I recently attended a Pecha Kucha night in Braddon run by Tate Waddington Architects. The vibrancy of this evening indicated to me that there is a potent interest in a broad range of design matters across the whole spectrum of disciplines in the capital. Although this event was well supported by architects it was not however an Institute organised event.

The event itself seemed to be a great networking opportunity, particularly for young architects and students and it would be a great coup for the chapter if some of this manifest energy could emanate from within the Institute rather than perhaps being seen as a counterpoint to it. The Institute should never be seen as a club for employers but as a touchstone for all those who have a connection to the profession.

With this in mind it should be noted that within the next few months there will be an opportunity for the membership to elect new chapter Councillors and it would be of great benefit to the Institute if these spots were competed for by energetic and passionate architects. To all to see some of the buzz and energy that was evident at the Pecha Kucha night overlaid onto the core activities of the chapter would be a rising tide lifting all boats. I would encourage some of the younger members of the Institute who in the past may not have considered putting their hands up for an elected position to seriously consider it this time around.

The position of the chapter president will also become vacant soon. There is no mandate that says the candidate should come from within the current round of chapter Council members. I would encourage all members to approach the chapter with any suitable suggestions into whose hands this important role could possibly be placed.

 

Tony.

Tony Trobe, ACT Chapter President