Established in 1989, The Australian Guild of Master Organbuilders' aims include,

   - The encouragement high professional standards

   - The fostering of communication and fellowship between organ builders

   - The exchange ideas and information

   - The formalisation of training procedures

   - The encouragement of optimum relationships between organ builders, clients, organists and consultants

   - The promotion of a better understanding of the pipe organ by the public

   - The encouragement sound financial and business structuring within the industry.

Why should we deal with Guild Members?

It is also important, for various reasons, that a qualified organ builder be entrusted with the care and maintenance of a pipe organ. Whether this be regular tuning visits, a full scale restoration or the construction of a new instrument.

The Guild also offers financial encouragement to activities and competitions promoting the organ. Stephen Bicknell's visit to Australia and attendance at the 2002 OHTA Conference was proudly sponsored by the Guild.

   - A Guild member will have proposed for membership by another member well-acquainted with the applicant's work. The proposal must then be seconded and ratified by the committee.

   - Amateurs and "enthusiasts", alas, have irreparably damaged many once fine organs - almost always at great financial loss to the owners, who may also have been tempted by seemingly low prices. Apart from the "quality" screening process outlined above, all members will have completed a four year apprenticeship period. Before admission to the Guild a minimum of five years subsequent practical experience is required.

   - A client can be sure that by dealing with a member firm, the staff involved with a particular project properly adhere to necessary Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. These regulations cover both work performed in the shop and on site, especially whilst working within the confined space of a pipe organ. A member firm will also carry the necessary insurance policies such as Workers' Compensation and Public Liability.

   - Members are committed to the Guild's aims and the Code of Ethics, and to the future of Australian organ building. Most members are actively training young Australians.

The Guild offers both consultancy and arbitration services, and has members in all mainland states of Australia.