Office Bearers 2015 – 2017

R.W.M. Gordon Daly

I.P.M. Gordon Mackay P.M.

D.M. Ewan Robertson P.M.

W.S.W. Jim Conner P.M.

W.J.W. Malcolm Davies

Sec. Mark Dunn P.M.

Tres. Doug Sheal

S.D. Ewan Mackay

J.D. Stuart O’Harra

Chap. Simon Hope

B.B. Malcolm Arthur

D of C Bill Murray P.M.

I.G. Sandy Tweddle

Tyler. David Platt

Back Row: Mark Dunn, Doug Sheal, Jim Conner, Gordon Daly, Malcolm Davies, Harry Lamb (Lodge Keith No.256), Gordon Mackay.

Front Row: Malcolm Arthur (standing), Ewan Mackay, David Platt, Stuart Ohara, Sandy Tweddle.

Gordon Daly was initiated into Lodge St. Olaf on 13 November 2008, continuing a strong family connection to the Lodge that had already been well established before him. He followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Douglas, who had been initiated in December 2004, and his father, Martin, who had affiliated to Lodge St. Olaf on 4 April 1985. By the time Gordon joined, Freemasonry in his family was not just a tradition but a living part of their shared identity and involvement in Lodge life.

From a very early age, Gordon had been exposed to the world of Freemasonry through his father’s active participation in Lodge activities. Long before he became a member himself, he would have been familiar with the friendships, commitments, and camaraderie that came with Lodge membership. One of the most memorable and formative influences on him was witnessing his father’s involvement with fellow Lodge brethren in community events such as the Ythan Raft Race. These occasions were not only social highlights but also important expressions of fellowship beyond the Lodge room.

Gordon’s connection to the Ythan Raft Race is particularly significant when looking back at his early years. As a very young boy of around five years old, he watched his father take part in the very first raft entered by Lodge members in the 1986 race. Experiences like this gave him a unique, first-hand view of the bonds between the men of the Lodge, showing him Freemasonry as something active, communal, and deeply rooted in friendship and shared effort rather than something confined solely to formal meetings.

Over the years, the Lodge’s participation in the Raft Race was well documented through photographs and video footage, much of which now forms part of the Lodge’s historical record. These archives unintentionally chart Gordon’s own growth from childhood into adulthood, capturing him over a span of roughly a decade as he appears alongside his family and Lodge members at various events. In many ways, this provides a rare and personal visual history of a future Right Worshipful Master developing alongside the life of the Lodge itself.

After joining the Craft in 2008, Gordon quickly became an active and committed member. He took on his first office role in 2009 during the tenure of Past Master Barrie Harper. From that point forward, he steadily progressed through the various Lodge offices, gaining experience and deepening his understanding of ritual, ceremony, and Lodge administration. This consistent development ultimately led to his installation as Right Worshipful Master in December 2015.

Throughout his Masonic journey, Gordon has built a strong reputation as an accomplished floor worker and ritualist. He has dedicated considerable time and effort to learning, refining, and delivering large portions of the Lodge ritual with accuracy and confidence. His knowledge and reliability have made him a key figure in ceremonial work, and he is often called upon to step in when needed. On evenings when officers are absent or additional support is required, Gordon is known to willingly return to the floor time and again to ensure that the work of the Lodge continues smoothly and to a high standard.

In this way, Gordon’s Masonic career reflects not only personal progression through the offices of the Lodge, but also a lasting commitment to service, continuity, and the preservation of Lodge traditions.

Bro. Gordon Daly RWM 2024 – 2026

Jan 24, 2025

Office Bearers 2024 – 2026

R.W.M. Gordon Daly

I.P.M. Trevor Cooke

D.M. Ewan Mackay P.M.

W.S.W. Graeme McLean

W.J.W. Sandy Tweddle

Sec. Mark Dunn P.M.

Tres. Doug Sheal

Almoner. Bill Murray P.M.

S.D. Josh McLean

J.D. Andy Phipps

I.G. Ross Nyburg

Tyler. Simon Leask

B.B. James Connor P.M.

Back Row: Bro. Josh McLean S.D., Bro. Bill Murray P.M. Almoner, Bro. Bark Dunn P.M. Sec., Bro. Doug Sheal Trea, Bro. Sandy Tweddle W.J.W., Bro. Ross Nyberg I.G., Bro. Graham McLean W.S.W., Bro. Andy Phipps J.D.

Front Row: Bro. Ewan Mackay P.M. Dep Master, Bro Gordon Daly R.W.M. Bro. Trevor Cooke I.P.M. Bro. Jim Conner B.B.

The Story of Lodge St. Olaf and the Return of Gordon Daly

On 12 December 2024, members of Lodge St. Olaf gathered for an important and enjoyable evening. Trevor, who had served as Worshipful Master for the past two years, officially stepped down from the role. Taking his place was Gordon Daly, also known in the Lodge as “Day-Late the Worshipful.”

Although Gordon is known for being modest and easy-going, he brought a lot of experience back to the position. This was not his first time leading the Lodge, as he had previously served as Master from 2015 to 2017. During his earlier term, he was respected for his calm leadership and dedication, and he returned to the role with the same steady approach.

Trevor’s Time as Master

Before the installation of the new Master, the Lodge recognised the work Trevor had done during his time in office. One of his biggest achievements was helping attract younger members into Freemasonry. Thanks to his efforts, Lodge St. Olaf continued to grow and remain active while still respecting its traditions.

At the time of the installation, four new candidates were preparing to join the Lodge, and several Fellow Crafts were working towards becoming Master Masons. Trevor left the Lodge in a strong position for the future.

Gordon Daly Takes Over

With a new team of office bearers beside him, Gordon Daly began his new term as Worshipful Master with enthusiasm and confidence. The installation ceremony was attended by senior Freemasons, including the Provincial Grand Master of Aberdeenshire East, Brother Wemyss, Depute Provincial Grand Master Brother Gordon Thompson, and representatives from Grand Lodge.

The ceremony itself was led by Brother Mark Dunn and a group of Past Masters, who carried out the installation with great professionalism and respect for tradition.

Celebrations at The Level

After the formal part of the evening ended, members and guests gathered in the Lodge bar, known as The Level. Food, drinks, laughter, and conversation were enjoyed by everyone.

One of the highlights of the evening was a musical performance by Past Master Gordon Mackay, who had written two special songs for the occasion. One song celebrated Trevor’s achievements as Master, while the second welcomed Gordon Daly into his new role. The songs brought everyone together and added to the warm atmosphere of the night.

Looking Ahead

The evening marked the beginning of a positive new chapter for Lodge St. Olaf. With strong foundations already in place and an experienced Master leading the Lodge once again, members looked forward to another successful year of growth, friendship, and hard work.

For the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf in Cruden Bay, the night was not only a celebration of leadership but also a reminder of the strong sense of community and tradition that continues to keep the Lodge thriving.