General News
14 March, 2024
Freemasons provide for all
Over the past decade, Freemasons Foundation Victoria (FFV) has donated $20 million, with local Freemasons creating equal opportunities for all in the community. Freemasons have been a part of the Maryborough community since 1858, with local lodges...
Over the past decade, Freemasons Foundation Victoria (FFV) has donated $20 million, with local Freemasons creating equal opportunities for all in the community.
Freemasons have been a part of the Maryborough community since 1858, with local lodges forming the members of the Central Goldfields Masonic Group.
Their biggest community program is the donation of $300 scholarships to support students in their transition to high school.
The initiative, which is now in its 29th year, has been a proud achievement for Central Goldfields Masonic Group chairman Ken Calder.
“We do 19 primary school scholarships each year for year six students from Wedderburn to Clunes and from Amphitheatre to Castlemaine,” he said.
“We are looking to expand that again this year to be able to support more of our leaders for tomorrow in our local community.”
Mr Calder, who has been a member of Freemasons Victoria for nearly 38 years, said the organisation has made a positive impact on his wellbeing.
“[I’m proud of] the influence that we have on the community and the way we show how to live your life,” he said.
“We do a lot [of work] quietly, a true charity if you read the Bible is to give without fanfare and without looking for any glory yourself.
“This is, I would say, one of the best things for my health — I can come and have a good night out, relax and leave my worries at the door.
“I can go anywhere in the world and be recognised as a Freemason and recognise another man as a Freemason and I should be able to trust him.
“If I need anything, I should be able to ask a Freemason and he’s obliged to help me — what other organisation can do that.”
The donations include $5 million to local Freemasons masonic lodges who support their local communities, $3.8 million in education scholarships, and over 1360 grants provided to various not-for-profit organisations.
FFV chairman Garry James said the achievement is a testament to the impact the fraternal organisation has on communities across Victoria.
“Our collective generosity has built stronger and healthier communities, supported individuals through access to education and aided Freemasons and their dependents in times of need,” he said.
“The $20 million granted by FFV has been a force for positive change and improvement to the lives and opportunities of Victorians — and a source of support for those who need it most.
“As a Freemason, I am very proud of being able to make this contribution to a better society, with a better quality of life and more opportunities for many.”