In the past eight years local charities have benefitted nearly half a million dollars, and in the next few weeks there will be further distribution.
Local charities and appeals have included bushfire appeals, disaster relief fund, hospital and health appeals, school bursaries and scholarships and the Arthur Grassby Foundation Appeal.
The winter months were quiet, except for a donation to the Riding for the Disabled by the Union Lodge of North Gippsland.
Further awards are being scheduled.
Bairnsdale Daylight Lodge, Gippsland Lakes Lodge and Orbost Lodge brethren have recently been awarding achievement and encouragement awards and scholarships worth about $35,000 to 25 primary schools’ year five and six students and four secondary colleges to mostly year 10 or 11 students at their end of year assemblies.
Schools extend from Mallacoota and Cann River in the north, Buchan to the west, Lakes Entrance in the centre including Nungurner, Nicholson and Metung, and Bairnsdale including from Paynesville to Clifton Creek, Lindenow and Eagle Point.
“These awards are not easy to make,” Jim Jolly, secretary of Bairnsdale Daylight Lodge and secretary and charity officer of the newly expanded South East Gippsland District, said.
“I have the pleasure of producing framed certificates for the students, and these included their principals or senior teachers commendations.
“It is apparent that some students at this time are overcoming adversity by demonstrating resilience, dedication, determination and persistence in their application to their studies, and often overcoming personal challenges. It is most rewarding for us to attend and present these awards.
“We must acknowledge the support from the Freemasons Foundation Victoria for underwriting our efforts.
“The lodges co-contribute to the foundation who is most generous in their support.”
