Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

Freemasonry has been part of Australia’s story since 1803, when the first Masonic meeting was held in Sydney under a warrant from the Grand Lodge of Ireland. Introduced by early settlers and military officers, the Craft quietly took root as a path for men to grow in character, community, and purpose.

Our story formally began on 8 July 1881, when Lodge Southern Cross was dedicated under dispensation by the District Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. With Worshipful Brother J. W. Evans as our first Master, the Lodge soon received its official charter — No. 664 under the Scottish Constitution — granted on 3 November 1881. On 30 December 1881, we held our first full meeting as a fully chartered Lodge, marking the true beginning of a proud and enduring legacy.

In the decades that followed, the Lodge met in various locations: Alexandria Town Hall, Freemasons’ Hall in York Street, and later the Masonic Hall on Castlereagh Street. Each move reflected the steady growth and adaptability of our members.

In 1972, we relocated to the Mascot Masonic Temple during reconstruction of the Castlereagh Street Temple. By 1979, we had settled into our current home — the newly completed Sydney Masonic Centre, where we continue to meet today.

A Unique Legacy

Lodge Southern Cross holds a distinction rare in New South Wales Freemasonry: we are proud to possess three official charters that reflect our rich and evolving journey:

• Grand Lodge of Scotland No. 664

• Grand Lodge of New South Wales No. 30

• United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory No. 91

We have been reborn in many senses since our founding — beginning as Lodge Southern Cross No. 664 under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, then continuing as The Southern Cross Lodge No. 30 under the Grand Lodge of New South Wales, and ultimately becoming Lodge Southern Cross No. 91, the designation under which we proudly operate today within the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

This unique lineage is a living testament to our continuity, adaptability, and enduring commitment to the Craft across generations.

A Tradition of Unity

Throughout our history, Lodge Southern Cross has welcomed other Lodges into our fold, enriching our journey with new members, stories, and traditions:

• 1888: Lodge Southern Cross No. 30 joined us, uniting 36 members under one banner.
• 1986: Lodge Toxteth No. 533 consolidated with us.
• 1987: We welcomed Lodge N. J. McDonald No. 587.
• 1994: Lodge Burns St. David No. 534 became part of our story.

These moments of unity have strengthened our Lodge with diverse experience and a deeper sense of shared purpose — continuing a legacy built on fellowship, continuity, and brotherhood.

Quiet Service, Lifelong Dedication

For 122 years, just seven men have served as Secretary of Lodge Southern Cross — from Brother T. Alphen in 1881 to Right Worshipful Brother Peter Court. Their steady hands and faithful service have preserved our customs and guided the Lodge through change.

In Times of War

Even in the darkest hours, our Masonic spirit endured. During World War I, 14 members answered the call of duty. In World War II, 53 members served. We honour their bravery and sacrifice with deep respect.

A New Chapter with Familiar Roots

In 2015, our Lodge’s strength inspired the revival of Lodge Toxteth. Originally consolidated in 1986, Toxteth reemerged as our Daughter Lodge — continuing the cycle of renewal so central to Freemasonry. Today, they meet at Petersham Masonic Temple, carrying forward their own proud tradition.

Visit them at lodgetoxteth.org

A Way of Life That Still Speaks Today

Lodge Southern Cross offers men a timeless path of reflection, learning, and fellowship. Here, we seek more than knowledge. We strive to better understand ourselves and our world. Freemasonry does not change who we are; it helps good men uncover who they have always had the potential to become.