$10,000 donation to Special Olympics Manawatu

Bro Hamish Tavener, Helen Johnson, WBro Andrew Neilson

In conjunction with Freemasons New Zealand and The Freemasons Charity's ongoing support of Special Olympics New Zealand at a National level, The Manawatu Kilwinning Charitable Trust donated $10,000 to the Manawatu Branch of Special Olympics NZ. This donation was to support the local branch and its 7 athletes currently in training for the World Summer Games in Germany.

Freemasons New Zealand was the Naming Sponsor of Special Olympics New Zealand National Summer Games in Hamilton in December of 2022, and The Freemasons Charity along with Lodges nationally donated over $300,000 and many hours of volunteer time to the event.

The Manawatu Kilwinning Charitable Trust was formed in 2008 as a natural continuation of The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge's Benevolent Fund, which has been active in charitable giving since 1885.

The ceremonial presentation was made by The Manawatu Kilwinning Charitable Trust Trustee and Secretary, WBro Andrew Neilson to Helen Johnson from Special Olympics Manawatu.

The night was made doubly special by the presence of Bro Hamish Tavener. 

Hamish, a successful Special Olympics athlete and former representative on the Special Olympics NZ Board, joined with WBro Neilson for the presentation. 

Following the presentation, Hamish took another significant step in his Masonic journey by becoming a Master Mason in The Manawatu Kilwinning Lodge No 47. 

His introduction to the Craft was influenced by a meaningful conversation with Past Grand Master, MWBro Graham Wrigley in 2021, during the launch of the Freemasons Special Olympics partnership. Since then, Hamish has been an active Freemason, and his enthusiasm for the Craft is evident in his dedication and involvement.