We are pleased to report that the Institute’s involvement in the recent trade mission to the China Beijing International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) was a worthwhile project for the Chapter. Together with the City of Sydney, Screen NSW, Destination NSW and UTS, the government trade display focussed on showcasing NSW’s creative sector.  With thousands of visitors to the exhibition, the special NSW promotional afternoon and roundtable discussion proved to be very useful in exploring the challenges and opportunities for Australian architects practicing in China.

It is often difficult to measure the success of such events however I can report that the media attention was excellent with the Institute being interviewed several times for television, radio and online press. We distributed thousands of “Find-an-Architect” postcards and it would appear there is genuine interest in learning more about what Australian architects can offer, particularly in the area of sustainability.  Last week’s Chapter Council discussed how the Institute could assist members seeking to work internationally and it was generally felt that an article in Architecture Bulletin and a CPD session would be worthwhile.

On the topic of CPD, a reminder that the 30 June deadline is looming. There are several opportunities to attain your CPD points including this weekend’s event at Casuarina when the Country Division will present the highly successful session “Working Under a Cultural Icon: The Sydney Opera House” seminar.  For more information click here.

Finally don’t forget to book your ticket to this year’s NSW Architecture Awards on Thursday 26 June 2014  which is always a wonderful occasion to celebrate and connect with your peers and clients.

Roslyn Irons

NSW Chapter Manager