Scotch College

Old Scotch Lodge - 75 Years On

The 75th Anniversary of the Old Scotch Collegians' Lodge has been celebrated with two very special events.

The May meeting was the annual Old Boys' night when Old Boys from other Lodges were especially welcomed - eighty-five Brethren attended, including about thirty visitors. A very interesting paper, written by Graham Roseby ('49), was presented by Bill Galvin ('55) on the life of Sir Harry Lawson, Old Boy, founding member of the Lodge, and Premier of Victoria from 1918 to 1924.

A History of the Lodge years 1925 to 2000 was then launched and presented to Members.

The History has been in preparation for many years with Pat Wood ('30) as Editor, assisted by Sub-editors: 1925 - 1950 Ian Latimer ('41); 1951 - 1975 Maurie Smith ('41); 1976 - 2000 Manson Russel ('48); and facilitator Bill Tingate ('55). The launch was preceded by a musical retrospective of each of the twenty-five year periods, prepared by Keith Weymouth ('44). The launch was received with the enthusiastic singing of the School songs. The History documents the development of the Lodge, its significant events, social activities, and its many charitable involvements. Copies are available to non-members for $10.00 from the OSCA Office or the Lodge Secretary.

Members and visiting Old Boys unanimously agreed to join Old Boys everywhere in 'Celebrating the Vision' of 150 years of Scotch College, and acknowledged 'the debt owed to past and present Principals, Masters and Teachers who have served the School since 6 October 1851'. They viewed with pride 'the achievements of Old Boys everywhere, particularly in the fields of service to God, the Nation, and the Community', and they rejoiced in the knowledge 'that the School is as well prepared today as in the past, to equip its sons for similar service in this increasingly complex world'.

The June meeting saw a re-enactment of the Consecration of the original Lodge on 23 November 1925. The re-enactment was conducted by the current Grand Lodge team led by the Most Worshipful Grand Master John Wilson, and again was attended by large number of members and visitors.

The Lodge meets in Camberwell on the first Thursday of each month. For details contact: Bill Tingate, Master (9576 8151), or Bruce Symon, Secretary (5258 1850).