Southland Masonic Centre

Now a community resource, this exceedingly grand Lodge Hall with massive Graeco-Doric columns, is an illustration of the versatility of Invercargill Architect CJ Brodrick and his partner Mr Royds.
They were commissioned with this build in 1929, opting for the grand Italian impression, after employing many other architectural styles in the design of Invercargill's landmark buildings, most of which survive today.

The Hall is actually two separate buildings, the porch being so enormous it required it's own, hidden, roofline, and the hall behind being a more standard shape, but sporting a celestial dome. The Institute of Architects were so impressed with Southland's Lodge that they awarded it the silver award in 1934. Inside, the windows are crafted to perfection in leadlight, and curved balustrades compliment a wide staircase. The main hall is known for it's timber flooring and Southern Cross Room is adorned with plaster and timber craftsmanship that would have been the best in it's day, as well as an immaculate scarlet carpet.

Nowadays the Lodge has the doors flung wide open, the Masons sharing the Centre with Invercargill. It hosts all form of community events from regular yoga, to visiting musicians, and the Southern Farmer's Market on a Sunday. The market is of a healthy size and variety, with fresh Southland Produce complimented by breakfast and lunch options, and lots of local crafts. Visitors might even be treated to live music on a good day.

Other Broderick (and Royds) achievements are the Alexandra Buildings, Grand Hotel, Bank of New South Wales, National Bank, and the Troopers Memorial.

Image Credit: Google Maps