2021 has nearly drawn to a close, and I would like to sincerely thank all of you for your contribution to the profession. Collectively you contribute so much to the Institute and the profession, and it is not to benefit your own practice, but is born out of an aspiration to improve people’s lives through architecture. I am continually in awe of the selflessness of the profession and the passion you all have for the built environment. Good design adds value for all and can play a transformative role in the lives of every person. It really is a privilege for my team to work toward the community’s appreciation of this.
I want to acknowledge that this year has had many challenges, including the great losses to our community with the passing of some of our dear and fine colleagues. My thoughts are with their nearest and dearest at this time.
It has been with adversity that we have seen our community continually pull together, and this extends beyond our architectural community and into the broader community. We have seen all levels of government engage with our organisation, including through the Tasmanian Government’s Building and Construction Industry Roundtable, where we are collectively working toward an agreement for improving capital investment. When the Hon. Peter Gutwein MP, Premier of Tasmania, launched Open House Hobart this year, he acknowledged that his awareness of the community’s passion for our built environment is a result of his first-hand experience of this program. We also collaborated with many industry associations to deliver the Built Environment and Infrastructure Tasmania Budget Breakfast.
So many gains have been made, and in 2022 we look forward to working with you all to build on these. I wish you all a safe and happy Christmas, and I hope you enjoy a well deserved break with your family and friends.
Jennifer Nichols
Executive Director, Tasmanian Chapter
Australian Institute of Architects
