Freemasons plan open day

“On March 26 we intend to open the lodge to the public and give a demonstration of Masonic history and ceremonies. We hope to include Manjimup and Greenbushes Lodges.” spokesperson Tony Domoney said.

“We will be opening the lodge rooms for display and answering as many questions as we can,” Mr Domoney said.

“There will be a demonstration on some of the things we are allowed to show the public, one of our senior members will explain the lodge positions and also do a short “charge”. Light refreshments and nibbles will be supplied after the demonstration.”

Bridgetown Freemason Lodge history dates back to 1899, when a small band of Masons met with the D.G.M of the Scottish Grand Lodge constitution, RW Rowe, who was visiting Bridgetown. A decision was made to form a lodge under the Scottish constitution.

The present site of the Bridgetown Lodge was secured in 1908 and the first meeting in the new hall was on September 14, 1910.

In 1956, the lodge was the host of many district lodges for a visit by His Excellency Lt General Sir Charles Gairdner, himself a Mason. Additions to the lodge building were completed in 1961.

Mr Domoney said membership of the lodge reached more than 75 in the mid 1970s, but currently there were about 20 paid members, of whom only 10 or 12 attended regular meetings.

“The decline in numbers is endemic in country lodges for a number of reasons,” he said.

“Luckily our daughter lodges, Greenbushes and Manjimup Warren give great support, as we do to them regularly. Our open day is to let Bridgetown folk know that the lodge is still active and hopefully attract prospective members to bolster our depleting numbers.”

Mr Domoney said Freemasonry was a multiracial and multicultural organisation, with membership open to men of all faiths who were 18 years and above, law-abiding and of good character.

To find out more contact Peter on 0481 065 285 or Tony on 0468 900 971.