31 July 2020
The Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, has yesterday (Thursday 30 July) announced a record number of 723 COVID-19 cases, with 13 fatalities across the State. Today, the government announced that there were 627 new cases and eight deaths as aged care crisis continues.
The extraordinary growth of the Pandemic across Victoria means that it is inevitable that our Masonic community will be directly impacted by cases. We take this opportunity to extend our sincere condolences to families who have lost loved ones and extend our concern and goodwill to all people affected in any way.
The Victorian cases have extended particularly through the aged care sector. While Freemasons Victoria is a standalone organisation, we have long historical ties with Royal Freemasons (‘The Homes'). Royal Freemasons has its own independent management, who have reported overnight that there has been a COVID-19 case at Kangaroo Flat (Bendigo). Royal Freemasons have issued a statement indicating that their Emergency Management Plan is in effect, and that all possible steps are being taken.
I am certain that I speak for all in the Freemasons Victoria family, when I say that we extend our support and good wishes to our friends at Royal Freemasons as they navigate through this difficult time.
Stay safe Brethren.
MWBro. Richard Elkington
Grand Master
