ERIN-GO-BRAGH FISHING WEEKEND
The Erin-Go-Bragh fishing weekend took place at the Elandskloof Trout Farm, just outside Dullstroom, on the weekend of the 27th t0 the 29th October, 2023. There were 95 Masons and non-Masons in attendance – the largest turn-out post Covid.
The weekend could not have been planned better, with the RWC play-off and final on Friday and Saturday nights, with a thrilling win by the Boks.
The fishing went very well, with Christian Dagher taking the trophy for the biggest fish and heaviest bag, for the trout competition.
On the Pap Swaai competition, Ridge won the biggest fish trophy, and Daniel Andrews, the heaviest bag.
Russell Howard of Athol Scots, and his two sons-in-law, Nathan and Andrew, being the Best Dressed non-fishermen, as we could not find who could be considered the Best Dressed fisherman!
The fantastic-tasting Craft beer supplied by Anvil Brewery of Dullstroom, went down very well with everyone.
A small group took part in a whisky tasting after the fishing competition, and was thoroughly enjoyed by the participants.
From the feedback we have received from most people, they really enjoyed the weekend, and many have requested bookings for next year, tentative dates being the 25th to the 27th October, 2024.
Early morning on Saturday.
One of the several fishing lakes.
Some of the very happy prize winners
The whisky tasters.
The Best-Dressed non-fishermen.
CLARA LODGE'S INSTALLATION 2023
Congratulations to V.W.Br. Robert Dick, who was Installed as Master of Clara Lodge, No. 288 on the 14th October, 2023, twenty-seven years after being Master of Prince Arthur Lodge No.344. This was, indeed, a very special day for V.W.Br. Robert,
and for Clara Lodge. Thanks to all concerned, for making the event successful, and enjoyable.
In the Chair, after a very long break: V.W.Br. Robert
and the Clara Brethren.
Provincial Grand Lodge, Clara and visitors, including
Brethren from Lodge Randfontein SC.
HERITAGE FESTIVAL PHOTOS
The Benoni High School Pipe Band leading the parade of Provincial Grand Lodge, Craft Lodge and Royal Arch Officers
PDGM Rt.W.Br. Bill Rice, centre, with PAGM Rt.W.Br. Craig Russell on his left, and PAGM Rt.W. Br. Gerhard van Staden, leading the parade.
Waiting for potential Candidates.
Some stirring entertainment from Benoni High School.
Assembling the bar…
Ready for business: L-R: VWBr. Robert Dick, WM of Clara Lodge, WBr. Marius De Wet, and Rt.W.Br. Craig Russell.
It is going to be a fun day for all; for tiny tots – the kiddies’ entertainment, face painting, Creamy Ice Cream van and
lots of toy stalls. For the adults, the fully- licensed pub run by Clara Lodge. For those who don’t drink, we have Brew 4 U,
a coffee van. We have a number of stalls together, and now we need the feet – and this is where you come in!!
Please support Erin Go Bragh Lodge on this fantastic fund raiser in aid of United Cerebral Palsy.
PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE OPEN EVENING, AUGUST 2023
On the 31st August, Clara Lodge No.288 was the host for the Provincial Grand Lodge Open Evening, at the Roodepoort Masonic Centre. After the Regular meeting was closed, the Lodge was opened to admit the visitors from the community, who were keen to find out what Freemasonry was all about.
The wecoming address was delivered by Rt.W.Br. Craig Russell, who also laid the groundwork for VW Br. Grant Devine’s explanatory talk, and question-and -answer session.
After the formal part of the evening, the visitors were invited to partake of snacks and drinks, and to have informal discussions with the Brethren. The event was well attended, and several visitors expressed their interest in becoming members; all in all, a very successful evening.
VW Br. Grant Devine addressing the visitors, and answering their many questions
Some of the visitors.
SANIC ROYAL ARCH INSTALLATIONS and DISTRICT CONVOCATION, 2023
On the 21st February, E.Comp. John Fletcher-Coxen was Installed as Excellent King of Shamrock Chapter No. 338
E.Comp. Craig Russell was Installed as Excellent King
of Erin Chapter No. 364, on the 29th March.
E.Comp. Reshat Herrington was Installed as Excellent King
of Tirmochree Chapter No.523, on the 19th July.
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On Saturday the 2nd September, the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter held its Bi-Annual Convocation at the Kensington Masonic Hall, with the District Grand King,
ME Comp. Justin Dawe presiding.
ERIN LODGE No.364 BOWLS DAY 2023
On a clear Sunday morning, we came, we saw, and we bowled.
Well, there was more to it than that, naturally. In fact, the 2023 Bowls Day at the Discovery Bows Club in Roodepoort organised by the brethren of Erin Lodge was a rather special occasions for two reasons.
First, this event was for charity. While there were trophies and bragging rights up for grabs – not to mention a rather tasty raffle in the afternoon – Sunday’s activities were in support of the Rainbows & Smiles Foundation and its “Supporting Kidz with Cancer” Initiative. Rainbows & Smiles is a community-based, charitable foundation that provides much-needed emotional, social, and financial support to children diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, as well as their families and caregivers. The NGO was represented on the day by founder Bonni Suckling, who began Rainbows & Smiles after her own son was diagnosed with brain cancer.
Second, it was the first time Erin had been able to organise an event like this in four years. You read that correctly: four years. The last Erin Lodge bowling tournament was all the way back in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic forced lockdowns, banned booze and cigarettes (unforgivable), dictated remote meetings, and put the kibosh on gatherings of this type. This year’s event was confirmation, if any further was needed, that the ‘new normal’ people used to talk about was baloney, and the ‘normal normal’ had returned; brothers, friends and family gathered together in the sun for a fun day out on the greens.
This didn’t mean things didn’t get competitive. Members of Achill, Clara, Erin go Bragh and Lurgan Lodges were keen to unseat Erin Lodge as the reigning champions. While this didn’t happen, Terry Nicholls from Erin go Bragh and Robert Dick from Clara helmed the teams that took home the trophies for first and second place.
Erin Lodge would like to thank Discovery Bowls Club for hosting us and providing the catering. Special thanks to Erin Lodge’s Inner Guard, Ryan Skene, for organising this event almost single-handedly. Above all, we would like to thank all of the brethren who supported this event as well as their families and friends. See you all next year!
The winning team: from L-R: Reshat Herrington, Ryan Skene, Grant Devine and Terry Nicholls, of Lodge Erin-Go-Bragh.
In second place, Clara Lodge, represented by:
L-R: Marjory, Clinton, Lorrain and Robert Dick.
Geoff Tyrer(L) and Graeme Anderson, of the overall winners:
Erin Lodge No.364
Perfect weather.
A TRIPLE ADVANCEMENT AT SHAMROCK CHAPTER No.338
On the 3rd July, 2023, twenty-five Members, representing the four Royal Arch Chapters of SA Northern, attended Shamrock Chapter’s Convocation to support and assist in the Advancement of three new Members: (centre of photo from L-R),
Br. Robert Reynolds for Shamrock Chapter, Br. Rudi Geyer for Erin Chapter No. 364, and Br. Jacques Grobler for Antrim Chapter No.782.
Congratulations, Brethren – here’s to your next step – your Exaltation to the Royal Arch Degree.
CLARA LODGE'S ANNUAL INTER-PROVINCIAL VISIT, 2023.
On the 2nd June, a contingent of S.A.Northern Members, headed by the Provincial Grand Master, Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch, travelled to Kwa-Zulu Natal, to attend the Ceremony of Installation at Gingindhlovu Lodge No.758 I.C., in Mandeni.
We arrived at our accomodation in Zinkwazi Beach, some 20km from Mandeni, and the rest of the day was spent relaxing, and enjoying the beach.
The next day, we had an early breakfast, and set off for the Lodge; as always we were enthusiastically received, and after some socialising, attended the Installation Ceremony, where two of us assisted with the Offices of Senior Warden and Sword Bearer.
After the ceremony, a very enjoyable Festive Board, followed by the trip back to the house, where our very capable chefs treated us to a slap-up dinner.
The next morning, we packed up, and left for home at 8.30, after a really satisfying and enjoyable weekend.
Many thanks to our PAGM, Rt.W.Br. Craig Russel, who organised everything for the trip, and to everyone else for making the weekend really memorable.
The view from the veranda
Cheers!!
The organiser, Rt.W.Br. Craig Russell (L),
Br. Robert Reynolds (C) and Br. Percy Steenkamp.
The S.A.Northern contingent.
Enjoying the Festive Board.
Breakfast at the Bierfassl, Nottingham Road,
on the way home.
