ABOUT US
At Old Scotch Collegians’ Lodge
Our mission is to be a meaningful and relevant organisation in the twenty-first century that empowers Lodges, members and the community by providing leadership, guidance and administrative support systems to ensure the perpetuity of Freemasonry in this State.
What is
Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest existing fraternal organisation in the world. With a rich history to draw from, Freemasonry is also a vibrant, modern organisation that has changed with the times.
Freemasonry is a worldwide society that has brought together millions of people in a fraternal manner, of all nations, religions, political beliefs, and all social backgrounds.
It comprises an estimated 6 million members worldwide with over 8,000 in Victoria. Modern Freemasonry traces its origins to before the 17th century and proudly preserves the traditions it has inherited from those times. These traditions make Freemasonry unique within the community.
WBro. Andrew Baird
Worshipful Master
Old Scotch Collegians Lodge No. 396
YEAR GLOBAL HISTORY
LODGES IN VICTORIA
MEMBERS IN VICTORIA
MEMBERS WORLDWIDE
Freemasonry
in Victoria
We are proud of our significant contributions to Victorian history. Freemasonry in Australia truly began when 21 influential men drew up a petition on 23 December 1839 to form a Masonic Lodge, to be called the Lodge of Australia Felix. Previously, Freemasonry was governed primarily by three constitutions, coming from the English, Scottish and Irish settlers to Australia.
Freemasonry has been here since the First Fleet and has played a pivotal role in the growth and establishment of our state. The Foundation Stones of some of the most prominent and culturally significant buildings in Melbourne and beyond were placed by prominent Freemasons – the Melbourne Court House, Melbourne Hospital, the Princes Bridge and many more.
Freemasonry is a principled way of life
Freemasonry is a principled way of life, offering a sense of belonging and of personal growth. The principles by which a Freemason is expected to conduct himself, are based on tolerance, equality, charity and honour. They strive towards spiritual enlightenment, and personal development as a way to moral perfection. Freemasons demonstrate these principles by showing tolerance and respect for the opinions of others, behaving with kindness and practising charity and care for their community.
Recognises the richness of all cultural beliefs
Freemasonry is a principled way of life, offering a sense of belonging and of personal growth. The principles by which a Freemason is expected to conduct himself, are based on tolerance, equality, charity and honour. They strive towards spiritual enlightenment, and personal development as a way to moral perfection. Freemasons demonstrate these principles by showing tolerance and respect for the opinions of others, behaving with kindness and practising charity and care for their community.
Freemasons in Victoria have been active in the community for over 170 years and were instrumental in the development of Melbourne. They also established the Royal Freemasons Homes of Victoria in 1867 for the palliative care of the elderly, and the Freemasons Hospital in 1937 to care for Freemason members and their families.
TOLERANCE
EQUALITY
CHARITY
