Lodge Argyle No. 164
U.G.L.Q.
Freemasonry
What is it? What are it's origins? What does it mean to be a Freemason?
Many historians have disputed the origins of Freemasonry, and the wise would do well to keep out of such speculation, for only piecemeal historical information exists to definitively state how, or indeed when, freemasonry began. Suffice to say, freemasonry takes many of its moral and virtuous teachings from the symbolic application of the tools used by stonemasons in the creation of both the ancient and modern world's temples, cathedrals and buildings.
Perhaps the practice of peace, love and harmony amongst its members, and the fraternal bonds interwoven into freemasonry were derived from the Templar Knights, who passed on their code of behaviour and ideals to Scottish nobility in the middle ages. The only thing we truly know, is that we don't really know. Regardless of the true historical origins of freemasonry, what we can be certain of is that the legacy of its beginnings has helped shape and develop men, honest and true, across hundreds of years since.
Historical records of freemasonry indicate statutes, meetings and details of membership dating back to the 1500's in Scotland.
Despite a very high likelihood of freemasons being a part of the First Fleet in 1788, and it is certain that one freemason (Jospeh Banks) was a part of Captain Cook's Endeavour crew, freemasonry in Australia finds its first reference in 1797 when a petition was made to form a Lodge in the colony.
Since that time, freemasonry has attracted many members in Australia, actively contributing to making good men better by teaching moral lessons and knowledge, and observation of their duties to God, the law, their families, and as citizens.