Freemasonry, along with all Victorians, wishes to respond to the needs of the community affected by the current bushfires. Many wish to help in the immediate situation, but there is also a continuing need for assistance in the weeks ahead, long after the present trouble is past. The Task Force is set up to provide such on-going help, and I write to seek your aid in disseminating this call to all Freemasons.

There are many things we can do, eg. clearing damaged fencing in preparation for the professionals to erect new fence lines; there will be many other tasks. At present, the disaster areas are inaccessible for various reasons, and our work is expected to start in about three weeks’ time.

What I need to know, as soon as possible, is:
-do you have members in an affected area, and, if you have, what assistance you would they like?
-if your members are not in an affected area, what skills your Lodge members have, and how many are prepared to give time to the task?

This appeal for help is not restricted to Brethren; they can be friends and family, male and female. All will be covered by the Freemasons Victoria Group Personal Accident – Voluntary Workers’ Insurance Policy, if they are under 85 years of age.

The first call-out for this is expected to be the weekend of 7-9 March, and the second one 14-15 March. Others will be scheduled as required. Please put this request to your members as soon as you are able; our fellow Victorians need our help.

Peter Prideaux
Executive Secretary
Freemasons VictoriaTask Force