The biggest event in the ACT Chapter’s calendar is the awards night and the celebration of good architecture.
This year exceeded expectations by a series of happy circumstances, a measure of good luck and excellent management.
The continuing strength of the local economy generated a record number of nominations – 58 in total which, by default, boosted member attendance on the night. Nominations were received from large and small firms and as noted by the jury chair, projects ranged from a pop-up bay window to a pop-up urban village and everything in between. They represented works commissioned by the private sector, educational and public institutions, the CSIRO and the Federal Police.
The venue was an excellent space for the celebration but it was not the intended location. We were on track to celebrate the night in the foyer of the Museum of Australia but when it was discovered that the Museum had commissioned construction works, Leanne Hardwick and the chapter office team managed to snare Gandel Hall which was, unexpectedly, available. Gandel, with the arrangement of formal seating and open space, perfectly suited our needs and numbers and generated a lovely buzz on the night. The food was great and whoever chose the wines deserves high praise for quality and quantity.
This was my first big event as president of the chapter. The average person ranks the fear of public speaking right up there and I am in that camp. However, with terrific support from those around me and encouragement from Liz Lang our new ED, I got through it and received positive feedback along the way. So for all those intimidated by the prospect of taking on the President’s role in the future, it’s not that bad.
In my President’s address, I noted how few ACT Government sponsored projects had been nominated and speculated as to why this was so. I posed the question that if architects are required to attain tertiary qualifications, achieve AACA accreditation and maintain formal registration, why then are architects not an essential requirement in every government project. It seemed to strike a chord on the night and is an issue that I intend pursuing as the year progresses. However, before taking it further I would welcome input from members on how they have found the experience of working with ACT Government agencies. If you have something to say, please do let me know at act@architecture.com.au
Thinking back to the night, did I thank the Jury for their excellent work? It’s a tough but rewarding exercise and one that I would encourage members to consider. You’ll find a certain magic occurs when 6 people are thrown together for 10 or 12 hours a day for 4 or more days. Sincere thanks to the Jury and chair, Rob Henry.
The success of the night was largely due to the excellent management by the Chapter staff including Francesca Cooper, Mai Huynh, Yvette Potroz, Leanne Hardwicke (now with the National office) and our new ED, Liz Lang.
Finally, commiserations to those whose projects were not successful on the night and congratulations to those whose work was recognised for the special qualities that distinguished them ahead of all others. Congratulations also to the student awardees and those who received special recognition for their contribution to architecture including Shannon Battisson (Emerging Architect) Sander deVries (Professional of the year), Hal Guida (President’s Award) and Rachael Coghlan (Clem Cummings Award).
Philip Leeson
ACT Chapter President