EDWARD H. CROGHAN FLY-MU DAY 2023
On the 28th May, Lodge Edward H.Croghan Lodge held their annual Fly-Mu Day at the Brakpan airfield; as always, the day was a great success, with plenty of food and entertainment
For those with a love of flying, there was a Helicopter and also fixed-wing aircraft, available for flips.
All in all, a well organised and enjoyable Family day.
Well done, Brethren.
Queuing for a flip
One of the various stalls to attract the visitors.
One of the many food stalls that there were to choose from.
V.W.Br. Fanie Bezuidenhout, giving a pre-flight lecture.
S.A NORTHERN ROYAL ARCH NEWS
Erin Chapter No. 364 I.C., held its Ceremony of Installation on the 29th March, at the Roodepoort Masonic Centre, with E.Comp. Craig Russel being Installed as Excellent King.
On the 1st April, the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter, S.A.Northern I.C., held its Bi-Annual Convocation at the Roodepoort Masonic Centre, with the Most Excellent District Grand King, Most Excellent Companion Justin Dawe, presiding.
A good turnout, with distinguished visitors from the GLSA
After a successful Convocation.
OPEN NIGHT AT LODGE ERIN-GO-BRAGH No.370 I.C.
On the 28th of March, the Provincial Grand Lodge Open Night was hosted by Erin-Go-Bragh Lodge No. 370; the evening was an outstanding success with a very impressive attendance of visitors eager to find out what Freemasonry is all about.
Congratulations to the Worshipful Master and Brethren of Erin-Go-Bragh, on a very interesting and enjoyable evening.
One side of the hall – filling up very nicely
Rt.W.Br. Craig Russell delivering the introductory address.
V.W.Br. Grant Devine delivering the main talk of the evening.
Another view of the visitors and Brethren.
EMERALD LODGE No 392 I.C. INSTALLATION
On the 25th of March, a large contingent of Provincial and Grand Lodge Officers made its way to Bloemfontein for the Installation of W.Br. Philip Early, who will be staying as Master for another year
After a successful Installation.
Congratulations, W.Br. Philip – we wish you a successful and rewarding year in Office.
MORE CHARITABLE WORK FROM LODGE EDWARD H. CROGHAN No.247 I.C.
During December last year, Edward H. Croghan has , once again, reached out to assist needy families,by distributing
seven food hampers.
The Worshipful Master and Members of Edward H.Croghan, are most grateful to every person and institution, who made this possible.
One of the happy families who received assistance from the Lodge.
A NEW DISTRICT GRAND MASTER FOR S.A CENTRAL
Yesterday, the 11th March, 2023, saw the Installation of Most Worshipful Brother William Ramsay McGhee as the District Grand Master of S.A.Central, Scottish Constitution,
The prestigious event took place at the Scottish Masonic Centre, Germiston, and together with a large number of Scottish Brethren,was well represented by Members of the Provincial Grand Lodge of S.A. Northern, I.C., including Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch, Provincial Grand Master, his Deputy, Rt.W.Br. Bill Rice, and Assistants Rt.W.Brs. Gerhard van Staden and Craig Russell.
The new Scottish District Grand Master, M.W.Br. William McGhee, (in white), with Rt.W.Br Tony Bosch on his right, and the Irish contingent.
M.W.Br. McGhee, with Provincial Deputy Grand Master S.A.Northern, Rt.W.Br. Bill Rice
The Irish, Enjoying the Festive Board
A Scottish table, with Rt.W.Br. Bruce Davis (standing).
CHARITY AT WORK, WITH LODGE EDWARD H. CROGHAN No.247 I.C.
The Brethren of the Lodge were in action, once again, when they were able to assist five more distressed, needy families with much-needed food and other necessary items.
The Lodge would like to thank Provincial Grand Lodge, Members of other Lodges, and an anonymous donor, for all of their donations, without which Lodge Edward H. Croghan would not have been able to assist these needy people.
The ability to be able to alleviate some of the hardships of those less fortunate than ourselves, makes us proud to be Freemasons.
Some of the beneficiaries
TIRMOCHREE LODGE No. 523 I.C.
RE-DEDICATION AND CENTENARY THANKSGIVING CEREMONY
On the 5th December, 2022, Tirmochree Lodge No. 523 celebrated their Centenary with a Re-Dedication and Thanksgiving Ceremony at the Central East Rand Temple, Boksburg, and became the 15th Irish Lodge in South Africa Northern
to celebrate its one hundred years of existence.
