More than three hundred of our brothers from the WAC were sent to fight in World War One. Ninety-seven of them never came home. In honour of those men (and all of the others since) and their families who suffered as a result of their loss, our Lodge places a wreath at both the Guildford and Bassendean War memorials every ANZAC day. Representing our Lodge this year were Bros Boyd, Galo & Gevero. Thank you for volunteering your time on this extremely important occasion gentlemen.

The first time I was to be installed, I spent most of the time (before and during the ceremony) in a blind panic. I thought it would be a bit better this time…and I was right. I was still panicking, but at least I could see.

One of the advantages of tidying up cupboards (as any frequent traveller to Narnia will tell you) is the possibility of finding hidden treasure.

At the risk of having flashbacks to an old Bill & Ted movie, last night’s ceremony was EXCELLENT! Poor Bro. Thomas had been waiting quite a few months to do his Excellent degree due to the instigation of the Master to Mark program but, last night, he finally got to don the pentagram adorned apron and jewel. Not only was he congratulated by his own Chapter members but the Most Eminent First Grand Principle himself visited the lodge in order to personally applaud him. Well… maybe not, but it’s certainly a story worth telling the other members who were unable to attend 🙂

Bro Arden Gevero (who recently joined us as a Fellowcraft) has managed to squeeze his 3rd degree in just before our Installation and so becomes our last Master Mason for 2018/2019

Last night, Bro Galo took his first step into the strange and mysterious world of Chapter by becoming a Mark Master Mason. The WMM, who was concerned that his towering authoritarian figure may well cause Bro Galo to bolt in terror during ‘that bit’, wisely allowed the IPWMM to gently usher his charge into the loving arms of the Swan Chapter. We’re sure Bro Nilo will soon be having an Excellent time.

If there’s one thing that Grand Lodge just can’t get enough of, it’s handing out certificates to recognise the tremendous effort that our senior members put into the Craft. At our last meeting, Very Worshipful Bro Joyce received his Past Junior Grand Warden’s certificate and Very Worshipful Bro Munyard received his District Grand Inspector of Workings certificate (please let me know If I’ve got that wrong gentlemen). On behalf of the Lodge I would like to congratulate both of them for the work they do. They are an inspiration to our younger members.

Herbert has become the latest member of the Guildford Bassendean family in a ceremony that ,I’m sure, he will remember for a long time. Personally, I’ll remember how he shuffled his feet along the carpet so constantly that I was certain I was about to be electrified every time I touched him. 🙂 The occasion was enjoyed by a considerable number of members and guests and I’m sure he’s looking forward to continuing his Masonic journey; which is why we’re having a Christmas meeting before going into recess.

 After what seems like an eternity of sitting on the sidelines, Bro. James Picton has finally become a Master Mason. His word perfect responses to the questions were a great source of pride to his mentor (who immediately took all of the credit) and also came as a great relief to the Senior Deacon. 🙂 We envision great things for our newest MM and have assured him that we now expect perfection in his rituals from now on. Great job James. How are you going on that next charge?

Last Saturday, our very own Very Worshipful Bro Joyce became the Deputy 1st Grand Principle of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Western Australia. It was a very nice ceremony but there are only two things about it that really stick out in my mind. First, I was stuck in the corner of a very crowded room next to an emergency door that had a sign on it that read “Emergency Door only. Please keep this door LOCKED at all times.” I mean, what the hell? Second, The 1st Grand Principle announced that reading the ritual from the book would now be moved up from a ‘tut tut’ offence to more of a slap across the face offence (like in the blue).