2019 Jury Chair Report

We acknowledge and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia as the traditional custodians of our lands, waters and seas. We recognize their ability to care for Country and their deep spiritual connection with Country. We honour Elders past and present whose knowledge and wisdom ensure the continuation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. (Constitution of the AILA, 2019)

The varied communities, cultures and environments across Australia, and the changing pace of modern life, present myriad challenges for landscape architects. This year, the jury was excited by the diversity of projects submitted. This variety exemplifies the passion of AILA members and their drive to deliver innovative responses to common issues and make valuable contributions to our regions and cities.

Ultimately, the jury was delighted to identify worthy recipients for the Awards of Excellence and Landscape Architecture Awards given under each category.

The distinction between the two award levels was often difficult to make given the high calibre of the entered projects, that have already been awarded at state level.

The jury members, carefully, thoughtfully and decidedly, challenged each other over the recognition of projects and how they impacted the daily lives of communities, as well as contributed to the growing recognition of the discipline’s key role in the future of the built environment. Nevertheless, we agreed that the immense value of the contributions being made demonstrates landscape architecture’s significant potential, inspiring us to think bigger and broader.

It’s invigorating to see the prominent and far-reaching influence of landscape architectural practice on the ways in which we work, live and play. The jury was particularly impressed by the dedication shown in the entries toward delivering more liveable cities that align with AILA’s National Green Infrastructure Strategy. The conscious adoption of living infrastructure by the majority of projects reflects a growing awareness of the many positive benefits that greener spaces can have on our mental and physical wellbeing. In these times of climate sensitivity, we were also impressed by innovative approaches to restoring natural landscapes in urban and regional settings.

The jury applauds the commitment shown to adopting AILA’s first Reconciliation Action Plan, with all entries acknowledging the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nation relating to the project as part of their submission. The consideration of Traditional Owners was central to the design ethos of many projects, and the active engagement of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities demonstrates that the openness to connecting to Country is growing.

It has been an absolute privilege to chair the 2019 AILA National Landscape Architecture Awards jury and I wish to thank and acknowledge my fellow jurors – Ben Willsmore, Bridget Keane, Candy Rosmarin, Ezra Jacobs and Roderick Simpson – for making the whole process such a positive and energizing experience.

Collectively, we believe that the standard of awarded works this year sets an exciting precedent for built outcomes now and into the future. Demonstrating leadership and advocacy for approaches outside of the norm, the award recipients have succeeded in enhancing local landscapes so that they are an impetus for greater wellbeing and shared understanding within the community.

Peta-Maree Ashford AILA National Jury Chair