Freemasons pay tribute
The Warragul Freemasons come out of the shadows this week to host a public ceremony of remembrance for the district’s service people who lost their lives at war.
The service will be held at the Masonic Centre in Korumburra Rd at 7.30pm on Thursday, August 14.
First principal of the lodge, Lester O’Toole, said it was the first time the ceremony has been conducted as a public event.”
The Royal Australian Navy ceremonial colour party will present the Australian white ensign as well as the Royal Australian Air Force ensign and the Australian flag.
Along with the RAN in their dress uniforms, the Drouin chapter members will be in their Masonic regalia and he is hoping other Freemasons will attend in their regalia as well.
Mr O’Toole said August was a significant month in Australia’s military history, including the start of World War I, the end of World War II, and the Battle of Long Tan in the Vietnam War.
The ceremony commemorates those who served in the First and Second World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Somalia, East Timor and Afghanistan.
“As you travel through the Gippsland region, you observe many stone structures representing the tomb or resting place of those who went to war and did not return,” Mr O’Toole said.
“Often you find the same name repeated two or three times, representing fathers, brothers and sons of the same family.”
Public officials, including local MPs and councillors, have been invited to attend.
Mr O’Toole said it was a rare chance for the public to see behind the walls of the Masonic Lodge.
He said Freemasons had been part of the Warragul community since 1886 and had done much to support the local community.
“It is an organisation of good citizenship, fellowship and the quiet achiever.
“It has in the past been a silent organisation but in recent years it has become more public.”
Light refreshments will be served after Thursday’s ceremony.
For catering purposes, please RSVP to Don Roy on 0419 586 284 or Lester O’Toole on 0438 044 318.