Backstage Pass: Inside the Masonic Memorial Temple

On Sunday 26 October, a group of Brisbane Living Heritage friends and members enjoyed our very first Backstage Pass experience — an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Masonic Memorial Temple on Ann Street.

We were fortunate to be guided by Greg, a previous Assistant Grand Master, who shared not only the fascinating history of the building but also the broader story of Freemasonry in Queensland — stretching all the way back to its roots in the pre–Middle Ages.

Our private tour took us through areas not usually open to the public, including the beautifully kept library, which is available for people researching family connections to the Freemasons. We also explored ceremonial spaces being prepared for upcoming events, each filled with intricate craftsmanship and a deep sense of tradition. We were excited to see large framed images of The Old Museum Concert Hall, playing a part in major events in early 1900s for Freemasons Qld.

One of the highlights was stepping into the Grand Ballroom, now managed under Grand on Ann and available for public hire. This spectacular space, which can host up to 650 guests, has recently featured events such as the enchanting Candlelight Concerts series.

Throughout the tour, Greg’s knowledge and generosity in answering questions brought the building’s history vividly to life. We learned that almost every element of the Temple was created using locally sourced Queensland materials — including silky oak, cedar, and other native timbers. The impressive 4-metre timber benches, for instance, had to be crafted onsite by skilled tradesmen because they were too large to carry up three flights of stairs and through the narrow doorways.

Walking through the grand entryway — framed by sandstone pillars and patterned tile floors — was a reminder of the symbolism, art, and balance that define Freemasonry architecture. The circular formation of the pillars creates the feeling of an open garden, inviting visitors inward with quiet grandeur.

The Masonic Memorial Temple is currently undergoing much-needed upgrades and exploring opportunities for future development, including new spaces for private leasing.

We can highly recommend adding the Masonic Memorial Temple to your must-see list for the 2026 Brisbane Open House program — a remarkable site where craftsmanship, philosophy, and history meet.

Looking ahead, Brisbane Living Heritage will continue to offer Backstage Pass events throughout 2026, giving members and friends the chance to explore some of Brisbane’s most fascinating heritage sites — especially those that are not typically open to the general public. These small-group experiences offer a unique glimpse into the stories, spaces, and craftsmanship that lie behind the scenes of our city’s heritage places.