QLD/NT Branch Update EOY 2024
A strong events program and advocacy have been a priority for the QLD/NT branch committee in the second half of 2024. We also welcome a new branch president, executive officer and several new committee members.
ADVOCACY
In September, the QLD/NT Committee held a planning day to strategise for 2025. During the session, members discussed industry challenges and identified key focus areas to better support members. The committee aims to deliver a series of statewide events that foster success and help tackle shared business challenges.
Regular meetings with the Board of Architects of Queensland resumed this year under the new Chair, Alice Hampson. In collaboration with the Australian Institute of Architects, the discussions have focused on maintaining professional standards and improving communication to deliver enhanced services to members.
The ACA has also continued its engagement with the Office of the Queensland Government Architect, addressing challenges and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
In June, the ACA participated in the national Natspec shareholders lunch in Brisbane. The event brought together representatives from key construction and design bodies, alongside government leaders involved in building delivery, to discuss industry standards and collaboration opportunities.
In September, Branch President Brett Hudson presented at the Australian Architectural Schools Association AGM in Brisbane. His presentation covered current industry trends, the importance of preparing students and graduates for professional success, and possible solutions to the challenges facing the profession.
EVENTS
2024 has seen another engaging event calendar from the QLD/NT branch. Early this year there were popular site tours, including the National Rugby Training Centre, hosted by Blight Rayner Architecture; and a tour of Charles Darwin University in Darwin, hosted by Mode Architects.
In August, an exclusive pre-opening tour of Queens Wharf was hosted by Cottee Parker Architects. This well-attended event provided members with a behind-the-scenes look at one of Brisbane’s most significant architectural and urban renewal projects.
This year we launched the ACA’s BoSP, or Business of Small Practice Forum, in Brisbane. BoSP was created by the ACA WA branch in 2018, providing the opportunity for small practice owners to meet up, listen to experts, share knowledge and learn from each other. These events foster connection, idea-sharing and exposure, which are increasingly vital as the architectural industry evolves. Special thanks go to Rebecca Caldwell from Maytree Studios for her unwavering dedication to championing small practices and ensuring the relevance of these events.
The second QLD/NT BoSP event was held on 9 August and featured Warwick Mihaly from Mihaly Slocombe. A casual and informative evening was held with a special presentation on fees, profit and tracking business metrics.
ACA QLD/NT COMMITTEE
This year marked a change in branch leadership, welcoming Brett Hudson as the new Branch President. Joining him are Adam Perrier as Vice President, Denis Waring as Secretary, and Mark Williams as Treasurer. Gilda Donegan continues to support the leadership team as Immediate Past President. Charmaine Kai, the outgoing Treasurer, has stepped down to take a break from committee activities.
We have new committee members Rebecca Caldwell and Cara Phillips. We also welcomed Jo Rees, who has taken over Northern Territory representation from long-serving member Steve Huntingford. They join continuing committee members Ben Madden, Justine Ebzery and Mark Kennedy. Additionally, we welcomed Michelle Turner as our new Executive Officer, providing vital support to the committee.
As we plan for 2025, we are excited about the future of ACA QLD/NT. With the continued support of our members, we aim to create events that inspire discussion, collaboration and advocacy, enhancing the representation and growth of the architectural profession.
SPONSORS
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our Corporate Partners for their ongoing support. Their commitment to the architectural industry enables us to host valuable events and foster collaboration across the profession. Their support is critical to the success of our programs, and we truly value their investment in the community.