Welcome to the It's No Secret websiteWhat is Freemasonry?Many of us at some stage in our lives will be members of some sort of organised group. It might be a sports club, a charitable committee, a professional organisation or any number of gatherings of like-minded individuals. In many respects, Freemasonry is another such collective.
Not a Secret SocietyContrary to popular belief Freemasonry is not a secret brotherhood. The public are welcome to visit Lodges, ask questions and learn about the many facets of the Craft. Yes, we still have secret handshakes and words to identify a member’s position in their Masonic journey, but these are kept secret largely for traditional reasons. There is nothing else about Freemasonry that cannot be found in libraries or, of course, on the web. How to Become a MemberMembership is open in Australia and New Zealand to men over the age of 18. Any man of good reputation can apply to be a Freemason – irrespective of his religion, race, or any other consideration. Freemasonry is for men wishing to better themselves and to enjoy the fellowship of others. Freemasonry in Australian HistoryFreemasonry in Australia could not have a more diverse and distinctive past, and Freemasons have been there, helping to shape our nation right from the very beginning. In fact the first Freemason to set foot on Australian soil was the famous British botanist, Sir Joseph Banks, who accompanied Captain James Cook on board the Endeavour in 1770. The United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACTThe United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT is the fraternity of Freemasonry’s home in the region. Presently our membership numbers around 14,000. While NSW is the birthplace of Masonry in Australia, the Grand Lodge of NSW was officially established in 1888. Famous FreemasonsModern history abounds with stories of the accomplishments of men. But if those men were of high morals and virtue, there’s a good chance they were also a Freemason. The list is exhaustive but a few of the most noteworthy examples are: Mark Twain, George Washington and no less than 10 Australian Prime Ministers. Understanding the DegreesMasons advance through three ‘degrees’ – with self-development based on the individual’s interpretation and understanding of the Masonic allegories or guiding philosophies. Masons who have taken the Three Degrees are part of Blue Lodge – to which the overwhelming majority of Freemasons in Australia belong. Additional Degrees have been developed over the centuries, giving rise to lodges such as the Royal Arch and the Knights Templar. The Museum of FreemasonryThe Museum of Freemasonry at the United Grand Lodge (YGL) Building in Goulburn Street, Sydney is home to one of the largest collections of Masonic artefacts in the world. As part of the ‘It’s No Secret’ public information program the Museum is mounting a major exhibition to demystify the workings and intentions of this ancient Craft. Charity and CommunitySince its earliest days Freemasonry has recognised that personal and moral development are closely linked to compassion and kindness towards others. We have long enjoyed a proactive and dedicated involvement in community service and charitable causes and have made significant contributions to the development of aged care facilities, to schools, hospitals, orphans and widows: helping those in need, regardless of any connection to the Craft. 10 Frequently Asked QuestionsWe've compiled responses to the queries we most commonly field from potential brethren and the general public. |
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