In recent months, the prestigious Order of Service to Benevolence (OSB) jewel has been awarded to a handful of worthy Freemasons across Queensland. Here are the latest recipients.
Graham Townsend of the Mackay District was bestowed with the honour in recognition of his attentiveness to the needs of others. Four years ago, he was part of the chorus of members in Mackay that collectively raised $70,000 after calling for a state-wide Drought Appeal.
In 2018 he helped to rally the Lodges of the District to donate another $70,000 with the help of Hand Heart Pocket. Similarly, he was one of the key people to bring the sponsorship opportunity with the River 2 Reef Charity Ride to Hand Heart Pocket’s attention.
This year the event raised over $100,000 for three worthy local charities, which was a record.
Another OSB jewel was posthumously awarded to the late David Willans of Mackay, with his wife Rachel accepting his award.
She was also given a special Jewel to wear in honour of David’s extensive charitable work and to acknowledge that he was posthumously presented this Order of Service to Benevolence Jewel.
David had been a Freemason for some 37 years before his passing earlier this year.
In addition to being a hospital volunteer, he always went the extra mile to provide a hand up for those facing hardship.
He was not one to take no for an answer and thought outside the box to support local initiatives. With a genuine interest in giving people a hand up, David inspired the Mackay District Freemasons to be compassionate towards those doing it tough. For example, he inspired the donation of 40 swags for those sleeping rough. He also called on Hand Heart Pocket to donate a wheelchair for a young girl with spina bifida.
Hand Heart Pocket wishes to extend its congratulations to all the OSB jewel recipients this year!
Photo: Graham and Coral Townsend, Rachel Willans and Grand Master Paul Holland.
