Office Bearers 2006 – 2007

R.W.M. Niel Daniel

I.P.M. Ewan Robertson

D.M. Mark Dunn P.M.

S.M. Derek Clark

W.S.W. Gordon Mackay

W.J.W. John Simpson

Sec. Jim Conner P.M.

Tres. Doug Sheal

Almoner: Kenny Davidson

S.D. Richard Scott

J.D. George Hall

I.G. Craig Wightman

Chap. Russell Syme

B.B. Paul Forsythe

D.O.C. Bill Murray P.M.

S. Steward. Mike Hebden

J Steward. Steven Cowie

Tyler. David Platt

Marshal. Robbie Brown

Organist. Andy Dunn

Neil Daniel was initiated into Lodge St. Olaf 1188 on 24th January 1991, continuing a proud family tradition that spanned three generations of dedicated Freemasons. He followed in the footsteps of his father, Gordon Edward Daniel, who had been initiated into the Lodge on 28th December 1957 and would later serve with distinction as Right Worshipful Master in 1970. The family’s connection to the Lodge stretched back even further through Neil’s grandfather, Edward Daniel, who was initiated on 9th January 1947 and was subsequently installed as Right Worshipful Master in 1955. Neil’s own installation as Right Worshipful Master in 2006 therefore marked a significant milestone in the Lodge’s history, making him the third generation of the Daniel family to occupy the Chair of King Solomon within Lodge St. Olaf 1188.

Born and raised in the close-knit coastal community of Cruden Bay, Neil was very much a local man whose roots in the area and strong community spirit were reflected in his commitment to the Lodge. He was among a notable influx of young local men who joined during the 1990s, a period that brought renewed energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie to the Lodge. This generation of members played an important role in strengthening the social and charitable life of the Lodge while ensuring its traditions continued to flourish into a new era.

Neil took his first junior office in 1993 during the second term of Derek Clark in the chair. From these early beginnings he progressed steadily and diligently through the various offices of the Lodge, earning the respect and friendship of his brethren along the way. His dedication, reliability, and enthusiasm for Freemasonry culminated in his installation as Right Worshipful Master in 2006, a role he fulfilled with pride and distinction while upholding the traditions and values passed down through both his family and the Lodge itself.

Outside of formal Lodge duties, Neil was an active and enthusiastic participant in many of the social activities that formed such an important part of Lodge life throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. He regularly took part in the well-known Ythan Raft Races, events remembered fondly for their spirit of teamwork, humour, and friendly competition. He was also heavily involved in the Lodge sabbaticals and excursions, sharing in many memorable trips with fellow brethren. Among the most notable were skiing holidays abroad and unforgettable visits to the famous Munich Beer Festival, occasions that helped forge lifelong friendships and contributed greatly to the strong bond of fellowship enjoyed within the Lodge during that era.