Canberra Half-Yearly CPD Event Recap

10 August 2022

Stephen Pearse provides a recap of the ACA’s recent six-monthly catch-up and CPD event in Canberra. It was an excellent evening for all, with informative presentations and a chance to learn, earn CPD and meet up.

Attended by local representatives from member architecture practices as well as members of our ACA NSW/ACT committee, we were treated to presentations from James Muir (National Trainer, Ardex Technical Services and R&D); and Russell Pfitz from GHDWoodhead, with a focus on designing for successful waterproofing solutions.

The event was held at Canberra’s REX on Northbourne in the upper-level dining area, followed by food and drinks in the rooftop bar. It was a great way to meet, network and learn about the challenges of designing to keep the water out, and on the issues and trends within our industry.

Attendees included representatives from the ACA – CEO Angelina Pillai, NSWACT President Ivana Simkovic, NSW/ACT Vice President Farhad Edibam, and outgoing NSW/ACT President Agi Sterling. We also welcomed current Australian Institute of Architects ACT President Jane Cassidy and recent past ACT President, Melinda Dodson. We were also delighted to meet many members from NSW and the ACT.

Our presentations covered a wide range of issues including waterproofing solutions, standards, and compliance requirements, and recent changes and updates on practical and real issues on buildings within the local Canberra built environment.

Ardex gave a detailed compliance framework and systems analysis, while GHDWoodhead was very generous in sharing their rules for good design outcomes with the group and some very insightful recent experiences on major buildings in the ACT.

It was a great night to learn, earn CPD and meet up… We look forward to welcoming current and new members to a repeat event with a new topic later in the year.

Stephen Pearse
Committee member ACA NSW/ACT branch