News from AILA Victoria Chapter 27 July 2023
Dear members,
I write this message from the coastal landscape of Wadawurrung-country, on Victoria’s South-West coast.
I would like to thank the executive for this past term and for everything that we have achieved in what has been a term of transition and the development of one AILA. I would also like to thank all committee members, AILA staff and those who volunteer their time to grow and strengthen AILA.
During my term as Victorian Chapter President, so much work has been undertaken in aligning board and chapter executives across Australia, and the preparation of a national approach to climate positive design, advocacy, connection with country, education and profile. This sets up a really strong foundation for the next term with the development of our state operational plan, and in supporting our growing membership.
I highlight some memorable moments during this term;
- AILA Victorian Awards Ceremony – a record number of entries (104 entries), and an in-person event brought us all back together again. Awarding this year’s President’s Award to Anissa Webb was as a significant moment, as was the recognition of five AILA Fellows in Victoria.
- Continued growth in membership with nearly 12% increase in membership during this term.
- Advocacy program and connection with peak bodies including AIA and PIA sees our profile and voice at state and local government continue to grow. Likewise, connection with landscape and horticultural bodies including NGIV and LV continues to showcase the breadth of our role.
- The Victorian State Election Manifesto prepared last year was a significant piece of work and undertaken in collaboration with AIAL South Australia. This also continues to strengthen profile at government level.
- The Festival of Landscape Architecture in Brisbane. Incredible.
- An operational plan for 2023-2025 to be delivered by the new Vic Chapter Executive.
Thank you all once again, and I look forward to sharing in the continued growth of AILA and our beloved profession as Landscape Architects.
Kind regards,
Matt York