General News
8 September, 2026
More than a secret handshake: Freemasons dispel the myths
FREEMASONRY has been part of Ararat’s history for more than 165 years. Freemasons first arrived in the district in 1856, with formal Freemasonry commencing in 1859. Despite its long history, Freemasonry is still sometimes surrounded by mystery and misconceptions. So, what is Freemasonry really about?
One of the most common misconceptions is that Freemasonry is a religion.
It is not.
Freemasonry does, however, encourage its members to maintain and respect their own religious faith.
A belief in God is a requirement for membership.
Lodge meetings traditionally begin with prayer, and an open Bible is displayed during meetings. In lodges where members follow other faiths, their sacred texts may also be displayed.
At its heart, Freemasonry is a men’s organisation that provides an opportunity for men to meet, learn, develop their character and skills, support one another, and contribute to their community.
One of the principles taught in Freemasonry is the importance of free will.
Members are encouraged to think for themselves, make careful decisions and take responsibility for their actions.
Masons are encouraged to develop both wisdom and strength—wisdom to recognise what is right, and the strength and courage to act on it.
The organisation draws on traditions and teachings that have developed over centuries.
Rather than following changing social trends, Freemasonry focuses on principles that it believes remain relevant across generations.
Freemasonry also provides practical opportunities for personal development.
Members can learn how to organise and conduct meetings, manage budgets, delegate responsibilities and work as part of a team.
They learn about leadership and teamwork, public speaking, personal presentation, and how to give and receive instructions.
Perhaps just as importantly, members learn how to deal with mistakes and learn from them.
For many members, Freemasonry becomes a kind of school for life—providing experiences that can be useful at home, at work and in the wider community.
The word “Freemason” can sometimes conjure up images of secret handshakes and mysterious rituals.
There are, in fact, traditional signs, handgrips and words within Freemasonry. However, these are not intended to provide members with special privileges or secret access.
Instead, Freemasons describe these traditions as “token secrets”—a way of teaching the importance of trust, discretion and responsibility.
Members are taught that when someone places information or confidence in you, it should be treated responsibly.
Freemasonry also teaches the value of anonymity when doing charitable work, so that helping others does not become an opportunity for personal recognition.
Symbolism is also an important part of Freemasonry.
Through ceremonies, allegories and symbols, members are encouraged to think about ideas from different perspectives and to connect abstract concepts with everyday life.
Freemasonry has a number of degrees, with each providing its own area of study while connecting with the others.
For members who enjoy learning and reflection, this can provide an opportunity to explore history, philosophy, symbolism and the meaning behind traditional teachings.
There is no single reason why a man becomes a Freemason.
Some are interested in personal development and education. Others are looking for friendship, social connection or an opportunity to contribute to their community.
For some, Freemasonry complements their religious faith.
Charity and helping others are important parts of Freemasonry.
Freemasons Victoria has a charitable arm, the Freemasons Foundation, which is funded by members' annual fees. Individual lodges also support their local communities in a variety of ways.
Members are encouraged to practise charity not only through financial donations, but also through their time, actions, words and willingness to help others.
Ultimately, Freemasonry aims to help good men become better men.
That means becoming better husbands, fathers, sons and brothers, as well as better employees, employers, citizens, neighbours and friends.
For more information about Freemasonry, or for men considering becoming a member, contact Freemasons Victoria on9411 0111 or the Ararat Masonic Lodge on 0473 371 669.
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