Celebrating Brotherhood at Morton Ray Sovereign Chapter

One of the greatest strengths of the Scottish Rite extends far beyond its ceremonies. It is found in the friendships we build, the shared journey we undertake, and the enduring sense that we are all part of one great family under the Scottish Constitution.

That spirit was evident at the recent meeting of Morton Ray Sovereign Chapter, where V∴Ill∴Bro. Barry Dawson 33°, attending his first meeting as Administrator, had the pleasure of presenting Scottish Rite Certificates to Ex. & Perf. Companions Spiro, Markie and Dion.

These certificates mark an important milestone in each Companion’s Scottish Rite journey, recognising their continued commitment to the Order. More importantly, they symbolise the fellowship, encouragement and mutual support that unite Scottish Rite Masons throughout the Province of Victoria.

We extend our sincere congratulations to Ex. & Perf. Companions Spiro, Markie and Dion on this well-deserved recognition and wish them many years of continued friendship, fulfilment and devoted service within the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

 A Great Start for Morton Ray Sovereign Chapter 

 A Big Night for the Scottish Rite 

 Photo credit: Thank you to Ex. & Perf. Comp. Spiro Perdikomatis for the photographs.

V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry Webster 33° inducted as Deputy for the…

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite under the Scottish Constitution in Victoria entered a new chapter on Saturday, 30 May 2026, when V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry Reginald Vincent Webster 33° was formally inducted and installed as Deputy for the Province of Victoria.

The ceremony, held at the Keysborough Masonic Centre, brought together members of the Rite from across Victoria, together with distinguished representatives from many of the allied and appendant Masonic Orders. Their presence reflected the esteem in which V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry is held throughout Victorian Freemasonry and the significance of the occasion for the Scottish Rite within the Province.

The office of Deputy is one of the most important appointments within the Scottish Constitution outside of Scotland itself. Entrusted with the governance, administration, and advancement of the Rite within his Province, the Deputy acts as the personal representative of the Most Powerful Sovereign Grand Commander and the Supreme Council of Scotland. The installation therefore marked not only a personal milestone for V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry but also an important moment in the continuing development of the ScottishRite and Scottish Constitution in Victoria.

The ceremony was conducted with all the dignity, symbolism, and solemnity that characterise the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Drawing upon traditions that stretch back centuries, the induction included the presentation of the insignia, regalia, and symbols of authority associated with the office. Through these symbolic acts, the assembled Brethren were reminded that leadership within the Rite is founded not upon privilege, but upon service, stewardship, and fidelity to the principles of Scottish Rite Freemasonry.

The installation was attended by representatives from sixteen Masonic Orders and organisations, demonstrating the respect enjoyed by the Scottish Rite throughout the wider Masonic family. Such a gathering is increasingly rare and spoke volumes about the regard held for both the incoming Deputy and the important role the Scottish Rite continues to play within Victorian Freemasonry.

Following the ceremony, over 130 Brethren and distinguished guests gathered for a celebratory banquet, where a series of toasts and speeches reflected upon both the significance of the day and the future of the Rite. Warm fraternal sentiments were exchanged, and many expressed confidence that the Province would continue to flourish under the leadership of its newly installed Deputy.

As the Province of Victoria looks toward the future, the induction and installation of V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry Webster 33° stands as both a celebration of service and a reaffirmation of the enduring values of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. It was a day marked by dignity, tradition, and optimism—a fitting commencement to a new era of leadership under the Scottish Constitution.

The Brethren of the Province of Victoria extend their congratulations to V∴Ill∴Bro. Terry Webster 33° and wish him every success as he undertakes the responsibilities of Deputy, confident that the Rite will continue to prosper under his guidance and care.

Emmanuel Sovereign Chapters new home in Melbourne

Vale – V∴Ill∴Bro. Brian Crane 33°

It is with profound sadness that we record the passing of V∴Ill∴Bro. Brian Crane 33°, Past Deputy for the Province of Victoria (2013–2016), who passed peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, 22 April 2026.

