Fifty fabulous years

John Ratcliff honoured for Freemasonry service

Local identity John Ratcliff was recognised by the members of the Kingston Lodge, friends and family for 50 years’ service to Freemasonry on May 5 at a celebratory dinner.

Worshipful Master Ian Hill presented John with a 50-year Jewel for his services to the Freemasons and local, state and national farming organisations. John’s father, who immigrated to South Australia as a member of the Barwell Boys program, and family moved to Blackford in 1946 where they developed a sheep and beef property.

Once he finished his education he returned to the property ‘Wirrildee’ clearing the land and establishing pastures. John joined the local Lodge in 1972, holding all positions within the Kingston Lodge including Master on two separate occasions, 1979 and 2005-6.

He also played the organ at the Lodge for 23 years. John represented the South East at the Grand Lodge Centenary celebrations in 1984 when there was 11 Lodges in the region. Mr Ratcliff worked tireless for the community on many boards and committees including Kingston District Council for 10 year, board member on the Kingston Hospital Board for 20 years, St John Ambulance Board for six years.

He has been awarded life membership for the Kingston Agricultural Show Society, Kingston Tennis Club and Southern Ports Tennis Association. His passion for agriculture lead to becoming an active member of South Australian Farmers Federation spending 15 years on Agribusiness Policy Committee, member of the Native Vegetation Committee, and SAFF representative on Nation Farmers Federation Economics Committee for 4 years.

Very Worshipful Brother Bruce Potter from Mount Gambier presented a certificate from Grand Lodge to W Bro John for his services to the organisation.

KINGSTON LODGE HONOUR:

Worshipful Master Ian Hill congratulating W Bro John Ratcliff for his service to the Kingston 161 Lodge.

MOUNT GAMBIER

CONGRATULATIONS: Very Worshipful Brother Bruce Potter from Mt Gambier presented a certificate from Grand Lodge to W Bro John Ratcliff for his services to the organisation.

KINGSTON CELEBRATIONS: Kingston Lodge members Ralph Fowler, Lynton McInnnis and Stuart Meyers attended dinner for John Ratcliff’s award.

DINNER GUESTS: Harold Ratcliff, partner Lauren Trenerry and Jane Ratcliff attended the dinner.