The Provincial Grand Master of South Wales RW Bro. Gareth Jones, OBE has kindly agreed to the formation of a new branch of the Masonic Fishing Charity here within the Province of South Wales. The Masonic Fishing Charity provides an interactive fishing experience, trout and coarse, for anyone above the age of eleven with life changing needs. This initiative could include support and involvement, for example, with wounded servicemen, Fishing for Heroes, Casting for Recovery, women whose lives have been profoundly affected by breast cancer, stroke victims, the elderly who suffer from loneliness and young people and adults with varying degrees of disability/needs both medical and educational.
It is intended to hold between two to four events per year at local venues at which volunteers will assist participants on a one-to-one basis and involve them as much as possible with the casting, retrieving, hooking, playing and landing of the fish. Non-fishing helpers will be most welcome to assist with catering and administration. All participants receive a certificate of achievement to take home at the end of the day as well as other prizes for biggest fish caught etc. This is far more than just a day’s fishing; it enables participants to participate and experience something that may otherwise be unavailable to them. It also enables the volunteers to give something back to the community and have some fun along the way.
This is a wonderful opportunity for us in South Wales to help those less fortunate than ourselves whilst demonstrating the good that Freemasonry does in the local community. To this end we need volunteers: anglers and non-anglers, Masons and non-Masons, men and women, to assist in forming the new branch; moreover, if you want to help as an angler but have no experience fear not because we will equip you with the skills you need.
The cost of hiring a venue, safety equipment, insurance, food and refreshments etc for guests and carers can be considerable. To this end you may consider a donation either as a Lodge or as an individual to help pay for our future guests to experience a fun day out.
The Pro Grand Master, MWBro Peter Geoffrey Lowndes is the Patron of the Masonic Fishing Charity and he fully supports this wonderful Masonic initiative. If you or anyone you know wish to play in this most worthwhile venture please contact the South Wales Province Branch Chairman Designate: W Bro. D. Roger Lewis on trecastell@nullbtinternet.com .
It is intended to hold an introductory meeting for interested parties at Bridgend Masonic Hall in the near future where representatives of the Masonic Fishing Trust will give a presentation outlining the aims, objectives, logistics and successes of the charity. This will provide an opportunity for everyone to learn more about the charity and have any queries addressed.