St Mary's Cathedral

Organ Restoration

In December 2009, after 3 years of work, and some $34m, the realisation of the Arch Diocese, and indeed our Arch Bishop - Barry Hickey became a reality with the re-opening of what is now a magnificent Cathedral, finally completed.

The role of the Knights of the Southern Cross was significant, with the well documented financial support, and the Grand “Dodd” organ, restored in all its now glory, bigger and better than before, and being recognized as that contribution.

The 100 year old Dodd organ was transported to the workshop of the South Island Organ Company in New Zealand where it was refurbished and enlarged before being reinstalled in the completed Cathedral.

The organ has been relocated back to where it was originally installed by J.E. Dodd & Sons of Adelaide in 1910, but in an enlarged and strengthened choir loft at the Murray Street end of the Cathedral. 

When the organ was dismantled it was found that the original colour scheme of the J.E. Dodd organ was painted silver pipes with a red and gold mouth. 

For our Order, the significant event on Thursday 10^th December, The Blessing of the Organ and the Choir Stalls was attended by His Grace, the Arch Bishop, and led by Bishop Don Sproxton, supported by other Priests which included our State Chaplain Rev. Brian O’Loughlin VG, the congregation was entertained by some inspiring Music Liturgy, which included our new Order Hymn You are the Light conducted by Father Christopher Wilcox, the composer of the piece. There were Organ recitals which demonstrated the instruments capabilities, including the Cathedrals 2^nd Organ. There was also an informative delivery on the history of the Organ, and the Organ Makers.

Around 250 Members / Wives / Austellarians attended this special event, and the Cathedral experience.