2025 Conference Report - Grand Lodge Meeting in Christchurch.

During King’s Birthday weekend, 30^th May – 2^nd June, delegates and visitors from all over New Zealand as well as attendees from Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, gathered together for the annual Sessions of the Grand Orange Lodge of New Zealand. It was a very happy, fulfilling, rewarding, friendly and busy time for one and all. And even better, the weather was kind to us when we were out and about.  

All conferences begin with registration and ours was no exception. While this was ably carried out Grand Executive held the first of its several meetings over the weekend. A very enjoyable dinner followed, after which second degree meetings were held. It was pleasing to note Bro. Gary Paterson from Lodge No. 3 “Victoria and Albert” received his RAP degree.

Saturday morning 31^st May and it was work, work and more work throughout the day.  In Memoriam, Reports, Resolutions of Loyalty, Notices of Motion, Remits and much more. During the morning, Glen Keeley from Cavalry Marketing addressed the meeting and challenged us in a number of ways while always thinking on the future of our organisation. In the afternoon, the Election of the Grand Lodge Officers for the 2025-27 years was held, see list and photos.   

Saturday evening was very special with invited guests taking part. As there were Australians as well as New Zealanders present, the evening commenced with the singing of both anthems.  A civic welcome on behalf of the Mayor of Christchurch was extended by councillor Yani Johanson and grace was offered by Rev. Mike Hawke – vicar of St. John’s Anglican Church in Woolston.    After a delicious main course, our guest speaker – Richard Chambers, CEO of the Christchurch Youth Hub gave a very interesting talk on the newly established youth hub, its work and how it helps young folk today. What a tremendous job the Youth Hub is doing, for those of us who come from so called “normal homes” it is hard to imagine what it must be like for young folk who haven’t had a good start in life and have so much to learn. A generous donation of $5,000.00 was given to assist the Youth Hub with its work.

This year, six young tertiary students received bursaries of $2,000.00 each, those who were able to be present at the dinner received theirs in person. They are Kyra Mayers, Leah Storey and Meredith Trent. Kyra received a bursary on behalf of her cousin Molly Mayers and Rebekah Watts received bursaries on behalf of her sons Sean and Ryan.     

Other special presentations were to Sheryll Rodgers – a 60 year membership certificate, and to Margaret Stewart – a meritorious service certificate and jewel for all her hard work over many years. Congratulations to both members.

Presentations were also made personally to councillor Yani Johanson and Richard Chambers.    

All enjoyed the evening and there was much chatter and laughter.   

Sunday was morning worship and the giving of thanks for life and all it brings. We were taken to St. John’s Church in Woolston where we were not only very warmly welcomed by Rev. Mike Hawke and his congregation but were also able to take part in the service. Our principles were rendered by our Grand Director of Ceremonies Rosalind Stewart, scripture readings by Grand Chaplain Sheryll Rodgers who also carried in the open Bible. The procession was led by Amber Hanham – Rosalind’s grand daughter who carried in the cross. We were also invited to choose two of the hymns. After a very inspiring sermon and communion, we joined the congregation for morning tea during which Beverley Buist – Grand Master presented the church with a donation of $1,000.00. Of course there were photos taken outside the church, thank you St. John’s for your very warm welcome and our time with you all.  

The rest of the day was “fun day,” members of the Orange Family enjoying time together. A scenic trip to Tai Tapu for lunch, a stop at Lincoln to see the Liffey Stream and Liffey Springs which bubble all year round, even in times of drought.  Next stop was at the Orange Hall in Hornby for photos before returning to the hotel for quiet time before dinner and a social evening, very capably led by Gary Paterson. Lucky numbers, quizzes and games all provided much entertainment and laughter.    

On Monday morning, 2^nd June, we were saddened to hear the news of the death of Past Grand Master – Most Worshipful Brother Kerry McCready who had suffered from ill health for some time. See separate tribute to Brother Kerry.

It was back to work again with several topics to be discussed, it provided an interesting and lively debate. After morning tea, the Installation of the newly elected Grand Lodge Officers took place, it was ably conducted by the Grand Master of Australia – Most Worshipful Brother David McMichael who was assisted by Past Grand Master of Australia – Most Worshipful Brother Herbie Mailey, and from Victoria Worshipful Brothers Matthew Verschuur and Richard McPherson, and the music was provided by Grand Secretary of Victoria – Right Worshipful Sister Janine Hardy.   

The new officers are:

M.W. Grand Master Sis. Sheryll Rodgers

I.P. Grand Master M.W. Sis. Beverley Buist

Grand Deputy Master Sis. Gina Lindsay-Crawford

Grand Chaplain Sis. Angela Carter

Grand Secretary M.W. Bro. Rod Biel (reappointed.)

Grand Treasurer Bro. Shane Storey (reappointed.)

Grand Executive Sis. Rebekah Watts, Bro. David Elwood, Bro. Shane Crawford

Grand Director of Ceremonies Sis. Rosalind Stewart

Grand Senior Deacon Sis. Linda Smith

Grand Junior Deacon Bro. Toby Walton

Grand Organist Sis. Mary Ferrel (reappointed.)

Grand Inner Guard Bro. Frank Harper

After congratulations, greetings, and final business, the newly installed Grand Master closed the sessions in usual form with the singing of “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” it always brings tears to the eyes, and this time was no exception. 

Special thanks to all concerned who helped make the weekend so successful.

Beverley Buist

Immediate Past Grand Master

Grand Orange Lodge of New Zealand