About Sir John Lavarack
Sir John Lavarack, born on October 19, 1885, was an Australian military officer and Governor of Queensland. He joined the army in 1905 and served with distinction in both World Wars. During World War II, he commanded the 7th Division and later the First Army, playing a crucial role in the defense of Australia and the Pacific campaigns.
After the war, Sir John Lavarack served as Governor of Queensland from 1946 to 1957. He was knighted in 1951 for his contributions to Queensland and Australia. Known for his strategic brilliance and dedication to public service, Sir John Lavarack passed away on December 4, 1957, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and service.
Lodge History
Lodge Sir John Lavarack, originally established as Lamington Lodge No. 842 S.C., was consecrated on Friday, August 21st, 1896, at the Masonic Hall on Alice Street in Brisbane. The ceremony was officiated by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, marking the lodge's foundation under the Scottish Constitution.
From its inception, the lodge attracted influential individuals from diverse fields, including industry, commerce, public utilities, politics, and community leadership. Its members included academics, accountants, architects, bankers, clergy, doctors, dentists, engineers, lawyers, mariners, military personnel, and underwriters. Notably, the lodge counted a Prime Minister of Australia and two Governors of Queensland among its distinguished brethren.
Lodge Sir John Lavarack played a pivotal role in the formation of the original Grand Lodge of Queensland in 1904. During this time, Worshipful Brothers A. M. Hertzberg and E. Denny Day from the lodge held the positions of Pro Grand Master and Grand Treasurer, respectively. When the Grand Lodge of Queensland (Queensland Constitution) was established, the lodge was registered as No. 31 Q.C.
In 1921, following the reconciliation of Masonic Constitutions in Queensland, the United Grand Lodge of Queensland (U.G.L.Q.) was formed. The lodge was re-registered as Lamington Lodge No. 110 U.G.L.Q. Despite the adoption of standardized rituals by the U.G.L.Q., the lodge proudly preserved its unique traditional rituals, reflecting its Scottish and Queensland heritage.
Over the years, the lodge contributed significantly to the Masonic community. In 1922, it participated in the construction of the Masonic Memorial Temple in Brisbane, a project led by a Temple Committee that included M.W. Bro. Abraham Hertzberg. In recognition of its contributions, the lodge was awarded Hall Stone Jewel No. 5 in 1926.
The lodge continued to thrive, welcoming prominent members such as Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, Governor of Queensland, who joined in 1933 and later served as Grand Master of the U.G.L.Q. Another notable member was Sir Arthur Fadden, who served as Prime Minister of Australia and remained a dedicated member until his passing in 1973.
In 1947, Lieutenant-General Sir John Lavarack, Governor of Queensland, joined the lodge. His distinguished military career and leadership during World War II earned him great respect. In 1950, he was installed as Master of the lodge, and in 1986, the lodge was renamed in his honor, becoming Lodge Sir John Lavarack.
Today, Lodge Sir John Lavarack continues to uphold its rich heritage, returning to its Scottish roots and preserving the original Scottish rituals. The lodge remains a vibrant part of the Masonic community, welcoming new members who wish to explore the timeless traditions of Freemasonry.
If you are interested in joining Freemasonry, we warmly invite you to contact us through our Contact Page. We welcome new members and encourage you to reach out to start the conversation. Whether you're curious to learn more or eager to see if Freemasonry is the right path for you, we are here to guide you every step of the way.