By Stig R. Hokanson
Freemasonry came to Stanthorpe and other Southern Downs towns 150 years ago.
Indeed, the current Masonic Temple in Farley Street is the second oldest building still standing in Stanthorpe. It was here that a number of 19th Century Freemasons started a lodge in 1872. Interestingly, this was nine years before the Stanthorpe Railway Station was erected.
The 150th anniversary was a well planned event extending the weekend of 24-25 September. The United Grand Lodge of Queensland delegation in attendance was led by Grand Master, Most Worshipful Master Jeff Harper, Deputy Grand Master Right Worshipful Brother David Gray and Past Assistant Grand Master (conferred) Brother David Norgate and a team of Grand Officers.
The well attended Installation Meeting saw Brethren from Warwick, Goondiwindi, Texas, Tenterfield, Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas. The largest contingent, numbering about fifty Brethren, came from Brisbane lodges. The strong bond between Brisbane lodges and Stanthorpe Lodge No 22 began some years ago when Brethren, under the leadership of Bro Steve Cook began the Cool Clear Water project, an initiative which saw in excess of $20,000 donated to help Stanthorpe through the ravages of drought. Friendships with locals ensued and annual visits have occurred ever since.
Grand Master Jeff Harper spoke about the hardship and tenacity of Stanthorpe’s early settlers who would attend lodge meetings in Ballandean and Wallangarra on horse back guided by the full moon.
“They laid the groundwork for Freemasonry on the Granite Belt and are acknowledged 150 years later. Freemasonry has, since Stanthorpe’s foundation, played a positive and pivotal role in the civic society of the town. Its charity is well known as are its ethics and goals. I wish your Lodge all the best for a bright future and entertain no doubt you will continue to attract new members along the road towards your Bi-Centenary in 2072,” concluded Grand Master Harper in his address to the hundred plus attendees.
The Installation meeting was followed by a banquet at the Stanthorpe RSL where additional speeches and presentations were made. A special 150th Anniversary medallion was presented to all guests.
A special anniversary bottle of Merlot was sold as a treasured memento. Its label featured the names of the founding fathers of the lodge in 1872 as well as its current members with the Masonic emblem of the Square and Compasses in the middle.
The celebrations continued the following day, a day devoted to wine tasting at Balancing Heart Winery, hosted by lodge member and consummate organiser Justin Liddy. Clear skies, warm spring weather and the expanse of vineyards created a wonderful ambiance not missed on the many guests.
The two day Masonic event in Stanthorpe concluded with a hearty pub meal arranged by Justin Liddy at O’Mara’s Hotel on Sunday night before guests departed town, now in its 150th year. Visitors agreed to re-visit Stanthorpe Lodge next year.
