ODDFELLOWSHIP

Timaru Herald, Volume XCVIII, 18 May 1925, Page 4

ODDFELLOWSHIP

Recently Mr J. Braddick, G. L. representatives for South Canterbury, and Mr C. J. Talbot R.G.M. reported to the Fairlio and Allniry Lodges oh tho business dono at the late 1.U.0.'F. Conference held at Wliangnrci. Longtny reports Were presented to each lodge, ami the brethren were heartily manned by the members present for their interesting and in* formative statements.

The numerous remits on the lengthy agenda paper were decided on, and decisions voted. Those covered such matters as tho prohibition of alcoholic liquors at any 1-unction held under tho name of tho Order; suitablo recognition of tlio services of veteran members; the rewarding of members by means of suitablo momentoes for work in the Lodges and the Order; the standing of tho itebokah members; tho establishment of orphanages in the Order; the setting up- of a housing scheme for members; the inclusion of endowment insurnce for members; the setting up of district and degree lodges and local boards of control ; the continuance of the office of superviser and organiser; tho dosirability of a more central position for Grand Lodge and many others.

Principal interest centred however, round tlio financial part of the business done, and satisfaction was expressed at tho fact that it was decided to increase benefits to men members to £1- a week for the first 52 weeks of sickness and JO3 a week for all further sickness, tho usual period of probation to be eliminated, • making , benefits payable immediately after joining. These benefits necessitated a very small additional payment in dues to future members. It. was also announced that there was every prospect of an addition out of surplus funds, being made to present members. It was stated that the funds of Grand Lodge showed marked increase since last, benenial session) and that the membership had grown to 17,000 and' was yapidly being augmented. In ordor That the 1 fnanagmeht,-funds "of tlio Order, might, lie conserved, several drastic, economies were insisted upon/ as’‘Tils’ benefit funds coulcl not bo touched for management-' purposes." In--(addition/: Lodge assessments to G.L. management funds had been increased to meet, the added expenditure caused by the increased activities of . the Order.

• The delegates made pleasing reference to the very fraternal treatment meted out to those travelling to and from the Confercnee by tho Auckland Brethren, and to the verv interesting and pleasant social functions held at Whangarei ir. honour of visiting Brethren.