V∴Ill∴Bro. Brian was a devoted servant of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (Scottish Constitution), whose leadership, wisdom and quiet dignity left a lasting impression upon the Rite and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

His service as Deputy for the Province of Victoria from 2013 to 2016 formed an important part of his distinguished contribution to Scottish Rite Freemasonry. His dedication to the Rite and fellowship with his Brethren will be remembered with great affection and respect.

Funeral arrangements will be conducted by Selwyn Allen Funerals on behalf of Yong and the family. In accordance with Brian’s wishes, a Masonic Commemoration Service will be held in conjunction with the funeral, with arrangements allowing overseas family members the opportunity to attend.

We extend our deepest condolences to Yong and the Crane family, together with Brian’s many friends and Brethren, at this difficult time.

His contribution to the Scottish Rite will not be forgotten, and his memory will remain with those whose lives he touched.

Requiescat in Pace.

Vale – V∴Ill∴Bro. Neil Douglas Nyholm 33°

It is with profound sadness that we record the passing of V∴Ill∴Bro. Neil Douglas Nyholm 33°, Deputy of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (Scottish Constitution), Province of Victoria, who passed peacefully on Sunday, 4 January 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Neil’s passing marked the loss of a remarkable Freemason and an even finer man. For more than four decades, he served Freemasonry and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite with distinction, humility and unwavering dedication.

As Deputy for the Province of Victoria, Neil provided steadfast leadership, wisdom and guidance to the Rite throughout the Province. His kindness, integrity and genuine concern for his Brethren earned him great affection and respect, leaving an enduring impression upon all who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

Shortly before his passing, Neil was fittingly honoured with promotion to Past Junior Grand Warden, recognising a lifetime of distinguished service and the high regard in which he was held throughout Freemasonry in Victoria.

Throughout his illness, Neil demonstrated remarkable dignity and courage. He remained committed to his duties for as long as his strength permitted and was deeply appreciative of the prayers, messages and support extended to him by his Brethren.

We extend our deepest condolences to Cynthia and the Nyholm family, together with Neil’s many friends and Brethren. His contribution to Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite was considerable, and the legacy of service, integrity and brotherly love he leaves behind will long be remembered.

Requiescat in Pace.

Perfection of Ex. & Perf. Comp. Arthur Perez

On Friday, 26th September 2025, Victoria Sovereign Chapter No. 34 proudly conferred the Perfection Ceremony upon Bro. Arthur Perez of Cranbourne Lodge No. 290. The evening marked an important step in Bro. Arthur’s Masonic journey as he joined the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (Scottish Constitution).

Arthur proved himself to be an excellent candidate, embracing the ceremony with dignity and enthusiasm. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of strong visitor support, demonstrating the strength of fellowship across our Rite. Among the visitors was Ex. & Perf. Comp. Hans Giaou from Essendon Sovereign Chapter, who only four weeks ago completed his own Perfection. Keen to show his support, Hans participated in the work as 1st Acolyte—his first visitation since receiving the degree.

Assisting on the night, Darryl Young of Bendigo Sovereign Chapter ably fulfilled the role of Master of Ceremonies, stepping in due to the incapacitation of Ill. Bro. Bill Boothroyd. Representing the Deputy for Victoria, V∴Ill∴Bro. Uwe Lau attended and offered his support to the Chapter.

The evening concluded with photographs taken by Ill. Bro. Ben Quick, capturing the joy and significance of the occasion. A particularly memorable moment was the presentation of a tartan bow tie to Arthur, symbolising the bonds of mentorship and tradition within our Order—a gesture reminiscent of the same gift once given to a Brother by his own Masonic mentor.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Excellent and Perfect Companion Arthur Perez on his Perfection, and we look forward to witnessing his continued growth within the Scottish Rite.