joined us for VMMA presentation.
Having tyled just after 1930, we had little time to wait before we, the only visiting brethren (unfortunately), were admitted into a warm and very well lit lodge room. A few items of business ensued before the Master completed the formal proceedings and advised that he was closing the lodge and inviting all his guests to enter the lodge room for our talk, and then to experience the final closure of the lodge. We were given the freedom of the lodge for the talk; with me leading off in my normal manner to explain the history and some current activities. Chris then continued by highlighting the more recent activities which have impacted very positively on those individuals and organisation that we support.
Chris in the Lodge Room.
Having completed our talk the Master closed the lodge and we retired to the supper room. There were 38 people staying for supper, of which 8 were non masons. We experienced the hospitality of the Lodge and chatted with masons and non-masons alike throughout the festive board. The speeches came and went, with me having to respond to the toast to the visitors. A raffle was conducted and although the numbers were down we all dug deep to support it.
The Master subsequently presented Chris with a cheque for $300 which will be used for a charity of the Lodges choice if they so direct. Prizes were won by Colin Randall, as well as a non mason visitor, and two lodge members. Having completed the festivities for the night it was time to think of returning home. Upon poking our heads outside the building some riders were surprised by how cold it had become. My comment was that I didn’t care how cold it was as long as it would just rain! No-one disagreed. Sad to say we haven’t had rain in over 4 weeks and things are looking grim again.
Pedro responding on behalf of the visitors.
After the final farewells we mounted up and headed off home. The trip home for me was lonely as there’s never much traffic on the road from Daylesford to Castlemaine, and Sedgwick. Being ever watchful for kangaroos on these roads during my return journey I relaxed as I turned into my road , only to be surprised by two ‘roos bouncing out 3 metres in front of me – and I was only 300 metres from the house!
Having parked the bike, and stripped off various layers of clothing I dropped into bed around 2345; well satisfied that we had, yet again, enjoyed a great night in the company of very friendly people. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Master and members of the Lodge for their friendship and hospitality and I’m sure we will visit them again.
Ciao for now, Pedro.
