Welcome back after what we hope has been a relaxing and enjoyable break. The SA Chapter has another active and interesting year ahead and we look forward to sharing this with you, our members.
In 2017 the Institute will continue working with Government regarding project procurement, planning reform, changes to local heritage legislation and increasing the use of South Australian services and products in construction projects. Through this work we can clearly demonstrate that architects have expert knowledge regarding these issues and can make valuable contributions to the development of robust, well resolved responses that will provide South Australia with best practice outcomes.
Architects involved in the STEM projects being rolled out in 139 schools across the State were also brought together by the Institute last year to evaluate progress to date and develop strategies for maximising the value these projects. Through an ongoing series of discussions with representatives from DECD and DPTI we are considering issues ranging from how to measure the impact that this program has on the number of students progressing to STEM related tertiary study to how to maximise the economic benefit for South Australia.
The complexity and capacity of architectural practice and how architects can better understand and measure their impact will be discussed at the Academic/Practice forums that commenced last year. Exploration of topical issues will also take place through programs such as Architecture on Show and Design Conversations. These programs provide an opportunity for architects and the community to come together to discuss the ability of design to improve our environment and quality of life.
The headline event for 2017 is the return of the Festival of Architecture and Design – FAD. Scheduled for October, FAD explores the best of South Australian design and includes professional forums as well as opportunities for the public to engage with local designers. Planning has commenced and information will be released as it becomes available via the website http://www.fad.org.au/
The Institute’s awards program also provides a platform for celebrating the outstanding achievements of the profession. The awards exhibition opens on Friday March 17, with the jury presentations occurring on Saturday March 18. The jury presentations, which are open to the profession and the public, provide a unique insight into the complex decision making processes and diverse influences that generate excellent architecture. The program culminates with a presentation dinner on 10 June, with winners participating in a Lightning Talk a few weeks afterwards. Join us as we celebrate the best of the best.
In addition to these advocacy and public engagement activities, the SA Chapter has a range of programs tailored to specific sections of our membership – students, new graduates, small and emerging practice and retired members. They provide valuable networking opportunities, with attendees frequently commenting on how much they enjoyed sharing their experience with others. Understanding that we are not alone in the challenges we face and that collectively we can achieve positive change is affirming.
The SA Chapter looks forward sharing these events and programs with you. Here’s to a stimulating 2017.