General News
14 July, 2026
Alleged theft leaves lodge members feeling “violated”
Local police are investigating an alleged theft at the Carisbrook Masonic Lodge earlier this month.
Police are investigating the alleged theft of historic pieces from the Carisbrook Masonic Lodge earlier this month.
Local Freemasons became aware of the break-in last Tuesday, July 7, during the second meeting of their new lodge.
Due to falling membership and rising costs the Carisbrook Lodge and St George Lodge in Dunolly amalgamated to form The Welcome Stranger Lodge in May.
Carisbrook Lodge’s Worshipful Master Terry Allan said the move was only partially complete when the alleged theft took place.
“It’s just sad people would do something like that,” he said.
Maryborough Police’s Senior Constable Jacob Coxall said it was too early to confirm the incident’s extent.
However, he said the missing items were “distinctive” and may have Carisbrook Lodge inscriptions.
“We’re still waiting on further details,” he said.
Mr Allan said the incident was “devastating” and the pieces irreplaceable.
Among them is regalia from the Carisbrook Lodge’s formation which is a hundred years old.
“It’s a piece of my history, the lodge’s history, Carisbrook’s history, Freemasonry’s history, the district’s history. It’s a bit of a slap in the face. We’ve been violated,” he said.
Mr Allan said local Freemasons have long contributed to the community.
The Central Goldfields Masonic Group continues to offer scholarships to local school students.
“We defend Maryborough and Carisbrook a fair bit and then something like this happens and it takes the wind out of your sails,” Mr Allan said.
Sen Con Coxall encouraged the community to contact police if they had any information on the incident.
“If anything from the lodge does get noticed by a member of the community, I’d obviously appreciate if they get in contact,” he said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Maryborough Police with any information on 5460-3300.