The event is part of a series of activities that contribute to ACA's reconciliation work nationally. Our own John Schmidt chaired the lunchtime talk at Brickworks. Titled "Working on Country", this event featured three local architects sharing their experiences and knowledge of practical engagement outcomes from recent projects.

The Welcome to Country was delivered by Jess Davies-Huynh (she/her), a proud Kaurna and Ngarrindjeri woman. Jess is passionate about supporting self-determination for Aboriginal people and their communities. With the support of her Elders, she has held leadership and advisory positions on several boards and working groups, including the Kaurna Yerta Aboriginal Corporation, Adelaide Park Lands Association and the Aboriginal Reference Group for Lot Fourteen.

Anthony Coupe (Mulloway Studio) considered maintenance and representation at Pomberuk Murray Bridge – the bridge, the wharves, and how infrastructure can become cultural messengers.

Ashley Halliday (Ashley Halliday Architects) shared aspects of his journey walking together with the Kaurna Community to co-create Yitpi Yartapuultiku, a unique place of connection, healing and cultural immersion reinvigorating the Soul of Port Adelaide.

Susan Phillips (Phillips/Pilkington Architects Pty) spoke of the practice’s experience working with First Nations People and of their recently completed project, the Gunditj Mirring Keeping Place and Business Centre for the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.

Attendees were informed of ways to embed the knowledge, worldviews and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, through engagement processes, into the conceptual design in a meaningful, respectful and appropriate way.

Thank you to Michael Hegarty for organising the series of events and to the speakers Anthony, Ashley and Susan for taking the time to share your experiences and to help guide us along the Reconciliation journey.