Lodges welcome new Montville member to proud traditions of Freemasonry

Serge Doumergue is centre wearing the plain apron with two blue rosettes. David Melville is  on his right, Gary Ackerman on his left and Doug Wells is on Gary’s left.

Freemasons Lodges on the Sunshine Coast joined forces on Saturday night to provide a memorable experience for one of their newest members.  

Montville Lodge No. 260 hosted the evening to pass Bro Serge Doumergue to the Masonic 2nd Degree on the night.  

Mr Doumergue became a Freemason four months ago and is a descendant of a long line of Masons starting in France in 1688.  Mr Doumergue said that he had given thought to becoming a Freemason for more than 20 years before making the final decision to join.  He now believes that following in the steps of his ancestors and joining the Masons is the best thing he has done in a long while.

United Grand Lodge of Queensland, Assistant Grand Master, RW Bro David Melville attended the ceremony in company with twelve Grand Lodge Officer’s. It was witnessed by 46 Freemasons, including Grand Lodge.

The combined meeting of Sunshine Coast Lodges is an annual event, and the Masonic 2nd Degree is the usual ceremony of choice for the evening.  Lodges from around the Sunshine Coast assisted in the ceremony including members from Maroochy Lodge, Kenilworth Lodge, Cooroy Queen Alexandra Lodge, Mooloolah and Maleny Lodges. In all eight visiting Masters were in attendance.

The event was further enhanced by Grand Lodge who added colour and atmosphere to the occasion.

“It is always a pleasure to visit the Sunshine Coast and spend time with the brethren, said RW Bro Melville. “Freemasonry has a long history on the Sunshine Coast being part of the community since the late 1800s.”

Montville Lodge itself was consecrated as a Scottish Lodge during the darkest days of the First World War in 1918.  It has been an important part of the community ever since, undertaking much work for charities over the years.

Montville Lodge Worshipful Master Gary Ackerman said it was an honour for him to be Master of the Lodge during the ceremony. 

“For me it’s ceremonies such as this which give a great deal of personal satisfaction and also a bit of a thrill to see a brother take his 2nd Degree …  for most it is one of those very special experiences in their life. ”

He said Freemasons made every effort to ensure their ceremonies were enjoyable and a learning experience for members. 

To learn more about Freemasons Queensland  contact Montville Lodge at email montville260@outlook.com or Freemasons Queensland on Tel: 3229 3533 or at email membership@uglq.org.au