I would like to introduce Vanessa Thamm who joined the SA Chapter just over a month ago as the Communications and Special Projects Officer.  With a background in State and Local government, she also has strong policy and advocacy skills.  It is great to have her on board.

At a time when the SA Chapter is preparing responses to the 30 Year Plan update, the Local Heritage Discussion Paper and issues arising from changes to government procurement  Vanessa’s presence is timely.  It provides the Chapter with greater ability to support our members in responding to issues that directly affect the profession. 
 
In parallel with this advocacy work the Chapter continues to be active in raising public awareness of design and the value it provides.  The program for SPACE – Tours Through Architecture provides access to a range of projects and precincts.  This provides the profession with a powerful opportunity to explain the complex synthesis of information that informs design thinking and leads to well resolved built outcomes.  It allows us to demonstrate that architecture is about more than aesthetics.  It’s about innovative and effective responses to clients’ needs within the context of environmental, technological, economic and regulatory factors.  It’s about exceeding client expectations and showing them the future.