Consecrated 19th July 1978
Meeting at: Johannesburg - Freemasons Hall, 8 Park Lane, Parktown
Meeting Dates: 1st Mon Feb, May, July, Oct Inst Jul
Contact 082 445 6221
Lodge History
The idea of forming the Lodge arose during social discussion following an RAF Officers Club meeting in 1976. The prospective Charter Master, Laurie Chegwidden, was a New Zealander who fought in the Battle of Britain and the founders included brethren from 'down under', as well as ex RAF personnel. And while the prime objective was to establish a masonic home for New Zealanders living in South Africa, and visitors from that country, it was always recogrused that viability would require a somewhat broader membership base. Indeed the membership was largely built up by joining members, including a group from another 'fellowship' society who did not see eye to eye with the current members, resulting in some quite serious dissension. However, stalwarts in the Lodge saw it through and the active support of some joining members from a very strong lodge resulted in New Zealand Lodge reaching an adequate membership level.
The Lodge meets at Park Lane, as a dining lodge, and makes a feature of fellowship at the festive board.
Of the Past Masters who have served the Lodge well, special mention must be made of W Bro Bert Suffling, a founder and twice the Master, with a good record of service to the District.
To close on a lighter note, the Lodge crest embodies a kiwi - and one wonders what the several ex RAF pilot members thought of this use of the acknowledged RAF term for a nort flying member of the airfield staff?
Reference: 'A Century of Brotherhood' by A A Cooper & D E G Vieler