(Toronto) – Formed in 1905, Beaches Lodge #473 is proud to announce it will be hosting a Sandcastle building competition on Sunday, June 24th at Ashbridge’s Bay, Toronto. The theme for this inaugural daylong event is Templar Castle. “We expect teams to be digging by sunrise, ” says organizer and lodge member Graeme Boyce. “They will realistically need to begin sculpting their walls by 10am because the competition will end sharply at 3pm.”

We used to do this sort of thing all the time when I lived in Bermuda, ” he continues. “This has been rather spontaneous and informal and we’ve invited about a dozen other lodges to build a sandcastle too, but participation is not exclusive and anyone with a spade and bucket can compete. Although each team can have as many members as they want, to be fair, we expect only 4 team members to be working on their structure at one time.”

One of Canada’s most distinguished and innovative Masonic lodges, Beaches Lodge recently celebrated its hundredth anniversary, and held an Open House in 2005. In fact its first meetings were originally held at Balsam and Queen Streets in the Beach area. When called upon, the many members of Toronto East District have contributed their blood, toys and money to many foundations, organizations and charities over the years. Freemasons around the world contribute millions of dollars each day to many diverse causes.

“It will definitely be fun, ” adds Boyce. “After all, we’re looking forward to the summer. The event was actually a suggestion from one of our younger members, a new Beacher who recently moved to the area from Peterborough. Notwithstanding the date, I suppose there’s certainly a lot of obvious symbolism at play as well.” Masons throughout history have been recognized as great planners and dedicated builders, yet members of a local community first and foremost.

Several prominent judges for the competition are currently being approached, tested on their knowledge of the famed crusader fortifications and notified of the criteria in order to determine a winner. The critical elements are size, creativity, attention to detail and adornments. “The prize will be a trophy, ” concludes Boyce, “and maybe I’ll buy a round of ice cream afterwards.“ For the benefit of passers-by, each team will post a small sign with a picture and explanation of the castle they are attempting to emulate, as well as its significance in history.

For further information on Beaches Lodge, the Toronto East District, or this event, or to schedule a photographer or request an interview, please contact Graeme Boyce at 416-402-8591.