Norm celebrates 50 years’ of service to Freemasons

AN EMOTIONAL Norm McPherson was acknowledged for his 50 years’ service to the Freemasons, with Korumburra identity and fellow Freemason Hugh Hendry at Carinya Lodge on Friday to present Norm with his 50 Year Jewel and certificate.

Those honours should have been bestowed last year, Norm having become a Freemason in 1972, but the special moment was postponed due to COVID protocols.

Norm was originally invited by a friend to join the Freemasons, being welcomed into the Outtrim Lodge to which Hugh also belongs.

Hugh said he was proud to present Norm’s Jewel and that Norm should wear it with pride.

“It’s a remarkable feat,” Hugh said of Norm’s contribution to both the Freemasons and Korumburra Lions Club, which last year acknowledged Norm’s 50 years’ service to that organisation in which he rose to the position of District Governor for the V3 District.

“He served in every office in the Lodge and was Master of the Lodge,” Hugh said of Norm’s dedication to the Freemasons.

“It’s beyond words and I’m so pleased to get it,” Norm said when asked what his latest honour means to him, tears clearly visible in his eyes.

He enjoys the comradeship the Freemasons provide.

The worldwide organisation has between 7000 to 8000 members in Victoria, with the Freemasons aiming to benefit members and broader society.

Brian Brown, Freemasons’ district coordinator and a member of the Duke of Connaught Lodge in Loch, said Freemasons gives its members the opportunity for self-development, including the chance to speak in front of an audience and to take on positions of responsibility.

He said the Freemasons Foundation provides significant funding for important societal causes.

In recent times that has included donating to Rochester after floods hit the town, and making a substantial contribution to the new Monash Children’s Hospital.