Being a Centenary, and therefore a once-in-a-lifetime event, and open not only to Masons, but to friends and family as well, the meeting was very well attended.
Once the normal business of the Lodge had been completed, the visitors were admitted, followed by the Provincial Grand Master and his delegation of Grand Officers, Provincial Grand Officers and distinguished guests from Sister Constitutions.
When all were seated, V W Bro Danny van der Merwe related the illustrious history of Tirmochree Lodge to the visitors, after which the Worshipful Master, V W Bro Justin Dawe, offered his maul to the Provincial Grand Master, Rt W Bro Tony Bosch, who instructed the Officers of Provincial Grand Lodge to assume their respective offices.
After the Rededication Prayer, delivered by V.W.Br. Grant Devine, the procession was formed to present the Rt.W. Provincial Grand Master with Corn, Wine and Oil.
In accordance with Ancient Custom, scattering corn represents Prosperity and Plenty; Sprinkling wine represents Cheerfulness and Joy; and sprinkling oil represents Peace, Love and Harmony.
The Re-Dedication Obligation was then taken, and the Maul was returned to the Worshipful Master who continued with the proceedings.
Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch presiding
Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies,
V.W.Br. Mark Rose, calling up the Procession
R-L: Junior Warden, Br. Blake Beilings, carrying the corn, Senior Warden,V.W.Br. Don Cresswell, the wine, and the Worshipful Master, V.W.Br. Justin Dawe, the oil.
“I scatter Corn in token of Prosperity and Plenty”.
The Worshipful Master, V.W.Br. Justin Dawe, and the Brethren of Tirmochree Lodge, taking the
Re-Dedication Obligation.
The longest serving Member of Tirmochree Lodge, V.W.Br. Don Cresswell, presenting the Warrant of the Lodge to the Worshipful Master
The most recent Member of Tirmochree Lodge, Br. Chris Byron, presenting the Centenary Certificate
to the Worshipful Master.
Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch presenting the Brethren of Tirmochree with Centenary jewels.
Here’s to the next hundred years, but first, the Festive Board!!
CLARA LODGE'S END-OF-YEAR PARTY
On the 11th December, the Clara Brethren gathered at the home of their Worshipful Master, W.Br. Marius de Wet, for their Christmas, bring-and-braai party; as always, everyone had a great time, and the “braaimeisters” outdid themselves in making sure that the meat was cooked to perfection.
Good company, food and (incredibly) perfect weather, made the day a real success.
Making the day even more special, was that it was Dalene Leite’s birthday, and of course, she was congratulated with a rousing rendition of “happy Birthday”!
A really enjoyable afternoon, and thanks to everyone for making it so successful, and a special thanks to W.Br. Marius for his hospitality and the effort he put into the event.
Marius dishing up the rooi hartebees cuts,
whilst Darian Leite, Robert Dick and Craig Russell see to the cooking of the other meat.
We were very lucky with the weather, as the day before, and the day after, saw torrential rain.
The ladies, catching up on the news…
W.Br. Marius presenting Dalene with flowers
for her birthday.
The WM presenting Darian Leite with the Clara Games Day, Table-Tennis Champion’s trophy.
ACHILL LODGE (853 I.C) – ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCH
It is that time of year when families and friends get together for celebrations. So was the case on Saturday 3 December 2022 when Achill Lodge gathered in strength and enjoyed a lovely afternoon together at their bring-and-braai Christmas lunch.
The Achill ladies made sure that there were more than enough salads to keep hungry tummies full, and our braai-masters made sure that the meat was cooked to perfection over fires made with love, friendship, and good whisky.
Two new candidates and their families also joined in the festivities and experienced a little of the Achill Charm, making them even more excited to join our great fraternity.
Of course, no Christmas is complete without Santa making a visit, and in good spirit Santa came through to hand out gifts to children and adults alike – putting a smile on the faces of each and every one.
As a lodge we want to wish all our Brethren and their loved ones a Blessed Festive Season, and we hope to see you all at Achill Lodge in the new year to come and enjoy what our lodge has to offer.
PGM, Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch, getting into the spirit of things.
The WM’s turn: W.Br. Juan de Villiers getting his present from Santa!!
PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE WIDOWS LUNCHEON, 2022
On the 6th of November, after almost three years, the Provincial Grand Lodge was able to host their Widows Luncheon, and once again, the Apollo Hotel in Randburg was the venue of choice.
After such a long “drought”, the turnout was exceptional, with a hundred and three Masons, friends and family members in attendance.
Once again, the food was delicious, well prepared and presented and as usual, thanks to the hard work and organisational skills of the PGL Administrator, Mrs. Sharnell Davis and the PGL Secretary, Rt.W.Br. Bruce Davis, the event went off without a hitch.
As will be seen in the photos, everyone was having a wonderful time, enjoying the food, companionship, and renewing friendships.
Enjoying a pre-lunch drink and chat.
L-R: Adrian and Dalene Leite, Lorrain and Robert Dick, (Clara) Magda and Chris Broxham (Ulster)
L-R: Sally and Danny van der Merwe (Shamrock), Don Cresswell (Tirmochree), and Mrs. Colleen Rice.
PGM, Rt.W.Br. Tony Bosch, his wife, Jeanette (C),
and Sharnell Davis.
Sitting: Francoise de Roubaix,(L) and Bessie.
L-R: Ivor Tillman (Mac-Mac). John and Sonja Druez, Lida and Percy Steenkamp (Achill).
Sitting,L-R: Janice Losos, Lyn Hulse, Elizabeth Clack and Vee Schwartzel (Clara ladies).
R-L: Craig Russell (Clara) and Percy Steenkamp (Achill)
Plenty of well-prepared food.
PPGM, Rt.W.Br. George Moir, delivering Grace and addressing the company.
The organisers: Rt.W.Br. Bruce Davis and his wife, Sharnell.
A MISCELLANY OF PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
Some planes on display at the Edqwrd H. Croghan Flu-Mu Day
V.W.Br. Fanie Bezuidenhout and his plane,
District Royal Arch Convocation. 23rd pril, 2018.
Rt.W.Br. Ray Thorpe and his plant stall. Clara jumble sale.
28th February, 2009.
Relaxing after the successful Initiation of Br. Andre Nel, at Tzaneen Lodge, 3rd December, 2021. From L-R: Craig Russell, Bill Rice, Trevor Thomas (WM), Dirk Eberhard, Bruce Davis and Franna Geldenhuys
The next morning, tucking into a slap-up breakfast, courtesy of Trevor Thomas, before leaving for Joburg.
The unveiling of Clara’s banner – 2012
The WW1 bronze, commemorative plaque, stolen from the Roodepoort Masonic Centre in 2017.
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Snow on the way to Zinkwazi, for Gingindhlovu Lodge’s Installation. June 2014.
The signpost at Howick Falls. June 2014.
Bush Working, 2017
V.W.Brs. Andre de Roubaix [L], Justin Dawe and Billy Rice at Lodge Lurgan’s Potjie Competition.
Br. Ben Chite, Lodge Lurgan’s new Entered Apprentice, flanked by W.Br. James Parfitt {L}, and Lurgan’s Worshipful Master, W.Br. Kane Pretorius. Br. Ben was Initiated on the 3rd March, 2020.
Clara Lodge’s V.W.Br. Craig Russell {R} receiving his raffle prize from W.Br. Stelio Zyannakis, at the Festive Board.
W.Br. Marc Pienaar congratulating Leinster Lodge’s newly-Raised Master Mason, Br.Stephanus Pienaar, at Clara Lodge’s Festive Board. 23rd January, 2020
Br. Fanie responding.
Achill Lodge’s Festive Board. 17-01-2020
Billy Rice (L) and Johan Degenaar Providing Entertainment at Tirmochree’s End-of-Year Festive Board, 2019
Achill’s new Entered Apprentice, Br. Geral, receiving his Masonic Bible from W.Br. Druez. 17-01-2020
Leinster Brethren Enjoying their 2019 Christmas Dinner.
Jeff Evans Selling Shoes at a Jumble Sale. 2014
Ocean View Hotel Breakfast. Ging Trip 2018
Thinus – Potjie Competition Winner 2017.
The Helpers at Huis Silversig. 2016
Andy, James, Eddie and John
The Chuck Wagon At Alf’s Stationers. 2014
The view of the beach from the house at Zinkwazi
Belfast Scarf Day
The house at Zinkwazi; Ging trip 2015
View from the house
Inter-Lodge Christmas Party 2016
One of our Festive Boards