Dear Members, in recent months, AILA members have shone brightly, celebrating exceptional achievements while showcasing their creativity and expertise in landscape architecture.
During October, AILA members gathered in Tarntanya / Adelaide to honour the outstanding recipients of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) National Awards. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year's AILA National Award winners.
I reserve a special acknowledgment for Fiona Morrison, Commissioner for Open Space and Parks at the Department of Planning and Environment NSW, who is a most deserving recipient of the 2023 AILA President's Award. This prestigious accolade pays tribute to Morrison's remarkable contributions to the field of landscape architecture, particularly her outstanding work in the realm of public practice. As President, I am delighted to extend my warm congratulations to Fiona Morrison on behalf of the profession. We hold her leadership and influence in the highest esteem.
In addition to celebrating the National Landscape Architecture Awards, October also marked the 2023 Festival of Landscape Architecture: UN/EARTH in Tarntanya / Adelaide. The Festival served as a platform for both celebration and contemplation, focusing on diverse landscape domains such as soils, fertility, geological strata, subterranean infrastructure, mineral excavations, fossil records, enduring practices for living on Country, and archaeologies. We were privileged to hear from a diverse array of speakers who shed light on the multifaceted ways in which we interact with the landscape.
Collaborating with cultural advisors, the 2023 Festival was directed by four distinguished landscape architects working and residing on Kaurna Meyunna Yerta. Our sincere appreciation and congratulations go to Lyndon Slavin, Dr. Tanya Court, Dr. Scott Hawken, and Gemma Kleinig for their outstanding curation of a series of enlightening talks, events, and discussions.
As we journey into the final months of 2023, AILA teams across Australia are planning end-of-year events and celebrations. These gatherings will provide a wonderful opportunity for you to connect with fellow members and collectively celebrate our shared achievements. Keep an eye out for more information in our upcoming newsletters.
We strongly encourage you to continue engaging with our community, participating in AILA events, and sharing your valuable insights and experiences. It is through this collaborative spirit that we collectively grow and evolve as a formidable force. Together, we can persist in our advocacy for the significance of sustainable landscapes and continue to shape the future of our profession.
Warm regards,
Peta-Maree Ashford,
President, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects