From solar to stretchers – Whittlesea Lodge energising the community
- lisacoleman2
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Through grant funding and grassroots fundraising efforts, the Whittlesea Masonic Lodge has provided much-needed financial support to local organisations, making a tangible difference to vital services in the area.
Enhancing emergency response
The Lodge, supported by an FFV Masonic Grant, donated $3,312 toward the purchase of three vacuum mattresses for the Whittlesea Ambulance Station. These mattresses, designed to provide superior immobilisation for patients suffering from trauma, will be used across three ambulances responding to emergencies in rugged and remote locations such as Mt Disappointment.
To showcase the effectiveness of the new equipment, paramedics from the Whittlesea Ambulance Station attended a Lodge information night in February, demonstrating how vacuum mattresses improve patient safety and comfort.
In March, another presentation was held to donate funding for a chainsaw for the local SES.
Left: WorBro Haydn Gregson and Wor Bro Wing Commander Bruce Wilde
Reducing energy costs for local charities, spreading festive cheer
Another Masonic grant of $6,351 was awarded towards the $19,053 project cost of installing solar panels and battery storage to benefit the Whittlesea Food Share donation centre, run by Whittlesea Ministries Incorporated. The centre provides food and essential items to those in need, and by reducing electricity costs, more resources can be directed toward supporting vulnerable individuals and families in the Whittlesea area.
The cheque presentation took place at the Lodge’s Christmas dinner celebration, where members also made additional donations, reinforcing their dedication to community welfare.
The Food Share Centre wasn’t the only recipient of the Lodges’ charity at the Christmas dinner. They also presented cheque for $400 to the Whittlesea Fire Brigade as a token of appreciation for their ongoing dedication to protecting the community. In the spirit of giving, Lodge families also donated toys for disadvantaged children. The Fire Brigade played a special role in the celebrations, transporting Santa to the event and helping distribute gifts to children of Lodge families.
Fundraising in action
The Lodge’s Worshipful Master, WBro Haydn Gregson, a long-time Freemason who has been actively involved in charitable work across multiple lodges, spoke about the importance of FFV in enabling lodges to amplify their impact.
“I think the Foundation is an absolutely fantastic adjunct to Freemasonry because we can make our donations matter.”
Although he has only been a member of the Whittlesea Lodge for less than a year, he has already played a key role in securing funding for local projects, alongside WBro. David Draper PGStwd. They have plans to join forces with Diamond Valley Lodge, Gregorious and Melbourne St Clair Reunion to help fund a trailer for the Whittlesea SES.
The Lodge also remains committed to fundraising through grassroots initiatives such as Bunnings barbecues, dinner dances, and wood raffles, with members recently processing two trailer loads of wood for their next raffle.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the Lodge’s charitable work, WBro Gregson noted the importance of publicity and community engagement:
“I believe in publicity, and I love to do it for the Foundation. There’s no such thing as a free lunch - we have to make sure people know the good work we do.”
Acknowledging community efforts
The Whittlesea Masonic Lodge also extends its gratitude to its Ladies Social Committee, whose exceptional catering at Lodge meetings plays a crucial role in fostering camaraderie among members. Their dedication ensures that meetings are not just about business but also about community and connection.
Through a combination of grants, donations, and fundraising efforts, the Whittlesea Masonic Lodge continues to uphold its commitment to community service, ensuring that local emergency services, charities, and vulnerable residents receive the support they need.
