(by Graham J.Wrigley, Grand Master, Freemasons New Zealand, January 6, 2020)
Brethren
I am sure that many of you, like me, watched the devastation being caused in some Australian States by the bush fires from the comfort of our homes over the festive/holiday season. The headline television news each evening continues to show no signs of abatement – in fact the opposite is occurring. When I met with the Australian Grand Masters in November, it was the early days of the fires, and at that time, none of the Grand Lodges were considering an appeal seeking support from other Grand Lodges. However, things change quickly, and we are now aware that the Grand Lodges in the affected States have launched an appeal, seeking financial support for those who have lost members of their family, property, their livelihood and for those that are at the front line of firefighting and for those who are supporting local communities with food, clothing and psychosocial assistance.
To support our neighbours, I have launched a ‘Grand Masters Australian Bush Fire Appeal’ so that our Lodges and Brethren can donate in support of our close colleagues who are suffering under tremendous circumstances. Deposits of support can be made directly into the account shown below: Grand Masters Australian Bush Fire Appeal – Heartland Bank Account 03-1783-0450087- 002 with Member name and Lodge Number or Lodge Name and Number in Reference or a cheque to the postal address below. We will work closely with our Australian Grand Lodges for the distribution of funds at the appropriate time based on the greatest need and their advice. I am sure that the New Zealand Brethren will give generously as we always do, and I encourage everyone to show that as Freemasons, we support others as they have supported us in our times of disaster.
Yours fraternally,
Graham J. Wrigley Grand Master
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