General News
19 December, 2025
Freemasons award grants
Highview College’s Grace Dunstan has been presented one of two Freemasons Regional VCE Scholarships, valued at $2000.
Grace was selected after many applicants were interviewed by a panel of four representatives of local Freemasons Lodges forming the Central Goldfields Masonic Group (CGMG).
The other recipient from the Maryborough Education Centre will be announced at the school’s respective awards night.
The value of these annual awards were increased this year in an attempt to keep pace with inflation and value to each college equalised.
Funds for these two awards are raised by charitable contributions from Avoca, Carisbrook, Maryborough, Talbot and St George at Dunolly Masonic Lodges, along with contributions from the different Masonic orders that meet at Maryborough and Cohuna; namely Birdwood HRA Chapter, Maryborough Mark Lodge, Gladstone Ark Mariners Lodge, Central Goldfields Rose Croix and Major Mitchell Council 30th degree (Cohuna).
All funds raised are increased by contributions from the Freemasons Foundation which is the main charitable support entity for Freemasons Victoria.
“The selection criterion is based on academic performance, community involvement and the desire to make a worthwhile contribution to the Australian way of life; while performance at interview where references provided are also considered,” CGMG chairman Ken Calder said.
“Applicants face a selection panel with an aim to provide an educational opportunity along with a confidence building experience for the student.
“Selected students receive a framed certificate (with copy for resume) and letter of congratulations.”
In addition to these two secondary awards, the Freemasons Primary School Scholarships are again being provided to an ever widening area around Central Victoria with each one valued at $300. They’ve been provided (along with a framed certificate) to 23 year six classes where the recipients are selected by the principal and year six teacher.