MEMBERS of Lodge Courallie Moree joined Freemasons from across New South Wales at the weekend night to take part in the annual Masonicare Sleepout.

The sleepout raises awareness of homelessness and financial hardship while supporting charitable programs that assist vulnerable people across New South Wales.

The Moree lodge participated in the overnight event on Saturday as part of a statewide fundraising effort co-ordinated by Masonicare, the welfare and charity arm of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory.

Lodge Courallie’s efforts have already generated more than $2100, with the total expected to increase as donations continue to come in.

Several lodge members and supporters took part in the local sleepout, with Brad White and Arnel Quisaot visiting during the evening to show their support.

Henry Trow and Doug Hill stayed overnight as part of the fundraising initiative.

“We also received a surprise visit from Grand Lodge officers Joe Corrigan and Joshua Newman, who made the journey to Moree during a demanding schedule that included travel through Sydney, Wagga Wagga and Bathurst. They got to Moree at about 2am to join us,” Mr Hill said.

“Their commitment to the cause was highlighted by the fact they continued their journey before sunrise, travelling onward to the Gold Coast after spending time with Lodge members taking part in the sleepout.”

The Masonicare Sleepout was established to provide Freemasons and community members with a greater understanding of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity.

(from left) Joe Corrigan, Henry Trow, Gwanita Hill, Doug Hill and Joshua Newman during the annual Masonicare Sleepout in Moree. Lodge Courallie raised more than $2100.

The event encourages participants to spend a night outdoors while raising funds for charitable programs that support individuals and families in need.

Since its inception, the sleepout has become one of Masonicare’s major annual fundraising campaigns, with lodges across New South Wales and the ACT taking part.

Funds raised help support a range of welfare initiatives, emergency assistance programs and community services delivered through Masonicare and affiliated organisations.

Organisers say the event is designed not only to raise money but also to encourage conversations about homelessness, social isolation and the importance of community support networks.

The impact of the fundraising campaign will be further strengthened through Masonicare’s commitment to match every dollar raised.

The dollar-for-dollar matching arrangement means the funds generated by Lodge Courallie will effectively be doubled, significantly increasing the support available for charitable programs.

Members of the lodge expressed their gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event, including donors, family members, friends and supporters who visited or offered encouragement throughout the evening.

“The strong community response reflected the generosity of local residents and their willingness to support initiatives that assist those facing hardship,” Mr Hill said.

Homelessness remains a significant issue across Australia, with charities and welfare organisations reporting increasing demand for support services amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

Events such as the Masonicare Sleepout draw attention to the challenges while providing practical assistance through fundraising and community engagement.

For Lodge Courallie, the success of this year’s sleepout demonstrated the strength of community spirit in Moree and the willingness of local people to support worthwhile causes.

With more than $2100 already raised and every donation set to be matched, the lodge’s participation will make a meaningful contribution to programs that provide assistance, hope and support to people experiencing difficult circumstances across New South Wales and the ACT.