07 May 2018

 

Last weekend the Tasmanian Architecture Awards Jury travelled 1200km criss-crossing the length and breadth of the state over two (long) days to visit 19 projects – a gruelling but worthwhile undertaking. Our thanks to those of you whose projects were scrutinised and to your clients for their understanding of the logistical challenge and helping make it happen. You are a star Fiona and Todd for driving everyone safely – and thanks to the jury, our staff and to all of you for the time commitment it involved.
 
Members will have noted that the new Minister of Housing, Roger Jaensch has announced some initiatives in response to the recent Emergency Housing Summit. At the April Chapter Council meeting we held a constructive discussion with the MBA and PIA representatives who attended the summit. With Parliament’s commencement of sitting this week, the AIA is one peak body invited to submit comment on a Draft Residential Housing Supply Bill 2018 to be introduced, and we will reflect aspects of concern that have been raised. The turnaround of this submission is extremely short – many thanks those who are assisting with this submission.
 
There have been some major changes in the structuring of the University with the School of Architecture now becoming a discipline of Architecture and Design within the School of Technology, Environments and Design (TED). Kirsten Orr is Head of School of TED with Associate Professor Greg Nolan moving into the role of Head of Architecture and Design. A revised curriculum is being developed for 2019 and the Chapter values the close contact we are retaining with UTAS staff as this process moves along.
 
We welcome Ishka Heart as the UTAS SONA rep and look forward to her input in the Chapter and to welcoming SONA members. Should you wish to know the make-up of our Chapter Committees click on the link here.
 
I encourage you all to trial the new online Acumen Practice Notes. They have been reviewed and refreshed and your feedback will be valued on the online tool which is the first aspect of the Institute’s website to be updated.
 
Finally if you’re not already registered for edge (the 2018 National Architecture Conference), PALS, our CPD courses or attending our more social events such as the wonderful Parlour event held by The Findlay Project featuring Jude Abel and Liz Walsh in conversation last night – then get onto it and do yourself a favour – there is plenty to do and it’s well worth your while!

Yvette Breytenbach RAIA
President, Tasmanian Chapter,
Australian Institute of Architects